Video editing involves taking video footage and restructuring it to tell a cohesive, organized story. Most videos are intended to entertain, inform, or persuade, so different kinds of projects involve video editing. The video editing expert will select and cut footage, add transitions and audio, incorporate visual effects and graphics, and revise the material to ensure it’s clear, concise, and effective. Video editing makes the finished product polished and ready for production, whether it’s a television show, a film, a social media post, or an advertisement.
The first motion picture camera was developed in 1890 and opened up a world of wonder, excitement, and invention. By 1934, the Academy Awards announced the Oscar for Best Video Editing, and just a short 20 years later, families were welcoming film and television into their homes. Video editing has kept up with the trends throughout the decades, moving from basic editing and animation techniques to more advanced digital methods. With the rise of Adobe software and other relevant design applications, video editing has become far more accessible. These days, you can edit videos on a computer, tablet, or even your phone, which goes to show just how far video editing has come.
What Can You Do with Video Editing Training?
Video editing is in-demand across all kinds of industries. From media and marketing to finance and healthcare, there is always a need for video editing expertise. There may be positions for full-time Video Editors or contract positions that are on a project-by-project basis. However, with the rise and importance of social media engagement, many businesses need video editing expertise around the clock to ensure they stay up-to-date and connected with consumers.
Since video editing is expanding into different sectors, it’s possible to work on a variety of projects. For instance, many video editing experts will work on marketing campaigns and advertisements, whether on social media, television, or streaming services. Some may be hired to create educational content that makes training new employees much easier or that helps students learn difficult concepts. Plus, video editing may be needed for tutorials on how to use difficult tech products, houseware tools, vehicles, and other useful items.
However, video editing can help improve your personal life just as much. If you want to preserve memories from a wedding or vacation, you can splice together clips and edit them accordingly to create a beautiful memento to look back on for years to come. Furthermore, this makes for a great anniversary present. You could also use your video editing expertise to help support your hobbies or side hustle such as if you stream video games, are a social media influencer, or want to promote your small ecommerce shop.
What Will I Learn in a Video Editing Class?
No two video editing classes are the same and usually differ in their length, depth, and subject matter to some degree. Typically, you’ll learn about video editing software and design principles. Some will cover motion graphics and animation as well. Others may emphasize the importance of storytelling and guide you in developing a strong narrative. On the other hand, managing several projects at once may be a challenge, so some video editing classes could cover this as well. The specifics will depend on the type of course, but you can generally expect one or more of these skills to be covered in a video editing class.
Video Editing Software
If you want to dive into video editing, you will have to learn the most commonly used software. Most video editing classes will focus on programs like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. These tools make it easier to collect, cut, arrange, and enhance footage through various tools and features. Although each video editing class has a different focus, you will learn or at least use certain video editing software.
Motion Graphics and Animation
Many video editing classes also cover motion graphics and animation alongside video editing. Adding animations and other eye-catching graphics can put a new spin on your video projects and take them in a new creative direction. This is especially useful if you want to explore fields like entertainment and marketing or if you just want to expand your portfolio. You’ll likely get to learn Adobe After Effects, which is a standard animation tool.
Design Principles
Video editing classes will likely cover the basic design principles that go into video projects such as hierarchy, contrast, balance, and color theory. You’ll learn to apply certain principles across your video, making sure that each scene has been considered. Strong design choices make the project far more enjoyable for the viewer and can also ensure that the project is effective in its purpose, whether it is to entertain, educate, or persuade.
Storyboarding and Scriptwriting
Although video editing is mostly about the construction and aesthetics of the project, storytelling is at the heart of this skill. By learning how to edit videos, you are essentially learning how to construct a narrative. By studying storyboarding and scriptwriting, you will learn how to plan out your scenes, develop characters, set the tone for your projects, and add depth to your narrative. Together, these skills make the video far more effective.
Project Management
While project management may not be directly covered in a video editing class, you will likely learn new ways to handle your work as a future Video Editor. You may find yourself working on several projects at once, so it will be useful to learn time management and balance your workload according to each client’s needs and expectations. Your instructor could provide more guidance on how to stay organized, focused, and productive to deliver high-quality videos.
