How To Become A Video Editor, Get Your First Clients & Start Earning Money [Step By Step Guide]

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process on how to learn video editing, find your first clients, and start making money.

Equipment and Software

First and foremost, you don't need to buy an expensive laptop to start learning video editing. Use whatever device you currently have. There are various external video editing software options available, and you can even use phone applications. Here are some recommendations based on your device:

Windows User: Adobe Premiere Pro
Mac User: Final Cut Pro
Smartphone Users: KineMaster or the in-built video editor

Note that mobile video editing is basic and usually only suitable for simpler tasks like editing Instagram photos or YouTube shorts. If you aim to be a professional video editor, consider investing in a laptop or computer eventually.

Learning Video Editing

To get started, find a good beginner playlist on YouTube for your chosen software—Premiere Pro, Da Vinci Resolve, or Final Cut Pro. Follow the tutorials closely, learn, and implement the techniques taught. Practice these newly learned skills on your own. Here are some important steps:

Find a YouTube Playlist for Beginners: Focus on playlists that teach basic video editing for your chosen software.
Follow and Practice: Implement whatever is taught in these playlists by practicing with free stock videos or recording your personal footage.
Experiment with Styles: Practice different editing styles by watching tutorials for each effect you wish to incorporate, for instance, zoom effects.

To assist in your practice, you can use free stock videos or download a set of practice files.

Building a Portfolio

Gradually build a portfolio with at least 3 to 5 videos that you have edited yourself. Here are methods to create and share your portfolio:

Google Drive Folder: Store your videos and share the link.
Website/Portfolio Platforms: Create a professional-looking online portfolio or personal website showcasing your work.

When applying for jobs, always highlight the most relevant videos first.

Finding Clients

Social media is a great place to hunt for your first clients. Simply search for terms like "Looking for video editor" on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit. Send tailored messages to potential clients with your portfolio attached.

Professional Etiquette

When reaching out to clients:

Always attach a professional portfolio.
Avoid pitiful messages like "Please give me work, I need money badly."
Be clear, concise, and professional in your communications.

Setting Rates and Earnings

Start with a minimal charge, but never work for free. Initially, you can charge around ₹100-₹200 per minute of video content. Over time, as you refine your skills and build relationships with clients, you will gain a better understanding of how to price your services.

Typical rates:

Indian Clients: ₹320-₹400 per minute for a YouTube video.
International Clients: Can go up to ₹5000 per minute depending on the complexity and quality of work.

Keyword

Video Editing
Learn Video Editing
Laptop
Software
Premiere Pro
Final Cut Pro
Da Vinci Resolve
KineMaster
Professional Portfolio
Social Media
Setting Rates
Earnings

FAQ

Q1: Do I need an expensive laptop to start video editing? A1: No, you can use your current laptop or try mobile applications for basic editing. Investing in a better laptop can come later as you advance.

Q2: Which video editing software is best to start with? A2: It depends on your device. Premiere Pro is great for Windows users, Final Cut Pro for Mac users, and Da Vinci Resolve is another excellent option. For smartphones, KineMaster is a good choice.

Q3: How can I learn video editing effectively? A3: Follow a complete beginner playlist on YouTube for your chosen software, implement the tutorials, and practice extensively with free stock videos or personal footage.

Q4: How do I build a portfolio as a beginner? A4: Start with at least 3 to 5 videos, stored in a Google Drive folder or a professional website. Updating your portfolio with each project will showcase your growing skills.

Q5: How do I find my first clients? A5: Use social media platforms. Search for posts requesting video editors and send personalized messages with your portfolio attached.

Q6: What should I charge for my services? A6: Initially, charge ₹100-₹200 per minute for videos. Rates will increase as you gain experience and build client relationships. International clients can pay up to ₹5000 per minute based on project complexity.