Grammar of the Edit

by Bowen; Christopher J.

• ISBN13: 9780240521206
• ISBN10: 024052120X
• Edition: 2nd
• Format: Nonspecific Binding
• Copyright: 2009-04-08
• Publisher: Focal Press

Summary

Learn the basic "grammar" of editing films and videos in Grammar of the Edit! This book shows you in no uncertain terms (independently of software) what you absolutely need to know to edit your video production. Whether you are just learning how to edit or you need a refresher, this book gives you a basic toolkit to understand the basic terms and the common practices of editing to help create a coherent and meaningful story or visual presentation. This book concentrates on where and how an edit is made and teaches you how to answer the simple question: 'What do I need to do in order to make a good edit between two shots?'Grammar of the Edit begins with an explanation of the basic rules of visual construction that will allow you to arrange your footage logically. The book takes you from the basic vocabulary of editing, to knowing when to cut (and why), to transitions, and finally to good working practices. Designed as an easy-to-use reference, each topic is covered succinctly and is accompanied by clear photographs and diagrams that illustrate the key concepts presented in the book. Simple, elegant, and easy to use, Grammar of the Edit is a staple of any filmmaker's library.Don't miss the companion volume, Grammar of the Shot 2e, 9780240521213! * A simple and clear overview of the principles of editing...timeless information that will improve your work * Designed as a quick reference: each topic covered in an illustrated two-page spread * Together with its companion volume Grammar of the Shot, these little books are all the beginning filmmaker needs

Table of Contents

Introduction

What is Editing?

What is an Edit? Transitions Between Shots

What Types of Edits are there?

The Cut

The Dissolve

The Fade

The Wipe

When to make the Cut? For reasons of

Motivation

Information

Composition

Sound

Camera Angle

Continuity

Pacing

The Five Most Common Edit Categories

The Action Edit (continuity)

Screen Position Edit (screen direction, directing the eye)

Form Edit (match cut or match dissolve)

Concept Edit (use of symbolism/themes to underline action/meaning)

Combined Edit (several categories combined in one transition)

The Editor?s Challenge: How to Handle Difficult Footage

Scenarios where Film Language and Shooting-For-Editing got mixed up during production and how the editor might save the day in post

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.