2.2 The A/B Roll

Effective use of both 

1. a primary narrative

2. supplementary footage

makes a video more engaging, informative and visually appealing.

The A-roll is usually the main footage with audio narration. 

The B-roll consists of additional visuals such as still photos or other videos. 

B-rolls enhances the main narrative by adding depth and context. 

B-rolls can also help to

• transit between topics / discussions 

• cover up "jumps" in the A-roll due to boo-boos

• visually drive the narrative

(2 min 45 sec)

Let's break down the first part of the video.

0 sec - 7 sec: make it personal, and explain aim
8 sec - 13 sec: one B roll
13 sec - 19 sec: another B roll
19 sec: cut to a title scene

(1 min 10 sec)
[original video]

Our brains "tune out" constants such as the whir of a fan, or the feeling of clothes on our skin. 

Instead, we are wired to detect changes.

Videos exploit this too. 

The beginning of videos tend to have more B rolls and more frequent transitions to retain audience attention.

These tend to become less often as a video develops.

We can choose to change up the A-roll instead of using B-roll clips.

0 sec - 3 sec: zoom out on A-roll
4 sec: cut to a close-up on A-roll
6 sec - 10 sec: zoom out on A-roll
10 sec - 17 sec: first B-roll
17 sec - 25 sec: second B-roll

(35 sec)
[original video]