Is becoming a film and video editor right for me?
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How to become a Film and Video Editor
Those wanting a career as a film and video editor should be interested in the movie industry in general. Students who have either shown an interest in movies or have been involved in the drama club in their high schools will find this career path interesting. Students wanting a career as a film and video editor should have great organizational skills, be able to work on a tight deadline, and be creative.
There are several paths to enter the field. Students who are interested in a career in the industry can prepare for their professional adult career by attending an art high school that offers film editing courses. Some general high schools also offer elective courses in film and video editing. By taking these electives, an aspiring film and video editor will receive training and find out if this career meets their talents.
An older path that is less frequently used in today's high tech society is to work as a journeyman or apprentice, working for a film, production, video or movie studio. The prospective employee works under a professional film and video editor.
With the advent of computer graphics and advanced technology, a technical or college degree may be one of the best routes for those wanting to pursue this career. Vocational schools and art institutes sometimes offer technical degrees in the film industry. These degrees range in time from a year to two years. Some of these degrees result in a certificate, while others result in a two years associate degree in arts.
A bachelor’s degree is the preferred educational route for those wanting to be a film or movie editor. Various degrees lead to a degree in film and editing including film production, video editing, film editing and drama. Many future employers prefer that employees received training during college in their school’s drama or film department to gain hands-on experience in the field. Not all schools are equal in quality or reputation, so research schools to enhance your chance for a career.
This career field relies on training, education and hands on experience in the work world. Some gain this experience and training as a journeyman, some through a technical degree, while others get a four-year degree. Film and video editors are not required to have a certificate or state license.
Schools range from technical schools to film schools to traditional colleges and universities. Degrees often run the gamut from technical training to a master’s in the field. Degree programs go by different names including film production and cinematography. Degrees are often listed under varying departments. Search film production, technical degrees, computer degrees and various other areas for degrees in the field. Research various schools to locate the top schools in film and video editing.