6 answers
Evan
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
1
Question
Asked
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What are the best ways to gain experience in the film and video editing field?
For quite a while I've been steadily teaching myself how to edit with software such as DaVinci Resolve (best free editing software imo, but it's resource intensive) because I'm interested in video editing and would love to work as an editor out of high school, preferably through freelance work.
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6 answers
Sherie Greene
Human Resources
26
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Sherie’s Answer
An internship with an editing, production, or TV company. Once you become an intern let them know of your interest as an editor and they should be able to put you with that department to help you gain the experience you need so that it can turn into a career. Most Tv and film production companies all have interns in different areas, go to their websites and apply.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Evan,
Securing Work/Commissions as an Editor
Securing work and commissions as an editor can be an uphill battle, but it's also a fulfilling journey. Here are some actionable steps that editors can take to land projects and boost their work/portfolio:
1. Networking: In the film industry, networking is vital, editors included. By attending industry happenings like film festivals, workshops, and conferences, editors can rub shoulders with filmmakers, producers, directors, and other professionals who might need editing services. Building rapport with these industry insiders can open doors to potential job offers.
2. Online Platforms: Online platforms designed to link freelancers with clients can be a treasure trove for editors. Sites like Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, and Mandy.com enable editors to set up profiles, display their portfolios, and bid on editing projects posted by clients worldwide.
3. Building a Robust Portfolio: A robust portfolio is a must-have for editors to showcase their skills and experience to prospective clients. Editors should thoughtfully curate their portfolio to spotlight their top work across various genres and styles. Including before-and-after samples of editing projects can effectively show off the editor’s abilities.
4. Teaming up with Filmmakers: Teaming up with filmmakers on independent or short films can be a fantastic opportunity for editors to gain experience, enhance their portfolio, and forge industry relationships. Offering discounted or pro bono services for promising projects can pave the way to future paid gigs.
5. Social Media Presence: Building a strong presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter can aid editors in showcasing their work, engaging with potential clients, and keeping up with industry trends. Sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, editing tips, and success stories can draw the eye of filmmakers in need of editing services.
6. Cold Pitching: Editors can take the initiative to contact production companies, post-production houses, advertising agencies, and independent filmmakers through cold pitching. Crafting personalized emails that spotlight the editor’s unique skills and how they can enrich potential projects can occasionally lead to fresh work opportunities.
7. Industry Directories: Adding your services to industry directories such as ProductionHUB or IMDbPro can boost visibility among professionals in need of editing services. Maintaining a professional profile on these platforms with current contact information and portfolio links can make it simpler for clients to locate and hire editors.
In summary, securing work and commissions as an editor involves a mix of networking, online presence, portfolio building, collaboration, social media engagement, cold pitching, and using industry directories. By actively marketing their skills and highlighting their top work, editors can boost their odds of landing thrilling editing projects in the competitive film industry.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Cinema Editors (ACE) - ACE is a professional body devoted to promoting the art and science of film editing. Their resources and events offer valuable industry insights.
Creative Skillset - Creative Skillset provides guidance and resources for those pursuing careers in the creative industries, including filmmaking and editing.
Film Editing Pro - Film Editing Pro offers educational resources and training programs for budding editors aiming to hone their skills and further their careers in film editing.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Securing Work/Commissions as an Editor
Securing work and commissions as an editor can be an uphill battle, but it's also a fulfilling journey. Here are some actionable steps that editors can take to land projects and boost their work/portfolio:
1. Networking: In the film industry, networking is vital, editors included. By attending industry happenings like film festivals, workshops, and conferences, editors can rub shoulders with filmmakers, producers, directors, and other professionals who might need editing services. Building rapport with these industry insiders can open doors to potential job offers.
2. Online Platforms: Online platforms designed to link freelancers with clients can be a treasure trove for editors. Sites like Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, and Mandy.com enable editors to set up profiles, display their portfolios, and bid on editing projects posted by clients worldwide.
3. Building a Robust Portfolio: A robust portfolio is a must-have for editors to showcase their skills and experience to prospective clients. Editors should thoughtfully curate their portfolio to spotlight their top work across various genres and styles. Including before-and-after samples of editing projects can effectively show off the editor’s abilities.
