# What is a match cut?

> A match cut joins two shots by repeating a shape, movement or position. See ad examples, a shot-by-shot worked example and how to plan one.
- **Author**: Marxx
- **Published**: 2026-11-08
- **Category**: Video editing
- **URL**: https://marxx.ai/library-glossary/match-cut

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A match cut joins two different shots by repeating something between them, such as a shape, a movement or a screen position. The viewer feels one smooth motion across a change of place or time.

## Three kinds of match

| Kind | What repeats | Ad example |
|---|---|---|
| Graphic | Shape or colour | A round tin becomes a round plate |
| Action | Movement | A hand pouring in one shot, a hand pouring in the next |
| Position | Where the subject sits in the frame | A face in the centre, then the product in the centre |

## A worked example

Say you make a 15-second ad for a face oil. You cut at 6.0 seconds.

| Shot | Time | What is on screen |
|---|---|---|
| A | 0 to 6.0 s | A hand closes the jar. The lid turns clockwise at the centre |
| B | 6.0 to 15 s | A hand opens the oil bottle. The cap turns clockwise at the centre |

The direction, size and position of the turn match, so the cut reads as one movement. The scene and the product change.

## How to plan one

1. Choose what repeats: shape, movement or position.
2. Film the end of shot A and the start of shot B in the same pose.
3. Keep the camera at the same distance and angle.
4. Cut in the middle of the movement, not after it.
5. Match the speed of both shots.

## Match cut or jump cut?

A [jump cut](/glossary/jump-cut) skips time inside one shot. A match cut joins two different shots. For smooth sound across cuts, see the [J-cut](/glossary/j-cut) and the [L-cut](/glossary/l-cut).

## FAQ

### Do ads need match cuts?

No. Use one when you want a smooth change between two scenes or product moments.

### Can I make a match cut from stock footage?

Yes, if two clips have a similar shape or movement. Line them up in your editor and trim until the move flows.

### Is a match cut a transition effect?

No. It is built from how you film and place the shots, not from an effect.

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