How to Become a Video Editor (Editing is Everything!)

If you’ve ever envisioned creating compelling visual narratives or wondered what it takes to become a video editor, you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to take to kick-start your career as a video editor. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can support your journey.
- How to land a job as a video editor.
So, whether you’re a novice in video editing or a creative professional seeking to enhance your skills, stay tuned.
We’re about to unfold the roadmap to become a video editor.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become a Video Editor
Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities
As a first step, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of the role and responsibilities of a video editor.
Video editors are responsible for assembling recorded raw material into a finished product that’s suitable for broadcasting.
The material may include camera footage, dialogue, sound effects, graphics, and special effects.
Video editors work closely with directors and producers to understand their vision and deliver a product that meets their requirements.
Their work includes editing video clips, adding audio tracks, sound effects, and sometimes creating animation and graphics.
As a video editor, you will be expected to make crucial decisions about the best way to present footage, choose the right shots, and seamlessly assemble them to create a coherent whole.
Depending on the industry, video editors may work on various projects such as movies, music videos, corporate training videos, or commercials.
They use video editing software and tools to perform their tasks, so gaining proficiency in these applications is a must.
It is also essential to have a good sense of storytelling, as well as technical skills, as this role requires both.
You should also be prepared to work under tight deadlines and be able to multitask as video editors often work on several projects at once.
A keen eye for detail and a critical mind are also important as you will need to review footage meticulously and make creative decisions about what material to include and how to present it.
Step 2: Obtain Relevant Education
To become a video editor, it’s crucial to obtain an education that covers the technical skills you’ll need in the field.
Many video editors opt to earn a bachelor’s degree in film studies, digital media, or a related field.
These programs often provide an overview of film history, cinematography, and narrative storytelling, but most importantly, they teach technical skills in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer.
In these programs, you will learn the basics of video editing, including assembling raw footage, implementing transitions, working with audio, and applying special effects.
You will also learn to produce high-quality videos that tell compelling stories, whether it’s for a TV show, movie, advertisement, or personal project.
However, a degree isn’t always necessary to become a video editor.
There are numerous online courses and certification programs available that focus solely on video editing.
These programs are less time-consuming and more affordable, and they provide you with practical, hands-on training in video editing software.
Regardless of the educational path you choose, it’s important to develop a strong portfolio of your work.
This will showcase your skills and creativity to potential employers and set you apart from other candidates.
You can start building your portfolio while you’re still in school, or even as you complete online courses or personal projects.
Step 3: Learn Video Editing Software
In your pursuit to become a video editor, becoming proficient in the use of video editing software is a crucial step.
This industry primarily uses digital tools, and having expertise in these can make you stand out from your competition.
Start by learning widely-used software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer.
These software are considered industry standards and provide a broad range of editing tools for both beginners and professionals.
Depending on your specific editing goals, you might need to learn more specialized software like After Effects for visual effects and motion graphics, or DaVinci Resolve for color correction.
There are a multitude of ways to learn these tools.
Many software providers offer tutorials and guides on their websites.
You could also take online courses on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning.
If you prefer a more hands-on approach, consider attending workshops or enrolling in a course at a local community college or adult learning center.
Learning video editing software is not just about knowing what each button does.
It’s also about understanding how to tell a story through editing.
Thus, it’s a good idea to watch tutorials, attend workshops, and practice editing different types of videos.
Once you’ve mastered these tools, you can start building a portfolio to showcase your skills to future employers.
Lastly, always stay updated with the latest trends and upgrades in editing software.
The video editing landscape is constantly evolving, and staying current with these changes can significantly enhance your editing skills and your career prospects.
Step 4: Practice With Personal Projects
As a video editor, practical experience is vital in developing your skills and portfolio.
An excellent way to gain this experience is through creating and editing your own personal video projects.
These projects could range from filming and editing short films, documentaries, music videos, or even simple vlogs.
Personal projects allow you to explore different styles and techniques in video editing.
You can experiment with different cutting styles, transition effects, color grading techniques, and sound editing.
