Film Editor Job Description, Skills and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of a film editor. Feel free to use our film editor job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as a film editor.
Who is a Film Editor?
Have you wondered how a film is made? How are different scenes of a film put together to match the storyline? Well, film editing plays a huge role in the overall outlook of a film. Editing a film takes a significant amount of practice and organization; editing ensures that each scene is edited or cut well. Arguably, just as actors and scriptwriters are important in the success of a film, the process of film editing is equally as important. Ultimately, film editing helps put the dots and nuts of a movie together. Hence, film editing is both a technical and a creative piece of the pre and post-production process of filmmaking. The concept involves the use of human and traditional technology and was derived from the process of working with films and scripts. Therefore, film editing can be defined as an art, skill, or technique of assembling shots into a coherent sequence. It has been described as an invisible art because when well-practiced, viewers become so engaged that they are not aware of the editing work. Some individuals are trained to work with the raw footage of films, select shots, and combine scenes into sequences to create a finished motion picture; they are called film editors.
A film editor is a technical professional who removes unnecessary footage from a film and assembles the remaining pieces to make finished works or films. They work on movies, commercials, TV programs, and other pieces of video content. Most film editors work collaboratively with movie directors, cinematographers, scriptwriters, and sound editors to come up with the best possible film. Also, they ensure the films represent the director’s vision and narrate their stories in the most efficient, engaging, and effective way. After editing, film editors make sure the viewing experience remains seamless and make sure the footage doesn’t look like edited ones. In the past, film editors physically cut pieces of films and place them together when editing. Using glue, they connect it to the tape to have their final edited film. Technological and digital advancement has added another sophisticated dimension to film editing; nowadays, many film editors use computer software and applications to cut film and subsequently edit footage. Debatably, these technological breakthroughs have made the job of film editors exciting and enhanced the accessibility, user-friendliness, and polishing of film editing. There are film editing booths where film editors with projects and contracts mostly spend their work hours editing footage on computers.
However, the roles of a film editor aren’t restricted to putting pieces of a film mechanically together, editing dialogue scenes, or cutting off film slates; it also includes creative work on the layers of images, music, dialogue, pacing, story, and the actor’s performances to effectively rewrite or re-image the film to craft a cohesive piece. Simply, a film editor is an essential and dynamic part of filmmaking. While editing a low-budget film, the film editor cut in temporary music, adds temporary sound effects or other sound replacements, and mocks up visual effects. They are experts in assembling and turning recorded raw material into finished products suitable for broadcasting. In some cases, film editors are given creative freedom; while in other cases, they are required to operate the necessary machines. Several films related productions can be edited by a film editor such as commercials, television programs, corporate training videos, music videos, and featured films. A unique aspect of a film editor’s work is the refining of stories into a continuous and enjoyable whole by manipulating plots, scores, and graphics. Most film editors can express themselves through their distinct work and editing styles.
Relatively, a film editor uses scripts to guide scene development, determine which camera angles to use, and coordinate visual effects during post-production. In addition, film editors trim uncut clips into the appropriate lengths using storyboards. Subsequently, they arrange them orderly to bring out compelling and logical stories. The critically acknowledged and successful film editors are renowned and appreciated for their creativity, organization, meticulousness, decision-making, and steadfastness. They are artists who use their artistry prudently to decide the right effects to use and the appropriate timing for different plot events. Similarly, good film editors follow given instructions and pay credence to feedback, observations, and criticisms to become better. They are attentive and sometimes produce multiple versions of a film for the production team to peruse; this is aimed at creating an outstanding frame-by-frame film. Depending on the story, the editor might remove rejected and vague content and fit approved ones to produce viable and acceptable audio-visual content. A Film editor has been described as a cross between a brain surgeon and a short-order cook. Due to the competitive nature of the profession, most film editors have become zealous to work for several hours.
Film Editor Job Description
Below are the film editor job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write a film editor job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
Traditionally, filmmakers use a single film editor; however, high-budget films can employ the services of several film editors. These editors split scenes and switch the scenes to re-edit as best as possible. Film editors perform different tasks to effectively edit film projects. They form part of both the pre and post-production processes of filmmaking. Apart from taking and editing different shots of video footage to tell stories, the film editor performs other tasks involved in film production. Hence, the duties and responsibilities of film editors include;
- Review planning materials such as shot list, script, footage outline, or brief.
- Meet with the director to discuss their vision for the film.
- Visit filming locations to observe and monitor the film’s progress.
- Collaborate with sound effect editors, sound editors, and music directors on the films’ audio elements.
- Sort raw footage during post-production and select the most dramatic, effective, and entertaining ones.
- Digitally cut film segments and assemble them in the most or best logical sequence.
- Synchronize and input uncut sounds and rushes and sort them into files on the computer.
- Insert dialogue, sound effects, and music into films with editing equipment.
- Revise the initial cut according to the producer and directors’ notes and prepare the final cut for release.
- Correct errors, review edited films and prepare them as a first cut for the director to view.
- Receive a brief and an outline of footage and/or a shot list, script, or screenplay.
- Reorder and fine-tune the content to ensure the smooth running and logical sequence of the film.
- Create a rough cut or assembly edit of the film and determine the exact cut for the next and final stages.
- Suggest or select music where necessary and write a voiceover and commentary.
- Oversee the progress and quality of video and audio editing and engineering.
- Finalize the technical aspects of production; grade and color films, correct faulty footage and add special effects.
- Experiment with techniques and styles when designing graphic elements.
- Watch different shots and scenes to determine which to cut to fit a designated run time.
- Rearrange various scenes to communicate and portray the story being told properly.
- Ensure a smooth transition between each scene and sequence.
