What does a Video Editor do?
If you are a creative individual who thrives in visual storytelling then it is no surprise that the thought of working as a video editor has developed into an exciting and prosperous opportunity. If you’re just starting your job search or you’re looking for a change and considering your options, then Mandy News has provided all the information you need to decide whether a video editing career is right for you.
What do video editing jobs entail?
Considered as a post-production role, a video editor or editor is someone who is skilled in the art of storytelling through uniting pictures, sounds and special effects to ultimately produce a final version of a film, TV programme, corporate or music video. The role requires an abundance of creativity, vision and patience, as well as a keen eye in ensuring the original tone and storyline from the script are adhered to.
From producing and editing both photos and videos that will be distributed across various social platforms, using computer software to create graphics, animations, sound, music and special effects, through to deciding on the final look and feel of the video. The video editor is responsible for taking raw footage from the photographer and scriptwriter and transforming it into something new, exciting and whole, a video that tells the intended story and ties everything together.
What skills do you need to be a video editor?
To become a video editor one of the most important requirements, even above your formal qualifications, is experience. The ability to visually tell a story and to see it through the eyes of the audience is key in becoming successful. Employers value an insight into the personable and technical skills you have acquired, such as;
- Creativity and vision
- Attention to detail
- Teamwork
- Patience
- Dedication
- Time management
- IT
- Organisation
- Communication
- Ability to think laterally and visually
- Experience with After Effects, colour grading and sound software (desired but not necessary)
Having experience under your belt shows that you have gained insight into the environment you’ll be working in, you’ve met and worked alongside like-minded professionals within the industry and have had hands-on experience with relevant software and editing equipment such as Apple’s Final Cut Pro or Adobe’s Premiere Pro. A lot of degree courses provide work placements years, making it a great way to network, develop new relationships, get a feel of the environment you’ll be working in, whilst gaining a degree at the same time.
To summarise, there is no fixed entry route into becoming a video editor, yet your three main options to choose from are:
The Academic route - An academic qualification isn’t necessary yet if it is the route you’d like to consider then a HND, foundation degree, degree or postgraduate course in subjects like film and television studies, media production, or film and media is the ideal place to start.
Vocational route- There is also a vocational route option, a Level 1 Award in Using Mixed Media Techniques Level 3 Certificate/Diploma in Creative Media Production.
Entry level position- Entry level video editing jobs are a great way to learn, it’s common to move into video editing in film or TV from an entry-level role like a TV production runner.
Once you’re in, in order to become ahead of the game as a video editor it is key that you keep up to date on all the latest digital trends, technology plus identify and learn new software and tools.
What is the starting salary for a film/video editor?
As a junior video editor, you can expect to earn around $19,007 with the potential of earning up to $118,061 at a senior level.
Work environment
When you become a video editor you will more often than not find yourself working within a studio or editing suite, where you will spend the majority of your time working alongside your team working off your computer. The team structure normally depends on the size of the company you work for, but as a general, if you work for a startup you’ll usually report to the CEO, whereas in larger more established companies your direct report may be someone in the role as a digital content editor, or something similar.
Alternatively, there are freelance video editor jobs out there, allowing you to create your own desired work environment.
Take a look at a list of video editing apps that are great if you need to work on the go.
If you’d like to see what video production jobs we have to offer then sign up to mandy.com for free today - your dream job is closer than you think. We have regularly list Editor jobs & Video Editor jobs on Mandy Crew UK.