How Hard is It to Learn Video Editing?
Learning video editing can be tricky for different reasons, but it’s not impossible. The level of difficulty you will experience mainly depends on your educational background, aptitude for technology, and ability to dig deep into your creative side. Learning the material may be easy, whereas applying your skills in a real-world setting could pose a challenge. All in all, your learning method will determine how difficult it is to learn video editing. If you choose to learn through a self-paced method, you’ll likely have a harder time than if you enrolled in a formal training session. The expert instructor will guide you, give feedback, and offer advice during tough projects, and you’ll leave with far more confidence and knowledge.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Video Editing?
Some would say learning video editing software is difficult, especially for those without much technical experience. For example, Premiere Pro has many tools and features that can all perform different tasks, so keeping up with their location and software updates can be time-consuming. Other folks contend that learning how to tell a cohesive narrative with your clips is the hardest part. On the other hand, some people find the creative aspects challenging. Because video editing is a blend of different skills—such as technical, communication, and creative skills—it may be hard to put all these into practice at one time.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Video Editing?
If you want to become a professional, expect to spend a considerable amount of time studying video editing. Most Video Editors spend a few months to a few years honing their craft. This could depend on the class format, method of learning, and the style of the course. Many who choose part-time classes do so because it works better with their schedules, but this will take a little more time since the classes are spaced out more. In addition, the time it takes may vary based on whether you enroll in a short course, bootcamp, or certificate program. On the other hand, if you just need a few basic video editing skills, you could learn within a few weeks or a few months. It depends on the level of depth you wish to achieve and your end goals. Although some may have an easier and quicker time learning than others, this field is always evolving and therefore continuing your education may be beneficial.
Should I Learn Video Editing in Person or Online?
If you want to learn video editing, you may wonder what type of course will suit you best. If you’ve considered in-person classes, this is a great option. In-person classes offer ample interaction between the students, the instructor, and the material. Plus, you’ll complete hands-on projects and get direct feedback and assistance from the instructor. However, this course style requires students to make time for a commute and to have adequate transportation, which may pose an issue for some.
Live online classes are also a great option. This option gives students who live farther from training centers or those with busy schedules more opportunities to learn. In addition, students will still have the chance to interact with their peers and instructors. Although this method could result in technical issues and your learning environment may have more distractions, this is the most thorough yet flexible option for someone serious about learning video editing.
On the other hand, asynchronous learning is incredibly flexible and worthwhile for those who are already professionals who wish to sharpen their skills. If you are a total beginner, however, this method is less effective as there is no instruction, guidance, or feedback. Essentially, this is a self-taught method. While a professional could teach themselves the material, a total beginner would likely experience far more bumps in the road.
Can I Learn Video Editing Free Online?
If you’re curious about video editing and wish to expand your knowledge, you can start with free online resources. By exploring numerous websites, blogs, video suites, social media pages, and discussion boards, you can gain insight into the field and become more familiar with the daily life of a Video Editor. For example, training centers such as Noble Desktop often have Free Seminar pages and YouTube channels where you can learn more about the subject, field, or tools that interest you. Additionally, you can explore different blogs and social media profiles dedicated to video editing content. This is a great way to get a first-hand look into the field and see if it’s right for you. However, once you decide that you want to explore video editing further—perhaps as a profession—you will need to enroll in formal training. Free resources can supplement your learning experience but cannot serve as your main form of education.
What Should I Learn Alongside Video Editing?
If you want to further support your video editing expertise, you can explore related topics that broaden your horizons, develop your skills, and open new doors for professional advancement. For example, many video editing students learn motion graphics and animation far more in depth than what a video editing course would teach. They’ll learn After Effects and Cinema 4D Lite to amplify their video projects even further and add a boost of creativity. This will enhance the overall storytelling experience.
Furthermore, some may choose to study graphic design and related software. For example, many learn how to use Adobe Photoshop, which is used for photo editing. Some may learn to use Adobe Illustrator for vector graphics and Adobe InDesign for print media they may end up using throughout the graphic design or video creation process. It all depends, but these skills can give you a leg up against the competition when searching for a job.
