Editing starts when the editor receives the raw footage, the script, shooting schedule and the continuity notes. The editor works with the director to produce the editing script.
8 simple tips tips for video editing
1. Read the script for the video.You would be amazed at the number of editors who neglect this crucial stage.
2. Reach for a pad of paper and a pencil, layout a timeline of the exact duration, and block in the main components from the video script.
3. Review the continuity notes and shooting schedule, to help you select the 'good takes' from the raw footage.
4. Review and select the B-roll and alternative footage to insert into and intercut with the timeline.
5. Mark the clip names/numbers on the main time line. Assess if they are going to fill or overrun the set duration, decide what could be cut or inserted to bring it to the exact duration.
6. Open a basic editing program, rough cut and assembly edit the raw footage to make a preliminary edit.
7. Review preliminary edit with the director and colleagues, look out for missing or additional items, where improvements can be made etc.
8. You don’t have to have the very latest Pro editing suite. A basic editing program can produce good results if you know what you are doing. Once the edit has been made no one should be able to tell in which suite the video was edited.
The 3 basic mistakes in video editing
1. You are working with audio and visual elements. The audio needs as much attention as the visual.
2. You will watch a clip dozen of times in the editing process. Having seen it three or four times it is tempting just to skip to the end, DON'T. Always play a clip through to the end, it is easy to lose an entry or outpoint to a clip when editing.
3. Don't put something into the edit, just because you can. People will watch your video for its content, not because of your editing. The very best editing passes unnoticed, so keep it simple.
Gavin Bryan-Tansley Owner Vid-FX+
