Glossary · Updated
What is L-cut?
Short answer
An L-cut is an editing technique where the audio from the current shot continues over the next shot's picture. It lets a speaker keep talking while the viewer sees related footage, and keeps the story flowing. Interviews and explainers use it often to show what the speaker is describing.
How is L-cut used in editing?
While the speaker says a sentence, the picture cuts to a related shot and returns, with the voice continuing throughout. It is the basis of most B-roll cutaways.
What mistakes do people make?
- Cutting away too long
- Showing unrelated footage
- Letting the audio level jump
How do you add one to a skill render?
Render the talking edit with Layers, then place cutaway footage over it in your editor while keeping the original audio.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between J-cut and L-cut?
A J-cut starts the next audio early; an L-cut keeps the previous audio late.
Why use an L-cut?
To show what is being described.
Is it only for interviews?
No, it works in any spoken video.
Do I need special tools?
Any timeline editor can do it.
Skills mentioned on this page
Layers
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