Skip to main content
3 answers
5
Asked 998 views

How do editors find work/commissions?

I am a student in a film class where we do some filming, but mostly editing. I'm considering this for a career, but I don't know how to find work as an editor or how to promote my work/portfolio.

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

5

3 answers


0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Katie,

Securing Work/Assignments as a Film Editor

The journey to secure work and assignments as a film editor can be demanding yet gratifying. Here are some effective strategies that editors can adopt to land projects and enhance their work/portfolio:

1. Networking: Networking holds significant importance in the film industry, editors included. By attending industry events, film festivals, workshops, and conferences, editors can establish connections with filmmakers, producers, directors, and other industry professionals who might need editing services. Forming relationships with these insiders can open doors to potential job prospects.

2. Online Platforms: Making use of online platforms designed to connect freelancers with clients can be an invaluable tool for editors. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, and Mandy.com offer editors the chance to create profiles, display their portfolios, and bid on editing projects posted by global clients.

3. Building a Robust Portfolio: A compelling portfolio is vital for editors to exhibit their skills and experience to potential clients. Editors should meticulously select their portfolio to emphasize their finest work across various genres and styles. Providing before-and-after examples of editing projects can effectively showcase the editor's abilities.

4. Teaming up with Filmmakers: Teaming up with filmmakers on independent projects or short films can offer editors the opportunity to gain experience, develop their portfolio, and form industry relationships. Offering discounted or pro bono services for promising projects can pave the way for future paid opportunities.

5. Social Media Presence: Building a strong presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter can aid editors in showcasing their work, interacting with potential clients, and staying abreast of industry trends. Sharing behind-the-scenes insights, editing tips, and success stories can draw the attention of filmmakers in need of editing services.

6. Cold Pitching: Editors can take the initiative to contact production companies, post-production houses, advertising agencies, and independent filmmakers via cold pitching. Crafting personalized emails that underscore the editor's unique skills and how they can contribute to potential projects can occasionally lead to fresh work opportunities.

7. Industry Directories: Enlisting your services in industry directories such as ProductionHUB or IMDbPro can enhance visibility among professionals in search of editing services. Maintaining a professional profile on these platforms with up-to-date contact information and portfolio links can simplify the process for clients to locate and hire editors.

In summary, securing work and assignments as an editor involves a blend of networking, online presence, portfolio building, collaboration, social media engagement, cold pitching, and utilizing industry directories. By actively marketing their skills and presenting their best work, editors can boost their likelihood of landing thrilling editing projects in the highly competitive film industry.

Top 3 Credible Sources Used:

American Cinema Editors (ACE) - ACE is a professional body committed to promoting the art and science of film editing. Their resources and events offer valuable industry insights.
Creative Skillset - Creative Skillset provides advice and resources for individuals pursuing careers in the creative industries, including filmmaking and editing.
Film Editing Pro - Film Editing Pro offers educational resources and training programs for budding editors aiming to enhance their skills and progress their careers in film editing.

GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Christine’s Answer

Ask your professor for info or guidance. Chances are they are a great outlet for info!
Otherwise check out forums or anyone you know in the biz. You’ll want to develop a portfolio of your work so potential employers can be impressed by your skills!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Carlos’s Answer

Look for a film, TV or commercial post-production house in your city, you will easily find them on Google. Go and leave your resume offering yourself as an apprentice, they will surely be happy to find someone with passion and desire to learn. Have a work ethic, good personal relationships and never stop learning, so you will surely find a future job.
0