This will also provide you with an opportunity to become proficient with different video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer.
Moreover, these projects serve as a great portfolio to showcase your skills to potential employers or clients.
Be sure to save and organize all your work, even if you think it’s not perfect.
Remember, progress and growth are important, and it’s beneficial to show how your skills have improved over time.
Lastly, remember to share your work.
Post your videos on social media or video sharing platforms like YouTube or Vimeo.
This can help you gain feedback from others, build a following, and could potentially catch the eye of someone in the industry who could offer you a job.
Step 5: Build a Portfolio
As a video editor, your portfolio is your calling card.
It shows potential employers and clients what you’re capable of and what style you bring to the table.
Therefore, it’s essential to build a strong, diverse portfolio that highlights your best work.
Start by selecting your best video editing projects.
This could be work you’ve done during your education, internships, or freelance work.
It’s important to show a range of styles and techniques, demonstrating your versatility as an editor.
If you specialize in a particular type of video editing, such as trailers, documentaries, or music videos, make sure these are well represented in your portfolio.
When building your portfolio, focus on quality rather than quantity.
It’s better to show fewer pieces of excellent work than a large number of mediocre projects.
Each piece should showcase your technical skills, storytelling ability, and creative flair.
Remember, your portfolio is a work in progress.
As you gain more experience and work on more projects, continually update and refine it to reflect your growth and development as a video editor.
Lastly, make your portfolio easily accessible.
Consider creating an online portfolio or a website where you can showcase your work.
Be sure to provide context for each piece, explaining what you did and the challenges you faced.
This will give potential employers a deeper understanding of your skills and how you approach your work.
Step 6: Seek Internships and Entry-Level Positions
As you’re acquiring your skills and education, it’s important to get practical industry experience.
An ideal way to gain this real-world exposure is through internships and entry-level positions.
Many companies, production houses, and studios offer internships that provide hands-on experience in the video editing field.
These opportunities allow you to work closely with professionals and get a feel for the industry’s workings.
In addition to internships, you may look for entry-level positions as assistant editors, production assistants, or other related roles.
These positions offer invaluable experience, allowing you to apply the skills you’ve learned and gain new ones.
While these roles may not always involve a lot of video editing initially, they will expose you to the video production process, helping you understand how each piece fits together.
Over time, you will be given more responsibilities and opportunities to edit.
Remember, every opportunity is a chance to build your portfolio and network within the industry.
The connections you make can be instrumental in landing more advanced roles in the future.
Step 7: Network With Industry Professionals
Networking is a crucial step for any professional, including video editors.
This step involves building connections with other professionals in the industry, such as other video editors, directors, producers, and cinematographers.
These connections can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, or simply the exchange of ideas and techniques.
There are numerous ways to start networking.
You could attend industry conferences, film festivals, or workshops.
Join online forums or communities related to video editing, where you can interact with other professionals and share your work.
Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram are also good tools for networking.
You can follow and interact with professionals and companies in the film and video industry.
Consider joining professional organizations for video editors, such as the Motion Picture Editors Guild or the American Cinema Editors.
These organizations often host networking events, offer educational resources, and provide job listings for their members.
Remember, networking is not just about getting a job.
It is about building relationships, learning from others, and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in the industry.
When networking, be sure to show genuine interest in others’ work, offer help when you can, and don’t forget to share your own experiences and knowledge.
Step 8: Stay Current With Industry Trends
Keeping up to date with industry trends is crucial for a video editor, as technology and software often evolve rapidly.
This might include staying informed about the latest video editing software, graphics and special effects trends, or video format standards.
Engaging in continuous learning is a must.
Many video editing software companies release updates or entirely new versions of their software.
Being familiar with these updates can give you a competitive edge in the marketplace.
You can do this by attending industry events, subscribing to relevant industry publications, and following influential people in the field on social media.
Also, understanding emerging trends in video content can help you create work that resonates with viewers.
For example, the increasing popularity of short-form videos on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels has significantly influenced video editing styles.
