Train to be a Film Editor?

Answer 1

A film or video editor works with the director to construct a television show or film by modifying the video or film. This may include cutting and joining segments and applying digital effects like fades to the raw footage, as well as a variety of editing techniques. Most video and film editing is now done digitally using special computers and software. Film editing is thus both an artistic and a technical field. The technical aspects require constant training as various editing systems and software applications change or new approaches and systems are developed. A deep love of film and appreciation of film and various editing techniques and styles is also important, as is an ability to follow a director's guidelines and thorough attention to detail. Film editors absolutely need a high school diploma or the equivalent, but may not necessarily have to have a degree in film production, nor is a degree in film a guarantee of a job as an editor. The best option is probably a combination of both practical training as an apprentice, and classroom experience. Because the software and hardware require considerable expertise and practice before you become truly versed, you absolutely do need to have training in practical terms, and there are lots of classes offered online, at your local art or technical school, or through community colleges and extension programs—and as part of a four year degree program. Another advantage of either a film production degree or classroom study is that you may find internship opportunities, as well as potentially working as an entry level technician and then apprenticing to a senior editor. In fact, many film schools emphasize apprenticeship and practicums as a core part of the curricula. There are also film programs that offer a specialty in editing or even a degree in film editing. A future film editor may decide to emphasize classroom learning and a film degree, but be sure to include both courses in film studies or theory as well as practical classes in production. The general practice is to have an entry level job related to production—and it may be something as basic as equipment inventory, but it's an opportunity to learn. The next step is generally as an apprentice to a senior editor, and in some cases, this is done through an internship. Next is time spent as an assistant editor. Remember you never stope learning, and that every job is an opportunity. Finally, many productions have rules about hiring union members, which means you should certainly familiarize yourself with the <a href="https://www.editorsguild.com/">Motion Picture Editors Guild</a>. A film or video editor works with the director to construct a television show or film by modifying the video or film. This may include cutting and joining segments and applying digital effects like fades to the raw footage, as well as a variety of editing techniques. Most video and film editing is now done digitally using special computers and software. Film editing is thus both an artistic and a technical field. The technical aspects require constant training as various editing systems and software applications change or new approaches and systems are developed. A deep love of film and appreciation of film and various editing techniques and styles is also important, as is an ability to follow a director's guidelines and thorough attention to detail.

Film editors absolutely need a high school diploma or the equivalent, but may not necessarily have to have a degree in film production, nor is a degree in film a guarantee of a job as an editor. The best option is probably a combination of both practical training as an apprentice, and classroom experience. Because the software and hardware require considerable expertise and practice before you become truly versed, you absolutely do need to have training in practical terms, and there are lots of classes offered online, at your local art or technical school, or through community colleges and extension programs—and as part of a four year degree program. Another advantage of either a film production degree or classroom study is that you may find internship opportunities, as well as potentially working as an entry level technician and then apprenticing to a senior editor. In fact, many film schools emphasize apprenticeship and practicums as a core part of the curricula. There are also film programs that offer a specialty in editing or even a degree in film editing. A future film editor may decide to emphasize classroom learning and a film degree, but be sure to include both courses in film studies or theory as well as practical classes in production.

The general practice is to have an entry level job related to production—and it may be something as basic as equipment inventory, but it's an opportunity to learn. The next step is generally as an apprentice to a senior editor, and in some cases, this is done through an internship. Next is time spent as an assistant editor. Remember you never stope learning, and that every job is an opportunity. Finally, many productions have rules about hiring union members, which means you should certainly familiarize yourself with the Motion Picture Editors Guild.

Answer 2

To train to be a film editor, you should start by learning the principles of editing through courses or workshops. Practice editing using editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. Build a portfolio of your work by editing short films or projects for friends or colleagues, and seek internships or entry-level positions in the industry to gain experience and make connections.