Video editing is the process of manipulating, cutting, re-sequencing, and adding to existing video footage to make a clean, finished product. This may include adding special effects, animations, or motion graphics, but it can also include adjusting the saturation, sharpening the focus, and changing the audio levels. A Video Editor must have a strong understanding of both the pre- and post-production phases. In addition, video editing is possible through various software and technologies to make a clear video that conveys a particular message or serves a specific purpose. Ultimately, successful video editing will incorporate all the best clips to tell an engaging and effective story that draws in the viewer.
Video editing has an exciting, fast-paced history. From the creation of the first-ever motion picture camera in 1890 to today, video editing is an essential part of many industries and businesses. And, as modern-day media has grown and developed, video editing has become a more prominent part of society. Machine learning and automation have replaced many of the tedious aspects of video editing such as adding closed captioning. But historically, video editing was a lengthy process that took patience, focus, and attention to detail. Video editing is needed in nearly all forms of entertainment, from movies and television shows to music videos and social media posts. In addition, video editing techniques are applied to educational, promotional, and persuasive videos. Overall, video editing is a highly sought-after skill that many employers and businesses are impressed by.
What Can You Do with Video Editing Training?
With the right training, students can pick up video editing as a useful skill that can serve them in more ways than one. Professionally, many job opportunities may become available with the right video editing training. In addition, these jobs can be found across different fields and for varying companies, so the right job is out there for anyone interested, regardless of the industry. Plus, many of these job opportunities are fairly profitable and rewarding as they require both technical and creative skills. This keeps the job interesting and entertaining, which makes for a worthwhile career path.
If you value preserving memories, you may consider starting a video diary. This is a video project that you can look back on fondly throughout the years. If so, video editing training can make that more possible. Video editing can help make personal projects such as blogs, YouTube channels, family videos, and social media pages, more organized and provide higher-quality transitions and footage. This can even be an opportunity to start making at-home movies just for fun! This could open the door for children to become interested in acting, writing, filming, and other creative exploits. All in all, video editing can become a creative outlet that allows you to express yourself uniquely. Whether you choose to preserve memories or curate more brand-appropriate social media posts, there are always new skills to learn and creative avenues to explore through the art of video editing.
Although there is specific software that aids in video editing, this may open the door to learning new and related software. There are many video editing applications available to professionals and hobbyists alike such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Apple Final Cut Pro X. Learning one application can make it easier to pick up on others, therefore adding to your list of skills, padding your resume, and expanding your capabilities. For example, learning Adobe Premiere Pro can make it easier to learn other associated Adobe products such as Photoshop, InDesign, or other Creative Cloud applications. Having experience using multiple Adobe products can lead to more creative exploits and professional advancements.
What Will I Learn in a Video Editing Class?
Video editing classes teach students the necessary skills to produce well-crafted videos. Most notably, students will learn software and technologies to edit videos and add other elements such as motion graphics and animations. Additionally, students will learn keyboard tricks, study design principles, and develop management skills. These are just some of the many skills that video editing classes have to offer participants.
Video Editing Software
Through practice using video editing software, students will acquire skills in different techniques such as color correcting, audio mixing, and speed ramping. Students will also learn how to manipulate, cut, and resize video footage. Professionals use many types of video editing software. Many Video Editors prefer Adobe Premiere Pro for its versatility and accessibility, making it one of the most widely used and beneficial applications. Although Premiere Pro is often considered the gold standard, there are many other video editing software to explore and learn such as Apple Final Cut Pro X, Avid Media Composer, DaVinci Resolve, and Wondershare Filmora.
Design Principles
Video editing is a unique field that requires both technical and creative skills. On the creative side, students in a video editing course will gain design skills to learn how these techniques work together and end up looking visually appealing. Design principles include actions such as perfecting the color grading, adding evocative audio, transitioning seamlessly from scene to scene, and aligning footage in a specific way. Not only does it require the Video Editor to know how to perform these functions, but it also requires them to understand how they work together to convey an intended message in a way that entices the viewer. All in all, many classes focus on design, as creativity is important to hone on top of the technical skills that make the project possible.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Many video editing classes will teach students how to perform tasks efficiently. This can be done through the use of various keyboard shortcuts. Adobe applications have many keyboard shortcuts that make it easier for Video Editors to do their job, thus speeding up the video editing process and ensuring the final, intended result is produced. For example, many users are aware of the “CTRL + C” and “CTRL + V” shortcuts to easily copy and paste text, images, or links. This shortcut is often used on Word or other text boxes but is also applicable in Adobe Premiere Pro. Additionally, Premiere Pro allows users to easily trim their edits by pressing “Shift + T” or apply video transitions by pressing “CTRL + D.” Regardless of the reason or function behind your video editing educational journey, these shortcuts can make the editing process much more enjoyable and efficient.
