What techniques and software do you need to know for video editing in the animation industry?

1 Editing Principles

Before you dive into the technical aspects of video editing, you need to understand some of the fundamental principles that guide the editing process. These include continuity, rhythm, pace, emotion, and storytelling. Continuity means ensuring that your shots match and flow smoothly from one to another, without creating confusion or disruption for the viewer. Rhythm means creating a sense of movement and energy through the timing and duration of your shots. Pace means adjusting the speed and intensity of your editing to suit the tone and mood of your animation. Emotion means using editing techniques to evoke feelings and reactions from your audience. Storytelling means using editing to enhance and support the narrative and message of your animation.

3 Editing Formats

Another important aspect of video editing is knowing the different formats and standards that you need to work with. These include resolution, frame rate, aspect ratio, codec, and file type. Resolution refers to the number of pixels that make up your video, and it affects the quality and size of your video. Frame rate refers to the number of frames per second that your video plays at, and it affects the smoothness and realism of your animation. Aspect ratio refers to the shape and proportion of your video, and it affects how your video fits on different screens and devices. Codec refers to the method of compressing and decompressing your video, and it affects the performance and compatibility of your video. File type refers to the format of your video file, and it affects the options and features that you can use for your video.

4 Editing Tips

To create better animations and improve your video editing skills, it's important to follow some tips and best practices that can optimize your workflow and enhance your results. Before you start, plan your editing and have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, what story you want to tell, and what style you want to use. Keep the editing simple and focused by avoiding unnecessary effects, transitions, or cuts. Utilize keyboard shortcuts and custom presets to speed up the process and save time. Review and revise the editing regularly from different perspectives such as a viewer, a client, or a critic. Finally, seek feedback and advice from other animators, editors, or mentors to learn from their suggestions, critiques, and experiences.

5 Editing Resources

If you wish to learn more about video editing and expand your knowledge and skills, there are a variety of useful resources available online and offline. For example, online courses and tutorials on Udemy, Skillshare, Lynda, and YouTube can teach you the basics and advanced techniques of video editing. Online communities and forums like Reddit, Quora, Facebook, and LinkedIn can connect you with other animators and editors to ask questions, share tips, and find opportunities. Additionally, online blogs and magazines such as Animation World Network, Creative Bloq, and No Film School can keep you informed on the latest trends in the animation and video editing industry. Offline books and guides such as The Technique of Film and Video Editing by Ken Dancyger, In the Blink of an Eye by Walter Murch, and The Art of Editing by Richard D. Pepperman can also provide you with in-depth information on video editing.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?