Continuity editing techniques

Match on action:
An example of match on action would be; someone is reaching to open a door, then they may freeze mid-way through the process of opening it. The camera would pause and then cut to a close up of the persons hand about to open the door, then it continues with them opening the door. After this they may freeze after pulling the door open and the camera zooms out again and shows them walking through the door in what could be a possible long or mid-shot. The only problem with match on action is when editing it is difficult to make it so it all appears to flow as if it has not been paused and re-done several times.

Eyeline match:
An eyeline match is where the camera would show a close-up of a persons face with them looking in a certain direction. The camera would then cut to an image of an object to show the audience/viewer what the person was looking at. The camera would then cut back to the persons face after showing what they were looking out to then show the reaction of that character.

180 degree rule:
The 180 degree rule is very basic. It is just to ensure that the clip looks correct and makes everything look where it is supposed to be. For example, if the camera at the start of the clip was on the left hand side of a character then it would have to remain on that side of the character for the rest of that clip or it would not look continuous and would make it difficult for an audience member to follow the clip as everything would then seem to be out of place.

Master shot:
A master shot is basically the same as a long or establishing shot. The main purpose of this shot is to give the audience a clear view of the setting, and that this is the place that the majority of this clip is going to be in.

Shot reverse shot:
Shot reverse shot mainly happens when there is dialogue in a clip between two characters. When one character speaks the camera will focus mainly on them, and then when they have finished what they are saying the camera will cut from them to the other to show what they are saying. Again when they have finished the bit of dialogue they have it will again cut back to the other character to sho what they are saying. This is good because it also enables the audience to see the facial expressions of the characters while thay are talking and get an understanding of how the characters are feeling in that situation.