Motion Graphics and Animation
Students may also learn motion graphics and animation in a video editing class. Some classes focus solely on video editing software and techniques, but many classes combine video editing with motion graphics and animation, as they often go hand in hand. Students in these classes will learn to use related Adobe applications like After Effects to animate elements, manipulate footage, and arrange layers. They may also use Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator to create other visual aids and effects. In addition, students will learn composition techniques and practice color management and layers to add extra creative glow to graphics and animations. Many Video Editors learn motion graphics and animation as it is incredibly beneficial in their regular job requirements and tasks.
Project Planning
In a video editing course, students may also learn ways to navigate their future field and career with greater awareness and tact. Video production is a lengthy and meticulous process from start to finish and requires certain qualities to complete in a timely, successful manner. This includes working with others and planning and managing projects accordingly. Some classes may emphasize harnessing strong communication skills and becoming an organized, strong team player when working on a project with others. Other classes may teach and discuss the importance of creating a schedule, defining the specifics surrounding the project, and choosing the right tools to collaborate and produce a well-received video project. Overall, project management and a willingness to collaborate make the video editing and production process go smoothly.
How Hard is It to Learn Video Editing?
Learning video editing may pose some challenges, but it is entirely possible. All in all, video editing requires time, dedication, and effort to learn. Just like any other technical skill, there may be a learning curve while exploring video editing software such as the myriad of Adobe applications that make the process possible. However, the amount of work put into learning these technologies and tools will reflect how quickly you master them. In addition, having previous or relevant experience can make the process easier. The time it takes to learn may vary depending on a few factors, including class schedule and duration. It may take a few weeks to gain knowledge about the basic video editing techniques, whereas it may take several months or years to fully master video editing or obtain a certification. Regardless of your reasoning and end goal, learning how to edit video footage properly is an attainable skill.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Video Editing?
For those with minimal exposure to video editing technologies such as Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects, this may come with challenges. It may be challenging to fully grasp the software the first time you use it, so do not feel discouraged if it takes a few classes. In addition, learning how to consider your intended audience is incredibly necessary to send the right message with your video creation, but it can be challenging to convey through editing. Moreover, sustaining your creativity may prove difficult. To mitigate any of these challenges, enrolling in an instructor-led course can make editing software less daunting and may provide insight into reaching an intended audience. In addition, it is important to keep an open mind, be imaginative, and harness your inner artist while working as a video editing professional, so take time to develop your creative side through various trial-and-error projects.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Video Editing?
A few factors contribute to how long it takes to learn video editing. Specifically, the time it takes to learn video editing depends on the level of expertise you wish to obtain. For those who want to learn for personal reasons or just as a hobby, the foundational aspects of video editing can be taught within a few days to a week. More advanced software and editing techniques may take weeks to learn. Those who want to become professional Video Editors will have to invest more time in their education, but it mainly depends on the specific program and provider.
Should I Learn Video Editing in Person or Online?
If you want to pursue an education in video editing, you luckily have many options to choose from. Classes are available in many formats, so it is important to determine which learning method works best for your learning style. There are some differences between in-person and live online courses, as well as asynchronous courses. Asynchronous simply means that the class does not occur in a live format. In other words, this is a self-paced option. An in-person and live online course allows the students to learn in real-time alongside an instructor. This is the main difference between these three learning methods.
Regardless of the learning method you choose, there are advantages to each. Asynchronous classes allow you to learn at your own pace and from the comfort of your home. Similarly, live online classes are offered all across the country and negate the need for a planned commute. They also allow you to discuss concepts with your peers and ask the instructor questions over the video chat or text box. In-person classes are the most traditional learning style, where students meet with the instructor and their peers to listen to lectures, conduct practice activities, and learn a hands-on approach to the subject matter.
However, some classes may suit your learning needs better than others, which is important to consider before enrolling. Asynchronous classes do not allow students to ask questions or gain further insight from an instructor. This is a fairly hands-off process, which may not benefit students who want a thorough, comprehensive education. In addition, while live online classes do offer instructor-to-student interaction, it may prove challenging if the student encounters any issues that the instructor is not able to directly mitigate. Lastly, in-person classes require the student to have time in their schedule to not only attend the class but make the commute. The fact is, there are pros and cons associated with any situation. Ultimately, the student needs to base their decision around their schedule, end goals, and learning needs.
Can I Learn Video Editing Free Online?
