So you’re looking for tips on video production editing? Awesome!
This is the COOLEST part of the process if you ask me.
It’s like putting together a GREAT BIG PUZZLE.
Now, I realize not everyone shares my excitement over editing. It can actually be quite a grueling process, but when the story starts to come together, it’s like watching a miracle unfold in front of your eyes.
At its simplest, video editing it’s the placement of shots one after the other in a sequence.
Where it gets complicated is finding the narrative and rhythm of the story: the storytelling.
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“Good Cut” vs. “Bad Cut”
How do you know when you’ve edited a great story?
You know you’ve edited a great story when you aren’t thinking about the video production editing or how the story is put together. You are simply absorbed by the story and what’s going to happen next. If you are taken out of the story for any reason, it means you have a “bad cut” and it needs to be fixed. However, a “good cut” is when the story has been edited in such a way that when the edit happens, it creates an emotional response. For example, a cut between a “before” and “after” shot can create a dramatic effect. Or, cutting video clips to the beats of music can create a “fun” response.
What is a jump cut?
A jump cut is usually considered a “bad cut”, but not always. A jump cut is when two shots of the same scene are edited together in a way that creates an unnatural flow. It can be jolting to the viewer. However, some filmmakers use it purposefully for artistic effect.
If you’re going to have a jump cut, have a series of at least three (3) so that the audience gets comfortable with this style. They need to understand that it’s not just a random jump cut or mistake, but that there’s reason behind it.
A word about music...
Don’t overdo it. Use it to “compliment” your existing footage.
If you have a very strong emotional moment, music may take it over the top and make the audience feel the moment was “forced” on them. However, if you don’t have a strong emotional moment, but want to convey emotion, that’s when music can be most helpful. Music is also a great way to help the viewer transition from one scene to the next and can help carry the story.
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Keep it SIMPLE. Don’t try and be coy when you’re editing. If there is something the audience needs to understand, make sure they understand. Ask yourself, how would I explain this story to a 10 year old? It must be THAT simple.
Take breaks. If you’re struggling with a sequence, walk away or work on a different section. It’s easy to lose perspective when staring at the same footage for hours at the time.
And finally.. watch a lot of documentaries. Get a “feel” for what works, study the techniques and be inspired.
I hope these video production editing tips have been helpful.
Happy editing!
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