- Apply other necessary edits as given by directors or producers.
- Decide and ensure angles complement each other.
- Edit frame by frame as needed to support the dialogue and complete the film.
- Work closely with assistant editors and editors to prepare and revise the goal and vision of the film.
- Work within the timeline established by producers or directors to turn the film around on or before the deadline.
- Review the script to understand the film production requirements better.
- Review all tapes to identify issues and recommend changes.
- Develop skills in handling computer editing equipment and software.
- Develop post-production models for firms and employers.
- Discover and implement new editing technologies and best practices regularly to maximize efficiency.
- Trim the segments of footage to the lengths recommended for the film.
Qualifications
Though it is not mandatory to have a higher national diploma, a degree, or foundation degree to become a film editor, the individual must show total commitment and determination to get into the industry. Noteworthy is the fact that individuals with industry-related education are strongly considered. Also, proficiency and other qualifications are vital due to the increasing competition in the profession. Thus, consider and work on the following industry-based qualifications for film editors;
A degree or associate degree in subjects like communication and media studies, graphic design, information technology, and multimedia, fine art or visual art, and photography, film, or television is an advantage. Most firms, employers, and movie directors and producers believe that the candidates with degrees in the aforementioned subjects have relevant skills and training in film editing. The coursework should include filmographies, commercial editing, and basic editing.
Computer literacy and an aptitude for working with digital equipment are desirable and mandatory. The ideal film editor should have and show experience of the latest technology to stand out among other applicants.
Proficiency in using specific editing packages and software is a must; employers prefer the candidate with hands-on experience in using Avid or Final Cut Pro for example. Such individuals must have passed through training courses on the software.
Work experience in other areas of media production is relevant and required for the position of a film editor. Most firms and film producers favor individuals who demonstrate related work experience during the recruitment process. In relation, you must show a willingness and zeal to get involved and be prepared to do the basic tasks. Since a plethora of hiring managers expect candidates to have pre-entry work experience, showing evidence of working on film production or pre and post-production as an assistant film editor can suffice. Even if you don’t have a showreel as a student, you can join a film-making society and learn editing techniques there. Any internship or apprenticeship you did can be used to evidence your work experience as well.
Film editing certification is another essential requirement for the profession. Although most firms rarely require such certifications, some producers and directors get enticed by candidates that possess them. Moreover, having these certifications show the individual’s advanced knowledge of editing software and should sharpen their skills to work on high-budget projects. Examples of such certification include Avid Media Composer, Final Cut Professional, and Adobe Premiere, Professional.
Essential Skills for Film Editors
The broadcasting and film editing profession is extremely competitive; hence, an individual must strengthen and showcase their skills and abilities throughout the recruitment process. The most successful film editors use a combination of artistic, critical, and technical skills to perform their tasks. A film editor should be able to showcase the following;
Big picture thinking: A film editor must analyze the entire footage, decide how best to achieve the desired emotional and thematic impacts of the film, and produce the ideal outlook for the film. This will involve constant decision-making on micro and macro levels. Ability to think about and see the big picture can help the film editor in this regard.
Being aware and respectful of deadlines: Most film houses, producers, or directors often set deadlines for the final cut of the film. An admirable film editor should have skills that enable them to be aware of timelines and deadlines and work with this in mind. They must ensure that all editing is performed within the allotted period without delay.
Collaboration skills to work with producers, graphic designers, and directors.
Attention to detail to capture cuts, edits, and transitions.
Active listening and excellent written and oral communication skills.
A keen eye for detail and a high level of self-motivation.
How to Become a Film Editor
Follow the steps below to pursue a career as a film editor;
Analyze films to learn about the editing process: For starters, watch films carefully and note the way each film is edited and cut to tell a story before pursuing your film editing career. This can help you learn about the different types of editing involved in the profession.
Earn a degree in film editing: There are various educational opportunities for aspiring film editors. Hence, try and pursue a degree in filmmaking, media communications, fine art, or photography from an accredited institution. Common topics you can learn include visual storytelling, screenwriting, film production management, and digital editing and imaging.
Network, network, and network: After graduation, endeavor to meet experts, experienced professionals, and mentors in the film editing industry to build your network. Remember, these individuals can recommend you to different producers and directors when necessary.
Enroll for apprenticeship or internship: While trying to build your network, consider and complete a film internship or apprenticeship to learn more about the industry, techniques, and software. Apprenticeship and internship can help you learn more about the daily routine of a film editor and challenges abound.
Develop and practice film editing skills: You can develop and practice your accumulated film editing skills through collaboration with friends to create low-budget projects and films. Also, you can volunteer at local organizations and offer to shoot and edit promotional films for the organizations. You can search for freelance or small-budget openings to create short films online as well.
Build your film editing portfolio: Next, showcase samples of the various projects and films you edited on your online portfolio. This can serve as evidence of your previous work since most employers request editing works you’ve done in the past.
Initiate your job search: Finally, arrange and update your resume to include your website links, previous work done, and social media pages so that hiring managers easily locate your work. Afterward, rigorously search for film editors’ openings and duly apply.
Employers of Film Editors
Film editors are employed by several organizations, firms, and enterprises such as;
- Video and computer games companies
- Broadcasting organizations including television and radio stations
- Independent production companies
- Film companies
- Animation companies
- Post-production facilities and companies.
- Freelance organizations.
Film Editor Salary Scale
Film editors tend to earn a median salary of $28.76 hourly which is equivalent to $59,810 per year. The highest and lowest percentiles are $152,720 and $34,870 respectively. The exact salary of each film editor is influenced by training, level of experience, and/or educational attainment. The genre of the film and the overall budget are other contributory factors to the salary received by film editors.