Aspiring Video Editors can learn more about the field online through a variety of free resources. For example, many online articles discuss advanced video editing concepts. There are blogs written by professionals in the field as well that may offer more insight. In addition, Noble Desktop’s YouTube channel serves as a useful resource from which to gain more insight on a variety of subjects, software, and skills. While these are all useful resources, it is important to know that professional skill development cannot be learned for free through these resources. To gain professional-level skills, a bootcamp, course, or program is necessary.
What Should I Learn Alongside Video Editing?
Along with the most useful and relevant software and technologies, students should learn a few essential skills that make video editing more efficient and enjoyable but far less stressful and time-consuming. For example, learning basic digital marketing techniques will help you create successful advertisements and commercials. Some video editing professionals will need to know basic terminology that is prevalent within their industry such as basic medical lingo. Other related skills such as motion graphics and animation, may become useful as well.
Aside from technical skills, there are many qualities and soft skills that experienced Video Editors hone over time. Having a strong attention to detail, an evolving creative streak, and a knack for solving problems are all necessary skills in this growing field. In addition, Video Editors often work alongside other professionals in a variety of departments. It requires certain skills and qualities to be able to create, edit, and produce a successful finished project with others. For instance, being organized, communicative, and a team player helps these professionals thrive in their often collaborative work environment.
Industries That Use Video Editing
Virtually every industry has a use for video editing professionals. Some obvious choices include the entertainment industry, where Video Editors can work on films and television shows as well as promotional videos and social media posts. Beyond that, marketing agencies also use video editing frequently to promote products, ideas, and events. The tourism and hospitality industry hires video editing professionals to entice new visitors and encourage prior customers to return. One industry that should be considered when discussing video editing is the healthcare field. Many medical professionals, organizations, and companies rely on videos to convey important messages and explain complex scientific information. In Washington, DC, Video Editors can find employment across many industries, so there are different options to fit each person's wants and needs.
Entertainment
Video editing is an absolute necessity for the entertainment industry. Because video entertainment comes in so many different forms, it is a highly sought-after skill that employers like to see. The entertainment industry includes various mediums such as film, television, radio, and even print. However, there are many other forms of entertainment as well such as social media and YouTube. Video editing requires splicing together previously recorded footage to tell a concise, well-told story that the viewer can enjoy watching over and over again.
Aspiring Video Editors will be glad to know that Washington, DC, has a relatively steady entertainment industry. Many notable television shows have been filmed there such as Scandaland Homeland, and movies such as Forrest Gumpand The Post. As a result of the city’s popularity as a set location, there are film production resources, filming locations, and careers in this field. In addition, Washington, DC, is home to many media and video production companies that help businesses make commercials, politicians make campaign videos, and news outlets tell stories. As a result, video editing is widely needed in different roles across this city.
Healthcare
Although many may not initially see the connection, video editing is incredibly useful in the healthcare industry and is increasingly necessary. Many hospitals hire video editing professionals to help them create educational videos for Physicians who need to address complex medical concepts to patients, colleagues, and in lectures. Hospitals also run commercials as a way to expand their outreach and foster a sense of security and trust within the community. Video Editors play a large role in making those messages come across clearly. In addition, there are healthcare-related companies that hire video editing professionals to work on promotional videos and commercials.
Washington, DC, is home to some of the best healthcare systems in the country, so there are ample opportunities to find employment as a medical video editing professional. Some of the most noteworthy hospitals include George Washington University Hospital, Inova Fairfax Hospital, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center, and Mary Washington Hospital. At any given hospital or medical-related company, Video Editors can be found behind the scenes developing educational, informational, and promotional material.
Marketing
Marketing agencies also hire Video Editors. In fact, the role of Video Editors in a marketing agency is essential, as these professionals are tasked with ultimately creating effective video campaigns, potentially across different platforms, and have to consider their intended purpose. Ultimately, the edited footage becomes a finished project that has to align with the values of the intended audience to be considered a compelling marketing tactic. Aside from editing videos to the intended length and specifications, Video Editors who work in the world of marketing often organize raw video files, produce content, adjust formats and layouts, and work closely with others who work in the video production process. Ultimately, a Video Editor in the field of marketing needs a creative mind capable of storytelling and a keen sense of technical editing skills to convey a strong, clear message to their intended audience.
Washington, DC, is a hot spot for marketing agencies. Due to its size, popularity, and other thriving industries, many companies and businesses reach out to Marketers and film production crews alike for video content that draws in consumers, entices clients, and reaffirms former customers' confidence in the company. Not surprisingly, many DC-based video editing professionals learn some level of marketing skills as well, and vice versa, as the two roles often overlap. Having skills in both can be rather beneficial while working in this field.
