Video The Classics That Still Hit advice has gotten complicated with all the outdated tips and platform changes flying around. Here’s what actually works in 2026.
Transitions went from “wow how’d they do that” to “oh another seamless zoom” real fast. They still work, but you gotta use them right.
The Classics That Still Hit
Match cuts – something leaves frame, something enters in the same spot next shot. Simple but satisfying when timed right.
Whip pans – fast camera movement ends one shot, starts the next. Hides the edit. Feels energetic.
Zoom punch-ins – quick zoom forward into a cut. Emphasizes a moment. Overused in talking head stuff but still works.
Seamless Transitions
The “hand covers camera” transition. The “throw something up and catch it in new outfit.” These require planning the shoot, not just the edit.
They work because they’re earned – the footage has to be shot specifically for the transition. Lazy versions look lazy.
When to Skip Them
Story content doesn’t need fancy transitions. Hard cuts work fine when you’re talking. Transitions draw attention to themselves – sometimes you don’t want that.
If the transition takes longer than the content it connects, something’s wrong.
Sound Makes Transitions
A whoosh or impact sound sells even basic transitions. Cut on a beat. The audio cue tells viewers something changed even if they’re not consciously watching.
Silent transitions feel flat. Add sound even if it seems unnecessary.
Building Your Style
Pick 2-3 transitions you do well and repeat them. Consistency becomes part of your brand. Viewers start expecting your specific style.
Better to master a few than do a hundred mediocre different ones.
