Bildwechsel

Bildwechsel, literally "change of image," is a term used in German-language media to describe the moment when the visual content on screen changes from one image to another. It covers transitions in film and television editing as well as switching video sources in broadcasting and live presentation. In practice, a Bildwechsel can be any transition that alters the visible image, including cuts, fades, dissolves, and wipes.

In film and video editing, a Bildwechsel results from selecting a different shot or source and placing it on the timeline. The most common form is the cut, an instantaneous Bildwechsel; other transitions include fades (to or from black), dissolves, and wipes, or more elaborate digital effects. The term emphasizes the moment of change rather than the specific edit type.

In live broadcasting and multicamera production, Bildwechsel is achieved with a video switcher, which directs which camera feed or material is shown at any moment. The timing follows the director’s cues and the program's rhythm, with image changes interspersed with graphics, inserts, and audience shots.

Historically, Bildwechsel arose from manual film editing and evolved with digital non-linear editing and automated broadcast switching. The concept remains central to pacing, continuity, and storytelling in visual media.

See also: Schnitt, Montage, Übergang, Videoproduktion.