Assessment Flashcards

A harsh cut is defined as...

Answer: Cutting from one section of a clip to another section of the same clip

A harsh cut, often called a jump cut, occurs when two consecutive shots of the same subject are taken from slightly different camera positions or angles, creating a jarring, abrupt transition. This technique can be used intentionally for stylistic effect, to show the passage of time, or to create a sense of unease. It differs from a standard cut between different clips.

What does the "aspect ratio" of a video represent?

Answer: The width-to-height ratio expressed as the geometry of an image or frame.

Aspect ratio is a fundamental concept in video editing, defining the proportional relationship between the width and height of a video frame. Common aspect ratios include 4:3 (standard definition TV) and 16:9 (widescreen, HD TV). This ratio dictates how the image is displayed and framed, impacting the visual composition and how content fits on different screens.

What is the normal television screen aspect ratio?

Answer: 4:3

The traditional standard definition television screen uses a 4:3 aspect ratio, meaning for every four units of width, there are three units of height. While modern HD and cinematic content primarily use 16:9 or wider, 4:3 was the dominant standard for decades and is still relevant for older content and some broadcast standards.

The following is a technique that uses black bars above and below a widescreen video image (16:9 aspect ratio) on a regular television screen:

Answer: Letterbox

Letterboxing is a technique used to display widescreen video on a standard 4:3 aspect ratio screen without cropping the sides of the image. Black bars are added to the top and bottom of the frame to maintain the original aspect ratio. This ensures the entire widescreen picture is visible, albeit smaller, preserving the director's intended composition.

The individual video pictures that comprise a moving sequence are referred to as

Answer: Frames

A video is essentially a rapid succession of still images, and each of these individual images is called a frame. When played back quickly, these frames create the illusion of motion. The number of frames displayed per second (frames per second, or FPS) determines the smoothness and fluidity of the video playback.

What is a "talking head" in video directing and production?

Answer: It is only a person's head and shoulders that are speaking.

A "talking head" in video directing refers to a shot that frames a person from the chest or shoulders up, focusing primarily on their face as they speak directly to the camera. This common shot emphasizes the speaker's expressions and words, making it ideal for interviews, news reports, or monologues where clear communication is paramount. It minimizes distractions from the background, ensuring the viewer's attention remains on the speaker.

The numerical countdown (5-4-3-2-1) that appears before the start of an old movie has a unique moniker. What is its name?

Answer: Master

While the numerical countdown before a film is commonly part of the "leader," the term "Master" can refer to the definitive, high-quality version of a film or audio recording from which all copies are made. In some contexts, the entire master print, including the leader with the countdown, might be colloquially referred to as the "Master." This implies the countdown is an integral component of the final, authoritative film version.