Video Production Glossary of Terms
A
Aspect ratio: The ratio of the width to the height of a video frame. Common aspect ratios include 4:3, 16:9, and 21:9.
Audio: The sound element of a video, which can include dialogue, music, and sound effects.
AVCHD: A video file format used for recording high-definition video on digital camcorders and some DSLR cameras.
Aperture: The adjustable opening in a camera lens that controls the amount of light that reaches the camera’s sensor. Aperture is measured in f-stops, with a smaller f-stop indicating a wider aperture and a larger f-stop indicating a narrower aperture.
Audio mix: The process of combining and balancing different audio elements, such as dialogue, music, and sound effects, to create a cohesive audio track for a video.
Animation: The process of creating the illusion of motion by displaying a sequence of static images in rapid succession.
Anamorphic: A lens or camera setting that allows for a wide aspect ratio, such as 2.35:1, to be captured on standard 16:9 video.
Alpha channel: An additional channel in a video file that stores transparency information, allowing certain parts of the video to be transparent or semi-transparent.
B
B-roll: Additional footage or shots used to supplement the primary footage in a video. B-rolls can include shots of locations, objects, or people related to the main content of the video.
Bit rate: The amount of data used to encode a video file, typically measured in megabits per second (Mbps). Higher bit rates result in higher video quality, but also larger file sizes.
Blocking: The process of rehearsing and staging the movement and positioning of actors or objects in a scene.
Boom mic: A long, handheld microphone used to pick up audio from a distance. Boom mics are often used on film and television sets to capture dialogue and other sounds.
Boom operator: A crew member responsible for operating a boom mic and positioning it to capture audio on a film or television set.
Bounce board: A reflective surface used to bounce light back onto a subject, such as an actor, to reduce shadows or add fill light.
Bridge shot: A shot that connects two separate scenes or shots, typically used to establish a transition between them.
Broadcast safe: A term used to describe video content that meets the technical standards for broadcast on television.
Bullhorn: A portable, amplified speaker system often used on film sets to communicate with cast and crew.
Bus: In audio mixing, a bus is a channel or group of channels that allows multiple audio sources to be combined and processed together.
Byte: A unit of digital information that typically consists of 8 bits. Bytes are used to measure the size of digital files, such as video and audio files.
Backlight: A light source placed behind a subject, typically used to separate the subject from the background or to create a halo effect.
Bandwidth: The amount of data that can be transmitted over a network or internet connection, typically measured in bits per second (bps).
Black and white: A monochromatic colour scheme in which a video is displayed in shades of black, white, and grey.
Blur: A visual effect used to soften or obscure the details of an image or video.
Busy: A term used to describe a shot or scene with a lot of visual activity or movement.
C
Camera operator: A crew member responsible for operating a camera and capturing footage.
Camera angle: The perspective from which a shot is filmed, determined by the position of the camera relative to the subject. Common camera angles include high angle, low angle, and eye level.
Camera movement: The motion of the camera during a shot, such as a pan, tilt, or zoom.
Camera shot: A single, continuous recording of video or film, captured by a camera.
Capture: The process of recording video or audio from a source, such as a camera or microphone.
Capture card: A device used to capture video and audio from a source, such as a video game console or a DVD player, and transfer it to a computer for editing or streaming.
Chroma key: A technique used to remove a specific colour from a video and replace it with a different image or video. Chroma key is often used to composite actors or objects into virtual or artificial environments.
Codec: A software or hardware component that encodes and decodes audio and video data for storage or transmission.
Composite: The process of combining multiple video or audio elements into a single output.
Cut: A transition between two shots or scenes in a video, typically indicated by a change in the image or audio.
Close-up: A shot in which a subject is filmed from a close distance, typically showing only a part of the subject’s body, such as the face or hands.
Continuity: The consistency of actions, events, and details within a video or film.
Colour grading: The process of adjusting the colours and tones of a video to achieve a desired look or mood.
Colour temperature: The measure of the hue of a specific type of light, typically measured in degrees Kelvin (K).
Composition: The arrangement of elements within a frame, such as the placement of subjects, objects, and background elements.
