Article Response: "Keys to Creating Complex Transitions"

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    Everything that goes into the production of a movie or short film is important if you want to make it a success. Even something as small and simple as an interesting transition between clips is crucial. "A great transition can be just as powerful as a beautifully composed shot." writes V Renee in this article about creating complex transitions. Most of the time, film editors tend to look past transitions and just use simple cuts to split a scene, however, you can use dynamic transitions to easily add energy and meaning to your story.

    The short film "Playground, Italy", created by Matty Brown, features many different kinds of transitions and quick camera movements in order to add to the adventure scenes and convey powerful emotions with each nature clip. Matty explains that transitions connect two parts of a story, the similar sequences, and the not so similar. The challenge is connecting the not so similar clips together, and when that's accomplished, it adds whole other experience for the viewer.

    So, how can you construct these types of transitions? You need to make sure the subjects in the two shots you planned are lined up perfectly, or the lighting is the same. That way, you won't go from one clip, to another that is far different and could confuse people. It will also help with continuity and help make this appear as seamless as possible. Sound is also an important element during transitions. You can have one clip that doesn't quite fit, but with the use of sound effects, it can turn into something that tugs at viewers hearts.

    With Matty's advice and watching his Italy video can really inspire new ideas for creating transitions in the future. By reading this article and watch the videos provided, it's really helped me see the importance of transitions, and I hope someday I can create transitions as visually interesting as his!