Glossary · Updated
What is B-roll?
Short answer
B-roll is supplementary footage that supports the main shot, called A-roll. In a talking-head video, A-roll is the speaker and B-roll is the cutaway footage that illustrates their words or hides a cut. Good B-roll is relevant, short and licensed, and it never distracts from the point.
How is B-roll used in editing?
A speaker mentions a product, and the video cuts to a short shot of it before returning. B-roll hides jump cuts and adds visual interest.
What mistakes do people make?
- Using shots that do not match the words
- Holding a shot too long
- Using unlicensed footage
Do SkilledCut skills add B-roll?
No. They edit the speaker. Add cutaways in your editor, or read how to add B-roll on top of a Layers render.
Frequently asked questions
What is A-roll?
The main footage, such as the speaker.
Where do I get B-roll?
Film it or use licensed stock.
How long should each shot be?
A cutaway shot usually lasts a few seconds, just long enough to show the point before returning to the speaker.
Can B-roll replace A-roll?
Not for a talking video.
Skills mentioned on this page
Layers
A full motion-graphics edit from one plain clip: words behind your head, plates, charts and cards.
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Keep reading
Glossary
What is A-roll?
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What is audio ducking?
ReadHow-to guides
How to add B-roll to a talking-head video
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