Video/Film Editor

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Work Tasks

VIDEO/FILM EDITORS edit motion picture film, television or cable, television videotape, and sound tracks. They put together footage of films into a seamless end product. They evaluate and select the most effective scenes in terms of entertainment value, and story continuity. They discard scenes that do not help the plot development. They try to get the best combination of photography, performance, consistency, and timing. They manipulate the plot, score, sound, and graphics to meld the parts into a continuous and enjoyable whole. They review assembled film or edited videotape on a screen or monitor, and make corrections. They meet with directors, producers, and others about the filming of scenes.

Salary, Size & Growth

Entry Requirements

Many VIDEO/FILM EDITORS begin as technical or production assistants and learn their skills on the job by observing the interaction between directors and film editors. It takes from 4 to 10 years of on-the-job training (internship or apprenticeship) before becoming solo editors. A bachelor's degree with courses in all phases of filmmaking is helpful for apprentice or intern film editors. Coursework should include basic and commercial editing. Work experience in a university or college film department is very helpful. Editors keep up with new technology.