The Editing Glossary

A glossary of all the terms around video and audio editing.

2D Animation

2D Animation is animation created using flat, two-dimensional images.

3D Animation

3D Animation is animation that creates moving images in a three-dimensional space.

4K

4K is a video resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, offering high-definition clarity.

8K

8K is a video resolution with 7680 x 4320 pixels, offering four times the detail of 4K.

AAC

AAC, Advanced Audio Codec, a lossy audio compression format with high-quality output.

AC3

AC3 is Dolby Digital's audio compression format used for surround sound.

AI Transcription

AI Transcription is an AI-powered tool that converts spoken words in audio or video into written text.

AI audio enhancer

AI Audio Enhancer is an AI-powered tool that improves the quality of audio by removing noise or adjusting sound levels.

AI video editing

AI Video Editing is the use of AI to automate video editing tasks like cuts, transitions, and enhancements.

AVI

AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is a multimedia container format developed by Microsoft.

Aspect Ratio

Aspect Ratio is the proportional relationship between the width and height of a video frame.

Audio Compression

Audio Compression involves reducing the file size of audio data while maintaining acceptable quality.

Audio Delay

Audio Delay is a time lag between audio output and playback, often adjusted for synchronization.

Audio enhancer

Audio Enhancer is a tool that improves sound quality by adjusting frequencies, removing noise, or amplifying certain audio elements.

B-Roll

B-Roll is supplementary footage used to support the main content in a video.

Background Music

Background Music is music played in the background to enhance the atmosphere of a video or presentation.

Background noise removal (video & audio)

Background Noise Removal (Video & Audio) is the process of eliminating unwanted sounds from video and audio recordings.

Batch Processing

Batch Processing is the execution of multiple tasks or operations in bulk, often applied in media editing.

Bin

Bin is a folder or storage area within video editing software used to organize media assets like clips or images.

Bitrate

Bitrate is the amount of data processed per second in a video or audio file, typically measured in kilobits per second (kbps).

Blend Mode

Blend Mode is a setting that determines how two layers of images or graphics interact and combine visually.

Brightness

Brightness is the level of lightness or darkness in an image or video, adjusting overall luminosity.

CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery)

CGI is digital images or animations created using computer software, often used in movies and video games.

Caption

Caption is a text displayed on-screen to convey dialogue, descriptions, or other relevant information.

Chorus

Chorus is an audio effect that multiplies and layers a sound to create a fuller, richer tone.

Chroma Key

Chroma Key is a technique where a specific color (usually green or blue) is replaced with another image or video, commonly used for backgrounds.

Clean up speech

Clean up speech is the process of editing audio to remove unwanted noise, imperfections, or improve clarity.

Clip

Clip is a short segment of audio or video extracted from a larger recording.

Clipping

Clipping is a distortion caused when audio or video signals exceed the maximum capacity, leading to a loss of detail.

Color Correction

Color Correction is the process of adjusting colors in video or images to achieve natural or accurate hues.

Color Grading

Color Grading is the enhancement of color and mood in videos or images to create a specific aesthetic or style.

Color Space

Color Space is the range of colors that can be represented in an image or video, defined by specific color models like RGB or CMYK.

Compression

Compression is reducing the file size of audio, video, or image data by minimizing quality loss or redundant information.

Contrast

Contrast is the difference between the light and dark areas of an image or video, impacting its overall sharpness and depth.

Crop (video & audio)

Crop is the act of trimming or removing portions of video frames or audio recordings to focus on desired content.

Crossfade

Crossfade is a gradual transition between two audio or video clips, where one fades out as the other fades in.

Cut (Video & Audio)

Cut is a sharp transition from one scene or audio segment to another or a removal of a section of video or audio.

Decoding

Decoding is the process of converting encoded or compressed data back into its original format for playback or editing.

Dissolve

Dissolve is a gradual transition between two video or image clips where one fades out as the next fades in.

Distortion

Distortion refers to the unintentional alteration of an audio or video signal, resulting in a degraded output.

Dubbing

Dubbing is the process of replacing original audio in a video with new audio, typically dialogue in a different language.

Dynamic Range

Dynamic Range is the difference between the softest and loudest sounds or lightest and darkest areas in a video or audio.

EDL (Edit Decision List)

EDL (Edit Decision List) is a list of instructions used by video editors to recreate an edit, specifying cuts, transitions, and effects.

