Film/Video Tape Editor

Also known as:

Editor, Film/Video
Tape Editor
Video Editor
Film Editor

Introduction

Film/video tape editors prepare film and video tape for the production of a final version for showing. Close liaison with producers and directors is necessary.

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Work Activities

Editors prepare the final version of film and video tape, ready for showing. They arrange shots, adjust and enhance the quality of pictures and add special effects if needed. Work takes place in close liaison with producers/directors. A variety of equipment, including the latest digital systems, is used for editing.

Preparing the sound can involve matching sound to pictures, fixing sound levels, preparing new soundtracks and dubbing. For some productions, editors mix sounds and add music, background noise, special effects or narration.

Film editors prepare, cut and splice film. Material is usually dealt with shot by shot, in sequence. Video editing is done using new technology. Editors view tape on monitors and input commands via a keyboard. 'Off-line' editing allows the editor to copy up a trial edit before doing a main 'on-line' edit. Editors are also able to work on the recording directly, transferring the material later on to master tape to create the finished piece.

The most up-to-date computer-controlled systems allow editors to download all the footage on to computer hard disks. They then use editing software to produce the final version.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You should have artistic skills and a good understanding of audio-visual media. You should have good hand and eye co-ordination. You will also need an aptitude for technology because you will operate computers and technical equipment. You must be prepared to update your skills as new technology is introduced.

An eye for detail is essential, and your colour vision may be tested. You will need patience and the ability to maintain concentration during long editing sessions. Accuracy is essential, but you must also be able to work quickly in order to meet deadlines.

An interest in all aspects of film and television is vital. It is important that you can work as part of a team with other production staff.

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Pay and Opportunities

Pay rates for film/video tape editors depend on the type of production they work on, duration of the project and whether they are employed or self-employed.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Editors earn in the range of £580 - £880 a week and higher rates are possible.

Working hours vary, from a basic 40-hour week, to shift work, including evenings and weekends. Some editors work long, irregular hours, especially as deadlines approach. Film editors may work in different locations, including in other countries.

Work is found with industrial/commercial video companies, the BBC, independent television and film companies, and satellite and cable television firms.

Many editors work on short, temporary contracts as self-employed freelancers; for example, film companies hire editors for particular productions.

Opportunities for permanent positions are limited, but television and video companies usually have a number of permanent staff.

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Adult Opportunities

It is now illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Practical skills and abilities gained in camerawork and sound, and organising shoots on location, are valuable.

Many entrants have a degree, often in a media-related subject.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course (eg Access to Media) could be the way in. No formal qualifications are usually required, but you should check individual course details.

• 47% of people in occupations such as film/videotape editing are self-employed.
• 9% work part-time.
• 4% have flexible hours.
• 1% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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