Learn the basic "grammar" of editing films and videos in Grammar of the Edit! This book shows you in no uncertain terms (independently of software) what you absolutely need to know to edit your video production. Whether you are just learning how to edit or you need a refresher, this book gives you a basic toolkit to understand the basic terms and the common practices of editing to help create a coherent and meaningful story or visual presentation. This book concentrates on where and how an edit is made and teaches you how to answer the simple question: 'What do I need to do in order to make a good edit between two shots?' Grammar of the Edit begins with an explanation of the basic rules of visual construction that will allow you to arrange your footage logically. The book takes you from the basic vocabulary of editing, to knowing when to cut (and why), to transitions, and finally to good working practices. Designed as an easy-to-use reference, each topic is covered succinctly and is accompanied by clear photographs and diagrams that illustrate the key concepts presented in the book. Simple, elegant, and easy to use, Grammar of the Edit is a staple of any filmmaker's library. Don't miss the companion volume, Grammar of the Shot 2e, 9780240521213!

Table of Contents:
Introduction Chapter 1 Editing Basics A Little Editing History What Factors May Impact Your Editing Choices? The Basic Editing Transitions Stages of the Editing Process Review Chapter 2 Understanding the Footage Basic Shot Types Shot Descriptions Increasing Shot Complexity Simple Shots Complex Shots Developing Shots Reviewing the Footage-Selecting the Best Shots What Could Make or Break a Shot? Focus Audio Quality Exposure and Color Temperature Framing and Composition Screen Direction 180 Degree Rule/Axis of Action 30 Degree Rule Matching Angles Matching Eye-Line Continuity of Action Continuity of Dialogue Performance Be Familiar with All the Footage So How Does All of This Help You? Review Chapter 3 When to Cut and Why? What Factors Help Make a Transition a Good Edit? Information Motivation Shot Composition Camera Angle Continuity Sound Is there a Right or Wrong Reason for a Cut? Review Chapter 4 Transitions and Edit Categories The Cut The Dissolve The Wipe The Fade The Five Major Categories of Edit Types Will I Be Quizzed on Any of This? Review Chapter 5 General Practices for Editors Sound and Vision are Partners and Not Rivals A New Shot Should Contain New Information There Should Be a Reason for Every Edit Observe the Action Line Select the Appropriate Form of Edit The Better the Edit, the Less It Is Noticed Editing is Creating Review Chapter 6 Working Practices Working Practices Review Chapter 7 The Final Cut: Additional Editing Topics You are Bound to Encounter Additional Editing Terms Making Your Way into the World of Editing Digital Workflow The Role of an Assistant Editor In Conclusion Review Glossary Index