Echo

Echo is a delayed repetition of sound used for an audio effect or to simulate space in sound design.

Edit Lock

Edit Lock is a stage in the editing process where no more changes are made to the edit itself, and it moves into final audio and visual adjustments.

Editing Suite

Editing Suite is a specialized space or software setup for video editing, equipped with tools and equipment for post-production work.

Editor

Editor is a person responsible for assembling and refining video or audio content in post-production.

Encoding

Encoding is the process of converting video or audio into a digital format for distribution or playback.

Equalization (EQ)

Equalization (EQ) is the adjustment of audio frequencies to balance or enhance sound quality.

Export

Export is the final step in video editing where the edited project is rendered into a final file format for distribution.

FLV

FLV is a file format (Flash Video) used for delivering video content online, especially for streaming.

Fade

Fade is a gradual transition between video clips or audio tracks, either fading in or out.

Fast Motion

Fast Motion is a video effect where the footage is sped up to show action occurring more quickly than in real time.

Final Cut

Final Cut is the completed version of a video after all editing stages, ready for release or distribution.

Fine Cut

Fine Cut is a nearly finished version of a video edit, with detailed adjustments made to pacing, transitions, and effects.

Flanger

Flanger is an audio effect that combines a delayed signal with the original to create a swirling, spacey sound.

Frame Rate

Frame Rate is the number of frames (individual images) displayed per second in a video, affecting smoothness of motion.

Freeze Frame

Freeze Frame is a technique where a single frame is held still, pausing action for dramatic or stylistic effect.

Gamma

Gamma is the brightness and contrast curve that affects the midtones of an image, influencing how light and dark areas appear.

Gamma Correction

Gamma Correction is the process of adjusting the gamma curve to correct brightness and contrast issues in video or images.

Green Screen

Green Screen is a technique where a green background is replaced with other imagery using chroma keying in post-production.

H.264

H.264 is a widely used video compression standard that offers high-quality video at lower bit rates.

HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) H.265

HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) is a video compression standard, also known as H.265, offering improved compression efficiency compared to H.264.

Headroom

Headroom is the space between the top of a subject's head and the top edge of the video frame, crucial for balanced composition.

Highlight

Highlight is the brightest part of an image or scene, often needing careful management to avoid overexposure.

Histogram

Histogram is a graphical representation of the distribution of light and dark values (exposure) in an image or video.

Import

Import is the process of bringing media files, such as video, audio, or graphics, into a video editing software for use.

In Point

In Point is the specific starting point of a clip or section of video used in an edit.

Ingest

Ingest is the process of transferring, organizing, and preparing video files from a source device into an editing system.

Jump Cut

Jump Cut is a film editing technique where two sequential shots of the same subject are taken from slightly different angles or positions.

Keyframe

Keyframe is a frame that marks the start or end of a change in an animation or video effect.

LFE Low-Frequency Effects

LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) refers to the .1 channel in a 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound system, dedicated to low-frequency sounds (e.g., bass effects).

LUFS Loudness Units Full Scale

LUFS (Loudness Units Full Scale) is a measurement standard for perceived loudness in digital audio.

LUT Look-Up Table

LUT (Lookup Table) is a preset or formula used to apply color grading to video or image footage.

Layer

Layer is a single level in a stacked set of digital assets, like images, video clips, or effects, in a video or image editing software.

Layouts

Layouts are predefined templates or arrangements of visual elements on a screen.

Lower Third

Lower Third is a graphic overlay positioned in the lower third of the video frame, often used to display titles, names, or additional information like subtitles or captions.

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface)

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a protocol that allows digital instruments and computers to communicate, controlling sound and music.

MKV

MKV is a multimedia container format that supports multiple video, audio, and subtitle streams in one file.

MOV

MOV is a multimedia file format developed by Apple, often used for storing high-quality video and audio.

MP4

MP4 is a widely-used digital multimedia format that stores video, audio, and subtitles in a single file, optimized for streaming.

Magic Audio

Magic Audio is a Riverside feature that automatically enhances audio quality by reducing background noise, balancing levels, and applying equalization.

Magic Clips

Magic Clips is a Riverside tool that uses AI to automatically generate shareable video clips from recorded content.

Marker

Marker is a tool used in editing timelines to mark specific points of interest within audio or video footage.

