10 answers
Raffi
Student
Hyde Park, VT
3
Questions
Asked
632 views
What are the first steps to becoming a video editor.?
I'm a 10th grader and am very interested in being a film/video editor, what are my first steps to becoming one?
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10 answers
Lindsey Flagg
Freelance Digital Content Specialist
2
Answers
Crown Point, Indiana
Updated
Lindsey’s Answer
A great start would be to experiment with your own projects. All it takes is a couple of your own video clips and a free video editor like CapCut, Canva, or iMovie to learn the basics of editing videos without spending money on the higher-end video editing software.
Even if you have to start by filming some boring event from your day and adding filters, scene cuts, etc. to it, you are still getting a start and learning how to interact with editing software.
Free online tutorials on YouTube can help you learn the basics you need to start understanding video editing. So can the websites for your chosen video editor. CapCut has some great advice on their website.
If your school offers any classes in video editing or clubs where you could learn or build editing skills, enroll in them if you can.
Submit video projects for classes when that is an option to practice your skills and build new ones.
Try out paid video editing classes online. Skillshare is one option that is easy to get started with.
Pay for a higher-end video editor like Adobe Premiere to learn and practice more in-depth editing techniques.
Once you have a good feel for video editing, consider pursuing a college degree in film production or a similar field. You can possibly talk to a school counselor about options and also research options online.
Even if you have to start by filming some boring event from your day and adding filters, scene cuts, etc. to it, you are still getting a start and learning how to interact with editing software.
Free online tutorials on YouTube can help you learn the basics you need to start understanding video editing. So can the websites for your chosen video editor. CapCut has some great advice on their website.
Lindsey recommends the following next steps:
Priyanka Sil
Film Editor
1
Answer
Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Updated
Priyanka’s Answer
1. Watch Films and Videos:
Choose content that appeals to you or challenges your editing style.
Study the timeline, paying attention to how each scene is cut and arranged.
Mute the sound to focus solely on the visual editing techniques.
2. Observe and Apply:
Analyze the timing of cuts, transitions, and other editing choices.
Apply similar techniques in your own work by mimicking professional styles and refining your skills.
3. Practice Editing:
Use free projects available on platforms like Cinestudy to gain hands-on experience.
Experiment with different cuts and techniques to improve your editing flow.
4.Learn Softwares:
Get comfortable with professional video editing tools like DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, or Final Cut Pro.
Note: It’s ideal to shoot and edit your own footage to understand the entire filmmaking process better
Choose content that appeals to you or challenges your editing style.
Study the timeline, paying attention to how each scene is cut and arranged.
Mute the sound to focus solely on the visual editing techniques.
2. Observe and Apply:
Analyze the timing of cuts, transitions, and other editing choices.
Apply similar techniques in your own work by mimicking professional styles and refining your skills.
3. Practice Editing:
Use free projects available on platforms like Cinestudy to gain hands-on experience.
Experiment with different cuts and techniques to improve your editing flow.
4.Learn Softwares:
Get comfortable with professional video editing tools like DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, or Final Cut Pro.
Note: It’s ideal to shoot and edit your own footage to understand the entire filmmaking process better
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
52
Answers
Westlake Village, California
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Dive into the world of online video editing platforms. Play around, press buttons, explore! Watch YouTube and LinkedIn tutorials on editing to expand your knowledge.
Next, grab your phone and start filming. Bring in the footage and begin piecing it together. Familiarize yourself with the features and functionalities of different platforms. If possible, connect with professionals in the field and learn from their experiences on what it takes to succeed.
As you approach high school graduation, start considering a reputable film school to further hone your skills.
In my senior year, I gifted my school a documentary that I produced, directed, and edited. It featured interviews with teachers, staff, and students from various clubs and organizations. That was quite a while back... : > )
Best of luck on your journey!
Next, grab your phone and start filming. Bring in the footage and begin piecing it together. Familiarize yourself with the features and functionalities of different platforms. If possible, connect with professionals in the field and learn from their experiences on what it takes to succeed.
