How do you switch between angles in multi-camera footage?

1 Sync your clips

The first step is to sync your clips from different cameras, so that they match the same timeline and audio. This will make it easier to switch between angles and edit your footage as a whole. There are different ways to sync your clips, depending on the software you use. Some programs, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro X, or DaVinci Resolve, have a built-in feature that automatically syncs your clips based on audio or timecode. Other programs, such as Sony Vegas Pro or Avid Media Composer, require you to manually align your clips using markers or clappers. You can also use a third-party tool, such as PluralEyes, to sync your clips outside your editing software.

2 Create a multicam sequence

The next step is to create a multicam sequence, which is a special type of sequence that allows you to view and switch between multiple angles at once. A multicam sequence combines your synced clips into one track, and lets you choose which angle to show at any given point. To create a multicam sequence, you need to select your synced clips and choose the option to create a multicam sequence or a multicam clip, depending on the software you use. You can then open the multicam sequence in your timeline and adjust the settings, such as the number of angles, the layout, and the audio source.

3 Switch between angles

The final step is to switch between angles using the multicam monitor or the multicam viewer, which are tools that show you all the angles in your multicam sequence. You can switch between angles in two ways: live or in post. Live switching means that you switch between angles while playing back your multicam sequence, and the software records your switches as edits. This is a fast and intuitive way to switch between angles, but it requires some practice and preparation. In post switching means that you switch between angles by cutting and trimming your multicam sequence, and the software applies your switches as edits. This is a more precise and flexible way to switch between angles, but it can be more time-consuming and tedious.

4 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?