What occurs during a 'fade' in moving image editing?

During a 'fade' in moving image editing, the image gradually fades and disappears, leaving a blank screen. This technique is often used to signify a transition in scenes, suggest the passage of time, or create a dramatic effect. The gradual decrease in the image's visibility allows the audience to absorb the moment before the transition, providing a smooth change from one scene to another. Fades are often accompanied by similar fading strategies in the accompanying audio, enhancing the overall impact and maintaining continuity in the film's narrative flow.

In contrast, other responses describe different editing techniques or effects that do not accurately define a 'fade.' For instance, a sharp transition would indicate a cut or wipe, colors becoming vibrant relates to color correction or enhancement, and sound increasing in volume pertains to a different type of audio editing technique. These distinctions are essential in understanding various editing strategies and their intended effects in visual storytelling.