As you approach high school graduation, start considering a reputable film school to further hone your skills.
In my senior year, I gifted my school a documentary that I produced, directed, and edited. It featured interviews with teachers, staff, and students from various clubs and organizations. That was quite a while back... : > )
Best of luck on your journey!
Jacob Steiner
Cinematographer
8
Answers
Hollywood, Florida
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Hi Raffi,
I think the first, best step is to start watching other people's films and television episodes. I believe that by studying the editing styles of different editors and the different genres they edit, you'll be able to obtain an overall perspective of how editing is done. Different decades called for different editing styles, and the editing styles continue to change as the years go by.
Another good way to get started is to read articles where editors comprehensively break down the way they edited each film and or television episode, as this will provide insight into what they were thinking at the time when making the decisions they made.
Both these methods don't cost a dime, and can act as a starting point for your journey. Then as Steve mentioned, I would suggest using your phone camera to gather footage as beginning practice. As time goes by, and your interest grows, I suggest taking on projects for free to gain experience in the field. As your name and reputation grow among the circle or circles you're in, and you feel comfortable in your abilities, that's when I recommend you go professional.
What's great about film school is that you get to build connections with others and meet people that you wouldn't otherwise get to meet if you were not in an academic environment. But film school isn't always the answer, and you could most certainly make your way to a successful career without it by interning for high-end post-production companies for free and learning the ropes. Either way, I think you'll be fine.
I hope this helps!
I think the first, best step is to start watching other people's films and television episodes. I believe that by studying the editing styles of different editors and the different genres they edit, you'll be able to obtain an overall perspective of how editing is done. Different decades called for different editing styles, and the editing styles continue to change as the years go by.
Another good way to get started is to read articles where editors comprehensively break down the way they edited each film and or television episode, as this will provide insight into what they were thinking at the time when making the decisions they made.
Both these methods don't cost a dime, and can act as a starting point for your journey. Then as Steve mentioned, I would suggest using your phone camera to gather footage as beginning practice. As time goes by, and your interest grows, I suggest taking on projects for free to gain experience in the field. As your name and reputation grow among the circle or circles you're in, and you feel comfortable in your abilities, that's when I recommend you go professional.
What's great about film school is that you get to build connections with others and meet people that you wouldn't otherwise get to meet if you were not in an academic environment. But film school isn't always the answer, and you could most certainly make your way to a successful career without it by interning for high-end post-production companies for free and learning the ropes. Either way, I think you'll be fine.
I hope this helps!
Nik Korba
Writer
18
Answers
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Updated
Nik’s Answer
Raffi, I would agree with Steve that the most important part is getting your hands on some editing software and learning how it works. This will allow you to see behind the scenes on the videos that you experience around you in your life. Fades, voice overs, and jump cuts will all start to pop out at you as you play around with them in an editing platform. It is like learning to hear the notes, progressions, and chord changes in a song. You'll start to understand how people make videos and why they make the decisions they make. Have fun!
Doug Boyd
Film Editor
1
Answer
Orem, Utah
Updated
Doug’s Answer
I would see if you can edit some short films with your friends. Have some of your friends shoot a short movie or music video and tell them you want to edit it. That's the best place to start is by doing. Get all the footage into your computer and use iMovie on a Mac or Movavi on a pc and start putting the video together shot by shot. You'll start to get the hang of timing and pace as you watch it back and forth. You have an inner clock inside you and you'll feel when to cut to the next shot. It becomes almost innate as to what works and doesn't. If you have the editing instinct inside you it will show. It's something that cannot be taught mostly. You have to practice it. I mean, you can study film and how film is put together, but when you finally edit, it must come from within you. Your creativity will come forth out of you as you put the shots together and as you add music, sound and visual effects it will all come together. Sit back and play it over and over. If you feel a shot is too long then trim it back a bit. Try experimenting with shot arrangements. See how it changes the feeling either for better or worse. Editing is feeling. Viewing and feeling until it works for the emotion you want to convey at the time. As a film editor who works mostly in movies and television series, I'm approaching my answer to you from a narrative angle, which is usually telling a story of some kind. It will take some time before you get to where I am but editing is simply putting the shots together so they work. Keep practicing that, and like I said earlier, you'll get the hang of it and it will feel fun!