Compression: The process of reducing the size of a digital file, such as a video or audio file, by removing redundant or unnecessary data.
Crossfade: A transition between two audio tracks or two video clips in which the end of one track or clip overlaps the beginning of the next.
Cutaway: A shot or series of shots intercut with the main action in a scene, typically used to show something else happening or to provide additional context.
Cue: A signal or command to indicate that a specific action, such as starting or stopping an audio or video recording, should take place.
Chrominance: The chroma or colour information in a video signal.
Clapboard: A device used on film sets to synchronise sound and picture by providing a visual and audible reference point for the beginning of each take.
Clip: A single piece of video or audio content, such as a shot or a section of a song.
D
Dailies: Raw footage shot on a film set that is reviewed and edited by the director and editor the same day it is filmed.
Deep focus: A technique in which multiple objects or subjects in a shot are all in focus at the same time, typically achieved by using a small aperture setting.
Depth of field: The range of distance in a shot that is in focus, determined by the aperture and focal length of the camera lens.
Digital video: Video that is captured, stored and played back using digital technology, as opposed to analogue technology.
Dolly: A platform on wheels used to move a camera and operator smoothly along a track or other surface.
Dubbing: The process of replacing the audio track of a video or film with a different audio track, such as a translated or dubbed version.
DVE (digital video effects): Visual effects created using digital technology, such as compositing, colour correction, and motion graphics.
DSLR (digital single-lens reflex): A type of digital camera that uses a single, interchangeable lens and a mirror system to capture images.
Director: The person responsible for overseeing the artistic and technical aspects of a film or video production, including directing actors and crew members.
Downmix: The process of converting a multi-channel audio track, such as a 5.1 or 7.1 surround soundtrack, to a stereo audio track.
DPI (dots per inch): A measure of the resolution of an image, typically used to describe the quality of printed images.
Drop frame: A technique used to maintain the accuracy of a video’s frame rate by dropping certain frames in a 29.97 frame-per-second video format.
Dropout: A temporary loss of signal in an audio or video recording.
Dubbing: The process of replacing the audio track of a video or film with a different audio track, such as a translated or dubbed version.
E
Edit: The process of assembling and arranging video and audio elements to create a final product.
Editor: The person responsible for editing a film or video, including selecting and arranging shots, trimming footage, and adding transitions and effects.
Editing software: A computer program used to edit audio and video, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.
Effect: A visual or audio alteration applied to a video or audio element, such as a transition, filter, or overlay.
Exposure: The amount of light allowed to reach the camera’s sensor or film, controlled by the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO.
Eyeline match: A technique used to match the eyeline of a character in one shot to the eyeline of a character in another shot, creating a sense of continuity between the shots.
Extension: The additional time added to the end of a shot or scene, typically used to create a transition to the next shot or scene.
Extraneous sound: Unwanted or background sounds that may be picked up during audio recordings, such as traffic or wind noise.
F
Fade: A transition in which the audio or video gradually increases or decreases in volume or intensity.
Field: One half of a complete video frame, typically consisting of all the odd or even lines of the frame.
Film: A medium used to record and display motion pictures, typically consisting of a strip of transparent celluloid coated with a light-sensitive emulsion.
Film stock: The type of film used to record a motion picture, which can affect the look and quality of the final product.
Filter: An optical device or software effect that alters the colour, contrast, or other qualities of an image or video.
Final cut: The final, completed version of a film or video, after all editing and post-production work has been completed.
Fisheye lens: A lens with a very wide angle of view, typically used to capture extremely wide shots or to create a distorted, curved perspective.
Flicker: A visible variation in the brightness of an image or video, caused by a fluctuation in the lighting or the display device.
Frame rate: The number of frames displayed per second in a video, typically measured in frames per second (fps).
FPS (frames per second): The number of video frames displayed per second.
Frame: A single still image in a video or film.
Freeze frame: A shot in which the action is stopped and a single frame is held for an extended period of time.
Full frame: A camera or lens that captures images with a sensor or film the same size as a 35mm film frame.
