Film/Video Editor
What is the work like?
Editors prepare the final broadcast version of films or TV productions. In a process known as ‘post-production’, they take raw footage, choose the best shots and put them in order, and add sound, graphics and special effects. Skilled editors can have a big influence on the quality of the finished piece.
As a film or video editor, you would normally use digital technology and computer software to edit sound and pictures. You could work on projects including feature films, TV programmes, corporate videos and commercials.
Your job might involve:
- finding out about the needs of the project from the director or client
- transferring film/video footage to computer
- examining the footage and deciding which shots to keep and which to cut
- cutting and joining shots using editing software
- keeping a clear idea of the storyline, even though you may be editing scenes out of sequence
- creating a 'rough cut' from the chosen material
- digitally enhancing picture quality
- adding titles, graphics, visual effects and sound
- putting together the final version.
On a larger project you may be one of several editors with different jobs and specialisms such as offline editing (making the rough cut), online editing (producing the final version) or sound editing.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
The key to becoming an editor is to gain as much experience as you can in the post-production process and in using editing equipment. Your experience could be paid or unpaid. Employers will be interested in your technical skills, previous experience, and personal qualities such as enthusiasm and initiative.
You could get relevant experience from:
- editing student or community film productions
- working for an editing equipment hire company
- work experience as a runner in an editing facilities house.
You may find it helpful to take a course in film, video or media production. Taking a course will not guarantee you a job, but it should help you to gain practical skills in using editing equipment, and the most useful courses include work placements and the chance to build contacts in the industry. Several colleges and universities offer courses, including:
- City & Guilds (7501) Diploma in Media Techniques
- City & Guilds (7502) Certificate for Audiovisual Industries Induction
- BTEC National Certificate/Diploma in Media Production
- BTEC HNDs, degrees and postgraduate courses.
Check with course providers for entry requirements, and see Skillset’s website for details of industry-approved courses.
As you gain experience, you should make a 'showreel' DVD of productions you have worked on, to demonstrate your skills to employers when looking for work.
'People skills' are important as editing often involves working in close contact with clients, so experience in any type of customer service role would be useful.
What further training and development can I do?
You would usually start as a runner or trainee in a post-production house, and progress to assistant editor as you learn on the job from experienced staff.
You may find it useful to take short courses in particular editing software and equipment, such as Avid, Final Cut Pro, After Effects and Sony Vegas.
At the start of your career you may be able to get some training as part of an apprenticeship-style new entrant scheme, such as the programmes run by Film and Television Freelance Training (FT2). See FT2’s website for details.
Broadcasters and regional screen agencies may offer other new entrant training schemes. Contact Skillset Careers for information on any schemes that may be available.
You should keep up to date with new equipment and technology throughout your career. Visit Skillset’s website to search for relevant short courses, and for advice on how to fund your training as a freelance worker.
Where can I go for more information?
Warwick HouseWarwick Street
London
W1R 5RA
Pinewood Studios
Iver Heath
Bucks
SL0 0NH
Tel: 0808 100 8094 (Scotland)
Tel: 08000 121 815 (Wales)
London
SW9 9BT
21 Caledonian Road
London
N1 9GB
Related profiles...
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be around £18,000 to £25,000 a year for ongoing full-time work (although it is common to work for much less at the start of your career).
- Experienced freelance rates can be between £1100 and £2000 a week (before tax).
Freelance rates can vary widely. You could negotiate fees based on the type of production and your own track record. Contact BECTU for current pay guidelines.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your working hours could vary. You may work standard office hours or shifts, as some film editing is done at night. You may need to be flexible and work at short notice if necessary, and it is common to work long hours and overtime to meet deadlines.
Post-production editing takes place in enclosed studios and editing suites, where you would spend long periods working on computers.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a mixture of creative and practical skills
- a good sense of timing and visual awareness
- a high level of attention to detail
- excellent communication skills
- the ability to work as part of a team
- willingness to work long hours when necessary
- the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
- patience and concentration
- good computer skills.
What opportunities are there?
You are most likely to work on freelance contracts for post-production facilities companies, independent production companies, and television broadcasters. Contracts can be anything from a few days up to several months' work on a feature film. Competition for work is strong.
Some jobs are advertised in the national press, trade press and industry websites. However, it is more common to get work by contacting companies yourself, networking and word of mouth, and using a crew directory or diary service to market yourself.
Once you are established in your career, you might also use an agent to find you work and negotiate your fees.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and useful contacts:
Mandy.com
Broadcast Freelancer
BBC Recruitment
Grapevine Jobs
UK Screen Association
The Knowledge (contacts directory)
Kays Production Guide (contacts directory)
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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