The Fast-Cut Epidemic
Scroll TikTok. Every video is a blur of cuts. Jump cuts every 2 seconds. Constant motion. Sensory overload.
It works until it doesn't.
The Pace Paradox
Yes, fast pacing keeps attention. But too fast is exhausting.
When every video is frenetic, the ones that slow down intentionally stand out.
Think about the videos that stick with you. They're often:
- A 60-second story with no cuts (just a monologue)
- A time-lapse with one long shot
- A tutorial where the instructor doesn't rush
Pace creates contrast. If everything is fast, nothing feels fast.
When to Hold the Shot
Here's when NOT to cut:
1. Emotional moments: Let the emotion land. Don't cut in the middle of someone tearing up or laughing genuinely.
2. Suspense: Hold the shot. Let the tension build. The cut releases it.
3. Beauty shots: If the visual is stunning (sunset, landscape, product reveal), let it breathe.
4. Authority: If you're making a strong point, hold the camera. Don't cut. It feels more confident.
The Over-Editing Trap
Beginner editors often cut too much because they think "more editing = more professional."
But pro editors know when to cut and when to let it play.
Compare:
- Amateur: Cuts every 1.5 seconds, even during a smooth sentence.
- Pro: Cuts only when there's a reason (pause, mistake, change of thought).
The AI Risk
Here's a concern with AI editing: it might over-optimize for retention at the expense of feeling.
If you tell an AI: "Maximize watch time" it might cut out every pause. But some pauses are intentional. They're for effect.
This is why agentic editing works best when you're in control. You guide the AI. You say:
- "Remove filler words but keep intentional pauses"
- "Make the intro fast but let the story moments breathe"
Cubix is designed this way. You're the director. The AI is the assistant. You retain creative control.
The Audience Factor
Different audiences tolerate different paces:
- Gen Z TikTok: Lightning fast. 0.5 seconds per cut.
- YouTube explainers: Moderate. 3-5 seconds per cut.
- LinkedIn thought leaders: Slow. 10+ seconds per cut.
Match your pace to your audience. Don't blindly copy trends.
The Takeaway
Speed is a tool, not a goal.
The best editors know when to cut and when not to.
AI can help you execute faster. But you still need to decide what to execute.