F-stop: A unit of measurement used to describe the aperture of a camera lens, with a smaller f-stop indicating a wider aperture and a larger f-stop indicating a narrower aperture.
Focal length: The distance between the centre of a camera lens and its focal point, which determines the angle of view and the magnification of the image.
Focal point: The point at which light rays converge as they pass through a camera lens, creating a clear and focused image.
Foley: The process of adding sound effects to a film or video in post-production, named after sound designer Jack Foley.
Footage: The raw, unedited video or film shot during production.
Front light: A light source placed in front of a subject, typically used to illuminate the subject and reduce shadows.
Full frame: A camera or lens that captures images with a sensor or film the same size as a 35mm film frame.
G
Gain: The increase in volume or signal strength of an audio or video signal.
Gamut: The range of colours that can be displayed or captured by a particular device or system.
Genlock: A synchronisation system used to synchronise the timing of multiple video signals, such as multiple cameras or video sources.
Ghosting: A visual artifact in which a faint copy of an image appears alongside the original image, typically caused by a delay in the display or transmission of the image.
Grain: The visible texture of the film emulsion, can affect the overall appearance and contrast of an image.
Green screen: A screen or backdrop painted or lit with a specific shade of green, used in chroma key compositing to separate a subject from the background.
Gaffer: The chief lighting technician on a film or television set, responsible for lighting the sets and managing the lighting crew.
Gamma: A measure of the contrast and tonal range of an image or video, typically represented as a curve that describes the relationship between the input signal and the output signal.
Glitch: A sudden, unexpected error or malfunction in a video or audio system.
Grading: The process of adjusting the colours and tones of a video to achieve a desired look or mood.
H
Hard light: A light source that creates strong, defined shadows, typically used to create a contrasty or dramatic look.
HD (high definition): A video resolution standard with a minimum of 720 vertical lines of resolution, typically denoted as 720p or 1080p.
Highlight: The brightest areas in an image or video, typically created by direct or reflected light.
Histogram: A graphical representation of the tonal range of an image or video, showing the distribution of pixels across the tonal range.
Hot shoe: A mount on a camera used to attach a flash or other accessory.
Hue: The colour of an image or video, typically represented as a specific wavelength on the visible light spectrum.
Halation: A visual artefact in which light sources appear to have a halo or aura around them, caused by light reflecting off the camera’s sensor or film.
Headroom: The space between the top of a subject’s head and the top of the frame in a shot.
High key: A lighting technique in which the majority of the frame is brightly lit, creating high contrast and a light, airy look.
Hyperfocal distance: The distance at which a lens is focused to maximise the depth of field for a given aperture.
Hyperlapse: A time-lapse technique in which the camera is moved between shots, creating a sense of motion and distance.
Hz (hertz): A unit of frequency, equal to one cycle per second.
I
ICC (International Colour Consortium): An organisation that develops colour management standards and profiles for the printing, publishing, and electronic media industries.
IDR (intra-coded picture): A video frame that is encoded independently of other frames, used as a reference point in some video compression algorithms.
I-frame: A video frame that is encoded independently of other frames, and used as a reference point in some video compression algorithms.
Image stabilisation: A technology that reduces camera shake and motion blur in video and still images, typically achieved through hardware or software techniques.
In-camera editing: The process of editing a video by filming multiple takes or angles and selecting the desired shots in-camera, rather than in post-production.
Interlacing: A method of displaying video in which each frame is split into two fields, consisting of alternating lines of the frame, and displayed sequentially.
Interpolation: The process of estimating and adding new data points between existing data points, used to smooth or improve the resolution of an image or video.
Intervalometer: A device that controls the interval between shots in a time-lapse or stop-motion animation, or the interval between exposures in an HDR image.
ISO: A measure of a camera’s sensitivity to light, with a higher ISO resulting in a brighter image but also potentially more noise or grain.
J
J-cut: An editing technique in which the audio from the next shot is heard before the visual cut to that shot.
Jitter: A fluctuation or disturbance in a video or audio signal, typically caused by interference or a faulty connection.
K
Key: In chroma key compositing, the process of selecting and isolating a specific colour range in an image or video to be replaced or removed.