On another note, I know others have suggested getting used to professional software like DaVinci Resolve, Final Cut, and Adobe Premiere, which is good, but when you start out you don't have to try and learn these professional software's to learn how to edit. If you have one of these already, yeah, go ahead and keep learning those softwares. It won't hurt you to know them, but you can start out with simpler software programs. The idea is to keep editing whatever you can. You can do it!
On another note, I know others have suggested getting used to professional software like DaVinci Resolve, Final Cut, and Adobe Premiere, which is good, but when you start out you don't have to try and learn these professional software's to learn how to edit. If you have one of these already, yeah, go ahead and keep learning those softwares. It won't hurt you to know them, but you can start out with simpler software programs. The idea is to keep editing whatever you can. You can do it!
Annaleigh Niedzielski
Videographer, Producer, Assistant Director
65
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hi Raffi! I agree with a lot of the other answers, just keep practicing on your own projects! Watch YouTube videos, find assets online, and learn as much as you can! If your school has any film or broadcasting classes that is an incredible way to learn from others. Good luck!
Yingna Wu
Film director / producer
15
Answers
Pasadena, California
Updated
Yingna’s Answer
Watch your favorite movies. Watch your favorite scenes shot by shot, if possible. Access any film footage available and start editing them for fun. Add music, sounds. Play with the footage. no pressure
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6774
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Raffi!
MY TAKE ON YOUR QUESTION:-
➡ From 1972 at high school I learnt to program computers. I became a nutritionist in 1976, a biochemist in 1981, and I taught second year medical students at university.
➡ I became a dietitian in 1988. I commenced writing nutrition education software in the Visual Basic 4.0 programming language in 1994, culminating in the Diet Wizard software.
➡ Then I became an assistant professor's assistant, helping him with medical research on hyaluronic acid and healing in a Cochrane Review at the Bond University School Of Medicine.
➡ In 2007 I wrote music producing software in the Visual Basic 6.0 programming language. In 2014 I uploaded my first compilations to YouTube. In 2024 I discovered the YouTube Studio platform and posted 1,300 video shorts of my Diet Wizard nutrition education software.
➡ See :- https://www.youtube.com/user/yimi90125/videos
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE'S IDEAS:-
First Steps to Becoming a Video Editor
1. Understand the Role of a Video Editor Before diving into the technical aspects, it’s essential to understand what a video editor does. A video editor is responsible for assembling recorded raw material into a finished product that matches the director’s vision. This involves cutting and rearranging footage, adding sound effects, music, and visual effects, and ensuring the final piece flows smoothly.
2. Develop Basic Skills Start by developing fundamental skills that are crucial for video editing:
Technical Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with basic computer skills since video editing software requires good knowledge of operating systems and file management.
Attention to Detail: Editing requires precision; you need to be able to spot errors or inconsistencies in footage.
Creativity: A good editor must have a creative eye for storytelling and pacing.
3. Learn Video Editing Software Familiarize yourself with popular video editing software used in the industry. Some widely used programs include:
Adobe Premiere Pro: A professional-grade software that offers extensive features for editing videos.
Final Cut Pro: Popular among Mac users, known for its user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities.
DaVinci Resolve: Offers both free and paid versions; it’s great for color correction as well as editing.
You can find tutorials on platforms like YouTube or take online courses on websites such as Coursera or Udemy to get started.
4. Take Relevant Courses Consider enrolling in classes related to film production or media studies at your school or local community college. Look for courses specifically focused on video editing, film theory, or digital media production.
5. Practice Regularly The best way to learn is through practice. Start by editing your own videos or collaborating with friends on projects. You can also volunteer to edit videos for local events or organizations, which will provide you with real-world experience.
6. Build a Portfolio As you gain experience, begin compiling your work into a portfolio. This should showcase your best projects and demonstrate your range of skills as an editor. A strong portfolio is crucial when applying for internships or jobs in the future.