Tourism and Hospitality
Similarly, the tourism and hospitality industries use video editing quite frequently. In particular, companies and organizations hire video production crews and media companies to film, edit, and produce commercials meant to entice tourists and returning visitors alike. Video Editors play a pivotal role in promoting tourism in a city or state, as they help provide a clear, captivating story of why you, too, should visit. In addition, there are hotels, restaurants, resorts, and attraction sites that draw in customers by using social media videos, blogs, and television commercials. These can be professionally made and visually aesthetic with the help of a Video Editor.
There is an immensely successful tourism and hospitality industry in Washington, DC, which accounts for a large part of the city’s economy. The city has everything from museums and historical landmarks to sporting events and concert halls. The city has something for everyone, which is why it is such a highly visited area. This means there are plenty of businesses, organizations, and government agencies that emphasize the importance of sustaining the tourism industry’s growth, so the possibilities are vast for a video editing professional.
Video Editing Job Titles and Salaries
Below are a few job roles that video editing professionals can fulfill. Although they all require some level of video editing expertise, these roles perform different duties and have different expectations. In addition, their expected salary ranges vary as well as whether they are offered in-person, remote, or hybrid positions. Regardless, these career paths are dynamic and provide a blend of technical and creative skills, which can lead to a meaningful, worthwhile career.
Video Editor
Most people think of becoming a Video Editor when they enroll in video editing classes. This role requires the professional to have storytelling abilities and technical abilities to splice together footage, mix audio, and incorporate animations. Video Editors can also work for various companies and on different video projects. The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers insight into the salary expectations for a Video Editor all across the country. Typically, Video Editors in Washington, DC, earn a mean annual wage of roughly $76,000, which is comparable to the national expected salary of $81,000. They can also work both in-person and remotely as well as freelance professionals. This role offers flexibility and security while being entirely dynamic and unique.
Video Manager
Those with experience editing footage can also become Video Managers. These professionals handle the video creation process from start to finish. They facilitate the development of various forms to create one finished project. They often work on advertisements or forms of entertainment such as film and television. They plan, manage, and communicate across various departments and alongside relevant professionals such as Sound Engineers and Videographers. Data from Indeed suggests that the average Video Manager in Washington, DC, earns a yearly salary of $114,000 on average, whereas the average salary for a Video Manager across the United States is $70,000. There are freelance opportunities for Video Managers, but many work in-house in a collaborative fashion.
Animator
Animators also have video editing experience. These professionals create graphics and animations that make video games, advertisements, and films much more visually appealing. They often create animations and three-dimensional models to convey realistic movement and emotion on the animation's face or features. Animators in Washington, DC earn around $75,000 each year, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics. This salary can vary depending on different factors, but ultimately, pursuing this career path in Washington, DC, can provide a profitable and enjoyable creative role.
Social Media Strategist
A Social Media Strategist also has a keen sense of what makes a successful video project. They often control and manage social media content for companies and organizations, so they are expected to manage several accounts at one time. Social Media Strategists will not only have strong social media literacy but will often create and edit videos for social media posts. These professionals often have a creative streak, are tech-savvy, and have the ability to reach an intended audience and stay on brand. The website Salary compiled data from HR reports to suggest that the estimated salary for a Washington, DC-based Social Media Strategist is close to $96,000, roughly ten thousand dollars above the national average. Many Social Media Strategists work for businesses, companies, and marketing agencies, interacting with others in different departments. However, those in this position can also find many freelance and remote positions.
Video Editing Classes Near Me
Noble Desktop offers a ||CPN876|| course to students who want to expand their knowledge of essential video software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Audition, and After Effects. In particular, students will learn how to edit footage, add motion graphics, and incorporate audio to create a fully developed video. The hands-on projects and expert instruction allow students to practice video editing in various forms and through different techniques. Students will also learn how to remove audio, adjust the speed of clips, and manage the color and saturation of the video. Throughout 78 hours of instruction, students will receive workbooks and have access to other useful resources. This course is offered in a full-time and part-time format and offers one-on-one mentoring for all participants. In addition, students can request setup assistance, choose from different payment plans, and retake the course at no additional cost within a year of their original enrollment date. Plus, Noble Desktop awards participants with a certificate of completion at the end of the course. All this and more make this course a perfect way to develop your video editing knowledge.
