Shot/Reverse Shot

An editing pattern that cuts between characters (or other objects) in alternation; often used in dialogue scenes. The second shot is taken from the reverse angle of the first shot (and so on). The shot/reverse shot pattern is fundamental to the continuity editing style. Some filmmakers prefer to use a “two shot” (this is shot showing two individuals simultaneously) in dialogue scenes, rather than dissecting the space into several “one shots” that are connected in the shot/reverse shot pattern. The shot/reverse shot pattern is often used in combination with over-the-shoulder shots.