"What does a video editor do?" - is a commonly asked question when people are looking for a new job or need editing help. Film and video editors play an indispensable role in film production. Film and video editors coordinate soundtracks with images and put the footage together into a finished product. They make all the edits to ensure that the media meets the desired requirements and vision of the producer. It's a challenging yet rewarding job!

What Does a Video Editor Do Professionally?

There are 5 main types of footage that need to be edited:

Feature Length Films

TV Shows

Music Videos

Commercials / Marketing Ads

Business / Job Training Videos

Job Description For Video Editors

Every editor's process of perfecting footage from start to finish varies. Here's basically an outline of what is usually done:

Obtain footage, a debriefing, or just an idea from a customer

Get a basic layout for the raw footage or outline

Upload and sync uncut rushes along with sound

Cut files digitally

Make a "rough draft" with what you have so far

Reorder your content and fine-tune as required

But every job is different. Editors might also need to do the following:

Audio engineering and editing

Test different styles of editing for one project

Add commentary, subtitles, or a voice over

Add music or make audio suggestions

Afterward, adding special images or effects

What Does A Video Editor Do In Their Work?

Besides talking with clients or a boss a video editor usually works alone. On larger products, you may work with editing assistants, sound effect creators/editors, music editors, and obviously a director. Most editors will spend a lot of time in their editing suite or studio. This means a significant amount of work, if not all of it, is done on a computer. More experienced editors may need to travel for work which can be exciting. But freelancing editors go through times where they have more work than they can handle and maybe some periods with little to no work. Sometimes editors have to work on multiple projects at the same time.  

Working Conditions

Professionals in the film and video editing industry typically work in studios or office spaces. However, depending on the nature of the production, some aspects of an editor's job may take them to libraries and archives. Additionally, working hours vary based on production demands which can include shifts, overtime work, and irregular hours - especially close to a project's deadline.

Film and video editors earn a median wage of approximately $50,000 annually. This type of position generally does not provide entry-level jobs; however, these roles often begin at a low-paying rate. Many professionals in this field are independent contractors and are paid on a contract basis, with the salary being negotiable if the editor works via an agency. Freelance work is also an option for editors where they will receive either a flat fee or a percentage as payment.

Qualifications Video Editors Should Meet

Education 

Becoming a film and video editor does not require a specific degree. However, having a four-year bachelor's degree or receiving higher education can support an individual's qualifications in the field. A solid foundation of skills and commitment is advantageous, although not necessary. Although attaining an associate degree is not mandatory, it can help to boost an individual’s credentials. Most editors have studied one or more of the following fields:

Communications

Film

Fine art/visual art

Graphic design

Information technology or multimedia

Media studies

Photography

Television

Knowledge, Talents, And Personality

Editors need to showcase their ability when it comes to communications and media, computers and electronics, customer service, English language proficiency, and production/processing. Additionally, the ideal editor should have an aptitude for adaptability and flexibility, the ability to work in a team setting and meet deadlines under pressure, strong attention to detail, highly developed concentration and patience levels, inventiveness in problem-solving situations, powerful written and verbal communication abilities, self-motivation instincts, as well as excellent time management skills.

Technological Skills

In today's tech-savvy world, having familiarity with modern technology is essential for editors. As prospective job applicants in the field of editing, editors should be well-versed in general computer literacy and possess knowledge of the software necessary to perform their job efficiently. This includes programs such as:

AfterEffects

Illustrator and Photoshop from Adobe

AJAX, Apple Final Cut Pro

Avid

Hypertext markup language HTML

Visual Requirements

In order to perform the job of an editor, normal color vision is a necessary requirement. This is so that you can make adjustments to the colors contained within the raw footage.

Experience

When editing, dedication, and determination are key to success. Potential editors should be prepared to tackle any task that comes their way, as employers will expect previous experience working in media production or post-production. If someone is looking to break into the field, having an up-to-date showreel showcasing their best work is highly recommended. By demonstrating a drive to achieve success, along with evidence of having carried out similar tasks in prior roles, individuals can prove why they make perfect candidates for an editing job.

How Editors Become Professionals

Editing is a skill that requires both technical and creative know-how. To stay competitive, it’s important to learn on the job, as well as by observing experienced editors. Professional development should also include topics like finance for freelancers, software editing packages, and post-production audio or visual effects. Furthermore, aspiring editors should have knowledge of new equipment and technology, in addition to camera and sound work to increase their marketability. Cultivating a professional network is also invaluable when it comes to developing your career in the field of editing.

When you are ready to get a video edited for your social media, business, website, and more contact me so we can get started today!