Post-Production : How I would learn video editing if I had to start over.. by Ashley Renee Smith

Ashley Renee Smith

How I would learn video editing if I had to start over..

Hey Editors,

I just watched this great video with tips for what one editor would do differently if he started learning editing from scratch. Do any of these suggestions ring true to you? Which do you agree or disagree with that you think could help the community?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apbZc_9XgNo

Stephen V. Stone

Ashley Renee Smith Interesting video, thanks! I think he's got some valid points but there are some counterpoints for Stage 32 folks worth considering as his video and experience is slanted to social media work, not narrative storytelling.

His "choose one platform" has some truth but if you want to be successful as a freelancer (which most editors are), you will need to comfortable in Avid, Premiere Pro, Resolve and FCPx, but while mastering one is important but you should try to learn at least two more passably. This helps you learn editing apart from software as many people confuse learning editing from learning editing software. They actually have little to do with each other. I really encourage a new editor to edit at least one short on film with a film splicer or edit a short film in-camera with NO post. This helps you learn editing apart from software.

His point about about analyzing editors is valid but he suggests emulating your top 5 "creators". Unfortunately, online video editing is very limited in style and approach. I would strongly suggest looking outside of online social media to learn storytelling through edit before emulating online editors.

Things get fully on track from there as I totally agree about his point about joining a community of editors. Just make sure there are editors from all walks: documentary, narrative, commercials, music video etc.

And again, his next point about consistent practice is 100% on target. He wraps it up very nicely with his message about patience which is the most important aspect and a great thought to leave editors with.

Maurice Vaughan

Vince Opra gives great advice in the video, Ashley Renee Smith! Watching videos like this, webinars on Stage 32, etc. can save creatives so much time and money. And prevent a lot of stress and headaches.

Ashley Renee Smith

Stephen V. Stone, your point about learning editing vs. learning editing software makes a lot of sense! It's an art form as much as a skill set and you definitely need to hone your eye for various types if editing, as much as you need to become skilled in the tools available to do so. Thank you for pointing that out!

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