4. Teaming up with Filmmakers: Teaming up with filmmakers on independent or short films can be a fantastic opportunity for editors to gain experience, enhance their portfolio, and forge industry relationships. Offering discounted or pro bono services for promising projects can pave the way to future paid gigs.
5. Social Media Presence: Building a strong presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter can aid editors in showcasing their work, engaging with potential clients, and keeping up with industry trends. Sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, editing tips, and success stories can draw the eye of filmmakers in need of editing services.
6. Cold Pitching: Editors can take the initiative to contact production companies, post-production houses, advertising agencies, and independent filmmakers through cold pitching. Crafting personalized emails that spotlight the editor’s unique skills and how they can enrich potential projects can occasionally lead to fresh work opportunities.
7. Industry Directories: Adding your services to industry directories such as ProductionHUB or IMDbPro can boost visibility among professionals in need of editing services. Maintaining a professional profile on these platforms with current contact information and portfolio links can make it simpler for clients to locate and hire editors.
In summary, securing work and commissions as an editor involves a mix of networking, online presence, portfolio building, collaboration, social media engagement, cold pitching, and using industry directories. By actively marketing their skills and highlighting their top work, editors can boost their odds of landing thrilling editing projects in the competitive film industry.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
American Cinema Editors (ACE) - ACE is a professional body devoted to promoting the art and science of film editing. Their resources and events offer valuable industry insights.
Creative Skillset - Creative Skillset provides guidance and resources for those pursuing careers in the creative industries, including filmmaking and editing.
Film Editing Pro - Film Editing Pro offers educational resources and training programs for budding editors aiming to hone their skills and further their careers in film editing.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Evan!
Actionable Steps to Acquire Experience in Film and Video Editing
1. Pursue Self-Learning and Online Courses
Kickstart your journey in film and video editing with self-learning. As a DaVinci Resolve user, delve into online platforms for structured courses. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on video editing techniques, software tutorials, and industry standards, including practical projects for hands-on learning.
2. Initiate Your Own Projects
To gain hands-on experience, start creating your own videos or vlogs on topics you love. Whether it's travel videos, tutorials, or narrative shorts, apply your self-learning and experiment with various editing styles and techniques. This not only enriches your portfolio but also gives you a grasp of the entire production process.
3. Network and Collaborate
Join film clubs at school or community centers to network with peers and local filmmakers. Collaborating on projects not only enhances your learning but also allows you to contribute your editing skills. Explore platforms like Meetup or Facebook groups for filmmakers for more opportunities.
4. Volunteer Locally
Seek out local theater productions, independent films, or community events that require video editing help. Volunteering offers practical experience and helps you make industry connections. Many local filmmakers value any assistance they can get, from editing to shooting.
5. Seek Internships and Entry-Level Jobs
As high school graduation nears, consider internships or entry-level positions at production companies, media outlets, or advertising agencies. Even unpaid internships can offer invaluable experience and networking opportunities that could lead to future employment.
6. Develop a Portfolio
Compile your work from personal projects, collaborations, and internships into a portfolio to showcase your best edits. A robust portfolio is crucial when seeking freelance work as it exhibits your skills and style to potential clients.
7. Leverage Social Media Platforms
Use social media platforms like YouTube or Vimeo to publicly display your work. Regularly posting edited videos on your channel can attract potential clients and collaborators. Engaging with communities on these platforms can also provide feedback on your work.
8. Keep Up with Industry Trends
Stay abreast of the ever-evolving film and video editing industry. Follow industry blogs, subscribe to relevant YouTube channels (like those focusing on DaVinci Resolve), and participate in forums such as Reddit’s r/Filmmakers or r/EditMyVideo for professional discussions on current trends.
By diligently following these steps and maintaining a zeal for learning and creativity, you'll be well on your way to gaining valuable experience in the film and video editing field.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. LinkedIn Learning: A platform offering professional courses in various fields, including video editing, providing structured learning paths for beginners.
2. Coursera: An educational platform partnering with global universities to offer courses on various subjects, including film production and video editing techniques.
3. No Film School: An online community offering resources like articles, podcasts, and forums focused on filmmaking education, providing insights into practical industry experiences.
