Editing videos is gratifying and creative work. Learn how to become a freelance video editor.
Are you interested in working in the entertainment and media industry? Video editor isn’t the career that immediately comes to mind. However, we are in the age of light and sound, and freelance video editors are certainly in high demand at the moment.
Amid a fight for domination in streaming rages with HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon, Disney+, and other streaming services, more film and TV content is being produced and requires editing.
Video blogging has become popular, and several people are making videos to share on video hosting and social media platforms.
Businesses that place advertisements on TV also need video editors to create compelling video content for them.
Let’s not forget the millions of video tutorials shared on YouTube and other similar video hosting platforms.
Could this be the right career (or career shift) that you’ve been looking for? Check out our guide on everything you should learn about becoming a freelance video editor by 2022. Don’t forget to check out our review of the top video editing tools too.
What Do Freelance Video Editors Do?
As the name suggests, video editing is the process of editing and joining sections of video footage, audio graphics, music, sound effects, and other post-production elements using computer software specifically designed for the task that creates refined polished video content. It’s the foundation of all kinds of video production, such as television shows, films, commercials, music videos, documentaries, sports and news activities, social media videos, VR experiences and much more.
Professional editing is much more complex than the kinds of minor edits you could make to your holiday Go-Pro footage or even a piece of video for your YouTube channel. An editor who is working on a reality TV show, for instance, could have to go through the footage of five or four cameras, each of which runs for more than 10 hours just to make a 25-minute show.
Editing video is usually carried out in an office, but demand for freelance video editors increased during the pandemic, and most video editors were working from home computers.
Whatever way you choose, you likely won’t be spending much time on the set as a freelance video editor, if not until you get to a high-end level of a video editor in which your tasks begin to transition with more directorial and supervisory duties.
The Skills Required To Become A Freelance Video Editor
Video editing is a process that requires special video editing software, which is why an editor must learn to use a number of video editing tools. But, editing video is not simply a technical problem but, more importantly, it’s a creative one. It is essential to comprehend both storytelling and aesthetics since you have to visualize how you think the final product should appear to the viewer for the best way to present the story visually.
A professional video editor must be focused and pay close focus to the details of their work. A freelance video editor should also possess a solid work ethic due to the constant speed of the business isn’t suited to people who work when inspiration strikes their path. It is also essential to be a problem-solver since video editing often poses complex problems, such as reducing a video segment without losing the story’s vital elements.
In addition, you need an ability to communicate, as freelance video editors are often required to work with other staff members of an organization and the director so that production runs smoothly and the content is produced on time.
What Qualifications Do You Require As A Freelance Video Editor?
There is no need for a degree to be a video editor. Certain companies advertise specifically for graduates from related fields. Still, it won’t be a bad idea to hold education in studies in television and film media production, the field of film or media. In the general sense, companies are more concerned with the capacity of a freelance video editor. They just need you to do their video editing job excellently.
This is where the issue lies. Entry-level video editing jobs typically require some experience, which begs the inquiry: “How do I get experience without having a job?” The answer, in a highly competitive market, boils to “By trying every way you can.” Hahaha.
How To Train And Gain Experience As A Video Editor
The training and experience of an editor for video are closely interconnected. You cannot begin your career in the field of video editing without gaining the proper training, as you’ll need to learn to operate computers and use a couple of video editing software. You also have to comprehend the fundamental principles and methods of editing videos.
However, gaining experience on the job is an essential component of your training since editing videos is an interconnected process, and training on the job can be the best way to quickly grasp the concept and boost your creativity as a freelance video editor.
At the beginning of your career as a video editor, you’ll have to attend a formal class in some form (there are some completely self-taught video editors. However, it is not a straightforward approach to becoming a professional video editor).
It is recommended to pursue an A-level or course at the Level 3 or Level 4 Diploma in Creative Media Production.
If you cannot afford the time and expense of a full-time course, it’s possible to take advantage of the flexibility and flexibility that online courses could provide. Of course, you’d prefer to be sure that the course was of high quality, but the fact that it’s expensive does not mean it’s a bad choice. Ask the instructors for proof that graduates find video editing jobs in the field. If they don’t and you don’t know why then you’ll find out.
You’ll also have to master video editing software. This may require a bit of self-study, even if it’s a part of your education. Once you’re done, you’ll need to seek out experiences wherever you can locate them. The ideal is to access a program of training that is run by a broadcaster such as CNN. However, most novice video editors will need to find other jobs, apprenticeships, or assignments.
This could require sending out lots of inquiries to advertising agencies, production companies, design studios, and the most impressive showreel you can create and dealing with many rejections.
In truth, it requires you to make a living and do some free work. Similar to the scenario in other professions like graphics and web design that involves creativity, This is not optimal, and it discriminates against disadvantaged people. However, it’s the reality of this competitive field. Positively it is that the rewards for perseverance, in the long run, will be rewarding and a source of creative work at a decent level of pay.
What Is the Best Video Editing App for Freelance Video Editors?
To end up being an influential video editor, you must pick editing tools carefully. Your video editing tools are crucial to your video editing career. You can choose among lots of video editors, however not every app is appropriate for your work. In some cases, you have to work on numerous video editor apps simultaneously because each provides special functions. Understandably, video modifying app choices are different for newbies and professional freelance video editors. In my viewpoint, the very best video editors are:
Adobe Premiere Pro – An excellent choice for beginners.
With an almost unbeatable set of features, including 360-degree VR and 4K support, as well as a recently added capability to organize, store and share online assets in a group, Adobe Premiere Pro is possibly the most comprehensive piece of video editing software available.
One of the most amazing tools available in Premiere Pro includes one of the most remarkable tools, is Lumetri colour tool. It allows the ability to adjust and manipulate colours comparable to Photoshop. Photoshop. The multi-cam feature is impressive. While other systems permit users to work with a limited number of cameras, the latest version lets you work with unlimited angles.
Add a variety of titling options and connected ancillary applications (like Photoshop and After Effects) along with a versatile interface that is simple to use along with Premiere Pro is a no decision-maker.
Special features of Adobe Premiere Pro include:
- Multi-cam and colouring options titles tool.
- Easy Integration with Adobe Products.
- Straightforward interface.
Corel VideoStudio – Also Good for newbie freelance video editors
Corel VideoStudio has all the attributes of other top-of-the-line products, such as 360-degree VR and support for 4K. However, it also has the unique distinction of being the first editing software for consumer use.
Software to include motion tracking. In case you’re not acquainted, Motion tracking allows you to track specific objects in your video. Lets users follow particular things in your video (if you were looking, for example, aim an arrow toward the character, blur his face, or even present the surface with a funny cap). The majority of the software listed here come with motion tracking capabilities. However, VideoStudio has one of the most effective motion tracking systems available.
Highlight Specifications: Motion tracking
My final thoughts on becoming a freelance video editor
Freelance video editors are in high demand because of the globalization of digital media. Numerous reputable brands are shifting to digital media, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. The demand for professional video editors has risen dramatically on the market. In this post, I’ve explained how to become a video editor and all the other information you need to thrive in the industry as a video editor.
Thanks for taking the time to read my piece. I hope to get some feedback in the comments below.
Cheers!
READ NEXT:
- 10 Best Business Management Tools for Entrepreneurs
- 10 Effective & Free Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses In 2022
- How to Estimate the Cost of Custom Software Development
