Log InSign Up
Article

What does a Freelance Video Editor do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A freelance video editor is responsible for putting together raw footage to create a cohesive and entertaining final product. This may involve choosing which scenes to include, adding special effects or graphics, and ensuring that the finished product meets the client's expectations.

Freelance Video Editor job duties include:

  • Reviewing video footage and selecting the best scenes
  • Assembling footage in the correct sequence
  • Adding transitions and special effects
  • Adjusting audio levels
  • Synchronizing audio and video
  • Inserting title cards and other graphics
  • Adding voice-over commentary
  • Creating rough cuts and fine cuts of the video
  • Outputting the final video in the desired format

Freelance Video Editor Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for becoming a freelance video editor, although most editors have at least a bachelor's degree in a field related to film or video production. Many editors also have previous experience working in a television or film production environment. Certification is not required, but many freelance video editors choose to become certified through professional organizations such as the American Cinema Editors (ACE) or the Motion Picture Editors Guild (MPG).

Freelance Video Editor Skills

  • Adobe Creative Suite
  • Avid Media Composer
  • Apple Final Cut Pro
  • Sony Vegas Pro
  • Grass Valley EDIUS
  • Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve
  • Waveform editing
  • Multitrack editing
  • Audio mixing
  • Colour correction
  • Motion graphics
  • Visual effects

Related: Top Freelance Video Editor Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Freelance Video Editor

There are many ways to become a freelance video editor, but there are a few key things you need to do in order to be successful. First, you need to have a strong understanding of the editing process and what it takes to create a great video. Second, you need to be able to work quickly and efficiently in order to meet deadlines. And third, you need to be able to market yourself and your services in order to find clients.

If you have a passion for video editing and want to turn it into a career, then becoming a freelance video editor is a great option. With the right skills and approach, you can build a successful business editing videos for clients all around the world.

Related: Freelance Video Editor Resume Example

Related: Freelance Video Editor Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles