The art of editing is a crucial aspect of any medium, be it movies, television shows, or even YouTube videos. Great editing can bring a story to life. What sets great editors apart is their ability to use different styles and techniques to enhance the narrative. In this blog, I will explore some common styles of editing.
Continuity Editing
Continuity editing is the foundation of cinematic storytelling. It aims to maintain a seamless flow of action and dialogue, ensuring that the story appears logical and coherent to the audience. Most mainstream movies and television shows use this style. One example of continuity editing can be seen in the opening sequence of the film “The Social Network,”. bad continuity will be if Jesse Eisenberg was wearing a different shirt or scenery change.
Montage Editing
Montage editing involves different shots to create a specific meaning or convey emotions. This style is commonly used in music videos or action sequences. A good example of montage editing can be found in the famous training sequence from the film “Rocky,” Montages also can show time pass by.
Parallel Editing
Parallel editing, also known as cross-cutting, involves intercutting between two or more related scenes happening simultaneously. This particular technique builds tension, adds depth to the narrative, and creates a sense of connection between events. As here in the movie there is about two Events taking place at the same time. Here is a exmaple from the movie Blackkklansman. i thought this was really good. while watching i remember a friend of minds ask me during the scene ” why they keep cutting back and forth” and i told them its because the two events are happening at the same time.
Jump Cut Editing
Jump cut editing is a style that involves removing a section of a shot, creating a sudden jump in continuity. It often conveys a sense of time passing or adds a dynamic feel to a scene. French New Wave films, in particular, popularized this technique to have a better understanding here is a video down below.
You Can be very Created when it comes to jump cuts.
Editing is a powerful tool that can shape the way we perceive visual content. Each style mentioned above brings something unique to the table, adding depth, tension, or emotion to the storytelling process. By experimenting with these techniques, editors can create captivating and memorable experiences for viewers. So, whether you are a filmmaker, content creator, or simply a passionate viewer, understanding the various styles of editing will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation for the art form. this is how i learn how to edit for the most part. Youtube unversity been my friend for a long time.
Remember, these example videos serve as mere glimpses into the vast realm of editing possibilities. So, don’t hesitate to explore further, discover your own preferences, and experiment with different styles to create your distinctive visual story.
Rel Torry 