Scene transitions are crucial in any video production project. Each scene should melt flawlessly into the next, and should only be uneven or abrupt if it is with a purpose—that is, if the filmmakers desire to illicit a certain reaction or stress a particular mood.

There are 5 main types of transition methods that you can use in your video production. Make sure you carefully consider each one so that you can decide which style is appropriate in establishing the atmosphere and tone that you desire to convey.

  1. Cut

This is the most popular type of transition that is mainly used in film and television. It consists of turning off the camera when one scene ends and switching it back on when the next one begins. This creates a sudden switch from one scene to the next, and can be highly effective in creating a fast or breathless tone. If you are looking to create a dramatic commercial or short film, this transition can be ideal in heightening an atmosphere of action or tenseness.

  1. Mix/Crossfade/Dissolve

All of these terms are used to ultimately describe the same type of transition: a gradual melting from one shot to the next. Transitions like these allow the camera to linger on a particular actor or scene, and they work well in creating:

  • a more relaxed feel than cuts
  • a thoughtful mood
  • an indication of the passage of time or change in location

Many filmmakers will also utilize these types of transitions with scenery sequences and photo montages.

  1. Fade

Fades are shot in a single color, typically in white or black. The “fade to black” or “fade from black” transitions are classic tools in film and television; they indicate the beginning and end of scenes. These types of film transitions can also be used between shots to create a kind of crossfade that fades briefly to white before melting seamlessly into the next shot.

Less abrupt than cut transitions, but not quite as “contemplative” as full-blown crossfades, the fade technique is a good in-between style of video transition that creates an atmosphere of expectation and provokes a sober mood.

  1. Wipe

In wipe transitions, one shot is slowly replaced by another through a series of patterns. There are a variety of wipe techniques, including complex shapes, straight lines, and so on. They usually have a colored border that helps distinguish between shots during the transition. Wipes are a popular choice among filmmakers for showing changing location.

  1. Digital Effects

The majority of editing applications offer a large selection of transition options with a variety of digital effects. Some of these effects include the following:

  • color replacement
  • focus drops
  • animation
  • lighting

Certain cameras also have an assortment of digital effects for users to choose from, but it is better to address these in post-production. This is where Orlando video production camera crews can come in handy. These professionals will help you select the right effects for your project and enable you to establish the desired end result for your film.

Make Your Film Transitions Count Today

When it comes to choosing you Orlando video production company, select a team who has a wide range of film experience coupled with fantastic customer service. At NG Production Films, we have been helping filmmakers create quality results for over a decade. We will be able to make your transitions artful, meaningful, and memorable. Call us today for a free no obligation consultation at 877-203-2895, or fill out our contact form for a prompt reply.