How to Become a Freelance Video Editor
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Freelance Video Editor
What does a Freelance Video Editor do?
A Freelance Video Editor shoots and creates video content for television, promotions, social, web, and other outlets. Operates and maintains video, lighting, and audio equipment. Being a Freelance Video Editor incorporates composition and lighting techniques to shoot high-quality video in various indoor or outdoor settings. Utilizes editing software to create graphics, visual assets, and edit footage. Additionally, Freelance Video Editor typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Freelance Video Editor occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. To be a Freelance Video Editor typically requires 2 -4 years of related experience.
Before a film, television show, or other video hits the screens, the raw footage from filming must be edited.
This professional will be hired on a contract basis, which means the freelance video editor will not be an employee of a film studio, but rather an independent contractor who will be paid by the project.
The basic job functions of the freelance video editor have changed since the advent of digital technology.
In the past, the editor may have been responsible for physically cutting and stitching film reel to make a complete, cohesive film.
While this may still be the case in some circumstances, more often the freelance video editor will work with computers and software to cut, add, or rearrange scenes in a video according to the director's instructions.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Freelance Video Editor
Best tips for those who want to become a Freelance Video Editor
Here are some tips to become a Freelance Video Editor.
Establish billing, time, and delivery expectations before accepting any job.
Ask Questions to Properly Estimate Your Time.
Start tracking your time, even if not billing by the hour.
Bill a minimum of one hour, every time you open a project file.
Backups of files might save you, and your client.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Freelance Video Editor
Best colleges and universities for Freelance Video Editor
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Freelance Video Editor
Is being a Freelance Video Editor Worth it?
Most freelancers choose this path because they can have more control and freedom in their professional life.
Whether you’re a video producer, graphic designer, programmer, sound designer, or photographer, this site has something for any freelancer that handles digital content.
It’s heavily populated by producers all around the globe who are looking to engage with other video producers, actors, and filmmakers.
A freelance video editor doesn’t have that kind of security and there are lean months in any year where you can be forced to work on some of the more ethically questionable Reality TV shows in order to keep earning.
A video editor works closely with the director to maintain integrity, edit scenes, select angles and points of view (POVs), and implement post-production enhancements.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Freelance Video Editor
What skills do you need to be a Freelance Video Editor?
In order to succeed at this level, when working with both management positions and positions more junior, a variety of skills are required. A strong grasp of the following skills is needed to perform this role: Photography. You would need to be proficient in the following: Graphic Design Software. Although there may be many skills for success in this role, some companies may be willing to provide on the job training if you excel in other areas.
Video/film editors are required to undertake many duties.
There are certain skills that you must develop and hone to a razor’s edge to be successful in the world of video/film editing.
Video School Online, Larry Jordan, Udemy, Lynda and NYVS offer many paid-for and free forums, videos and infographics to help you develop the skills needed to learn video/film editing online.
Your ability to network and the credibility of your work with previous employers can affect your revenue, as a video Freelance writer.
The need for skilled video editors rises, as videos are more or less becoming commonplace, with many services featuring YouTube advertisements.
Step 6: View average salary for Freelance Video Editor
How much does a Freelance Video Editor make?
The average salary range for a Freelance Video Editor is from $59,596 to $90,024. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Freelance Video Editor jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Freelance Video Editor jobs, and apply.
Looking for Freelance Video Editor jobs?
Here are some Freelance Video Editor jobs in the United States.