Industries That Use Video Editing
Media and Entertainment
Canada has a strong media and entertainment industry that includes production companies, music studios, video game development, and other forms of digital content creation. Toronto and Vancouver in particular are the most well-known in the country for their entertainment sectors, especially due to Toronto hosting the Toronto International Film Festival each year. This industry is a stronghold of Canada’s economy and cultural identity, which draws in talent from all across the country, continent, and world.
In the media and entertainment industry, video editing is used for creating entertainment such as films, television shows, documentaries, social media posts, trailers, video games, and other online content. Video Editors work diligently to craft engaging content with rich characters and easy-to-follow and enjoyable storylines. Proper video editing makes all the difference and makes a project feel far more professional.
Healthcare
Companies within the healthcare industry may include hospitals and private practices or insurance companies and HealthTech companies. This industry is essential to Canada’s economy, which is well known for its universal healthcare system. With a large aging population and a vast number of technological advancements, the healthcare industry shows no signs of slowing down or becoming less important.
Video Editors work in the healthcare industry in numerous ways. Most obviously, they create commercials and other promotional videos for hospitals, med spas, pharmacies, and other medical centers. This is key to getting the word out and helping patients feel more comfortable utilizing the services. Furthermore, video editing professionals may work on educational materials, training videos, and tutorials for medical professionals so they can better serve the community.
Finance
Banks, investment firms, insurance companies, and all kinds of financial institutions call Canada home. Many finance professionals flock to cities like Toronto to kickstart their careers, particularly since the Toronto Stock Exchange is one of the largest in the world. Canadian banks are also among the strongest globally and employ vast numbers of individuals each year.
Financial institutions hire Video Editors to create informational content so clients can better understand their services. In addition, many banks produce promotional videos to attract new customers and build community trust. These videos can help customers understand complex financial concepts or learn more about the company and the financial opportunities available to them, making the financial industry far more successful as a result.
Real Estate
The real estate industry in Canada is one of the largest, with an ever-changing market that encompasses residential homes, commercial properties, and industrial spaces. With cities and suburbs across Canada experiencing considerable growth and changing demographics, real estate is one of the most important economic factors in Canada’s economy. This can influence other industries, sectors, and companies as well, like construction and urban development.
Real estate companies require video editing expertise for numerous reasons. First, many apartment complexes create property tours so potential renters from cities or provinces away can still view the floorplans. In addition, many real estate agents hire Video Editors to assist with social media content, advertisements, and other promotional material. This can be a powerful marketing tool that helps potential renters and buyers know what to expect before they go through the process.
Video Editing Job Titles and Salaries
Video editing professionals can find work in all kinds of industries, with different types of job titles. Whether you work as a standard Video Editor or a Motion Graphics Specialist, you can find gainful employment. Likewise, you can work in animation either on 2D or 3D imagery. Regardless, there are many outlets for this field, with most boasting lucrative salaries.
Video Editor
Video Editors take raw footage and convert it into a polished, well-organized project. They watch and organize the best clips to ensure the narrative is put together nicely. In addition, they add visual elements like transitions and color gradients to help enhance the viewer experience. In Canada, the average annual salary for a Video Editor is roughly $53,000, per reports from Indeed. However, this largely depends on the industry, company, and your experience. For example, Video Editors in Calgary often earn closer to $60,000.
Motion Graphics Designer
A Motion Graphics Designer mostly focuses on creating animated logos, icons, graphics, and other visual elements that give videos and websites extra appeal. They will typically use software like After Effects to add text, icons, and images for branding purposes. Glassdoor reports that Motion Graphics Designers in Canada earn an average of $55,000 each year, but this does not account for any additional pay from bonuses, profit shares, or other factors. Plus, the range could be anywhere from $42,000 to $64,000 and is likely affected by your experience, education, industry, and company.
2D Animator
2D Animators work with two-dimensional images and bring them to life through different forms of animation. They may use frame-by-frame methods or digital puppetry. Indeed shares that a 2D Animator could earn roughly $57,000 each year in Canada. Of course, the province in which you reside will likely change these expectations. In Toronto, where the entertainment industry is quite prominent, 2D Animators earn closer to $78,000.
