B roll is most effective when it carries information, not when it merely decorates an interview. A good cutaway can show evidence, locate the viewer, reveal a process, resolve an edit, or create an emotional beat. That purpose should influence both the shot list and the edit.
Plan B roll from the interview themes
Before production, map likely statements to actions, details, people, environments, screens, and results the audience should see. During the edit, choose images that add meaning or useful contrast, then protect continuity, screen direction, pacing, and accurate representation of what the speaker describes.
So, your client wants the edit to have more energy. What's an editor to do? You've painstakingly selected all of the best takes, added in your best music track, worked to make the pacing awesome, cut it down to the essential messaging, but the client's still wanting more. The answer is often b roll.
B roll is an antiquated term from the linear editing days. A roll was the footage acquired of the actual subject matter. Then you cut in your b roll to support the story. And that's exactly what b roll is meant to serve - supporting the a roll story. Where to begin? First take out a subscription with Getty Images, Istock Photo (owned by the same parent company). Pricing packages vary. But you want "royalty free" content, so that you avoid having to repay the owner beyond the first licensing fee.
Next, consider the story and begin to put together a light box of possible clips for your specific edit and theme. Then download the watermarked, low res, free versions of the clips you like, edit them into the video and share them with the client. That way, if your b roll selects are rejected, you've lost nothing but some time. Once your edit is approved, license the clips and download the high res, non watermarked versions for a final.
B roll refers to supplemental or secondary footage that is intercut with the main footage (A roll) to provide context, illustrate points, or enhance the overall visual storytelling in a video production. B roll often includes cutaway shots, close ups, and additional angles that complement the primary narrative.
How to Shoot Good B Roll
Before the shoot, plan the shots you'll need for B roll. Consider the key points of the narrative that can be visually reinforced or explained through supplementary footage. Diversify your shots by capturing different angles, perspectives, and compositions. This includes wide shots to establish context, medium shots for detail, and close ups for emphasis. Capture details that might be overlooked in the main footage. This can include hands at work, facial expressions, product features, or any element that adds depth to the story.
Create Seamless Editorial Transitions
Pay attention to the flow of the video. Shoot B roll in a way that allows for seamless transitions between the main footage and supplementary shots. This ensures a natural and engaging viewing experience. Introduce dynamic elements through camera movements. This can include pans, tilts, tracking shots, or any movement that adds visual interest to the B roll. Pay attention to lighting consistency. Match the lighting conditions of the B roll shots with the A roll to avoid jarring transitions.
Look for candid and authentic moments that add a human touch to the narrative. Genuine reactions and interactions contribute to the overall storytelling. Compose B roll shots thoughtfully. Apply principles of composition such as the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing to create visually appealing footage.
Cover Editing Points
Shoot B roll that covers potential editing points in the main footage. This allows for smoother transitions and helps in seamlessly cutting between shots during the editing process.
Production Context: Noona Noodles film
Noona Noodles film. Restaurant footage and food preparation connect the interviews with the business. Supporting images contribute information rather than simply conceal edits.
