Cutting on the action allows for seamless transitions between shots by continuing actions through different camera shots. The document provides instructions on how to shoot a three-shot sequence of someone walking through a door with a wide shot, extreme close-up, and medium shot, with each shot cutting on the action of the person reaching for the doorknob, turning it, and coming through the door. Readers are then asked to write their own three-shot sequences cutting on the action for getting a drink, scratching their face, and tying a shoe.

1. Media I: Proficiency - Matched Cut or
Cutting on the Action
Cutting the action allows you the opportunity to make your productions more interesting
through in-camera editing. The trick is to make the shots appear seamless by CONTINUING
actions through shots. Best way is to shoot the COMPLETE action three times, stressing
IDENTICAL actions. Make sure to use the camera feature to re-watch each shot – and
match.
Shoot a sequence of someone walking through a door use the following shots:
-A wide shot (WS) behind the person with the door in front of them; shoot this
person walking to the door and cut on the action of them reaching for the
doorknob and grabbing it.
-A EXTREME close-up (XCU) of the door knob without the person’s hand in the shot;
have the person’s hand come into the shot, turn the handle and begin open
the door.
-A medium shot (MS) from the other side of the door of the person coming through
the doorway
Shoot each shot before and through the action. Then , edit on each action.
Write your own three-shot sequence to show these cuts on the action – REMEMBER –
EACH SEQUENCE NEEDS THREE SHOTS
1. Use “cutting on the action” to show someone getting a drink.
First – WS, Second – XCU, Third - MS
2. Use “cutting on the action” to show someone scratching their face.
First – WS, Second – XCU, Third - MS
3. Use “cutting on the action” to show someone tying their shoe.
First – WS, Second – XCU, Third - MS
4. Use “cutting on the action” to create one shot sequence of your own.
First – WS, Second – XCU, Third – MS