The post production process of a film or video takes a lot of effort and time, it occurs more often that people outside of the industry don’t know how long of a hectic process it can be. Film/video editors are in charge of delivering the end product of the film or video, ensuring that it is of great quality and is completed.
The Role of a Film/Video Editor
Film/Video editors act on their core responsibility: to take all uncut camera footage from a film shoot and turn it into a final product. Editors also add dialogue, graphics, sound, and special effects to the footage. In addition, editors should study film scripts to grasp an understanding of the storyline. Interacting with the main members of the team, such as directors, producers, and other set members, can be essential to understanding the director’s and script’s goals.
Film/Video editors have a significant role to play in the end product of production as they are the ones who add sounds, music, and voices that are in line with the script. Editors attach the pieces where they belong profoundly and professionally. Editors choose the best camera angles and shots they see fit for reels and use computer software to create high-quality sound effects. The top editing software professionals use in the industry are Avid Media Composer, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Premiere.
The entire result of the end product is more of a team effort than just the editor. The storyline and actors’ personalities are important to the footage. Reels tend to be reviewed numerous times before a film/video editor has chosen a final version, known as the director’s cut. Film/video editing is an essential element in the post-production process, and the editor’s skills will influence the final product’s quality and relevance.
Responsibilities of A Film/Video Editor
There are a set of responsibilities film/video editors must follow if they aim to become successful in their profession. First, in any workplace, someone might criticize one’s work; considering that, you must accept constructive criticism. Second, preserve a strong connection with your co-workers, family, and friends. Third, make sure you understand how the cinematographer envisions the finalized product to be like. Work closely with other team members in the post-production process, like visual effects artists and sound members. Expect to take orders from producers, directors, and other team members. You’ll be working with the director to bring their vision to life through your editing and developing the film’s story and style. It will be your duty to perform computer-related activities, such as editing film footage to create a consistent and entertaining film. Other tasks will include assembling and arranging raw footage in sequences that make rational and connected story arcs. Get to decide the speed of the narrative, whether slow, fast, or both, and also align with crew members to ensure that the film is shot and edited according to plan. Finally, prepare the film for any commercial screening or, perhaps, a theatrical release. Confirm that all the needed audio and visual elements of the movie are accurate, coherent, and complete.
Skills and Knowledge for A Successful Career in the Industry
Any film/video editor's dream is to grow and secure their place in the film industry but to do so; you have to have some key requirements. First, you should have strong editing skills with video software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, and Final Cut Pro. At least a degree in film, video, or a related field, a creative eye, and an eye for detail. A good sense of story and knowledge of cinematography and the post-production process. Experience in film/video production is also a must, involving sound recording and shooting. As an editor, time management skills will be very important for this profession, as well as the ability to work well under pressure and have great team building, interpersonal, and communication skills.
A Film/Video Editor’s Workplace
Film/Video editors can expect to be hired by employers in places like cable companies, independent studios, television stations, and film and video companies. Editors will most of the time be part of a team, whether big or small, and can include directors, actors, other film editors, company owners, and sound & lighting technicians. Film/Video editors need to focus on creating the final product of the production process. Even though they work with a team, their profession involves working independently to create the last pieces of the production. Editors can be expected to spend countless hours working in cutting labs and computer and projection rooms and also editing the footage alone. Production usually follows a strict schedule, and editors are occasionally required to work long hours, especially when the film has finished production.
Are you looking to get into the industry as a film/video editor?
If you want to enter and launch a career in the film/video business, then above, you will find all the knowledge you may need to get started. The industry is very competitive, and if you seek to make a name for yourself, fulfilling the job's significant requirements is essential for your success as a film/video editor. So, do you have what it takes to become a film/video editor? Make sure to follow @Bl80prod and stay tuned for the latest updates!