How do you choose the best video editing partner for your Creator Economy business?

Certainly, as someone who began their freelance career as a video editor, I believe I can provide insights on choosing the right video editor. It's a strategic decision, and the first step is to clearly define your goals. When I embarked on my journey, I created a list of video editors and then outlined my objectives. It became evident that while there were more advanced video editors available, they weren't relevant to my specific needs. So, I opted for Filmora. Ultimately, the choice of a video editor depends on your unique goals and requirements.

I consider video editor to be a very important partner in the creative and production process of video making. They are often addressed as "life savers". Therefore I am very particular in choosing my video editor partner. It all depends on the project i am working on, am I shooting a complex camera movement sequence, green screen, talking heads or making a promo from existing footage or animation. Some editors are good with camera raw workflow and some are good are scanning footage and picking up the video clip that stands out. If you are working in television, digital, advertising or marketing videos, it is advisable to onboard or have contacts handy of a wide range of video editors who can partner with you as per the need of production.

Defining your goals and job duties is essential to success. beyond defining your goals, understanding the specific skill sets and expertise required in a video editing partner is crucial. Assessing factors like proficiency in editing software, storytelling capabilities, adherence to deadlines, and alignment with your creative vision aids in pinpointing a partner who can complement and elevate your content. Additionally, seeking referrals, examining portfolios, and initiating clear communication regarding project expectations and workflow ensure a seamless partnership, fostering efficient collaboration toward achieving your video production objectives within the Creator Economy.

Before finalizing any video editor, it's essential to conduct thorough research. You should evaluate factors like its features, cost, reliability, and its ability to meet your specific needs. Once you've gathered this information, you can proceed to the next steps in your decision-making process.

Once you have your scripts and budgets in place, you need to find the right video editing partner. Having worked in the industry for a while now, I know the editors I will work with but it good to find with your colleagues if there is new talent at the studios or freelancers for references. I always make sure I either know the work the video editor has done previously or check their portfolio reel. I ensure I know their style and their rates before onboarding one.

Once you have your final list of video editors, it's important to ask the right questions to make an informed decision. You should inquire about the cost, the editor's history and reputation, its user-friendliness, and the time required to learn how to use it effectively. This will help you choose the best editor for your needs.

If I am working with a video editor for the first time, i will definitely meet or catch-up with editor to get to know the process they follow and let them know the post production process I follow. It is always good to know your collaborators on a human level, this meeting is to ensure we have smooth collaborative journey. I usually fix on the softwares i will be using at the start on my production planning even before I choose my video editor.

Now, it's time to dip your toes in the water. Begin with some initial testing. Try using the video editor with a few sample videos to see how well it works for you. If you're not sure where to start, you can also refer to tutorials to gain more insights into its capabilities. This initial testing will give you a good sense of whether the video editor meets your requirements.

If you are working with someone for the first time, it is good to start with small project to test the waters. There are so many things that go into building a collaborative partnership. Some times in our everyday language we call it "tuning", it is something on a personal level that just clicks. It is important the video editor knows the process you follow and how you set up your production process and business. Besides delivering the video there is whole lot of back and forth that happens with client feedback, it id good to have some one who understands the media production business.

Videos are made on the editing table or atleast a few times when production does not go as per the plan. it is important that you trust your video editor and vice versa, it will be a wonderful collaborative journey for both and you will be making amazing videos.

When you are working in a bigger organisation you may not get the chance the choose your video editor. You will have to work with in-house video editors. In such cases you can get feedback from your colleagues, catch up for a coffee or a beer and be observant. If both of you have been working for a few years you may have developed your personal styles, you will have to be observant, adjust and acomodate to achieve good results.

Many people tend to opt for advanced tools like Adobe Premiere Pro when their needs could easily be met by a simpler video editor. It's important to avoid this mistake. Here's a valuable tip: consider using a tool like QuickReel. It can work wonders for your content creation journey by efficiently converting your long-form videos into shorter ones in just minutes. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!