Masking

Masking is a technique in video and image editing that allows editors to selectively reveal or hide parts of an image or video clip.

Mastering

Mastering is the final stage of audio production, where sound levels and quality are optimized for consistent playback across all platforms.

Match Cut

Match Cut is an editing technique that connects two visually similar or thematically related shots, creating a seamless transition between scenes.

Matte Painting

Matte Painting is a visual effects technique using painted backgrounds to create realistic landscapes or settings, often for scenes too costly or impossible to film.

Media Board

Media Board is Riverside's tool for storing and playing media files during live or recorded sessions.

Media Management

Media Management is the process of organizing, storing, and retrieving multimedia content efficiently.

Metadata

Metadata is data providing information about other data, such as author, date created, or file format.

Midtones

Midtones are the middle range of brightness in an image, between shadows and highlights.

Mixdown

Mixdown is the process of combining multiple audio tracks into a single final track.

Mono

Mono is audio sound that is recorded and played back in a single channel.

Montage

Montage is a sequence of edited images or clips combined to tell a story or convey a theme.

Motion Graphics

Motion Graphics are Animated digital visuals that convey information or enhance storytelling.

Motion Tracking

Motion Tracking is a technique that follows the movement of objects or people in video footage to apply effects or add elements.

Multicam Editing

Multicam Editing is an editing technique where footage from multiple cameras is synchronized and edited within a single timeline.

Multiview

Multiview is a display setup allowing simultaneous views of multiple video sources on a single screen, often used in live production.

Music Bed

Music Bed is background music used to complement narration, dialogue, or scenes in video and audio projects.

Network-Attached Storage (NAS)

Network-Attached Storage (NAS) is a dedicated storage device connected to a network, providing shared access to data across multiple users.

Noise Reduction

Noise Reduction is the process of minimizing unwanted background sounds in audio or visual media.

Non-Linear Editing NLE

Non-Linear Editing (NLE) is a video editing method that allows for non-sequential editing, enabling more flexibility in rearranging clips.

Normalize

Normalize is the process of adjusting audio levels so that all sounds maintain a consistent volume across a recording.

Opacity

Opacity is the level of transparency of an image or layer in visual media.

Overlays

Overlays are a visual or graphic elements placed on top of a video or image layer for added effects or information.

Particle Effects

Particle Effects is a small animated visual elements, like smoke or sparks, used to enhance visual effects in media.

Peak

Peak is the highest level of audio signal, typically monitored to avoid distortion.

Picture in Picture (PIP)

Picture in Picture (PIP) is a video effect where one video is displayed within another, often used in presentations or video calls.

Pitch Shift

Pitch Shift is the process of altering the pitch of an audio track without changing its duration.

Playback

Playback is the act of reviewing or playing media content to check or enjoy it.

Post Production

Post Production is the phase after recording that involves editing, mixing, and finalizing media content.

Preset

Preset is a saved set of configurations or effects that can be applied to media with one click.

Preview

Preview is a low-resolution playback of a video project used to quickly check edits and effects without rendering.

ProRes

ProRes is a high-quality, Apple-developed video codec widely used for professional video production.

Project File

Project File is a saved file that stores all edits, media assets, and settings for a video editing project.

Proxy File

Proxy File is a lower-resolution version of a video file used to speed up editing on less powerful computers.

Quick Transition

Quick Transition is a fast, usually pre-set effect that smoothly changes from one clip to another.

Render Rendering

Rendering is the process of generating the final output by processing effects, transitions, and edits into a single video file.

Resize (video)

Resize (Video) is adjusting the dimensions of a video to fit a particular resolution or aspect ratio.

Resolution

Resolution is the number of pixels in a video frame, determining its clarity and detail.

Reverb

Reverb is an audio effect that simulates the persistence of sound after it’s produced, often adding depth.

Ripple Edit

Ripple Edit is a type of edit that automatically shifts all subsequent clips to accommodate changes in clip length.

Rough Cut

Rough Cut is an initial version of a video edit, roughly arranged without final polish or effects.

SFX Sound Effects Sound Effect

Sound effects are audio elements added to a video, film, or production to enhance realism, convey emotions, or create specific atmospheres.

Saturation

Saturation is the intensity of color in a video, affecting its vibrancy or dullness.

Scopes

Scopes are tools used to analyze color, brightness, and contrast values in a video.