7. Seek Feedback and Network Share your work with peers, teachers, or online communities dedicated to video editing. Constructive criticism can help you improve your skills significantly. Additionally, networking with other aspiring filmmakers and editors can open doors to opportunities in the industry.
8. Consider Internships or Entry-Level Positions Once you feel confident in your abilities, look for internships or entry-level positions at production companies, television stations, or digital media firms. These experiences will not only enhance your skills but also help you make valuable connections in the industry.
9. Stay Updated on Industry Trends The field of video editing is constantly evolving with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. Follow industry news through websites like No Film School or IndieWire to stay informed about trends and advancements in video editing.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining a passion for storytelling through visuals, you can set yourself on a successful path toward becoming a skilled video editor.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Film Institute (AFI)
AFI provides comprehensive resources regarding film education including insights into various roles within filmmaking such as video editing.
2. No Film School
This website offers articles and tutorials focused on independent filmmaking which includes practical advice on video editing techniques and software recommendations.
3. Coursera
Coursera partners with universities and organizations worldwide to offer courses on various subjects including film production and video editing which are beneficial for beginners looking to learn foundational skills.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
MY TAKE ON YOUR QUESTION:-
➡ From 1972 at high school I learnt to program computers. I became a nutritionist in 1976, a biochemist in 1981, and I taught second year medical students at university.
➡ I became a dietitian in 1988. I commenced writing nutrition education software in the Visual Basic 4.0 programming language in 1994, culminating in the Diet Wizard software.
➡ Then I became an assistant professor's assistant, helping him with medical research on hyaluronic acid and healing in a Cochrane Review at the Bond University School Of Medicine.
➡ In 2007 I wrote music producing software in the Visual Basic 6.0 programming language. In 2014 I uploaded my first compilations to YouTube. In 2024 I discovered the YouTube Studio platform and posted 1,300 video shorts of my Diet Wizard nutrition education software.
➡ See :- https://www.youtube.com/user/yimi90125/videos
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE'S IDEAS:-
First Steps to Becoming a Video Editor
1. Understand the Role of a Video Editor Before diving into the technical aspects, it’s essential to understand what a video editor does. A video editor is responsible for assembling recorded raw material into a finished product that matches the director’s vision. This involves cutting and rearranging footage, adding sound effects, music, and visual effects, and ensuring the final piece flows smoothly.
2. Develop Basic Skills Start by developing fundamental skills that are crucial for video editing:
Technical Proficiency: Familiarize yourself with basic computer skills since video editing software requires good knowledge of operating systems and file management.
Attention to Detail: Editing requires precision; you need to be able to spot errors or inconsistencies in footage.
Creativity: A good editor must have a creative eye for storytelling and pacing.
3. Learn Video Editing Software Familiarize yourself with popular video editing software used in the industry. Some widely used programs include:
Adobe Premiere Pro: A professional-grade software that offers extensive features for editing videos.
Final Cut Pro: Popular among Mac users, known for its user-friendly interface and powerful capabilities.
DaVinci Resolve: Offers both free and paid versions; it’s great for color correction as well as editing.
You can find tutorials on platforms like YouTube or take online courses on websites such as Coursera or Udemy to get started.
4. Take Relevant Courses Consider enrolling in classes related to film production or media studies at your school or local community college. Look for courses specifically focused on video editing, film theory, or digital media production.
5. Practice Regularly The best way to learn is through practice. Start by editing your own videos or collaborating with friends on projects. You can also volunteer to edit videos for local events or organizations, which will provide you with real-world experience.
6. Build a Portfolio As you gain experience, begin compiling your work into a portfolio. This should showcase your best projects and demonstrate your range of skills as an editor. A strong portfolio is crucial when applying for internships or jobs in the future.
7. Seek Feedback and Network Share your work with peers, teachers, or online communities dedicated to video editing. Constructive criticism can help you improve your skills significantly. Additionally, networking with other aspiring filmmakers and editors can open doors to opportunities in the industry.
