In film and video, a cut is defined by when one clip ends and another one begins. For example, say you have a wide shot clip of a horse running as well as a close up clip of a woman’s eyes watching. The “cut” would occur when the first shot ends and is followed by the second shot.

That’s just a basic example, though. There are a wide range of cut types and examples which can make recognizing a cut more complicated; however, at its most base level, a cut will always be defined as the separation of one clip from another. 

TASK

After watching the above video recreate the following cuts. Work with a partner to help film content. Label each cut with text to identify it. You can work together to create the footage and cuts but you both must hand-in a finished video with all 12 of the cuts below showcased.

Upload your completed video with all 12 cuts included to the Unit 6 page of your portfolio.

The 12 Key Types of Video Cuts

1. CUT - Change from one shot to another. The cut changes the perspective and advances the story.

2. CUTTING ON ACTION - Cut while the subject is still in motion.

3. CUT AWAY - Cut to an insert of something and then back. What the subject is thinking.

4. CROSS CUT - Cut back and forth between locations, think of a phone call.

5. JUMP CUT - Cut between the same shot, passing of time.

6. MATCH CUT - Cuts to a similar shot by matching action or composition.

7. DISSOLVE - Mixing two shots together to show a change in time, place, or mood.

8. WIPE - Geometric pattern used between shots to show a change in time, place, or mood.

9. INVISIBLE CUT - Cuts are hidden in blackness or you cannot tell an edit was made.

10. WHIP PANS - Hide the cut in the motion of camera movement.

11. L CUT - Audio from current shot carries over to the next shot.

12. J CUT - Audio from the next scene starts before you get to it.