Participating in online forums and communities of video editors can also help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques, as well as provide opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing.
Lastly, you should be open to learning and adapting to new tools and technology.
Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and 360-degree videos are becoming more popular, and having skills in these areas could open up new opportunities.
Step 9: Cultivate a Specialty or Niche
Just like many other fields, video editing also has various specialties and niches.
As you gain more experience and skills, you might want to consider focusing on a specific area of video editing.
This could be anything from documentary editing, commercial video editing, music video editing, to film editing.
Choosing a niche can help you target specific job opportunities and clients.
For instance, if you enjoy storytelling, documentary editing might be a good fit.
On the other hand, if you’re more interested in special effects and quick cuts, music video editing or commercial video editing could be a great choice.
The choice of your specialty would also depend on the type of software and editing techniques you’re most comfortable with.
For example, if you’re skilled in using Adobe After Effects, you might want to focus on commercial video editing that requires a lot of visual effects.
Remember that specializing does not mean limiting yourself.
You can always learn new techniques and tools to expand your skillset.
Specialization just allows you to build a reputation in a specific area and makes you more attractive to clients looking for experts in that field.
However, keep in mind that the video editing industry is constantly evolving, so continuous learning and adaptability are crucial.
Step 10: Freelance or Seek Employment
After you’ve gained enough experience and developed your portfolio, it’s time to decide whether you want to freelance or seek employment at a production company.
If you choose to freelance, you’ll have the freedom to pick your projects and set your own rates.
However, it will require networking, marketing your skills, and being your own business manager.
On the other hand, if you seek employment, you might start applying for positions at film or television production companies, advertising agencies, or even in-house video teams at corporations.
Working as an employee might offer you a more steady income and sometimes even benefits, but you might not have as much control over the projects you work on.
Either way, make sure to keep your video editing skills sharp and stay updated with the latest software and industry trends.
As this field is highly competitive, it’s essential to keep learning and improving your craft.
Also, remember to continually update your portfolio to showcase your best and most recent work to potential clients or employers.
Video Editor Roles and Responsibilities
Video Editors are responsible for piecing together raw footage, adding effects, and creating a cohesive story or message.
They work closely with directors and other members of a production team to achieve the desired end result.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Video Editing
- Edit raw video footage into a polished final product.
- Add sound effects, music, voice-overs, and special effects.
- Correct color, lighting, and audio as necessary.
Storyboarding
- Create and follow a storyboard to align with the director’s vision.
- Ensure the final product follows the script and storyboard.
Collaboration
- Work closely with directors, producers, and other team members.
- Discuss and implement changes based on feedback.
Software Proficiency
- Use professional video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, etc.
- Stay updated with the latest editing software and technologies.
Quality Assurance
- Review final products to ensure they meet quality standards and expectations.
- Make necessary revisions as required.
Asset Management
- Organize and manage all video, sound, and graphic assets.
- Ensure all assets are properly backed up and archived.
Deadlines
- Manage timelines and meet production deadlines.
- Coordinate with the production team to ensure smooth workflow.
Creativity
- Bring a creative eye and aesthetic judgement to projects.
- Experiment with styles and techniques to achieve desired effects.
Communication
- Effectively communicate with team members and clients.
- Present ideas and explain editing decisions when necessary.
Continuous Learning
- Stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in video editing.
- Attend workshops, courses, and seminars to improve skills.
What Does a Video Editor Do?
Video Editors are media professionals who manipulate and arrange video shots to create a new work.
They typically work for production companies, television studios, advertising agencies, or they can be self-employed freelancers.
They work closely with directors and producers to understand their vision, making sure the final product aligns with the agreed storyline or message.
Video Editors are responsible for assembling recorded raw material into a finished product.
This material may include camera footage, dialogue, sound effects, graphics, and special effects.
They use editing software to cut footage, correct color, enhance sound quality, and add special effects.
They also have to choose the right music or sound effects to complement the video.
Video Editors often review scripts to keep the video on track with the story.
They are also responsible for creating rough and final cuts, ensuring the logical sequencing and smooth running of the film or video.