Keyframe: A frame in an animation or video that defines the starting or ending point of a change or transition.
Key light: The primary light source in a scene, typically used to define the form and shape of the subject.
L
LUT (look-up table): A mathematical formula or preset used to adjust the colours and tones of an image or video.
Lip sync: The synchronisation of audio and video, particularly the synchronisation of a character’s lips with their spoken dialogue.
Live action: A film or video that is shot with real actors and sets, rather than using animation or special effects.
Log: A colour space that encodes colours in a way that preserves more detail and dynamic range, typically used in high-end film and video production.
LUT (look-up table): A mathematical formula or preset used to adjust the colours and tones of an image or video.
Luminance: The brightness or intensity of a colour, typically represented on a scale from 0 (black) to 100 (white).
M
Mask: In compositing, a digital shape or path is used to isolate or protect a specific area of an image or video.
Matte: In compositing, a separate image or layer is used to define the shape or boundaries of an effect or element.
Matte box: A device mounted on the front of a camera lens to block unwanted light and protect the lens, typically consisting of a frame with removable filters and masks.
Media: The physical or digital material on which audio or video content is recorded or stored, such as film, tape, or a hard drive.
M-frame: A video frame that is encoded using both the current frame and the surrounding frames for reference, used in some video compression algorithms.
Midtone: The range of tones in an image or video that are neither dark nor light, typically corresponding to the middle of the tonal range.
Motion graphics: Graphics or text that are designed to move or animate, typically used to enhance or explain a video or concept.
Motion tracking: The process of tracking the movement of an object or person in a video or image, typically used to stabilise or add effects to the footage.
Monitor: A display device used to view video or audio signals, typically a television or computer monitor.
Motion blur: The blurring of an image or video due to movement or camera shake, typically an undesirable effect that can be reduced through image stabilisation or a higher frame rate.
Motion control: The process of accurately repeating or controlling the movement of a camera or other device, typically used in stop-motion animation or time-lapse photography.
Multi-cam: A production technique in which multiple cameras are used to cover an event or scene from different angles, typically used in live broadcasts or reality TV.
Multi-track: A recording technique in which multiple audio or video sources are recorded separately and combined in post-production, allowing for greater flexibility and control in the final mix.
Mute: To silence or turn off the audio of a video or audio source.
M-frame: A video frame that is encoded using both the current frame and the surrounding frames for reference, used in some video compression algorithms.
N
NDF (neutral density filter): A filter that reduces the amount of light entering a camera without affecting the colour balance, used to control the exposure or depth of field.
Noise: Unwanted or undesirable sounds or signals in an audio or video recording, typically caused by interference or a faulty connection.
Noise reduction: The process of reducing or removing noise from an audio or video signal, typically through software or hardware techniques.
Non-linear editing: An editing technique in which video and audio clips can be arranged and edited in any order, rather than in a linear, chronological sequence.
NTSC (National Television System Committee): A television system used in North America and parts of South America, with a frame rate of 30 fps and a colour encoding system known as YUV.
O
O-frame: A video frame that is encoded using both the current frame and the preceding and following frames for reference, used in some video compression algorithms.
Offline editing: The process of creating a rough cut of a video or film, typically using low-resolution or proxy files, before completing the final edit with the full-resolution files.
On-location: A production that takes place outside of a studio or controlled environment, typically involving location scouting, set construction, and location management.
Online editing: The process of completing the final cut of a video or film, typically using full-resolution files and incorporating any visual effects or colour grading.
Off-axis: A lighting or camera position that is not directly in front of or aligned with a subject.
Off-line editing: The process of creating a rough cut of a video or film, typically using low-resolution or proxy files, before completing the final edit with the full-resolution files.
On-axis: A lighting or camera position that is directly in front of or aligned with a subject.
On-location: A production that takes place outside of a studio or controlled environment, typically involving location scouting, set construction, and location management.
On-set: The location where a film or video is being shot, typically consisting of the set, camera and lighting equipment, and the crew.
Opacity: The transparency or visibility of an image or video layer, typically represented as a percentage or alpha value.
