This was my first portfolio work focusing on editing.
INTENTION: My filmmaker intention for this project is to capture the repetitive moments of everyday life as something vibrant and alive, by using match cuts and cross-cutting.
As an editor, I wanted to create a rhythmic, cross-cut sequence that parallels the morning routines of two different individuals (a student and a worker) to reveal the hidden liveliness within seemingly uninteresting, repetitive daily life. My goal was to use match cuts and rhythmic pacing to transform ordinary actions such as waking up, getting ready, and leaving home into moments that feel dynamic and full of energy. I wanted to remind the audience that even within routine and repetition, there is movement, energy, and shared human rhythm that can be noticed if we pay attention!
I learned how to create effective match cuts by going through reordering and refilming shots, and seeking information online. Initially, my cuts felt only technical, focusing on matching just appearances rather than motion or meaning. After I realized this, I refilmed and rearranged scenes so the cuts connected more than just looks. As I was editing, I could really notice that effective match cuts rely on maintaining flow and gesture continuity rather than exact frame matching.
To film in different locations and to match them, I used sticky tabs on the camera so that my editing process could be easier. But I still needed minor adjustments. Using the Trim View function was helpful; it allowed me to see whether the motion and framing aligned seamlessly between the two consecutive shots on a micro-level, making it easier to refine the transition. This made me realize that precise match cuts are only effective when small, detailed decisions are made during editing.
| (Trim View) |
To reach my intention of revealing liveliness in ordinary routines, I cross-cut between two parallel characters whose gestures often mirrored each other throughout their mornings. Initially, I tried cross-cutting the sequence shown below, but it felt repetitive and lacked clarity in showing both characters’ simultaneous movement. I learned how to create split screens by researching tutorials. Through this process, the split screen not only solved my narrative issue but also visually reinforced my theme of connection and shared energy! To support my work, I used the song “Dedicated To The One I Love” by The Mamas & The Papas. Its gradual increase in energy, instruments, and volume effectively reflects the theme.
Overall, I believe I achieved my intention! The use of match cuts and rhythmic pacing conveyed liveliness within ordinary routines, while the metric montage near the end and soundtrack reflected shared human energy. However, I recognize that some transitions could have been smoother. For instance, in the breakfast sequence, I attempted to create jump cuts. But because of the inconsistent camera position, it doesn’t look smooth; it looks fragmented. I definitely learned that errors made in the filming process are challenging to mitigate during the editing process. At the start of the unit, I viewed editing as arranging footage into logical order so that the story makes sense to the audience. I viewed editors as people who facilitate the understanding of an existing story and meaning. Now, I understand that editors create meaning through manipulating what they show, rhythm, pace, and sound, while balancing clarity with emotion. This change in my perspective made me appreciate editing as both a delicate, technical skill and a creative, interpretive storytelling.