What is pacing in film or video editing
As often happens, there is no exact and unified definition of "pacing in film", which is why this term is ambiguous and sometimes misleading. Pacing, indeed, is more or less directly connected with the video speed, but this aspect is much more complicated than just some physical parameters.
Pacing in a film is how fast and forwardly the plot unravels. In the vlogging context, it may mean how much content and information is embedded in a short space of time. Usually, the rapid flow of events is accompanied by fast cuts and transitions and dynamic music, but it's not a rule of thumb.
Types of video pacing
Here are some common types of pacing in films and how they can be used in vlogs.
- Fast pacing. The action is dynamic and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. It's a good option for travel vlogs.
- Slow pacing. Minimum action, relaxing music, deep immersion in the atmosphere. This pace fits art, meditation, or yoga vlogs.
- Moderate pacing is somewhere between the first two types; it's just a normal pace, as it is in daily life. It fits vlogs about house chores and daily routines.
- Variable pacing combines fast, slow, and moderate types. It is used in creative projects.
- Musical pacing is when the action is aligned with a musical rhythm. You may try it for sports vlogs.
- Deliberate pacing. It's a technique when the rhythm of the narration is deliberately controlled and moderated, for example, to explain something thoroughly. It's a perfect choice for DIY vlogs, cooking channels, tutorials, how-tos, etc.
- Montage pacing is a summary of the episode. It can come in handy in any vlog, just at the very end of the video.
- Emotional pacing depicts and emphasizes emotional arcs by combining different tempos. It fits personal vlogs or storytelling.
Pacing techniques
Video pacing is set not only during the shooting but also during the post-production video editing. One of the primary means of setting the pace is cuts and transitions. Short and rapid cuts make the narration more vivid and dynamic. Long takes without transitions, on the contrary, turn the footage into a meditative and hasteless flow. A mixture of long and short shots keeps the viewers immersed in the action.
Music is also a powerful tool. A rhythmic and energetic soundtrack increases the video pace, even if the recording itself is slow and not very dynamic. The absence of music creates tension and "freezes" the pacing almost to zero. Another sound technique: you can use different musical pieces to mark the transition from one scene to another or a complete change of the settings.
Camera movements can also add to the video intensity or its lack. Zooms and fast pans make the action "faster", while slow tracking or still frames slow the plot down.
Content itself is also crucial. Dialogs spur the development of the action, while calm background music and monotonous voiceover make the overall pacing slow.
Captions, stickers, and other visual elements can also come in handy. Not only do they give additional info and highlight crucial points, but also keep the viewers engaged.
In addition, you can use such editing techniques as speeding up or slow-mo, linear or nonlinear narration, close-up or wide frames, combinations of various techniques, and non-trivial approaches.
Tips for an effective video pacing
- Define your audience and its attention span. Effective pacing depends on various factors: your vlog's type, your audience, and the platform you use (for example, TikTok is rather not suitable for long, deep, and insightful videos, but YouTube is).
- Combine different techniques. Don't stick to one chosen way to deliver your message, and it will make your recording dull.
- Change pace. After some intense action-packed with content, give the viewer time to process and digest it.
- Start with a hook. The viewer decides to keep watching during the first 5-10 seconds. Make them captivating.
- Use analytics. Most platforms have analytics tools, so you can check which approach works best and adjust your techniques.
FAQs
What is pacing in video editing?
In simple words, pacing is a term that defines how dynamic the action is, how fast it develops, and how engaged the audience is.
Should all vlogs have the same pacing?
Definitely not. Pacing depends on the vlog's aim. For example, ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) relaxing videos should be slow-paced, while travel vlogs should be dynamic and engaging.
What's the difference between pacing and video speed?
Video speed is a strictly technical parameter that defines how fast or slow the recording is. Pacing defines how speedy or slow the action is developing.
Final thoughts
Video pacing gets undeservedly little attention while it's a powerful tool for emotional engagement and increases your vlog's views and followers. Even though pacing isn't an easy concept to master, once it's grasped, it will benefit you.