8. Consider Internships or Entry-Level Positions Once you feel confident in your abilities, look for internships or entry-level positions at production companies, television stations, or digital media firms. These experiences will not only enhance your skills but also help you make valuable connections in the industry.
9. Stay Updated on Industry Trends The field of video editing is constantly evolving with new technologies and techniques emerging regularly. Follow industry news through websites like No Film School or IndieWire to stay informed about trends and advancements in video editing.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining a passion for storytelling through visuals, you can set yourself on a successful path toward becoming a skilled video editor.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Film Institute (AFI)
AFI provides comprehensive resources regarding film education including insights into various roles within filmmaking such as video editing.
2. No Film School
This website offers articles and tutorials focused on independent filmmaking which includes practical advice on video editing techniques and software recommendations.
3. Coursera
Coursera partners with universities and organizations worldwide to offer courses on various subjects including film production and video editing which are beneficial for beginners looking to learn foundational skills.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Ulysses Brown
Vice President of Creative & Promotion
1
Answer
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Ulysses’s Answer
Congratulations, Raffi, you have already taken your first step! Your interest in the art of editing is the first step. If your best friend's name is Sawyer, please tell him to move over and make room for Premiere Pro. The goal here is to make Sawyer a little jealous. His jealousy tells you that you're spending the required time working on Premiere Pro.
But wait... hold on. Rewind. Rewind? I just dated myself. Let's address the foundational aspects of the art of video editing. That way, you can approach your projects with a creative mindset and intention, making your editing more than technical but an integral part of the storytelling experience. Whoa, I sound pretty fly, or is the word cool? I like "fly" better. Just sayin'.
The Basics.
Narrative: What are you editing, Raffi?
A commercial,
short film,
or social media posts?
Every video should tell a story. What's the beginning, middle, and end of your content? Your editing decisions guide the viewer through the narrative.
Pacing is Key: The rhythm of your video is essential. Pacing refers to how fast or slow the video moves from one scene to the next. Effective pacing keeps the audience engaged, builds tension, and emphasizes important moments.
Emotional Impact: Raffi, ever heard of emotional impact? Rewind (yep, still dating myself) back to Sawyer. Recall his reaction to the "move over friendship news." That was emotional impact. Video editing has the power to evoke emotions. Use your edits to create a sense of suspense, joy, surprise, or sadness, depending on your desired response.
We are just getting started.
Remember, becoming a video editor involves mastering storytelling fundamentals and crafting an emotional experience for your audience. So, grab Premiere Pro and dive in—it’s time to make some magic! If this was helpful, let's keep going - also, advancements in AI are changing the art of editing, but the fundamentals will never change.
But wait... hold on. Rewind. Rewind? I just dated myself. Let's address the foundational aspects of the art of video editing. That way, you can approach your projects with a creative mindset and intention, making your editing more than technical but an integral part of the storytelling experience. Whoa, I sound pretty fly, or is the word cool? I like "fly" better. Just sayin'.
The Basics.
Narrative: What are you editing, Raffi?
A commercial,
short film,
or social media posts?
Every video should tell a story. What's the beginning, middle, and end of your content? Your editing decisions guide the viewer through the narrative.
Pacing is Key: The rhythm of your video is essential. Pacing refers to how fast or slow the video moves from one scene to the next. Effective pacing keeps the audience engaged, builds tension, and emphasizes important moments.
Emotional Impact: Raffi, ever heard of emotional impact? Rewind (yep, still dating myself) back to Sawyer. Recall his reaction to the "move over friendship news." That was emotional impact. Video editing has the power to evoke emotions. Use your edits to create a sense of suspense, joy, surprise, or sadness, depending on your desired response.
We are just getting started.
Remember, becoming a video editor involves mastering storytelling fundamentals and crafting an emotional experience for your audience. So, grab Premiere Pro and dive in—it’s time to make some magic! If this was helpful, let's keep going - also, advancements in AI are changing the art of editing, but the fundamentals will never change.