What does a dissolve typically indicate in video editing?

A dissolve typically indicates a gradual blending of two shots. This technique is used in video editing to create a smooth transition from one scene to another. By overlapping the end of one shot with the beginning of the next, the visual elements and often the audio layers combine, creating a seamless flow. This can convey a passage of time, a change in location, or an emotional shift in storytelling, enhancing the viewer's connection to the narrative.

In contrast, a sudden change from one scene to another is more indicative of a cut, which creates a clear, abrupt transition rather than a smooth blend. A focused examination of a subject might relate more to techniques like zooming or framing, and a mechanical transition using a visual cue would describe a different kind of effect, such as wipes or fades that rely on specific visual indicators rather than the soft blending that characterizes a dissolve.