Which aspect of video editing does key framing significantly affect?

Key framing plays a crucial role in video editing, particularly in relation to visual effects. This technique involves setting specific points (keyframes) that define the beginning and endpoints of transitions for various properties, such as position, scale, opacity, and effects applied to a video clip. By manipulating these keyframes, editors can create dynamic movements, changes in effects over time, and other intricate animations that greatly enhance the visual storytelling aspect of a project.

For instance, if an editor wants to apply a visual effect like a fade-in or fade-out, a keyframe is used to mark the starting point where the effect begins and the endpoint where it reaches its full intensity or disappears. This allows for smooth transitions that are visually appealing and professional.

While transitions themselves can involve key framing, they are generally considered more basic compared to the complex visual effects that can be achieved. Audio levels rely on different tools and automation techniques which do not typically involve key framing. Scene composition deals more with the arrangement of elements within a frame rather than the manipulation of visual effects across time. Thus, the impact of key framing is most significantly felt in the realm of visual effects.