Overcranking: The process of shooting video at a higher frame rate than normal, typically used to create slow motion in post-production.
Overlay: An image or video that is superimposed over another image or video, typically used to add an effect or element to the footage.
Over the shoulder: A shot in which the camera is positioned behind and slightly above a character, looking over their shoulder at the subject or action in front of them.
Output: The final version of a video or audio signal, after it has been processed or edited.
Outtake: A shot or take that is not used in the final edit of a video or film, typically due to mistakes or technical issues.
P
Pan: A camera movement in which the camera is rotated on its horizontal axis, typically used to follow a subject or reveal a wider view.
Pan and scan: A technique used to adjust the aspect ratio of a widescreen image for display on a standard-definition television, typically by cropping or repositioning the image.
Paparazzi shot: A shot that imitates the style or techniques of paparazzi photographers, typically featuring handheld or candid shots, shallow depth of field, and high contrast.
Patch bay: A device that allows multiple audio or video signals to be connected and routed to different destinations, typically used in recording studios or post-production facilities.
Pedestal: The adjustable base of a camera tripod, used to raise or lower the camera.
Persistence of vision: The phenomenon in which the human brain continues to perceive an image or motion even after it has ceased to be displayed, creating the illusion of continuous motion in films and video.
Phase: The timing relationship between two or more audio or video signals, typically measured in degrees or samples.
Phantom power: A method of providing electrical power to a microphone or other device through a standard audio cable, typically used for condenser microphones that require external power.
Pixel: The smallest unit of a digital image, typically represented by a single point of colour.
Pixel aspect ratio: The ratio of the width to the height of a pixel, which can affect the shape and distortion of an image when displayed or transferred between devices with different pixel aspect ratios.
Post-production: The process of editing and finishing a video or film, typically including colour grading, sound mixing, and visual effects.
Pre-production: The planning and preparation stage of a video or film project, typically involving scriptwriting, scouting locations, casting actors, and assembling a crew.
Preview: A preliminary or rough version of a video or film, typically used for testing or review before the final version is completed.
Primary colours: The three colours (red, yellow, and blue) that cannot be created by mixing other colours, and are used as the basis for the colour systems in video and film.
Production: The process of creating a video or film, typically involving pre-production, principal photography, and post-production.
Production sound: The audio recorded on set during the production of a video or film, typically includes dialogue, sound effects, and ambient noise.
Production value: The overall quality or visual appeal of a video or film, typically determined by factors such as cinematography, production design, and acting.
Progress monitor: A device or software used to view the progress of a video or audio signal, typically used in post-production to check the quality or sync of the footage.
Pull focus: The process of adjusting the focus of a lens while filming, typically done manually by the camera operator or assistant.
Punch in: The process of replacing or overdubbing a specific section of an audio or video recording, typically using a separate recording or edit point.
Punch out: The process of ending a punch-in and returning to the original audio or video recording.
Push-in: A camera movement in which the camera moves closer to a subject, typically used to increase the sense of intimacy or emphasis.
Pyro: A short form of pyrotechnics, referring to the use of explosives or special effects for visual or auditory impact in a film or video.
Q
Quicktime: A file format and media player developed by Apple, used for storing and playing video, audio, and other media on computers and devices.
Quince: A slang term for the 15th take of a shot or scene, typically used when multiple takes are required to get the desired result.
Quint: A term used to refer to a group of five, typically used in reference to a five-person crew or cast.
Quiver: A case or bag used to hold and protect camera lenses or other equipment.
Quota: The minimum or maximum amount of a particular type of footage or content required for a project, typically used in reference to stock footage or licensing agreements.
R
Rack focus: The process of adjusting the focus of a lens between two or more subjects in the same frame, typically done manually by the camera operator or assistant.
RAW: A file format that captures and stores the raw, unprocessed data from a camera’s image sensor, allowing for greater flexibility and control in post-production.
Record: To capture audio or video onto a medium, typically a tape, hard drive, or memory card.
Red light: A warning light or signal used on a set to indicate that the camera is recording, typically used to cue the actors or crew to be quiet or stay out of the shot.
