A video editor is responsible for converting raw clips and footage into a final piece of film or video. They use specialised software to create high-quality videos by editing, trimming and arranging raw video sequences. These professionals take note to create a finished product that will represent the best of the company and their skillset. What does a video editor do?
What is video editing?
Video editing is the process of piecing together raw video files, sounds, images, and graphics and turning them into a cohesive and finished final project.
Editing is one of the many parts of a post-production process and is now done using editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro.
Video editing is not just a highly sought after skill in the entertainment industry. Nowadays, there are numerous industries that use video to capture the attention of their audience – making video editing a high-paying and in-demand career field.
Is video editing a good career in 2024?
As mentioned above, video editing is an in-demand career field and the need for video editors is just going to grow in 2024. Between social media ads, tv channels, and streaming networks, there are a lot of opportunities for those looking for work.
Is a video Editor a producer?
Video editors are not the same as producers. Producers are in charge of creating a video production strategy and managing the process from start to finish whereas editors are in charge of putting together raw footage to form a complete video. Editors work closely with video producers and are crucial to the production process.
Will AI replace video editors?
With AI on the rise, this question is a legitimate one. So much so, that 31% of freelancers in our survey of 2023 stated that the fear of being replaced was a significant risk of AI.
However, it’s safe to say that no, AI won’t be replacing video editors anytime soon! While AI can assist editors with tasks such as organising files, filtering audio, and providing insights, it can’t provide video editing with the human refinement it needs to capture the intended emotion behind storytelling.
What is the best description of a video editor?
The best way to describe a video editor is as someone who transforms raw clips and video footage into high-quality finished videos. We’ll talk more in detail about their responsibilities and skills down below.
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What are the responsibilities of a video editor?
As stated above, a video editor is responsible for manipulating and editing film pieces and ensuring videos meet the marketing team’s specifications and guidelines. They do so by following a script, screenplay or outline and taking a brief to grasp production team’s needs and specifications.
Video editors input music, dialogues, effects and graphics to enhance footage and trim footage segments and put together the sequence of the film.
They are also responsible for evaluating projects for brand authenticity, ensuring logical sequencing and smooth running and creating final cuts.
Responsibilities of a video editor:
- Manipulate and edit film pieces
- Ensure videos meet the marketing team’s specifications and guidelines
- Follow a script, screenplay or outline
- Going through briefs to grasp the production team’s needs and specifications
- Input music, dialogues, effects and graphics to enhance footage
- Trim footage segments
- Put together the sequence of the film
- Export videos
- Facilitate mobile and web distribution
- Evaluate projects for brand authenticity
- Ensure logical sequencing and smooth running
- Create final cuts
- Consult with the director and production team throughout the project
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What are the skills of a video editor?
A video editor has experience with video editing software like Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro and has a good understanding of computers and digital equipment.
They also have thorough knowledge of concepts like timing, motivation and continuity, and have knowledge of editing principles.
They also have experience with high-resolution file transfer applications and are familiar with special effects, 3D and compositing. They have a strong creative mind and are skilled at storytelling and sound design.
Skills of a video editor:
- Experience with video editing software like Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro
- Good understanding of computers and digital equipment
- Thorough knowledge of timing, motivation and continuity
- Knowledge of editing principles
- Experience with high-resolution file transfer applications
- Familiarity with special effects, 3D and compositing
- Strong creative mindset
- Skilled at storytelling and sound design
- Ability to translate ideas into complete projects
- Strong organisational skills
- Strong analytical skills
- Good problem-solving skills
- Creative mind and storytelling skills
Background and education
While it is helpful to have some kind of background or training in Film studies, cinematography, Multimedia or a related field, it isn’t a necessity. Instead, you need to have a demonstrable video editing ability with a strong portfolio and the ability to take and follow direction, while also having a creative eye for improvements.
There are lots of courses online that can help you get the knowledge and training you need to get started as a video editor. Check out options for these down below:
- Adobe Premiere Pro CC 2024: Beginner Video Editing
- Video Editing complete course | Adobe Premiere Pro CC 2021
- Mastering Final Cut Pro
- DaVinci Resolve: The Video Editing Workflow
Do video editors make good money?
Video editors make around $53,600 per year on average in the US. On the lower end, these professionals can make around $31,000 per year whereas on the higher end, they can earn around $92,700 per year.
Keep in mind that how much an editor earns depends primarily on factors such as skills, industry, location and more.
In Germany, video editors earn between €35,000 – €49,000 whereas in the UK, they earn £24,000 – £39,000 per year.
Salary of a video editor:
| US | $31,000 – $92,700 |
| Germany | €35,000 – €49,000 |
| UK | £24,000 – £39,000 |
How much do freelance video editors make?
Video Editors on freelancermap charge on average:
Rates in the Video Editing Industry range between $40 and $96/hour for most freelancers.
The daily rate for Video Editors (8 working hours) would be around:
What should I put on my resume as a video editor?
A good video editor resume will have a strong professional summary along with sections for experiences, demonstrable skills, and education and training background.
If you’re not sure what that entails or if you’re thinking to yourself “How do I sell myself as a video editor”, this example of a video editor resume will be of help to you.
Jane Doe
john@doe.com • (123) 430-148 • linkedin.com/jane-doe
Professional Summary
Skilled video editor with 5 years of experience in managing camera footage, dialogue and sound effects, and producing and editing content for TV and other platforms. Leveraged advanced motion skills to create high impact videos for clients.
Work Experience
Video Editor 05/2021 – Present
MG Developments
– Spearheaded a team of five to create 4 videos per week
– Deployed motion graphics and animation for a commercial
– Digitally cut files to arrange sequence of a film
Junior Video Editor 04/2020 – 05/2021
Fiscal Media
– Assisted the lead video editor with various tasks
– Utilised cameras and recorders to capture and assemble source clips
– Used editing software to digitise and import both audio and video footage
Videographer 03/2018 – 04/2020
Liverpool SG
– Produced video content for television
– Ensured on-brand video projects meeting quality standards
– Ensured that equipment for a shoot is present and working
– Help edit footage in post-production
Skills
– Solid understanding of computers and digital equipment
– Knowledge of timing and continuity
– Motion graphics animation
– Computer software troubleshooting
– Digital video production
– Adaptability
– Storytelling
– Time-management
Education and certifications
Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) Premiere Pro
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Orlando College of Art and Design
