Portfolio Project: Editing techniques

 Chapter 11

 Films are a way of storytelling. Since they are told in visuals rather than words its important to incorporate and apply story telling elements; for example, when telling an oral story the storyteller controls the content, sequence, and pacing of the story, the same elements are controlled in a film.

 Navigating through this article provided me with knowledge regarding film editing. The timing of each shot, whether extended for an emotional or tranquil feel, or rapidly cut for intensity, timing shapes the tone, emotional impact, and narrative progression of a scene, influencing audience emotional response. An editing technique often used to engage audiences is the “Cutting on action” edit, click here to view an example. These edits smoothly connect shots by matching movements, creating a seamless flow that builds tension and keeps viewers engaged.

 The scene begins with Catalina as she calmly prepares herself, only to be startled by an abrupt sound that startles her. The aim of this scene is to immerse the audience in Catalina's nervousness and suspense, evoking the sensation of being watched. The editing sequence unfolds as follows: Catalina applies lip gloss, there's a distinct "pop" sound from the lip gloss tube opening. The transition swiftly shifts focus to the window, where simultaneously a noise is heard from outside, heightening the tension. Then a cut to a shot of Catalina's immediate reaction to grab her belt, where the gun’s safety switch is turned off indicating she has a weapon and is ready to use it, emphasizing her preparedness which contributes to the idea that she is familiar having to protect herself from such dangers. As in silence and while the suspense builds, the sudden sound of the gun is then heard switching back into safety mode. The shot is engaging, suspenseful, and hints at awaiting danger when the antagonist is implicated.

 Additionally from my notes’ context, I’ve decided to use “Match cuts”. Match cuts are an editing technique used in films to smoothly transition between two different shots by aligning visual or auditory elements which can often be symbolic or representative. In visual elements two objects might be shown to symbolize their connection. These shots aid in maintaining continuity and establish narrative connections between scenes. For example, a match cut could transition from a shot of a person closing a door to a shot of a different door opening, implying change in location or someone’s passage. Match cuts can also emphasize character relationships or contrasts between different story elements.

In the picture above is seen two similarly shaped objects, this displays how to properly execute a match cut.

In my film, I aim to utilize a match cut to establish a connection. The scene will begin with a shot showing the home invader through the house camera, followed by a swift cut to Catalina. This method effectively connects the two characters, establishing a relationship between them while also adding mystery to the plot.