Video Editing terms

Wipe

A type of film transition where one shot replaces another by travelling from one side of the frame to another.

What is a wipe in video editing?

A wipe in video editing is a type of transition technique used to switch from one scene to another. It involves the movement of an image or line across the screen that "wipes off" the current scene and reveals the next one. This transition can be in any direction - up, down, left, right, or even diagonal.

The wipe transition is often used to indicate a change in location, time, or to create a certain mood or effect. It's a popular technique in film, television, and video production because it adds a visual element that can enhance storytelling. The speed, direction, and style of the wipe can all be adjusted to fit the narrative and aesthetic of the project.

How to use wipe transition in video editing?

Wipe transition in video editing is a technique that replaces one shot with another by travelling from one side of the frame to another or with a special shape. To use a wipe transition, you first need to have a video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or iMovie.

In the timeline of your editing software, place the two clips you want to transition between on two separate tracks. The clip that ends the first scene should be on the top track and the clip that starts the next scene should be on the bottom track. Then, go to the effects panel and search for "Wipe" or it could be under the "Transition" category. Drag and drop the wipe transition between the two clips. You can adjust the duration and direction of the wipe transition as per your preference.

Remember, the key to a good wipe transition is to make sure it fits the story you are telling. It should be used to enhance the narrative, not distract from it.

What is the purpose of a wipe in video editing?

A wipe in video editing serves as a transition technique between two scenes or shots. It is used to indicate a change in location, time, or mood. The wipe transition works by replacing the current scene with the next one in a distinct pattern or direction. This could be a straight line moving across the screen, a clock-like circular motion, or any other creative pattern.

The purpose of a wipe is to provide a visual cue to the audience that a change is occurring. It helps to maintain the flow of the video, making the transition between scenes smoother and less abrupt. Wipes can also be used to convey a particular style or mood, adding to the overall storytelling of the video. For instance, a star-shaped wipe might be used in a sci-fi movie, while a heart-shaped wipe could be used in a romantic film.

What are the different types of wipes in video editing?

In video editing, wipes are a type of transition where one shot replaces another by travelling from one side of the frame to another or with a special shape. There are several types of wipes used in video editing.

The most common type is the straight line wipe. This can move from any direction - right to left, left to right, top to bottom, or bottom to top. Another type is the clock wipe, which moves around the screen in a clockwise or counterclockwise motion, similar to the hands of a clock.

There are also more complex wipes like the star wipe, where the transition occurs in the shape of a star, or the heart wipe, which is often used in wedding videos. Other types include the diagonal wipe, matrix wipe, and many more. The type of wipe used can greatly affect the mood or tone of the video.

If you create and edit videos...

You should try Tella.tv - a screen recorder that doesn't compromise on speed or creativity.

Tella simplifies video creation: record, customize, and share in one place; combine separate clips and quickly remove mistakes; apply beautiful backgrounds, layouts, and effects with just a few clicks; share the video link or export in 4K.

With Tella, create product demos, tutorial videos, and online courses that look amazing in minutes, not hours!

Tella screen recorder

< Back to Video Editing glossary

Try Tella today!

Screen recording for creators — simple and powerful.

7-day free trial — no credit card required