Some film editors have a college degree in filmmaking. However, becoming a film and video editor doesn’t mean you need to obtain a degree. You can obtain training in this field via vocational school programs. But what really matters is experience.
Film editors are skilled technicians. They need to know how to use film projectors and computer and digital editing systems. A working knowledge of cameras and digital camera technology is also good to have as a film and video editor.
Film editors are skilled technicians. They need to know how to use film projectors and computer and digital editing systems. A working knowledge of cameras and digital camera technology is also good to have as a film and video editor.
Related Film and Video Editor Programs
What does a film and video editor do?
Film and video editors are an important part of the film making staff. Film editors are actually responsible for the technical quality of a film. The director instructs the editor until the finished product meets with the director’s approval.
The director’s instructions include:
• How to rearrange the shot footage
• What footage to cut
• Where to insert music, special effects and sound
• How to insert computerized graphic affects
Computers and digital editing systems are the tools of the film editor’s trade. Working with copies of images called work prints, they organize the scenes and transitions that make up the finished film product.
What kind of education does a film and video editor need?
While experience is important, there are some associates degree programs that will prepare you to work as a film editor. For example, in a film associate degree program you might take classes such as:
• Digital film editing
• Computer assisted design
• Storyboarding
• Character creation
• Film techniques
• Computer assisted editing
How much does a film and video editor earn?
Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest that median annual salaries for film and video editors are at around $62,500.
Where can a film and video editor work?
Film editors usually specialize in either theatrical or nontheatrical work:
• Theatrical film editors edit the movies shown in theaters
• Nontheatrical film editors work for television and production companies that make industrial, educational, and documentary films
The majority of nontheatrical film and video editors work on television film projects.