Answer Accuracy Probability: 95%
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Actionable Steps to Acquire Experience in Film and Video Editing
1. Pursue Self-Learning and Online Courses
Kickstart your journey in film and video editing with self-learning. As a DaVinci Resolve user, delve into online platforms for structured courses. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on video editing techniques, software tutorials, and industry standards, including practical projects for hands-on learning.
2. Initiate Your Own Projects
To gain hands-on experience, start creating your own videos or vlogs on topics you love. Whether it's travel videos, tutorials, or narrative shorts, apply your self-learning and experiment with various editing styles and techniques. This not only enriches your portfolio but also gives you a grasp of the entire production process.
3. Network and Collaborate
Join film clubs at school or community centers to network with peers and local filmmakers. Collaborating on projects not only enhances your learning but also allows you to contribute your editing skills. Explore platforms like Meetup or Facebook groups for filmmakers for more opportunities.
4. Volunteer Locally
Seek out local theater productions, independent films, or community events that require video editing help. Volunteering offers practical experience and helps you make industry connections. Many local filmmakers value any assistance they can get, from editing to shooting.
5. Seek Internships and Entry-Level Jobs
As high school graduation nears, consider internships or entry-level positions at production companies, media outlets, or advertising agencies. Even unpaid internships can offer invaluable experience and networking opportunities that could lead to future employment.
6. Develop a Portfolio
Compile your work from personal projects, collaborations, and internships into a portfolio to showcase your best edits. A robust portfolio is crucial when seeking freelance work as it exhibits your skills and style to potential clients.
7. Leverage Social Media Platforms
Use social media platforms like YouTube or Vimeo to publicly display your work. Regularly posting edited videos on your channel can attract potential clients and collaborators. Engaging with communities on these platforms can also provide feedback on your work.
8. Keep Up with Industry Trends
Stay abreast of the ever-evolving film and video editing industry. Follow industry blogs, subscribe to relevant YouTube channels (like those focusing on DaVinci Resolve), and participate in forums such as Reddit’s r/Filmmakers or r/EditMyVideo for professional discussions on current trends.
By diligently following these steps and maintaining a zeal for learning and creativity, you'll be well on your way to gaining valuable experience in the film and video editing field.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. LinkedIn Learning: A platform offering professional courses in various fields, including video editing, providing structured learning paths for beginners.
2. Coursera: An educational platform partnering with global universities to offer courses on various subjects, including film production and video editing techniques.
3. No Film School: An online community offering resources like articles, podcasts, and forums focused on filmmaking education, providing insights into practical industry experiences.
Answer Accuracy Probability: 95%
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Agustín Contreras
Freelance Cartoonist/Illustrator and Laws Student
1
Answer
Updated
Agustín’s Answer
If you want to improve your skills in the film and video editing field, there are a few pieces of advice that can help you along the way:
1 Get practical experience by interning or working in the field, and by volunteering to edit videos for others.
2 Practice your skills by editing any video you can get your hands on, including your own home videos.
3 Teach yourself how to use video editing software such as DaVinci Resolve, and take courses offered by film schools and other educational institutions.
4 Create your own short films, music videos, or other video content to build your portfolio.
5 Freelance and work on projects in the industry to establish a professional network.
Remember, gaining experience in editing takes time and effort, but with dedication and hard work, you can turn your passion into a successful career. Good luck!
1 Get practical experience by interning or working in the field, and by volunteering to edit videos for others.
2 Practice your skills by editing any video you can get your hands on, including your own home videos.
3 Teach yourself how to use video editing software such as DaVinci Resolve, and take courses offered by film schools and other educational institutions.
4 Create your own short films, music videos, or other video content to build your portfolio.
5 Freelance and work on projects in the industry to establish a professional network.
Remember, gaining experience in editing takes time and effort, but with dedication and hard work, you can turn your passion into a successful career. Good luck!
Stephen Tiano
Freelance Book Designer/Layout Artist
3
Answers
Riverhead, New York
Updated
Stephen’s Answer
I'm the wrong one to ask. I design books, print and EPUB. However ... just generally, I would sau do as much practice work as you can. When I started out I learned the project with practice projects that I made up--for starters, résumés. I used them as samples before I had any real experience. But I can't say whether this is feasible with video.
John Sklba
Content Creator Creature
6
Answers
Arlington, Tennessee
Updated
John’s Answer
Best way to gain experience, do it yourself.