Film editors are responsible for cutting and reassembling the video and audio material of film and television productions so that the result can flow seamlessly, as required by the narrative and expressive needs of the screenplay. To become a film editing technician you need a long study, hours of internship, apprenticeship and volunteer work, the right contacts and, above all, the possession of a strong inclination for style, rhythm and coordination of the times. Most editors spend years doing different jobs before they finally get lucky, so you will need a lot of perseverance, as well as talent, skill and hard work to be able to fill this position. The steps below will show you how to become a film editor.
Steps
Step 1. Study film editing
Watch numerous films and analyze the rhythm and timing of the scenes; for example, the length of each scene, the amount of action and tension it contains, and how each moves on to the next, sometimes through the use of visual or sound links.
Step 2. Dedicate yourself to editing a large number of short films and present them at film festivals
Step 3. Obtain a diploma or certificate as a film editor
The study program will include the basics of editing, the editing of commercials, film history, visual storytelling and screenplay. In addition, you will learn how to use photo and video editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop and Final Cut Pro, which is the standard used in Hollywood productions.
Step 4. Volunteer as an editor in student productions or any local production you can find
The more concrete experiences you have, the better your chances of entering the world of film editing will be.
Step 5. Get a job in a film studio
It is very difficult for you to get it right away, so take on any job that comes your way, whether it be a tour guide in a studio, a personal assistant to some crew member, a secretary in an office or a delivery boy. for a production.
Step 6. Be polite to everyone you meet and promote yourself
Distribute business cards containing links to your website and your works. Let it be known that you are looking for a job as an assembly technician. Building your network in this way can lead to unexpected possibilities, such as being an editor for a short film that will later win an award at a festival. If you get to know people who work in the editing room ask if, from time to time, you can join them to observe and learn their work.
Step 7. Do a good number of jobs and have them listed in the Internet Movie Database (IMDB)
This site can also include short films and low-cost films, as long as they are productions that have enjoyed distribution. Before hiring you, potential employers will review this material.
Step 8. Submit your resume, along with a sample of your best work, to studio managers, directors and other editing technicians
This could help you land a job as an assistant editor in a production.
Advice
- Be patient. Making it into the world of cinema can take several years. As you keep your day job and look for the big break, keep actively involved in film editing by working in student and low-budget productions.
- By providing proof of enrollment in a film editing course, students can obtain editing software at a special price.
