Media Role- Editor

A film or video editor is responsible for assembling raw material into a finished product suitable for broadcasting. The material they work with may consist of raw camera footage, dialogue, sound effects, graphics and special effects. This is a key role in the post-production process and the editor's skill can determine the quality and delivery of the final product. The editor may be part of a team and they will usually work closely with the director to achieve the desired end result.
The majority of film/video editors are employed on a freelance basis, working on short-term contracts for post-production studios, television companies and corporate employers. Editors may work on a variety of productions including feature films, television programmes, music videos, corporate training videos or advertisements.

Typical work activities

• receiving a brief, and maybe an outline of footage and/or a shot list, script, or screenplay;
• assembling all raw footage, with camera shots either recorded or transferred onto video tape in preparation for inputting into the computer;
• inputting uncut rushes and sound, and synchronising and storing them into files on the computer;
• digitally cutting the files to determine the sequence of the film and determining what is usable;
• creating a 'rough cut' of the programme/film and determining the exact cutting for the next and final stages;
• re-ordering and tweaking the content to ensure the logical sequencing and smooth running of the film/video.

(http://www.prospects.ac.uk/film_video_editor_job_description.htm)
(Accesed 7/10/11)
(Date made: July 2010)