Script

Script is a written outline detailing the dialogue, actions, and structure for a video project.

Sequence

Sequence is a timeline in video editing software where clips, transitions, and effects are arranged for editing.

Shadow

Shadow is a darkened area in a video or image created by light obstruction, often adjusted to enhance contrast.

Show Notes

Show Notes are a summary or outline of topics discussed in a video or podcast episode, often used for reference.

Simulation

Simulation is a digital recreation of real-world effects, objects, or environments, used to enhance video realism.

Slow Motion

Slow Motion is a video effect that decreases playback speed, making actions appear slower than normal.

Soundboard

Soundboard is an interface for controlling and mixing audio levels, effects, and sources in a live or recorded production.

Speed Ramping

Speed Ramping is a video effect that gradually changes the playback speed within a single clip, often used to create dramatic slow-motion or fast-motion effects.

Splice (video & audio)

Splice (Video & Audio) is the process of joining two clips or segments together seamlessly in editing.

Split (Video & Audio)

Split (Video & Audio) is separating audio from video or dividing a single clip into two parts for individual editing.

Split Screen

Split Screen is a technique where the screen is divided to display multiple video clips or perspectives simultaneously.

Stereo

Stereo is an audio setup using two channels (left and right) to create a sense of depth and space in sound.

Storyboard

Storyboard is a visual outline that maps out scenes, shots, and sequences to plan a video project before production.

Subclip

Subclip is a smaller, trimmed portion of a larger video clip, saved separately for easier access and editing.

Subtitles

Subtitles are text displayed on-screen to provide viewers with translations or transcriptions of dialogue and other audio elements.

Surround Sound

Surround Sound is an audio system that uses multiple channels and speakers positioned around the listener to create an immersive sound experience.

Sync

Sync is the process of aligning audio and video tracks to ensure they play together accurately in time.

Tags

Tags are keywords or labels added to video files or projects to improve organization and searchability.

Text-Based Editor

Text-Based Editor is a video editor that allows users to make cuts and adjustments by editing transcribed text rather than a traditional timeline.

Timecode

Timecode is a coded time-stamp embedded in video and audio files to mark specific frames, aiding in precise editing and synchronization.

Timeline

Timeline is the workspace in editing software where clips, effects, and audio are arranged in chronological order for editing.

Transition

Transition is an effect that smoothly bridges two clips, such as a fade or dissolve, to enhance flow between scenes.

Trim (Video & Audio)

Trim (Video & Audio) is cutting off the beginning or end of a clip to remove unwanted sections and adjust timing.

UHD

UHD (Ultra High Definition) is a video resolution standard (typically 4K or 8K) that offers greater detail and clarity than standard HD.

Uncompressed Video

Uncompressed Video is raw video footage stored without compression, maintaining maximum quality but requiring more storage space.

Vector Graphics

Vector Graphics are graphics created with mathematical equations that allow for infinite scaling without quality loss, often used for text, logos, and animations.

Vectorscope

Vectorscope is a video tool that visually displays color information, helping editors balance and correct hues in an image.

Video Compression

Video Compression is the process of reducing a video file’s size by removing redundant data, making it easier to store and stream.

Video Encoder

Video Encoder is software or hardware tool that converts video into a specific format, often compressing it to make playback or storage more efficient.

Voice-over

Voice-over is a narration or dialogue recorded separately and added to the video, often used to provide context or storytelling.

WMV

WMV (Windows Media Video) is a video format developed by Microsoft, commonly used for online streaming and Windows playback.

Watermark

Watermark is a logo, text, or symbol overlaid on video to identify ownership or prevent unauthorized use.

What Is Hue?

Hue is the aspect of color determined by the wavelength of light, defining whether a color is red, blue, green, etc.

White Balance

White Balance is the process of adjusting colors to ensure that whites in an image appear neutral, correcting for different lighting conditions.

Wipe

Wipe is a transition effect that replaces one shot with another by moving a line or shape across the screen.

XLR

XLR is a type of three-pin connector commonly used for professional audio equipment, known for its durability and noise-reduction capabilities.

XML

XML (Extensible Markup Language) is a markup language used to structure data, often for exchanging project files and settings between editing software.

YUV

YUV is a olor encoding system used in video, separating brightness (Y) from color information (U and V) to optimize compression and transmission.

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