How to EDIT like a PRO ?

Introduction

I've created over 30 videos to date, and the most frequently mentioned word in the comments section is "editing." Some viewers praise my editing style, while others believe I overdo it. Regardless of the opinions, I’m here to answer the most-asked question on my channel: How do I edit my videos?

This article will cover my personal editing process, the checklist I follow, resources I use, and tips I've gathered along the way. This isn't a step-by-step tutorial but rather a walkthrough of my approach to editing.

Tools of the Trade

I primarily use Adobe Premiere Pro for editing. Although I've only been using Premiere Pro for five months, before that, I was using a free software called Shotcut. I've also experimented with other applications like KineMaster, VITA, and InShot. The key takeaway here is that regardless of the software, editing concepts and techniques generally remain consistent. More advanced software like Premiere Pro offers faster, better, and more sophisticated editing options in the long run.

Pre-Editing Workflow

My editing workflow begins even before I open Premiere Pro.

Pre-Planning

I follow a shoot-to-edit strategy, where I meticulously plan every shot while scripting the video. This involves:

Voiceover and A-roll: Listing the main narrative and talking points.
B-roll and D-roll: Drafting what supplementary footage and secondary shots should look like.
Editing Techniques: Annotating possible editing styles and transitions.

This approach ensures a smooth transition from shooting to editing and keeps the project aligned with my vision.

Camera Movements

Pre-planning my camera movements allows me to create smooth transitions and cinematic sequences during the B-rolls. Properly executed camera movements significantly influence the final edit.

The Core of Editing

Let's dive into the core components of my editing process.

Visual Resources

While you obviously need good original footage, additional visual materials can enhance your video. I often use stock footage from websites like Pexels, Pixabay, Videvo, and Storyblocks to complement my original content. These resources can be especially useful when working on a tight budget.

Background Music

Background music sets the tone and mood of your video. The right music can emotionally engage your audience, as demonstrated by different music tracks changing the feel of a video. I use various resources for music:

Free NCS tracks from YouTube and SoundCloud
Paid options like Storyblocks and epidemic Sound

NCS even has a website where you can search for songs based on mood and genre.

Sound Design

Sound design is my favorite editing aspect. Elements such as atmospheric sounds, camera movement whooshes, swooshes, cinematic risers, and hits can elevate the feel of your video. I often use Storyblocks for sound effects, but other free resources are also available. I'll provide a link to my basic sound design pack for those interested in exploring more.

Color Grading

Color grading can separate a professional video from an amateur one. While I'm still improving in this area, I recommend checking out Matti Haapoja, who excels in color grading.

Continuous Improvement

Editing is an ever-evolving skill. Even after hundreds of hours spent on editing, I continually seek to improve. The more you edit, the better you'll get at it. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Practice: Consistent editing will hone your skills.
Story Matters: No matter how advanced your editing is, if your story isn’t compelling, the video will fall flat.
Never Settle: Aim for the best version of your video.

Conclusion

Editing should not be an overthought process. It’s a creative journey where you learn as you go. So, if you’re a beginner, don’t hesitate. Just get started and see where your creativity takes you. Thanks for reading, and I hope you found this article helpful.

Keywords

Video Editing
Premiere Pro
Shoot to Edit
Background Music
Sound Design
Color Grading
Stock Footage
Creative Process

FAQ

What software is best for beginners in video editing?

You can start with free software like Shotcut, but transitioning to a more advanced tool like Adobe Premiere Pro is advantageous for long-term efficiency and quality.

Why is pre-planning important in video editing?

Pre-planning your shots and editing techniques helps streamline the entire editing process and ensures that both shooting and editing align with your vision.

Where can I find stock footage and background music?

You can find stock footage on websites like Pexels, Pixabay, Videvo, and Storyblocks. For background music, NCS on YouTube, SoundCloud, and Epidemic Sound are good places to start.

How does sound design impact a video?

Sound design adds depth and realism to your video. Atmospheric sounds, whooshes, and other sound effects can significantly enhance the viewer's experience.

How important is color grading?

Color grading is crucial for giving your video a professional look. It helps set the mood and tone, making your video more visually appealing.

Any tips for continuous improvement in editing?

The key is consistent practice, focusing on storytelling, and always striving to improve. Watch tutorials, experiment with new techniques, and don't be afraid to push creative boundaries.