What is dynamic cutting?

Learn more about this dramatic editing technique and how to use it to create a striking visual impact in your films.

In film, not all moments are created equal. There are some moments or sequences that you want to stand out in a particularly dramatic, eye-catching way — that’s where dynamic cutting comes in. Let’s explore more about this creative film technique and when you might employ it in your own work.

Stand out with dynamic cuts.

Dynamic cutting is an editing technique that rapidly takes a viewer through a flurry of images. There’s nothing subtle about this type of cutting — it’s a very conscious effort by the editor to catch the viewer’s attention.

In some cases, you may use dynamic cutting to add a flourish in the middle of a longer scene. Other times, you can employ it in ways that will startle the viewer — like in the case of dramatic flashbacks that occur in quick succession. Or, if you’re a fan of crime thrillers, you’ll often see this technique in action when the detective finally puts all the clues together in their head, culminating in a final moment of clarity.

Examples of dynamic cutting.

One of the best ways to improve your video editing skills is by learning from other films, and dynamic cutting is evident in a wide range of films throughout history. Consider Bob Fosse’s All That Jazz or Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs and Django Unchained. Like with any film or video transition, the more you study it, the easier it’ll become to recognize it in action.

Discover video editing tips that can inspire your next creative cut and more. Then, explore everything you can do with Adobe Premiere Pro to edit high-quality films that will captivate any audience.