Trim Interview Footage

These instructions reference your videos from "SUMMATIVE: Interview Footage". If you did not do that summative project yet, you should use 6 other video clips from our other various formatives to practice the trimming tools.

Why Trim?

In raw footage, there are often moments at the start or end of a shot that are less engaging or redundant like:

• Awkward silences before someone starts talking.

• Long pauses after someone finishes talking.

• Unnecessary setup or preparation (e.g., adjusting the camera or getting into position).

• People reacting with no emotional or narrative significance.

What to Look for When Trimming:

• Silent or Static Moments: If the person in the shot is just sitting there waiting to speak or finish, and nothing of significance happens during that time, it’s usually best to trim that part.

• Reactions Without Purpose: If someone finishes talking, and there's an extended shot of them doing nothing (like nodding or staring blankly), you can trim that so the video moves to the next person or action faster.

• Lead-in to the Action: When transitioning into a new shot, avoid showing unnecessary setup. For example, if a person is about to start speaking, you can cut straight to when they begin rather than showing them breathing in or preparing to speak.

• Overly Long Endings: After someone finishes a statement or action, sometimes the camera lingers. If this adds no emotional or storytelling value, you can cut that extra footage.