Perhaps you want to master one specific type of video editing product. In that case, Noble Desktop also offers a ||CPN730|| that explores the ins and outs of this necessary video editing software. Students will learn to import and export footage into a timeline, mix audio, add titles, and perform more advanced editing techniques such as removing a green screen and using multicam editing tools. Students in this course also receive one-on-one mentoring, setup assistance, and a free retake of the course, and can gain a wealth of hands-on experience through the class projects, proprietary workbooks, and small, interactive class sizes. Noble Desktop will award students who complete the course with a certificate to serve as proof of their Premiere Pro excellence.
Introduction to Adobe Premiere Pro by Softek Services, Inc. offers students a chance to learn the basics of this video editing software. Over two days, students will practice essential Premiere Pro editing tools to create high-quality videos. Specific skills include learning how to navigate the interface, create transitions between scenes, adjust the audio, and add different effects and filters. The expert instructor will guide students throughout the various lessons and concepts, ensuring that they leave with the most useful skills to use Premiere Pro for basic video editing. Softek Services, Inc. Offers courses live online and in-person with the additional option of private lessons. Group participants can request Softek to customize their lessons to fit their specific needs relevant to their work environment as well. Participants also receive a study guide and a certificate upon completion of the course.
The After Effects CC Training course by Logical Imagination consists of three days of thorough After Effects training. This Adobe application is useful for budding Video Editors to learn as it helps them add visual effects and motion graphics to their film footage. Students will learn how to create a commercial throughout this class, so the lectures and lessons are rooted in a real-world situation. This ensures students will leave with a greater sense of how the video editing field operates. Students should have introductory-level experience with Adobe Photoshop before this course and should have Adobe After Effects CC downloaded on their laptops. In addition, this class is taught using the Windows version of After Effects. Some specific skills covered include shape layers, text animation, object distortion, and performing certain functions with tools such as Roto Brush and Puppet. With these basic and advanced editing techniques, students will feel confident using After Effects.
Logical Imagination also offers a five-day Premiere Pro Training course. This course lasts five days and offers students hands-on projects to gain insight into essential Premiere Pro functions and techniques. In particular, students will practice editing videos and adding other elements such as audio and transitions. The instructor will direct students to websites where they can find high-quality audio for free as well, so their projects can come across as professional and creative. Other topics covered include tips for efficiency and green screen editing. Students need to download Premiere Pro to their laptops before class, but otherwise, there are no specified prerequisites, making this an excellent beginner course.
DC Media Academy offers a Filmmaking Program where students will learn to shoot film, edit footage, and master essential filmmaking skills. This is a fully immersive program that covers the filmmaking process from start to finish, including screenwriting, creating, editing, and producing. The class sizes are small and intimate, which allows the instructor to provide more hands-on feedback to the participants. This ten-week course is ideal for those curious about the film industry who want to learn the most up-to-date equipment, software, and tools to make the process seamless. DC Media Academy’s hands-on learning program makes sure students receive real-world experience with video editing and creation.
There are varying course options at American Media Training, such as their Final Cut Pro X Training Course in Washington, DC. This Apple software allows users to edit videos with ease and is a useful skill for any video editing professional to have experience with. Their Final Cut Pro Beginner Class spans two days and discusses non-linear video editing techniques. Students will practice applying their editing skills to films, music videos, tutorials, commercials, and other video projects. Students will also learn how to organize and sequence their film footage, navigate different tools on the Final Cut Pro X interface, and use different tools, including Track Selection, Slip Edit, Pen, Zoom, and Rolling Edit tools.
Adobe Premiere Pro Training from NetCom Learning is also available to those who want to expand their video editing skills with one of the most widely used video editing software by professionals in the video editing world. Specifically, their beginner-level Introduction to Premiere Pro CC course takes place over three days and includes a thorough overview of the software. Students will practice importing, organizing, and sharing their media creations, as well as learn essential editing tricks and tips. For example, students will place their clips in motion, mix audio, and use multi-camera editing techniques. Those who are Video Editors or hope to become Video Editors should consider this course. Although this is a beginner course, students should have practical knowledge of their laptop system. In addition, knowing basic editing terminology makes this course much more accessible.
Video Editing Corporate Training
Has your organization been searching for corporate training offerings? If you are curious about video editing training for your department, team, or group, consider exploring Noble Desktop’s offerings for corporate training. They offer training in a myriad of subjects and technologies that help streamline workplace productivity and cohesiveness. Specifically, these offerings include both in-person and online options to choose from depending on your group’s needs.
In addition, your group has the option to purchase discounted vouchers in bulk for attendance in regular classes. This, coupled with the extensive corporate training options, provides your group with the skill set they need to perform at their highest level. If you are interested and ready to give your group a training session that will improve their video editing skills, consider reaching out to Noble Desktop by emailing corporate@nobledesktop.com for more information on how to get started.