Red-eye: A common problem in flash photography, in which the light from the flash reflects off the retina and appears as a red or orange glow in the eyes of the subject.
Reflection: The bounce of light or sound off a surface, typically used to create a sense of depth or realism in a film or video.
Refraction: The bending of light or sound as it passes through a medium with a different refractive index, typically used to create optical illusions or special effects.
Refresh rate: The number of times per second that a display device updates its image, typically measured in hertz (Hz).
Region of interest: In compositing or motion graphics, a specific area or element of an image or video is given more attention or processing power.
Rehearsal: A practice or run-through of a scene or performance, typically used to refine the timing, blocking, or delivery of the dialogue or action.
Release form: A legal document that grants permission to use an individual’s image, likeness, or voice in a video or film, typically signed by the subject or their representative.
Render: The process of generating the final version of a video or image file, typically involving the calculation of any effects or transformations applied to the footage.
Resampling: The process of altering the resolution or sampling rate of an image or video, typically used to adjust the size or quality of the file.
Residual: An amount of money paid to an actor, writer, or other creative contributors for the reuse or distribution of a film or video.
Resize: The process of altering the dimensions or aspect ratio of an image or video typically used to fit a specific format or resolution.
Retake: A shot or take that is filmed again, typically due to mistakes or technical issues in the previous take.
Reverse: To play an audio or video clip in reverse, typically used to create an effect or highlight a specific element.
RGB (Red, Green, Blue): A colour model in which colours are created by mixing different intensities of red, green, and blue light, typically used in digital imaging and display.
Rotoscoping: The process of creating a matte or outline around a subject in an image or video, typically used to separate the subject from the background or create a compositing element.
Rundown: A list or schedule of the elements or segments in a video or broadcast, typically used to plan or coordinate the production.
Run time: The length or duration of a video or film, typically measured in minutes or hours.
Rough cut: A preliminary or rough version of a video or film, typically used for testing or review before the final version is completed.
Ruler: A tool used to measure or draw straight lines or angles, typically used in design or layout applications.
Run: To play or execute an audio or video clip, typically used in reference to a specific section or segment of the footage.
Running time: The length or duration of a video or film, typically measured in minutes or hours.
S
Safe area: An area within the frame of a video or film that is not obscured by the edge of the screen or other visual elements, typically used as a reference for placing important elements or text.
Sample rate: The number of samples per second taken from an audio or video signal, typically measured in kilohertz (kHz) or megahertz (MHz).
Scene: A continuous action or series of events in a video or film, typically occurring in a single location and involving the same characters or elements.
Scene blocking: The process of rehearsing and arranging the physical movements and blocking of actors within a scene, typically used to plan camera angles and shot composition.
Scene breakdown: A list or diagram detailing the elements of a scene, such as the characters, locations, props, and actions.
Scene continuity: The coherence and consistency of a scene or film, typically maintained by paying attention to details such as props, wardrobe, and makeup.
Score: Music composed or selected for a video or film, typically used to enhance the mood or atmosphere of the production.
Scoring stage: A large, acoustically treated room used for recording music or sound effects for a film or video.
Screen direction: The direction in which a character or object is facing or moving within the frame of a video or film, typically used to maintain spatial continuity and avoid confusing the viewer.
Screen time: The amount of time that a character or element appears on screen in a video or film.
Scrim: A translucent or reflective panel used to modify the intensity or direction of light, typically used in photography or lighting.
Script: A written document that outlines the dialogues, actions, and visual elements of a video or film.
Script breakdown: The process of analysing a script and creating a list of the elements required for the production, such as cast, locations, props, and wardrobe.
Script supervisor: A member of the film crew responsible for tracking the continuity and accuracy of the script during production, typically by maintaining a shot log and noting any deviations from the script.
Scrub: To move the playback head of an audio or video file back and forth, typically used to preview or locate a specific point in the footage.
Set dressing: The process of decorating and furnishing a set or location to create a specific look or atmosphere, typically including props, furniture, and artwork.
Set design: The process of creating and building the sets or locations for a film or video, typically including the selection of materials, colours, and textures.
