What are the most effective video editing techniques for creating horror in your writing?

1 Sound design

Sound design is crucial for creating horror in your writing, as it can manipulate the mood, atmosphere, and emotions of your audience. You can use sound design to create contrast, foreshadowing, jump scares, and psychological effects. For example, you can use silence or low-frequency sounds to build anticipation and dread, or loud noises and dissonant music to shock and surprise your viewers. You can also use sound effects to suggest unseen threats, or distort the voice or dialogue of your characters to create a sense of madness or confusion.

2 Lighting and color

Lighting and color are another important aspect of video editing for horror, as they can affect the visibility, tone, and symbolism of your scenes. You can use lighting and color to create contrast, mystery, and mood. For example, you can use dark or low-key lighting to hide or reveal elements of your story, or create shadows and silhouettes to suggest danger or ambiguity. You can also use color to convey emotions, themes, or genres. For example, you can use red to indicate blood, violence, or passion, or blue to indicate coldness, isolation, or fear.

3 Camera angles and movements

Camera angles and movements are also essential for creating horror in your writing, as they can influence the perspective, focus, and action of your scenes. You can use camera angles and movements to create tension, immersion, and dynamism. For example, you can use high or low angles to show power or vulnerability, or close-ups or extreme close-ups to show details or emotions. You can also use camera movements to follow or track your characters, or create shaky or handheld shots to create a sense of realism or instability.

5 Tips and tricks

To make the most of these video editing techniques for creating horror in your writing, it is important to keep some tips and tricks in mind. Firstly, know your audience and genre because different types of horror appeal to different types of viewers. Additionally, use the rule of thirds to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing shot, as well as tension or curiosity. The 180-degree rule is also important for maintaining a consistent and coherent spatial relationship between elements. Finally, the Kuleshov effect can help you manipulate the expectations and reactions of viewers, creating contrast or connection between shots.

6 Examples and inspiration

To get some inspiration and examples of how to use video editing techniques for creating horror in your writing, you can check out some of the classic and contemporary horror films that have used them effectively. For example, you can watch The Shining, The Exorcist, The Blair Witch Project, The Ring, Saw, The Conjuring, Get Out, or Hereditary. You can also watch some video essays or tutorials that analyze and explain how these films use video editing techniques to create horror, such as this one by Nerdwriter1, this one by StudioBinder, or this one by CineFix.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?