Film and Video Editor

What a Film and Video Editor Does

Throughout the course of creating a movie or a video, more material is produced than can be used. It is the job of the film and video editor to pare down this material so that what remains is only the best and most coherent parts of the work that has been done. This can mean editing the film or video itself or the accompanying soundtracks for the film. Editors will watch the footage from a shoot and choose the segments that best work to represent an idea, message or to push the story forward, joining them together to create one continuous sequence in a film. These individuals work in a number of entertainment industries including motion pictures, broadcasting and cable television. Most of this editing work is done on computers and using the latest technology, so film and video editors must always stay up-to-date on new an innovative technologies. Editors may find work through television stations, television networks, production companies both large and small.

How to Become a Film and Video Editor

To work as a film and video editor, individuals will need to take on a training program at a university or community college. Basic courses in these programs will teach students how to operate the necessary equipment, understand computer technology used in editing, and gain a better understanding of the process of making good movies and television. Associate's degree programs may be enough to learn basic skills, but most students will want to get a bachelor's degree from a university or a film school to better prepare them for the technical and artistic challenges they will face in the field. Most film and video editors will want to take on apprenticeships or internships to gain experience. Entry level workers in this field may spend a good deal of time working as assistants before being allowed to work independently on editing a film or television program. Advancement in this field is possible with experience, and many may eventually work their way up to being directors of photography or find work teaching at universities and colleges.

Career Outlook for Film and Video Editors

As of 2008, film and video editors held about 25,000 job nationwide. Through 2018, this number should increase to 28,600, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is an increase of about 12 percent, making this an excellent field for those interested in art and design to consider as a career. Film and broadcasting are incredibly competitive fields, however, and if individuals want to find jobs they are going to need to work very hard, network and make the most of all opportunities offered to them. Work may be salaried through a company or agency but many editors will find work through freelancing and running their own businesses, so gaining marketing and business skills while in school can be a big advantage. The average salary for a film and video editor is about $50,560, a number that will vary widely with experience, location and education.