Set lighting: The process of illuminating a set or location, typically using a combination of natural and artificial light sources to create the desired mood or look.
Setlist: A list of the scenes or shots planned for a particular day of shooting, typically used to coordinate the production schedule.
Setup: The process of preparing for a shot or scene, typically including the placement of cameras, lighting, and props.
Shot list: A list of the shots or camera angles planned for a particular scene or day of shooting, typically used to coordinate the production schedule and camera crew.
Shot reverse shot: A technique in which the camera alternates between two subjects in a conversation, typically used to show the reactions or emotions of each character.
Shot: A continuous take or sequence of footage captured by the camera, typically defined by a single camera placement and setup.
Shutter speed: The amount of time that a camera’s shutter is open to expose the film or image sensor to light, typically measured in fractions of a second.
Single system: A method of recording sound and picture separately, typically using a separate audio recorder and a camera with a built-in microphone.
Sketch: A rough or preliminary drawing or design, typically used to visualise or plan a concept or layout.
Slate: A board or device used to display the scene and take information for a shot, typically used to synchronise the sound and picture during editing.
Soft focus: A lens setting or effect that produces a hazy or blurry image, typically used to create a romantic or dreamy atmosphere.
Sound design: The process of creating and manipulating the sound elements of a film or video, typically including dialogue, sound effects, and music.
Sound effects: Audio elements that are added to a film or video to create a sense of realism or atmosphere, typically including ambient noises and Foley sounds.
Sound mixer: A member of the film crew responsible for capturing and mixing the audio elements of a film or video, typically using a mixing console or digital audio workstation.
Sound recordist: A member of the film crew responsible for capturing and recording the audio elements of a film or video, typically using a portable audio recorder
Sound stage: A large, acoustically treated room used for recording sound elements for a film or video, typically featuring a control room and recording booth.
Source: The original or primary material or inspiration for a video or film, typically including scripts, footage, music, or artwork.
Spacing: The distance between elements or characters in a scene, typically used to create balance or emphasis.
Special effects: Visual or auditory effects that are added to a film or video to create a sense of realism or fantasy, typically including computer-generated imagery (CGI) and practical effects.
Speed ramp: A transition in which the playback speed of an audio or video clip is gradually increased or decreased, typically used to create a sense of acceleration or deceleration.
Spherical lens: A lens with a curved, convex surface that allows for a wider field of view, typically used in wide-angle shots or VR content.
Splice: To join two or more sections of audio or video together, typically using an edit point or splicing tape.
Split screen: A technique in which two or more images or videos are displayed simultaneously on the same screen, typically used to show multiple perspectives or viewpoints.
Spoiler: A piece of information that reveals or reveals key elements or plot points of a film or video, typically used to caution viewers about potential spoilers.
Spot: A short, targeted piece of content, typically used for advertising or promotional purposes.
Storyboard: A series of sketches or illustrations that depict the visual and narrative elements of a film or video, typically used to plan and visualize the production.
Strobe: A flashing light or effect, typically used to create a sense of motion or disorientation.
Studio: A controlled environment used for filming or recording, typically featuring a sound stage and control room.
Studio lighting: Artificial lighting is used in a studio setting, typically consisting of multiple light sources and modifiers to create a desired look or mood.
Studio microphone: A type of microphone designed for use in a studio setting, typically featuring a directional pickup pattern and a large diaphragm for enhanced clarity and accuracy.
Studio sound: The audio recorded in a studio setting, typically featuring a high level of control and isolation from external noise.
Style frame: A design or concept sketch that illustrates the look and feel of a video or film, typically used to convey the visual direction of the production.
Subtitle: A textual transcription or translation of the dialogue or narration in a film or video, typically displayed at the bottom of the screen.
Super: A shortened form of “superimpose,” referring to the process of overlaying one image or video on top
Sync: Short for “synchronization,” referring to the alignment of audio and video elements in time and space, typically used to ensure that the sound and picture match up correctly.
Sync point: A reference point used to align or synchronize audio and video elements, typically based on a specific sound or visual cue.
T
Take: A single recording or attempt at capturing a shot or scene, typically identified by a take number.
