Here's how you can equip yourself with the necessary tools and software as a self-employed video editor.

Things changed for me when I equipped myself with a shure mic, an insta 360 pro, softbox lighting and I invested in multiple second hand smartphones all equipped with 4K and 60fps qualify on both the front and back facing cameras to increase production value. Also going all in on Adobe Premiere Pro has been the spine of my business. There's no better software in my opinion. I don't pretend to be a videographer, I'm an editor, but simple things like what I've listed just makes your job as an editor much easier!

As a self-employed video editor, I equip myself with a powerful computer, a high-resolution monitor, and reliable external storage. I use Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. I also invest in quality headphones, a good microphone, and a graphics tablet. Staying updated with industry trends through online courses is essential. I use cloud storage for file access and tools like Trello or Asana for workflow organization.

To be a self-employed Video Editor all we need is a Mac Studio Pro / A Display compatible For Color Grading / a Video Editing software which i suggest DaVinci Resolve ! and why DR ? for being Integrated for Video Editing / Sound Design / Color Grading / Motion Graphics and so on. Next Level is to Download all Training Books From Blackmagicdesign website and Complete the Online Exams! Next Level can be buying a Good Filming Camera (Not a DSLR for Photography! because those cameras temperature gets so high on 4K resolution!) i suggest if you have the budget go straight for a Sony FX3 which is the first Solo Cinematic camera which approved by Netflix. hope i could give some hints to work as a Video Editor, In a Company or Self-Employed.

Choosing the right software is crucial, but don't get overwhelmed. Here are some industry-standard options: 1) Premiere Pro 2) DaVinci Resolve 3) Final Cut Pro (Mac only) If you're a beginner and want to start without investing, try DaVinci Resolve (available on both Windows and Mac). If you're ready to pay, here are the prices: 1) Premiere Pro: $23.99 per month 2) DaVinci Resolve: $270 one-time 3) Final Cut Pro: $300 one-time Choose what suits you best! Thanks 🙂

Choosing the right video editing software is crucial for freelancers. Look for software that matches your editing style, offers necessary tools and effects, handles various formats, and provides regular updates and support. Avoid pirated software—it can cost more in the long run. For example- A friend used a pirated version of Adobe Premiere Pro and faced issues like slow performance, overheating, and viruses, costing $200 in repairs. Investing in authentic software ensures better performance, access to updates, and protection from security risks. Choose wisely for a successful freelancing career.

Choosing the right video editing software is crucial for freelancers. Aligning the software with your editing style and project needs is essential. An intuitive user interface boosts productivity and eases the learning curve. A wide array of tools and effects helps create diverse, high-quality content. The ability to handle different video formats ensures flexibility and compatibility. Regular updates and robust support keep you current with industry trends and help troubleshoot technical issues. Staying updated with the latest features enhances work quality and efficiency. These considerations are key to selecting the best video editing software for a successful freelancing career.

I know that you want to finish that project asap. But imagine, Your client asks for project files at the end… Or, (even worse) Client comes back after a month & needs changes. That would be a nightmare, right? Please keep everything in place and stay organised. 5 - 10 minutes extra will save you so much.

Don't ignore the importance of organization in video editing. This was a huge mistake I made early on. Proper file management is crucial. Let me share my experience: I signed a client for YouTube video editing and downloaded all the raw footage. I would download assets as needed but failed to organize them, leading to a cluttered mess of 20-40 GB. When I needed something, it took me 2-3 hours to find it. Properly labeling footage, maintaining a consistent file structure, and using asset management tools save you time and present you as a professional. It also helps clients track progress and makes it easier for teammates to find and use assets, enhancing collaboration and ensuring the project runs smoothly without unnecessary delays.

Color grading is really important. More than the software, it's crucial to know the purpose of the video and make it reflect that. For example, when I edit a vlog or fun content, I use a blue tone to make it feel more appealing and happy 😊. For serious content like current affairs or politics, I use a red tone to signal its importance and retain viewer attention 📌. It may sound complicated, but it's not. Understanding these basics can make a big difference. Thanks 🙂

Es muy importante conocer el proceso de gradación de color sobre todo si se trabaja con material en perfiles logarítmicos (perfiles planos) además de poder lograr un determinado look al corregir la iluminación y colorización. En mi caso trabajo con el software Davinci Resolve el cual ofrece una versión gratuita muy completa.

I always say this: Your audience might watch your video even if the video quality is not the best, BUT if they can’t hear it properly as the audio quality is bad, there’s no chance they will stick to your video. Always invest in good audio gear. And then you enhance it in editing. Sound design and music also plays a very key role in setting the mood of your video. Good audio editing definitely set your video apart.

Muchas veces pasa que se prioriza la estética visual por sobre la sonora, perdiendo de vista que el audio es fundamental para crear y transmitir ideas y conceptos, ya sea por el uso de música como de efectos de sonido. Para todo ello es fundamental aprender sobre la edición de audio a la par de la edición visual.

This is very important. Most editors don’t even know what video codec and resolution is good for what purpose. Go to YouTube. Search all the codecs your software supports and learn about them. You should have knowledge so you can educate your clients as well (if needed).

Comme dit dans l'article le format de rendu dépend des plateformes, mais si il y a bien une chose qu'il faut garder en tête c'est qu'il n'est pas dictateur de bonne conduite.

Having a low specs system shouldn’t stop you from starting an editing. (If you’re passionate about it) I started with a simple laptop with no graphics card. You just need to learn the ways to handle heavy files in your system. One of the example is proxies. Proxies should be your best friend if you don’t a good computer. But as you grow and start earning, you must invest in your gears. This will definitely help you save time and onboard big clients/projects.

Powerful systems and software are not the only things a video editor ever needs. In my 2 years journey, I realized there are a few thing that have been a lifesaver for me not only for my career but also for my health. Here is the list: 1️⃣ Ergonomic chair(*not fancy gaming chair): Ergonomic chairs are designed for long sitting work and prevent the human body from back and neck pain. 2️⃣ External monitor: maybe you have one already, if not please invest in it. It makes editing so much easier. 3️⃣ Please use genuine software: raise your hands if you use the crack software. ✋ We all did at some point. but, don't do it once you start earning from editing. Invest in the software. Thanks 🙂