Definitions and Explanations of Continuity Editing

Continuity Editing - Is used to make edits between shots as unobtrusive as possible. This way, you wont notice the editing most of the time and the shot will look 'natural' as it appears to flow from one shot to another. Continuity editing has to ensure the continuity of time, space and action to help the viewer maintain an imagined space in their minds.

The Techniques of Continuity Editing -

• Master Shot - This shot sets up the spacial relationship between the characters.

• 180 Degree Rule - The rule starts with two characters facing each other. We then draw an imaginary line between the characters and decide where to place the camera. Once you have placed the camera, it MUST stay on the same side of the line. This is because, if the camera suddenly cuts across the line, the characters will have switched places without the audience seeing it and this will appear strange. The only time the camera can cross the line is if the camera is seen to be tracking across the line, not just a sudden cut.

• Match on Action - This comprises of a first shot, where one character is carrying out an action. This shot may be from one shot type/angle and during the second shot, it will cut to another shot type/angle. The edit can cut on this action to hide the cut, and make the edit seamless. We viewed two examples for this. In example one, the character is sitting around a table, surrounded by other characters and is dealing a deck of cards. The camera then changes position and ends up behind her. This looks seamless because the people hadn't moved and there was no break in the dealing of the cards. It all appeared very natural. In the second example, the match on action happens when a close up of a man playing the piano (only his hands can be seen) cuts to a long shot (where we can see the whole of the piano and his face). During this he is singing and the cut appears seamless because his singing doesn't stop and is in the same place as it was before the cut.

• Eyeline Match - This happens when there is a cut between a character looking off screen to the item they are looking at. This is used to hide the cut. For example, eyeline match can be used when someone knocks on a door, and the character looks towards the door. The effect is that spacial awareness is created so the audience can see the distance between one character in relation to another.

• Shot Reverse Shot - This is usually used to show conversations between characters. The camera will switch between MCU/CU of characters as they speak to each other, showing response to action. During shot reverse shot it is vital that the 180 degree rule is adhered to. Also, when looking over the shoulders of characters they must stay on the same side.