Coverage and cutaways

An excellent editor is an ideal companion to filmmakers. Simply put, an editor's job is to take everything which was taken on camera in a specific project, and then put it all together to tell the story. Don't get fooled! There's a lot more to editing than splicing 'err' clicking-and-dragging clips into a timeline! An expert editor comprehends what drives the narrative's tension and chooses the right parts are needed to create the whole.

Video Coverage and Cutaways tutorial

Pro tip: Keep your assets (cast crew, crew, gear as well as time you spend at the father-in-law's home of your friend's cousin's brother) in your mind while deciding whether or not to do "just one additional" shoot of a specific scene. If you're not offering very high-end prices and you're not required to get the full David Fincher on people.

At the end of the (shoot) day the coverage gives you the option to create the most compelling movie you could make. Cutaways are quick, powerful punches to help you tell the story in a visual way. Planning for both will ultimately make your film more dynamic and interesting for viewers.

Until next time, friends!