In the end, they are accountable for delivering the final product in the correct format, ensuring it is ready for broadcasting or publication.
Essential Video Editor Skills
- Technical Proficiency: Video editors should have a command over editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro X, and Avid Media Composer. This includes the ability to make cuts, add transitions, overlay graphics, and incorporate special effects.
- Storytelling: The ability to tell a story through video is crucial. Video editors should understand narrative techniques and visual storytelling strategies to create engaging and coherent content.
- Audio Editing: Video editors often work with audio as well as video. They should have knowledge of audio editing techniques and software, and be able to work with music, sound effects, and voiceovers to create the desired audio landscape.
- Attention to Detail: A successful video editor must pay close attention to detail to ensure that every frame, transition, and effect works to enhance the overall narrative.
- Color Grading: The ability to color grade and correct is important for setting the mood and style of a video. This includes understanding color theory and how to use editing software to manipulate colors effectively.
- Graphic Design: Video editors often need to create or modify graphics for use in videos. This includes logos, lower thirds, and other graphic elements.
- Communication: Video editors often work as part of a larger creative team and must effectively communicate with directors, producers, and other team members to understand their vision and make it a reality.
- Time Management: Due to tight deadlines and multiple projects, video editors must have excellent time management skills. They should be able to prioritize tasks and work efficiently to meet deadlines.
- Problem-solving: Issues often arise during the editing process. Video editors must be able to identify and resolve these issues quickly and efficiently.
- Creativity: Video editing is a creative process. Editors must be able to think outside the box, bring new ideas to the table, and find unique ways to tell a story.
- Understanding of Visual Effects: Video editors should have a basic understanding of visual effects (VFX) to blend real and digital footage seamlessly.
- Knowledge of File Formats: Video editors need to understand different video file formats and their appropriate use to ensure the final product is delivered in the best possible quality and format.
Video Editor Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Junior Video Editor
Your journey in video editing starts as a Junior Video Editor.
This is a learning phase where you gather skills and knowledge about the craft.
Your duties may involve basic editing, syncing audios and visuals, and aiding in the post-production process.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Master Your Tools: Familiarize yourself with video editing software like Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer.
- Networking: Build strong relationships with your colleagues and other industry professionals. It will help you learn and grow faster.
- Stay Creative: Develop your artistic vision and storytelling skills.
The Ascent: Video Editor
With experience and skill, you transition into the role of a Video Editor.
Now, you’re entrusted with more complex projects, and your creative input becomes more influential.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Storytelling: Hone your storytelling ability. Every cut, transition, and effect should serve the story.
- Collaboration: Work effectively with directors, cinematographers, sound editors, and other team members to achieve the best results.
- Attention to Detail: Develop an eye for detail to ensure seamless editing and transitions.
Reaching New Heights: Senior Video Editor
The next step up is the Senior Video Editor position.
In this stage, your proficiency, creativity, and leadership skills are recognized.
You may oversee junior editors, make key decisions related to editing, and directly impact the final product.
To excel as a Senior Video Editor:
- Mentorship: Share your knowledge and experience with junior editors.
- Technical Proficiency: Stay updated with the latest editing tools, techniques, and trends.
- Leadership: Lead your team effectively by communicating your vision and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Beyond the Horizon: Lead Editor and Beyond
As your career progresses, you may specialize in a particular genre, like documentary, advertising, or film, or move into a supervisory or managerial role like a Lead Editor or Post-production Supervisor.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Technical Leadership: Guide the technical aspects of the post-production process, including editing, color grading, and sound mixing.
- Management Skills: If you transition into a supervisory role, develop strong leadership and communication skills to manage your team effectively.
- Innovation: Keep pushing the boundaries of storytelling with innovative editing techniques.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Post-production or Creative Director
At the peak of your career, you may reach roles like Director of Post-production or Creative Director.
Here, you’ll oversee the entire post-production department, making critical decisions, setting creative direction, and managing multiple projects and teams.
