How To Become A Digital Video Or Sound Editor

by Robyn Tellefsen

What would a movie, TV show, or video game be without sound or special effects? Without the postproduction work of digital video/sound editors, our favorite multimedia moments would be silent, one-dimensional experiences.

How do I become a digital video/sound editor?
To become a digital video/sound editor, you'll need to pursue formal postsecondary training at vocational-technical institutes, community or junior colleges, universities, private trade or technical schools, or photographic institutes. Most digital video/sound editing programs lead to an associate or a bachelor's degree in videography; a four-year degree may be required for some positions.

In addition, a part-time job or internship with a television network or motion picture studio can help you gain the practical experience and professional contacts you'll need to become a digital video/sound editor. Starting out as a production assistant provides real-life education in the film and television industry. After all, getting hired for a project often happens on the basis of recommendations from industry professionals such as producers, directors of photography, or senior film editors. Digital video/sound editors often start out in small television markets or short films to gain experience and learn the tricks of the trade.

Since the number of people interested in digital video/sound editing exceeds the number of job openings, candidates must be exceptionally creative and highly motivated. In order to become a digital video/sound editor, you must be able to adapt to rapidly changing technologies and you must be adept at operating a business. You'll need a keen eye and a vivid imagination to match your technical skill set. You'll also need to be accurate, detail-oriented, and extremely patient with the arduous task of splicing and editing a film, show, or game. Good communication skills will help you secure the attention of directors and producers and demonstrate how your ideas align with their vision for the project.

What will I learn in digital video/sound editing school?
To stay current with the industry, digital video/sound editing schools are placing an increased emphasis on developing strong computer skills. Digital video/sound editing programs replicate a real-world environment and offer hands-on instruction in the latest digital technology. Postproduction courses in digital video/sound editing programs will introduce you to the concepts of artistic and aesthetic editing and the role of the editor as storyteller.

Basic digital video/sound editing courses cover equipment, processes, and techniques. You will also receive training in dialogue editing, editing with music, mood changes, scene transitions, sound effects, tempo, time and space perception, and visual effects. At a more advanced level, you'll learn nonlinear online editing techniques such as color correction, compositing, and digital video effects.

With the addition of key business and communication courses, bachelor's degree digital video/sound editing programs offer the most well-rounded education. In particular, if you plan to become a self-employed digital video/sound editor who runs your own business or does freelance work, you'll need to learn how to price your services, submit bids, write contracts, obtain releases to use film or audiotape of people, secure copyright protection for your work, and maintain financial records.