How to work with a video editor
Having worked in the editing world for a number of years, I have come across a multitude of different clients with various workflows and processes during that time. Using these experiences, I thought I'd put together a few tips for working with an editor, whether you're working with them for the first time or even if you've built up a long-standing relationship.
First of all, outsourcing is a big step. A good editor will appreciate this, and should be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the process. For filmmakers (or any type of creative person) letting go of one aspect of your work can feel like a sudden loss of control. Some people are totally okay with this, and some aren't.
Usually, I can tell if a client is going to have a hard time letting go of their editing process before we even begin working together.
Some people are going to find themselves really enjoying the outsourcing process, incorporating it into their workflow and happily booking more work than they would comfortably want to edit themselves, comfortable in the knowledge that they aren’t alone in handling their post-production. There are also those who just won't be able to make it work. Either way is totally fine! What works for one person isn’t always going to work for someone else. It's important to try new things for your business, but it's also just as important that you feel comfortable with how everything is running. There’s no judgement here.
When outsourcing your editing, it's really helpful if you know what you want. Have a clear vision and communicate that to your editor. Having said that, it's also important that you go into the process with an open mind.
If you're hiring an experienced editor, there is a chance that they may have some useful ideas of how to replicate your style whilst also building on it to elevate your films in ways you may not have considered.
Usually, I can tell if a client is going to have a hard time letting go of their editing process before we even begin working together.
If you are a new filmmaker and you don't already have have your own editing style in place, or if you are undergoing a complete change in style, it's really helpful if you are someone who has already considered what style you're going for. If you have examples of other pieces of work that you you feel drawn towards in terms of editing, be that in pacing, effects or storytelling, this is a really helpful starting point.
If you're sending examples from other filmmakers, be sure to think about why you like those example films.
Is it their choice of shots? Pacing? Their use of audio? Is it the colour?
Keep all of your footage well organised, preferably in a cohesive and concise folder structure and if necessary leave a little note on anything that you think may prove confusing, or anything that you noted on the day. This will help your editor piece together footage more easily, especially if there are multiple shoot locations involved. Remember, we (usually) weren't there on the day!
If your client has made a specific request, or if you have something specific in mind for a particular project, it's really helpful to pass this along to your editor so they can bear that in mind while putting together your film. We can't read minds, and being able to see a little bit of your vision helps us more than you know.
If you're sending hard drives for your editor to work on, please make sure that all of the materials are included on the drive.
Not just footage but music, audio files and logos as well as any Presets or LUTs you'd like them to use in your film.
Finally, keep an open mind. Be aware of what you filmed, and try to stay realistic when considering what your finished film may look like.
A good editor can bring emotion, timing, coherence and depth to your film, but it's important to remember that we are working with the footage and notes that we have from you.
Be constructive, and kind! This will only help you as you move forwards in building a good relationship with your editor/s.
Happy outsourcing!