Editing techniques

Editing tips:

The suspense and tension that is built during a dramatic and horrifying scene keeps the audience on their toes and coming back for more. Horror films work because of the editors’ efforts and decisions. The horror genre is one place where the editor needs to meticulously work their craft in order to get a desired outcome from the audience. Even better still, a video editor can translate the lessons learned from cutting a horror piece into building dynamic tension into almost any video. In turn, the video editor hooks their audience, grabbing ahold of their attention. 

Timing is KEY

Suspense is built on the audience’s anticipation. A video editor can use the timing and pace of clips to build this anticipation and grow suspense. There is no set formula for building suspense through timing and pacing but there are some basic guidelines that serve as a solid foundation.

The actual time span or length of clips used will make an impression on the audience.

A quick succession of fast-paced short clips will disorient an audience. Quick cutting with fast moving clips creates a pace in which the audience starts to believe that everything on screen is being performed in haste and they feel a sense of urgency. It’s best to use the quick pace, short style when there is a lot of action taking place and more than one perspective to see. Close-ups and hand held camera work lend to the urgency of a scene.

Just as short, fast paced clips can build dramatic tension, extended uncut clips can be used to grow suspense. As the tension in a scene builds, the audience anticipates progression, whether it’s through the reaction of the subject on-screen, the introduction of a new and surprising element, or a simple cut to a new shot or perspective. When a shot is held on-screen for longer than expected, the audience starts to feel discomfort and anticipates a change to come. The greater that discomfort builds, the bigger the anticipation and accordingly, the editor should use the pent up anticipation for a big reveal in order to satisfy their audience.