3D Animator
A 3D Animator will work with three-dimensional models and create intricate animations for film, television, video games, and other digital purposes. They ensure the design is life-like, moves smoothly, and has a level of depth to it beyond a simple picture or clip. A 3D Animator in Canada can expect a salary closer to $61,000 annually, according to Glassdoor. However, the range could be anywhere from $50,000 to $73,000 depending on several factors.
Video Editing Classes Near Me
For thorough video editing training, Noble Desktop offers a 78-hour Video Editing Certificate where you will dive into essential tools and techniques to start your career as a video editing professional. You’ll receive hands-on experience with tools like Premiere Pro and After Effects by completing various projects such as music videos, interviews, marketing content, and even a short film. The instructor will guide you through the tools and help you create and edit videos with transitions, masking, and multi-cam editing techniques. Moreover, you’ll learn how to add animations, graphics, and other visual effects to boost your video. These projects will help you enhance your professional portfolio and the certificate of completion will serve as proof of your hard work.
Likewise, the Motion Graphics Certificate at Noble gives you further insight into motion graphics concepts and software. You’ll learn the best practices for motion graphics design and learn to animate text, imagery, video, and other design elements. In addition, the instructor will guide you by using software such as After Effects, Premiere Pro, and Cinema 4D Lite. You’ll even learn how to integrate files from Photoshop and Illustrator. Through the projects, you’ll create a demo reel that showcases your ability to animate objects, add slow-motion effects, and remove green screens. Once the 96-hour course ends, you’ll receive a certificate of completion and feel prepared to enter the workforce.
If you aren’t ready for a full-blown video editing certificate program, consider the Premiere Pro Bootcamp. Here, you’ll still gain a thorough understanding of Premiere Pro but can work your way toward a specialization. The instructor will teach students how to edit video clips, including enhancing the audio, adjusting the color, and adding B-roll footage. You’ll learn to include action sequences and create transitions. Plus, you’ll gain insight on how to animate text, images, logos, and icons. With this 18-hour course, you’ll enhance your resume, build your portfolio, and refine your editing skills.
If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level and gain certification, Noble Desktop offers a 36-hour preparatory Premiere Pro Certification Program that gives you access to a proctor, supplemental video suites, workbooks, and private tutoring. Plus, you can retake the exam if necessary. You’ll learn everything needed to help pass the exam, from editing audio and imagery to adding transitions and action sequences. Once you pass the exam, you’ll be certified in Premiere Pro, which is a great asset for your resume, portfolio, and job search.
The Training Company offers an After Effects course that spans three days and teaches students how to use this helpful motion graphics software. Students will practice creating motion graphics, animations, and other visual effects, learning more about how to navigate the After Effects interface and manage their created content. Moreover, the course focuses on the basics of using masks, mattes, and keys as well as working with audio and text.
The Premiere Pro course from The Training Company is also worth exploring. This course also lasts three days and covers a wide range of video editing concepts. Students will learn how to use the tools and features of the application before practicing with different projects. The instructor will guide students through editing clips and adjusting time as well as applying different transitions, audio effects, and color-correcting techniques.
Video Editing Corporate Training
Have you ever considered offering your team corporate training to improve their video editing skills? Most teams agree that corporate training is beneficial not only for strengthening your skills but also for improving cohesion and productivity among team members. At Noble Desktop, you can explore corporate training options that help your team transfer their skills from the lessons to the workplace and collaborate on projects much more efficiently. Noble Desktop also allows you to customize your training so you can explore specific topics and applications or focus on a general overview of video editing. Plus, these are offered in-person and live online so your team can learn how they see fit.
Noble Desktop fosters a comfortable learning environment so your team will benefit greatly no matter what their current skill level is. Plus, some perks go beyond the instruction. For example, your group can purchase bulk vouchers for regular classes so your team can attend without the added financial strain. If you’re considering corporate training, reach out to Noble Desktop at corporate@nobledesktop.com to learn more about pricing, scheduling, and training options.