Video Storytelling: Editing Basics

Welcome to part three in my "Video Storytelling" series. Remember these are the basics to get you motivated and experienced when storytelling for your employees. Since we've covered the top-level how's and why's and the basics of shooting video, we're left with the fine tuning of "Editing Basics". Bob Grace has joined us again to share his take on the basics of editing. He points out the 5 things you need to be aware of when sitting in front of your computer and ready to piece together your video clips. Now sit back, read, and hopefully learn something new. Intro to Bob...

So you've just finished capturing a bunch of footage and now want to turn it into something amazing.  Time to get into the mindset of a video editor.  Editing is much more than just cutting shaky shots and boring parts.  More than anything, it’s about creating the elements to tell a clear and cohesive story and engage your audience.  

The first step is choosing a video editing software.  There are so many options, all at different prices and offering different features.  If you are new to video editing, I suggest starting with either iMovie (Mac) or Windows Movie Maker, which come pre-installed on computers.  Both of these applications are intuitive, easy to use and - best of all - are free.  Also make sure you have enough space on your computer’s hard drive.  You’ll be surprised how much space video sucks up!  If you’re running low on space, you may want to consider buying an external drive.

Next, get acquainted with your editing software.  You don’t have to know all the ins and outs, but at least cover the basic functions (such as importing video and adding it to your project) and know where to find the different tools and features.  

Ready to get started?  Here are five tips to keep in mind as you begin editing:

• Review first, then import: Many novice videographers shoot many takes only to find that a handful of them are usable.  Rather than import all of the clips from your video camera, just import those that you may potentially use in the final edit.  Think of it as your video ‘pre-screening’ process.  It will save time and valuable hard drive space and help keep your clip folder less cluttered.  
• Use sound to tell a story: Audio is just as important as the visuals when it comes to making an effective video.  You can use voiceovers to emphasize specific points, sound effects to add humor, and music to help influence the mood and flow of your project.  Be careful not to use copyrighted material; there are many royalty-free options available as an alternative.  Also, pay close attention to the audio volume levels so one sound element doesn't drown out another one (e.g. music vs. subject’s voice).  Most editing applications have a helpful audio level meter.  If you see it jumping into the red zone, adjust the levels. 
• Experiment with tools and effects: Even if you’re using an entry-level editing application, there are quite a few features to explore.  The title tool is useful if you want text to appear on screen.  Transitions as well as speed (fast/slow motion) and color (black and white) effects - like music - can help determine the mood and pacing and dramatize certain parts of your video.  Of course, just because your software may have many options doesn't mean you should use them all.  If you want your video to look professional, go easy on the effects.  Still images and graphics can also be a great addition to your project.  As with audio, be mindful of copyright issues when using images.  I've found that istockphoto.com is a fantastic resource for royalty-free stock images.   
• Awkward edits - avoiding jump cuts: A jump cut is an immediate transition between two shots that are very similar.  They are often jarring and unpleasing for the viewer.  Rather than try to explain it, this video does a nice job showing examples and solutions.  Avoiding jump cuts is easy and will go a far way in making your video look better.
• Share and collaborate: It’s important to to take a step away from the project and let someone else look at it.  Whether it’s your boss or your buddy, you’ll get a fresh perspective.  Maybe the other person will notice something you've missed or suggest a new approach.  When I worked on videos at Disney, Christopher and I each provided input and bounced ideas off each other.  I have no doubt our videos turned out much better than if I had worked on them alone.  

There you go, five tips to consider while you edit.  As with anything, it takes lots of practice to become a good editor - learning the rhythm and flow of a good video production, telling a compelling story, and effectively using the tools your software has to offer.  With that in mind, get creative and have fun editing!

Share!
If you have already started editing video, what has your experience been like?  Do you have any other tips beginners might find useful?  If you’re just starting out, what questions do you still have?