CTE Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications Flashcards

What does 'B-roll' mean in video production?

Answer: Supplemental footage used to illustrate or support the main interview or narration

B-roll is cutaway footage of relevant visuals edited over an interview or voiceover to add context and visual variety to a story.

In audio/video production, what is the purpose of 'gain' control?

Answer: To set the input sensitivity of a microphone or audio signal before it enters the mix

Gain adjusts the input level of an audio signal at the source, and setting it correctly prevents distortion or a signal that is too weak to use.

What is 'typography' in graphic design and communications?

Answer: The art and technique of arranging typefaces to make written language legible, readable, and visually appealing

Typography encompasses font selection, size, spacing, alignment, and hierarchy to communicate messages effectively through written text.

What does 'aspect ratio' mean in video and photography?

Answer: The proportional relationship between the width and height of an image or video frame

Aspect ratio describes the shape of the frame; 16:9 is standard widescreen HD video, while 4:3 was the older TV standard.

In journalism and communications, what is the 'inverted pyramid' structure?

Answer: A writing format that places the most important information first, followed by supporting details

The inverted pyramid leads with the most newsworthy facts (who, what, when, where, why, how) and adds context and background in descending order of importance.

What is the function of a 'green screen' (chroma key) in video production?

Answer: To digitally replace a solid-colored background with another image or video in post-production

Chroma keying removes the green (or blue) background during editing and replaces it with any desired image, commonly used in weather broadcasts and film visual effects.