As a video editor, you know that the process of video post-production can be challenging. From the complexity of the software to the creativity required to stitch together a video that tells a story, there are always obstacles to overcome.

But fear not! In this post, we’re going to outline some tips to help you navigate the world of video editing and overcome the most common obstacles you may encounter.

Know Your Software 🧑‍💻

When first starting out, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with whatever editing software you’re going to use. Spend time playing around with different features and settings so that you’re comfortable with it.

For example, if you want to use Adobe Premiere Pro, you should spend time familiarizing yourself with the software. Try out different effects, transitions and figure out which shortcuts will save you time. It’s also worth reading up on the most common issues users encounter with the software to help overcome potential roadblocks.

A person in front of their computer, looking at their video editing software

Plan Your Video Ahead of Time 📝

Plan your video ahead of time and create a storyboard of the shots you want to use, the transitions between them, and the overall message you want to convey. Create a project management schedule breaking down each task and deadline to ensure that the project stays on track.

When you have a plan in place, it’s much easier to work on the project with a clear direction in mind.

A person holding a clipboard with a project management schedule

The Importance of Good Audio 🎙️

Poor audio can ruin the best video, so invest the time in recording quality sound. When filming, use an external microphone or a lavalier to get better audio. Also, consider recording room tone before or after your shoot, which can help you adjust sound levels better.

When editing your video, adjust levels to remove background noise and edit audio for pacing and timing. You’ll find that good audio is often what separates amateurs from professionals.

A person holding a microphone in front of a camera

Color Correction and Color Grading 🎨

Color vision is subjective, so make sure that the color correction you apply looks pleasing and natural. You don’t want to end up making a video that looks like a rainbow threw up on it.

Color-grading is going beyond the simple correction of light and color correction. It is the process of creatively adjusting the exposure, contrast, shadows and highlights. It’s worth spending the time to achieve a polished look that adds an emotional component to your video.

An image of color grading with a mix of overly bright and drab elements

Stay Organized 🔍

Keep your files organized with clear labels and intuitive filing structures. Mark your selects so that you can easily find the best shots. Also, take full advantage of your software’s file management tools like bins, markers, labeling and more. They’ll help keep your project clean and easily navigable.

Taking the time to stay organized, especially with large projects, will save you a significant amount of time and confusion in the long run.

A person sorting media files into labeled folders on their computer

Final Thoughts 🌟

Remember, great videos require time, patience, and practice. It’s important to always strive to improve your editing skills by learning from your mistakes. By taking these tips into consideration, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the world of editing and overcome common post-production obstacles.

An image of a person holding up a completed video with a smile on their face

Overall, video editing is a fascinating process that requires attention to detail and creativity. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the learning process! With these tips in mind, you should have no problem overcoming the obstacles that come with video post-production. 🎥