mastermontage

Mastermontage is a descriptive, non-standard term used in creative and production contexts to denote a final, polished montage assembled for presentation, distribution, or archival. It combines the notions of a "master" (the authoritative, finished version of a work) and a "montage" (a composite sequence or image created from multiple elements).

Usage and contexts vary. In film and video production, mastermontage can refer to a final edited sequence that condenses narrative time or juxtaposes imagery for effect and is prepared for color grading, sound mixing, and final delivery. In music and audio work, it may describe a compiled arrangement of clips, samples, or stems presented to a mastering engineer. In photography and graphic design, the term can denote a high-resolution composite image assembled from multiple source images and prepared as the master file.

Typical workflow for creating a mastermontage includes selection and sequencing of source material, refinement of timing and transitions, technical adjustments (color, exposure, EQ), quality control, and export to distribution-friendly formats. Tools range from nonlinear editors and digital audio workstations to image-compositing software.

Because it is not a formally standardized industry term, definitions and practices described as mastermontage differ between disciplines and organizations. Common considerations include preserving source licenses and credits, maintaining archival masters, and ensuring technical specifications meet delivery requirements. Related concepts include edit, master, composite, and montage.