What is a cutaway shot
Film editing uses many different techniques designed to evoke a specific feeling in the viewer. Whether it is working with color, sound, or placing frames, everything affects the final result. Cutaway shot is one of these techniques.
So, what is a cutaway in films? The meaning is shown in the name itself – it is a continuity editing technique, where some shots are placed between the main frames, effectively "cutting away" from them.
A famous example is the interrogation scene in "The Dark Knight". During it, the film uses cutaway shots to show the reactions of the officers observing from outside. It emphasizes the intensity of the situation, showing how uncomfortable and tense the onlookers are.
Why use a cutaway shot
As with many editing techniques, there are a lot of reasons to use them. For example, cutaways help to hide abrupt transitions between main shots that may have been filmed from different angles or at different times.
They also help control the pace, making the video more dynamic or, conversely, slowing it down at the right moment. Depending on the content, such breaks help convey the mood of the scene or prepare the viewer for the next shot.
Moreover, cutaways can show details that were not previously in the frame or reveal additional information. This helps in keeping the viewer’s attention and also breaks up scenes that may be too long.
Cutaway shot vs. other shots
A keen viewer may notice that cutaways in various media can differ drastically from each other. This is true, and the reason is they use different editing techniques. Although they may technically fit the definition of cutaway shots, their purpose is different.
As such, insert shots also break away from the main scene, but they are more focused on highlighting a certain plot-relevant detail within it.In case of cross-cutting, it uses jumping between separate locations or parallel storylines, often to show simultaneous events, while cutaway shots break briefly from the main scene and remain within the same narrative.
Cutaway gags, while similar in name, are more about humor and more often than not irrelevant to the main plot.
B-rolls, in turn, are additional video materials that are not directly related to the main plot, but support it. These shots can be used to interrupt or decorate the main video.
How to use cutaways in vlogs effectively
Cutaways can greatly improve the dynamics of a vlog if used correctly. The main rule is that they should be appropriate and complement the main narrative, making the shots between scenes smoother and more spectacular.
This way, you can add context to what’s happening in the vlog. Show details that help to understand where you are and what’s going on around you. For example, if you’re talking about your day, you can include shots of your coffee cup, book, laptop, or the road you’re driving on.
Cutaways can also be used to go from one scene to another to avoid abrupt jumps between them. For example, if you’re recording a fully or partly scripted vlog and you have to pause between filming different parts, you can place a cutaway as a transition between the recordings when you edit your video.
Also, if you are talking a lot or for a long time in a vlog section, you can insert a cutaway shot with something related to the topic while you are talking. This is especially useful when reviewing an item or product, as it keeps the viewer’s attention and also allows them to look at it in more detail.
Overall, cutaways are a pretty simple but effective way to add variety to your vlog’s visuals. However, they should be used wisely to avoid the opposite effect. For example, don’t make cutaways too long or not fitting the vlog’s style or the context of the topic. And, of course, don’t use them too often unless that’s your creative intention.
FAQs
What is a cutaway shot?
It is a shot that goes between the two "main" shots to display related details or other elements within them. It’s typically used to provide more context, show reactions, or introduce new information while breaking the flow of the main scene.
How long should a cutaway shot be?
There is no exact answer, as it depends on the style, idea and purpose of the project. In some cases, a second-long shot is enough, while in others, longer ones work better to explore the theme of the scene.
How many cutaway shots are sufficient?
As many as needed to convey the meaning needed. However, it is worth remembering that too many or too long cutaway shots can negatively affect the result.
Conclusion
Cutaways help avoid abrupt editing cuts, improve the perception of the video, and add additional information or mood to the scene. They are most often used in film production, television filming, documentaries, and vlogs.