Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: AAF • H.265 • Keyframes

L-Cut

Term from Video Editing industry explained for recruiters

An L-Cut is a basic but important video editing technique where the audio from one scene continues playing while the video transitions to the next scene. It's named because the edit looks like the letter "L" on the editing timeline. Editors use this method to make transitions between scenes feel more natural and flowing, rather than abrupt. It's sometimes also called a "split edit" or "audio advance." This technique is commonly used in documentaries, interviews, and narrative films to create smooth transitions and maintain viewer engagement.

Examples in Resumes

Created engaging story transitions using L-Cut techniques in documentary films

Applied L-Cut and Split Edit methods to improve interview flow in corporate videos

Enhanced narrative continuity through strategic use of L-Cut editing in promotional content

Typical job title: "Video Editors"

Also try searching for:

Video Editor Film Editor Post-Production Editor Content Editor Multimedia Editor Digital Video Editor

Where to Find Video Editors

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you decide when to use L-Cuts in a project?

Expected Answer: A senior editor should explain how L-Cuts help maintain story flow, discussing specific examples of when they work best (like interviews or scene transitions) and how they help keep viewer attention.

Q: Can you describe a challenging editing project where L-Cuts were crucial?

Expected Answer: Should provide examples of complex projects where L-Cuts helped solve specific storytelling challenges, such as making interview subjects sound more natural or creating emotional transitions.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between an L-Cut and a J-Cut?

Expected Answer: Should explain that an L-Cut is when audio from the current scene continues into the next scene, while a J-Cut is when audio from the next scene starts before we see it.

Q: How do you use L-Cuts to improve interview segments?

Expected Answer: Should describe how L-Cuts can make interview edits less jarring by maintaining audio flow while changing visual angles or cutting to B-roll footage.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is an L-Cut and why is it used?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that an L-Cut is when audio continues playing while the video changes to a new scene, making transitions smoother.

Q: In which editing software have you created L-Cuts?

Expected Answer: Should mention experience with common editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve, and basic understanding of timeline editing.