Take note: A written record of the details of a take, typically including the take number, camera and microphone setups, and any notes or issues from the shoot.
Telephoto lens: A lens with a long focal length, typically used to magnify or compress the visual elements of a shot.
Timeline: A visual representation of the sequence and duration of elements in a video or film, typically used to plan and edit the production.
Time code: A numerical representation of the time and duration of an audio or video signal, typically used to synchronise and reference different elements of the production.
Time-lapse: A technique in which a series of images or video frames are captured at a slower rate than normal playback, typically used to create a sense of speed or progression.
Title: A textual element that appears on screen in a video or film, typically indicating the name or subject of the production.
Title design: The process of creating and animating the titles or graphics for a film or video, typically including the selection of fonts, colours, and effects.
Title safe: An area within the frame of a video or film that is safe from being obscured by the edge of the screen or other visual elements, typically used as a reference for placing important elements or text.
Tracking: The process of following or keeping a subject in focus or in-frame, typically done by the camera operator or assistant.
Transition: A technique used to move from one shot or scene to another, typically involving a cut, dissolve, or wipe.
Travelling matte: A technique in which a moving element or subject is separated from the background, typically using a matte or outline and composited into a different shot or scene.
Treatment: A written document that outlines the concept, plot, characters, and themes of a film or video, typically used to pitch or sell the idea.
Tungsten light: A type of artificial light that produces a warm, yellowish light, typically used in film or video production.
Twist: A surprising or unexpected element or revelation in a film or video, typically used to add tension or drama to the plot.
Two shot: A camera angle or shot that includes two subjects, typically used to show a conversation or interaction between characters.
U
Upconvert: The process of converting a video or audio signal from a lower resolution or format to a higher resolution or format, typically used to improve the quality or compatibility of the content.
User experience (UX): The overall satisfaction and usability of a product or service, typically evaluated by user testing or feedback.
User interface (UI): The visual and interactive elements of a product or service, typically including buttons, menus, and graphics.
V
Video assist: A system that records or monitors the video output of a camera or other device, typically used as a reference or backup during filming.
Video codec: A software or algorithm used to compress and decompress video data, typically used to reduce file size and improve streaming performance.
Video effects: Visual elements that are added to a video to create a specific look or atmosphere, typically including filters, compositing, and animation.
Video on demand (VOD): A service that allows users to watch or stream video content at their convenience, typically using a subscription or rental model.
Video wall: A display or array of multiple screens used to show a single, large image or video, typically used for public or commercial applications.
Viewfinder: A device or display used to preview and compose a shot, typically featuring a live video feed and framing lines.
Viewing copy: A version of a film or video that is intended for review or evaluation, typically featuring temporary music and effects.
Virtual reality (VR): A computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way, typically using a headset or other immersive device.
Voiceover: A spoken narration or dialogue that is added to a film or video, typically recorded separately from the visual elements.
W
WAV: A file format used to store digital audio, typically featuring a high quality and large file size.
White balance: The process of adjusting the colour balance of a video or image to neutralise the effects of different lighting conditions, typically done by adjusting the levels of red, green, and blue.
Wipe: A transition in which one shot is replaced by another, typically using a diagonal or curved movement across the screen.
Workflow: The sequence and organisation of tasks and processes involved in a production, typically defined by the goals and requirements of the project.
Workprint: A rough or preliminary version of a film or video, typically featuring temporary sound and effects and used for review or feedback.
X
XLR: A type of audio connector used to transmit balanced audio signals, typically featuring three or four pins and used in professional audio equipment.
Z
Zoom: A lens setting or effect that changes the magnification or focal length of an image, typically used to create a sense of intimacy or distance.
Z-depth: The distance or depth of an element or object in a three-dimensional space, typically used to create the illusion of depth or parallax in compositing or animation.
Z-axis: The third dimension or axis of a three-dimensional space, typically used to represent depth or distance.
Zeroing: The process of calibrating or adjusting a device or system to a specific reference point or level, typically used to ensure accuracy or consistency.
Zoom lens: A lens with a variable focal length, typically allowing for a range of magnification or wide-angle shots.