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What does a freelance video editor do?

A freelance video editor works with many types of clients, including individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations, for the purpose of filming and editing events, advertisements, music videos, documentaries, television programs, and motion pictures.

As a freelance video editor, you may be called upon to handle a number of tasks associated with ensuring the final edition of a work is refined and ready to be viewed by the intended audience. Some of the tasks might include editing scenes to ensure proper story flow and adding special effects, sound effects, music, and voice-overs.

In addition to the above, a freelance video editor might also be asked to maintain video and editing equipment, ensure sets are configured properly for filming, test sound quality, and make recommendations regarding actor performance.

What skills do I need to become a freelance video editor?

Freelance video editors come with varied backgrounds, but most have either a bachelor’s degree from an accredited film school or extensive experience in film, television, or industrial video. Some freelance video editors began their careers taking on projects such as weddings or by simply using their smartphones to take and edit video.

No matter your background, if you have an interest in becoming a freelance video editor, you will likely need to possess the following skills:

• Excellent attention to detail
• Problem-solving skills
• Good communication skills
• Familiarity with video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Apple Final Cut Pro
• Knowledge of computer hardware used for video editing
• Excellent ear for storytelling
• Excellent eye for story flow
• Extension knowledge of video production and post-production
• Ability to work well with others under tight deadlines

What are the core freelance video editor job responsibilities?

While a freelance video editor’s responsibilities can include a wide variety of tasks depending on the client and the project, common responsibilities include the following:

• Capture visual content as well as edit short- and long-form video content
• Help maintain brand identity during editing
• Work with producers, scriptwriters, brand managers, marketing managers, and public relations managers to ensure content consistency
• Operate various filming and editing equipment, including cameras, video editing equipment, and sound equipment
• Archive and retrieve video content as needed
• Coordinate between studio and remote locations during all filming events
• Collaborate with videographers and other editors on an as-needed basis.

Should I get a video editor degree or certification?

Becoming a freelance video editor requires a good deal of experience in addition to some education. The level of education you obtain may determine how far you are able to go in your career as well as the opportunities you might receive from potential employers or clients. Likewise, receiving a certification in video editing can only help your position as a potential freelancer.

For those interested in earning a degree, a bachelor’s in film and editing from an accredited university is an excellent starting point. Institutions such as New York University, University of Southern California, and Florida State University offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in digital media, film, and television.

Certifications for video editing are offered by organizations such as the American Graphics Institute and Adobe. Four-year degrees are more costly than certification programs. Which option you choose will be determined by your career objectives, your available time, and the budget you can apply to your education.

• New York University— bachelor’s or master’s in film and TV
• University of Southern California—bachelor's or master’s in film and TV production
• Florida State University— bachelor’s or master’s in digital media production
• American Graphics Institute—certification in video editing
• Adobe Premiere Pro—certificate program