• Film and Video Editor Job Description

    A film and video editor is a person whose job is to prepare the final version of a film or video from the raw footage shot during the making of the film or video. The film and video editor edits the raw film or video footage into a final product that fulfils the vision of the film or video director and producer.

    A film and video editor should be creative, imaginative, methodical, determined and reliable, and have a good sense of timing. They should be able to concentrate for long periods of time and work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

  • What does a Film and Video Editor do?

    film and video editors may do some or all of the following:

    • study the script to understand the storyline
    • discuss with the director to understand their vision for the production
    • transfer film or video footage to computer
    • view the footage and decide which shots to keep and which to delete
    • cut, arrange and join shots to create a comprehensible story
    • mix video footage with music, sound effects, and audio and special effects
    • prepare the final version of the film/video
  • Where does a Film and Video Editor work?
  • Working Conditions

    Film and video editors may work normal office hours or shifts that include evenings and weekends. They may also work longer hours and overtime, especially around deadlines.

    Film and video editors work in editing suites, television and film studios, and computer rooms, and may travel to visit film/video production sites. They spend much of their time working on computers.

  • What is Required to Become a Film and Video Editor ?

    There are no standard educational requirements to become a film and video editor, as skills are learned on the job by helping experienced film and video editors.

  • Modules
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Film and video editors need to have:

    • patience
    • humility
    • adaptability
    • self confidence
    • creativity and imagination
    • determination and resilience
    • good eyesight
    • good attention to detail
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • good listening and communication skills
    • time management and organizational skills
    • computer and editing skills
    • analytical and problem solving skills
    • self-learning skills
    • the ability to concentrate for long periods
    • the ability to take directions
    • the ability to work well independently and as part of a team
    • knowledge of video editing software
    • Knowledge of different Codecs and compression types
    • knowledge of film and video production process

References

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