Film and Video Editors
Human Advantage 78%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Low Risk
2.9 / 10
This occupation requires complex human judgment, social interaction, and creative problem-solving that are difficult to automate.
Edit moving images on film, video, or other media. May work with a producer or director to organize images for final production. May edit or synchronize soundtracks with images.
Also Known As: Contract Video Editor, Cue Selector, Digital Media Coordinator, Digital Video Editor, Editor, Electronic News Gathering Editor (ENG Editor), Film Editor, Movie Editor +14 more
Core Tasks
- Organize and string together raw footage into a continuous whole according to scripts or the instructions of directors and producers.
- Edit films and videotapes to insert music, dialogue, and sound effects, to arrange films into sequences, and to correct errors, using editing equipment.
- Select and combine the most effective shots of each scene to form a logical and smoothly running story.
- Review footage sequence by sequence to become familiar with it before assembling it into a final product.
- Set up and operate computer editing systems, electronic titling systems, video switching equipment, and digital video effects units to produce a final product.
- Trim film segments to specified lengths and reassemble segments in sequences that present stories with maximum effect.
- Cut shot sequences to different angles at specific points in scenes, making each individual cut as fluid and seamless as possible.
- Review assembled films or edited videotapes on screens or monitors to determine if corrections are necessary.
- Verify key numbers and time codes on materials.
- Manipulate plot, score, sound, and graphics to make the parts into a continuous whole, working closely with people in audio, visual, music, optical, or special effects departments.
- Program computerized graphic effects.
- Study scripts to become familiar with production concepts and requirements.
- Supervise and coordinate activities of workers engaged in film editing, assembling, and recording activities.
Supplemental Tasks (9)
- Determine the specific audio and visual effects and music necessary to complete films.
- Mark frames where a particular shot or piece of sound is to begin or end.
- Record needed sounds or obtain them from sound effects libraries.
- Conduct film screenings for directors and members of production staffs.
- Discuss the sound requirements of pictures with sound effects editors.
- Piece sounds together to develop film soundtracks.
- Confer with producers and directors concerning layout or editing approaches needed to increase dramatic or entertainment value of productions.
- Develop post-production models for films.
- Collaborate with music editors to select appropriate passages of music and develop production scores.
Emerging Tasks
New and evolving responsibilities for this role:
- Write scripts.
Education & Training
Job Zone 4 Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (37)
Tools & Equipment (9)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Media Production & Broadcasting Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 2
Data Entry Keyers 76% match
Zone 4
Film and Video Editors You are here
Design & Digital Arts Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 2
Motion Picture Projectionists 77% match
Zone 3
Photographers 76% match
Zone 4
Film and Video Editors You are here
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