Video editor

Video editors prepare film and video tape for the production of the final version of a film or television programme. They work closely with producers and directors.

Also known as:

• Film Editor
• Tape Editor

Work activities

Editors prepare the final version of film and video tape, often working closely with producers and directors to create a narrative. They arrange shots, adjust and enhance the quality of pictures and add special effects, if needed. The end result is a technically correct final version, ready for transmission. Preparing the sound can involve matching sound to pictures, fixing sound levels, preparing new soundtracks and dubbing.

For some productions, editors mix sounds and add music, background noise, special effects or narration. Material is usually dealt with shot by shot, in sequence. Editors view images on monitors and input commands using a keyboard. “Offline” editing allows the editor to copy up a trial edit before doing a main “online” edit. Editors are also able to work on the recording directly, transferring the material later onto master tape to create the finished piece. Digital systems allow editors to download all the footage onto computers. They then use editing software to produce the final version.

Personal qualities and skills

As a video editor, you need:

• Creative skills.
• An aptitude for using technical equipment.
• Accuracy and an eye for detail.
• Patience and the ability to maintain concentration during long editing sessions.
• An interest in all aspects of film and television.
• To be able to work as part of a team with other production staff.
• To be prepared to update your skills as new technology is introduced.

Pay and opportunities 

Pay rates for video editors depend on the type of production they work on, duration of the project and whether they are employed or self-employed. The pay rates given below are approximate. Employed editors start at around £18,000 per year, rising to £45,000 with experience.

Working hours vary, from a basic 40-hour week, to shift work, including evenings and weekends. Some film/video tape editors work long, irregular hours, especially as deadlines approach.

Employers are industrial/commercial video companies, the BBC, independent television and film companies, and satellite and cable television firms. Opportunities for video editors occur regionally in towns and cities throughout the UK, and in major broadcasting production centres such as London, Birmingham, Manchester/Salford and Leeds.

Many video editors work on short, temporary contracts as self-employed freelancers; for example, film companies hire editors for particular productions.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on:

• Job boards
• Specialist recruitment sites such as Production Base (you may have to pay for these)

Entry routes and training

New entrants come from a range of backgrounds, including graduates, those with higher national awards, and industry training scheme students. There are many courses, at all levels, covering film, television and video. However, few courses specialise in editing. The most important thing is to build a portfolio that potential employers can view (for example a YouTube channel of your work). Most editors work their way up from junior roles. Due to the widespread use of digital technology, there are fewer assistant editor posts available than in the past. A small number of MA courses in editing are available.

The following apprenticeship programmes may provide relevant skills to begin a career in video editing:

• Camera prep technician (level 3/advanced)
• Content creator (level 3/advanced)
• Broadcast and media systems technician (level 5/higher)

The BBC sometimes offers technical traineeships, which include on-the-job and off-the-job training in a range of skills. Some independent television companies offer similar training opportunities.

With experience, editors can move from local TV and small-scale productions to national TV and film work.

Qualifications

Candidates wishing to enter a relevant course are expected to demonstrate a basic understanding of film/video editing, technical ability and a good eye for visual effects. Although no formal qualifications are needed for some courses, some GCSEs (grades 9-4) including English, maths and physics are useful. Many successful applicants have higher qualifications.

To begin an intermediate apprenticeship, you usually need GCSES (including English and maths), although you may be able to work towards these as part of your course. Higher apprenticeships typically require two A-level passes.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Many entrants have a degree, often in a media-related subject.

If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (e.g., Access to Media) could be the way in. No formal qualifications are usually required, but you should check individual course details.

Related careers

• Audio engineer