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For film, what would I have to do to be able to get into the post-production part of film making?
I've narrowed my options down, figuring I want a job either spreading information or helping to spread a message. I like editing and have some experience in editing and helping out during the process, though they aren't public works. So to be able to get a job in film editing would be a great career for me to enjoy. I also want to gain some more experience as I go, so it would really help me out if I can get some tips on either how to get started or some advice when looking for the job.
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3 answers
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
"That's okay... we'll fix it in post." If it wasn't true, it wouldn't be a saying. And it's very true! Kelly and Steve already gave you great answers, I can't top that. But I will say this; anybody and everybody is an editor today. We can all shoot something on our phone, string a couple shots together and post it on social.
But, as Kelly pointed out, there is a true art and skill of editing and storytelling. A real editor can make or break any project. Period. From making your run time, to finding moments and performances that the director missed. Scorsese had a killer editor, so did Spielberg, so does Tarantino. Sometimes, a film is ENTIRELY dependent on its editing -- watch Tom Cruises' sci-fi film Edge of Tomorrow. That film won't work without the precise, repetitive and efficient "day loops" of editing that reveals the true story. Or watch any 30sec sports "hype" reel or highlight reel; super-fast cuts, apex of the action, reactions, impact, then done. The story told, and the hype felt :)
An editor can help the team by suggesting additional shots or recommending coverage (shot setups per scene) during the actual filming that will help out later. An editor can also help the team by suggesting what NOT to use, or what NOT to show. Sometimes what we DON'T see is more powerful than what we do see. Pacing. Emotion. Choices. Set up and pay off. You can control all of it.
They say the "picture is locked" after the final edit. That's how important editing is. Stay curious, and good luck, Lilith!
Best,
Patrick
But, as Kelly pointed out, there is a true art and skill of editing and storytelling. A real editor can make or break any project. Period. From making your run time, to finding moments and performances that the director missed. Scorsese had a killer editor, so did Spielberg, so does Tarantino. Sometimes, a film is ENTIRELY dependent on its editing -- watch Tom Cruises' sci-fi film Edge of Tomorrow. That film won't work without the precise, repetitive and efficient "day loops" of editing that reveals the true story. Or watch any 30sec sports "hype" reel or highlight reel; super-fast cuts, apex of the action, reactions, impact, then done. The story told, and the hype felt :)
An editor can help the team by suggesting additional shots or recommending coverage (shot setups per scene) during the actual filming that will help out later. An editor can also help the team by suggesting what NOT to use, or what NOT to show. Sometimes what we DON'T see is more powerful than what we do see. Pacing. Emotion. Choices. Set up and pay off. You can control all of it.
They say the "picture is locked" after the final edit. That's how important editing is. Stay curious, and good luck, Lilith!
Best,
Patrick
Updated
Kelly’s Answer
Hi Lillith,
First of all, I love that you’ve already narrowed down what matters to you. Wanting to help spread information or a meaningful message is a strong compass to have.
Post-production, especially editing, is absolutely a place where that happens. Editors are storytellers. We shape how an audience understands a message; what they feel, what they focus on, what stays with them.
Here are some concrete steps to move toward post-production:
1. Start editing as much as you can.
It doesn’t have to be public or “big.” Edit short scenes. Recut trailers. Create mini-documentaries about something you care about. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.
2. Learn industry software.
Common programs include:
Adobe Premiere Pro
Avid Media Composer
DaVinci Resolve (free!)
You don’t need to master all of them immediately. Start with one and build comfort. Many professionals begin with Premiere or Resolve.
3. Build a small portfolio (reel).
Employers don’t just ask what you studied, they ask, “What have you cut?” "What can you do?"
Even short 1–2 minute pieces are great. Quality matters more than length.
4. Work on other people’s projects.
Offer to edit:
Student films
YouTube channels
Nonprofit videos
Community events
This gives you collaboration experience, which is huge in post-production.
5. Understand the entry path.
Most editors don’t start as “Editor” right away. Many begin as:
Production Assistant (PA)
Post-Production Assistant
Assistant Editor
Assistant editors organize footage, prep projects, and support the lead editor. It’s one of the most common and respected pathways into the field.
6. Stay curious and keep learning.
Take online courses, watch behind-the-scenes breakdowns, and study films you love. Ask yourself:
Why did that cut work?
Why did that moment feel powerful?
You absolutely do not need public, professional work right away to get started. Everyone begins with small projects. What matters most is consistency, curiosity, and willingness to improve.
The fact that you already enjoy editing and want to grow tells me you’re on the right track. Keep going, the path into post-production is very real and very possible. You’ve got this!
First of all, I love that you’ve already narrowed down what matters to you. Wanting to help spread information or a meaningful message is a strong compass to have.
Post-production, especially editing, is absolutely a place where that happens. Editors are storytellers. We shape how an audience understands a message; what they feel, what they focus on, what stays with them.
Here are some concrete steps to move toward post-production:
1. Start editing as much as you can.
It doesn’t have to be public or “big.” Edit short scenes. Recut trailers. Create mini-documentaries about something you care about. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.
2. Learn industry software.
Common programs include:
Adobe Premiere Pro
Avid Media Composer
DaVinci Resolve (free!)
You don’t need to master all of them immediately. Start with one and build comfort. Many professionals begin with Premiere or Resolve.
3. Build a small portfolio (reel).
Employers don’t just ask what you studied, they ask, “What have you cut?” "What can you do?"
Even short 1–2 minute pieces are great. Quality matters more than length.
4. Work on other people’s projects.
Offer to edit:
Student films
YouTube channels
Nonprofit videos
Community events
This gives you collaboration experience, which is huge in post-production.
5. Understand the entry path.
Most editors don’t start as “Editor” right away. Many begin as:
Production Assistant (PA)
Post-Production Assistant
Assistant Editor
Assistant editors organize footage, prep projects, and support the lead editor. It’s one of the most common and respected pathways into the field.
6. Stay curious and keep learning.
Take online courses, watch behind-the-scenes breakdowns, and study films you love. Ask yourself:
Why did that cut work?
Why did that moment feel powerful?
You absolutely do not need public, professional work right away to get started. Everyone begins with small projects. What matters most is consistency, curiosity, and willingness to improve.
The fact that you already enjoy editing and want to grow tells me you’re on the right track. Keep going, the path into post-production is very real and very possible. You’ve got this!
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
119
Answers
Updated
Steve’s Answer
You're doing great, being halfway there! It's great that you're focusing on post-production. The film industry is changing quickly, so start making your own movies today! If you have friends or family interested in filmmaking, team up and create short, produceable/affordable scripts. Begin editing them together. If you can, learn from teachers and mentors at a university to guide you on this path. Watch YouTube videos to understand editing and different platforms. Remember to network as much as possible. In Northern California, there are plenty of opportunities. Reach out, connect with people, and look for chances to intern or observe. Talk to directors and professionals who can help you along the way.
You've got this!
You've got this!