Video Editor Salary
Entry-Level Video Editor
- Median Salary: $30,000 – $50,000 per year
- Entry-level video editors typically have 0-2 years of experience. They are usually fresh graduates from film school or related fields, with basic skills in video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.
Mid-Level Video Editor
- Median Salary: $50,000 – $70,000 per year
- Mid-level video editors have 2-5 years of experience and possess advanced editing skills, and often handle more complex video projects. They may also begin to specialize in certain types of video editing such as corporate videos, movies, or music videos.
Senior Video Editor
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
- Senior video editors usually have over 5 years of experience. They have expert-level editing skills, are responsible for overseeing projects, making creative decisions, and may also have the role of mentoring junior video editors.
Lead Video Editor / Video Production Manager
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $130,000+ per year
- These roles require significant experience and often involve leading a team of video editors, managing projects from conception to completion, and making key decisions regarding the video editing process.
Director of Post-Production / VP of Production
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $200,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require vast experience and deep expertise in video editing and post-production. They often involve setting strategies for post-production processes and leading large teams of video editors.
Video Editor Work Environment
Video Editors typically work in television studios, film production companies, or advertising agencies.
However, due to the nature of their work, they can also work remotely or in a home office since much of their tasks involve using computer software.
Video Editors may have a regular 9-5 work schedule, especially if they are employed by a company.
However, they may often work long hours to meet deadlines, especially in the television and film industry.
Freelance Video Editors have more flexibility in their work schedule, being able to choose their projects and set their own working hours.
However, this also means the work might not be as consistent.
As they advance in their career and build a reputation, Video Editors may start their own editing company or work directly with filmmakers and content creators.
FAQs About Becoming a Video Editor
What is needed to become a video editor?
To become a video editor, you will need a strong understanding of video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer.
You should also have a good grasp of narrative storytelling, pace, and visual aesthetics.
Often, a bachelor’s degree in film, broadcasting, or a related field is beneficial, but not always necessary.
Practical experience, either through personal projects, internships, or professional work, is also crucial for building your editing skills.
Moreover, soft skills such as attention to detail, creativity, patience, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are essential.
How long does it take to become a video editor?
The time it takes to become a video editor can vary greatly.
If you pursue a traditional four-year degree in film or a related field, it may take that long to get the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience.
However, if you’re learning through online courses, self-study, or internships, you might be able to gain the necessary skills in a shorter timeframe.
Building a strong portfolio of work is typically the key to landing jobs and can take anywhere from months to years depending on the complexity and quantity of the projects.
Can I be a video editor without a degree?
Yes, it’s definitely possible to become a video editor without a traditional degree.
Many employers in the film and television industry are more interested in your editing skills, creativity, and portfolio of work rather than your formal education.
You can develop your skills through online courses, tutorials, and hands-on editing work.
Networking within the industry and gaining practical experience through internships or low-level production jobs can also be beneficial.
Is video editing a stressful job?
Video editing can be stressful at times, especially when working under tight deadlines or on complex projects.
It often involves long hours of solitary work, meticulous attention to detail, and juggling multiple tasks.
However, many video editors find the job rewarding and enjoy the creative process and the satisfaction of seeing the final product.
The level of stress can vary greatly depending on the individual, the specific job, and the work environment.
What are the prospects for video editors in the next decade?
The prospects for video editors are expected to be favorable in the next decade.
With the rise of digital media, streaming platforms, and the increasing demand for high-quality video content across various industries, video editors will continue to be in high demand.
The ability to adapt to new technologies and software will be key to staying competitive in this evolving field.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Starting your journey to become a video editor is no small task, but it’s undoubtedly rewarding.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and persistence, you’re well on your way to leaving a significant imprint in the world of multimedia.
Remember, the journey may be filled with hurdles, but the possibilities are infinite. Your creative edits could lead to the next viral video or blockbuster movie that revolutionizes how we consume media.
So, take that first leap. Immerse yourself in learning. Connect with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop editing.
Because the world is anticipating your next masterpiece.
And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in video editing, consider our AI Career Path Advisor.
This free tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
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