How to become a better freelance video editor: 25 Tips and lessons from a pro

Following some YouTube tutorials is not how to become a better freelance video editor. You need actionable advice that helps you with video editing storytelling and craft. Here you'll learn 25 tips and lessons from a pro commercial/documentary editor that will actually help you become a better freelance video editor.

00:00 - Introduction

01:01 - Pacing, Rhythm, and Flow

02:48 - Timing Your Cuts

03:37 - Storytelling Principles

04:46 - Storytelling Above All Else

05:43 - Effects and Transitions

06:32 - Understanding Video File Formats

07:39 - Mastering Keyboard Shortcuts

09:10 - Planning Your Edits

10:07 - Audio Importance

11:06 - Using a String Out

12:41 - Using Markers

13:29 - Cutting on Action

14:12 - Cutting for Engagement

15:34 - Subscribing to Unsplice YouTube Channel

16:32 - Shot Sequencing

18:07 - Using Multicam Sequences

18:55 - Getting Feedback

19:34 - The Importance of Feedback

20:30 - Broaden Your Skillset by Editing Different Genres

20:30 - Forget About Developing Your Own Editing Style

22:38 - Study Various Media for Inspiration

23:46 - Stay Organized and Backup Your Files

24:54 - Don't Be Afraid to Experiment

25:40 - Pay Attention to Framing and Composition

26:20 - Efficient Project File Organization

27:36 - Speed Up Your Editing with Good Organization

Don't know what video editing skill to learn next?

Just answer 19 questions and in 6 minutes you’ll get a personalised recommendation of what skill to work on next. And best of all it’s completely FREE.

To take the Video Editing Skills Assessment head to https://www.unsplice.com/quiz

- - -

Don’t forget to…

Join Unsplice Pro - Online Video Editing Community that helps you build your portfolio: https://www.unsplice.com/pro

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Unsplice?sub_confirmation=1

Follow Shiny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shinythegreat/

Follow Unsplice on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unsplice2

Connect with Shiny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shiny-perkins-2b9485a9/

Follow Unsplice on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unsplice/

Get free library music from Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/?referral=shiny-m834x

- - -

If you liked this video on how to become a better freelance video editor then you’ll love these:

How to write a CV or Resume as a Video Editor (with example): https://youtu.be/_CZSq5zJxLM?si=4WtePE2XABVoY5gG

From Button Monkey to Master: The 6 Traits to Freedom: https://youtu.be/dUNcTbhSUf8?si=gSCT4Wmmg3dkLcQS

Why Video Editing Courses are a Waste of Money: https://youtu.be/ODqVLuK_ADs?si=g2RS2ofw_5pjHSh_

5 Signs Your Professional Video Editing Workflow Needs Improving: https://youtu.be/G7LTiYaJROY

Master Editing: 5 Signs Your Storytelling Skills Are Lacking: https://youtu.be/qE4Gfbr1mvI

- - -

Thank you for listening!

Shiny

Request a sponsorship: Email [email protected] and include “Sponsorship” in the title of the email