What is B-roll used for in editing?

What is B-roll used for in editing?

• A. Primary interviews used as main dialogue
• B. Supplemental footage used to cover dialogue, illustrate points, or transition between scenes
• C. Audio sound effects
• D. On-screen graphics

Answer: (B)

B-roll is supplemental footage used to cover dialogue, illustrate points, or transition between scenes. In editing, it’s the extra shots that aren’t the main interview or voiceover but show the setting, actions, or details related to what’s being discussed. This footage lets you hide cuts and keep the audio flowing smoothly, while also giving the audience visual context that reinforces the narrative. It helps explain or emphasize ideas without relying solely on spoken words. By contrast, the primary interview or dialogue provides the main content, while sounds like separate audio effects and on-screen graphics serve different roles—sound effects enhance realism and graphics present information visually.

B-roll is supplemental footage used to cover dialogue, illustrate points, or transition between scenes. In editing, it’s the extra shots that aren’t the main interview or voiceover but show the setting, actions, or details related to what’s being discussed. This footage lets you hide cuts and keep the audio flowing smoothly, while also giving the audience visual context that reinforces the narrative. It helps explain or emphasize ideas without relying solely on spoken words. By contrast, the primary interview or dialogue provides the main content, while sounds like separate audio effects and on-screen graphics serve different roles—sound effects enhance realism and graphics present information visually.