"Mastering Online Video Editing: Techniques, Tools, and Best Practices"

1. Introduction

Video Editing

 Shooting in many single-camera or multi-cam productions happens in a non-

sequential manner. Scenes are often shot many times and from many angles. Video
editing is about stringing them in such a manner so as to ‘construct’ a story for the
viewers.
 Video editing is the process of manipulating and rearranging video shots to create a
new work. Editing is usually considered to be one part of the post production process
— other post-production tasks include titling, color correction, sound mixing, etc.

History of Video Editing

1895 – Lumiere Brothers invented Cinematographe. Cinematographe was a three-in-one

device that recorded, captured and projected motion picture.

1898 - British film pioneer Robert W. Paul's Come Along, Do!, made in 1898 and one of the
first films to feature more than one shot.

1903 – The Great Train Robbery, written, produced and directed by Edwin S. Porter, used a
number of innovative techniques including cross cutting, double exposure composite editing
and camera movement.

1915 - David Wark Griffith, considered to be the father of narrative cinema, invented some
techniques like parallel editing, pushing them to higher levels of complexity and depth. His
film ‘The Birth of a Nation’ had spatial continuity, 180 degree rule, establishing shot and
reverse shot.

1920 - Russian director Lev Kuleshov from Russia Introduced cross cutting and theory of
Montage in editing.

1987: Avid Technology created the Avid/1 Media Composer.

1991: Adobe released Premiere 1.0 for the Mac

1996: The English Patient was the first digitally edited film to win an Oscar for Best Editing
(edited by Walter Murch on the Avid).
1999: Apple released Final Cut Pro, which soon became a chief competitor to Avid.

Importance

 A good video, whether it be a music video, marketing campaign video, corporate

video, or anything else, must follow 3 important stages Pre-production Production
Post-production
 Video editing is important because it is the key to blending images and sounds to
make us feel emotionally connected and sometimes truly there in the film we’re
watching. It’s a safe assumption to say that video editing is among the most important
jobs in the film industry. With professional video editing you can create an emotion-
evoking masterpiece, and it can make or break your film, which is why it’s just as
important to choose the right video editor as it is to choose the right camera
equipment.
 Editing, at its most basic, can help you put all your shots into the proper sequence.
You use editing tools to weed out or fix any mistakes made during the production
process. It can be used to trim the video to the length you want and it can also be used
communicate the right aesthetic to the audience.

2. Understanding Video Editing Basics

Key Concepts

 Timeline: The timeline is the central workspace in any video editing software. It’s
where you arrange video clips, audio tracks, and effects in sequence. Understanding
the timeline is crucial because it allows you to visualize the structure and flow of your
video.

 Cutting/Trimming: Cutting or trimming involves removing unwanted parts of your

video clips. This is one of the most fundamental editing tasks, used to shorten clips,
remove mistakes, or focus on the most important parts of the footage.

 Transitions: Transitions are effects used to move smoothly from one clip to another.
Common transitions include fades, dissolves, and wipes. Transitions can enhance the
flow of your video and are often used to signify a change in scene or topic.
  Effects and Filters: Effects and filters can be applied to video clips to alter their
appearance or add visual interest. Examples include color grading filters, slow-motion
effects, and blurring. These tools help to create a specific mood or style and can make
your video stand out.

Types of Video Editing

 Linear Editing: In traditional linear editing, video is edited in a sequential order from
start to finish. This method was common in the early days of video production, where
editors had to work with physical film or tape. It’s less common now but is still used
in live broadcasts where edits are made in real-time.

 Non-linear Editing: Non-linear editing is the most common method today. It allows
editors to make changes at any point in the timeline without affecting other parts of
the video. This method is highly flexible, making it easier to experiment with different
edits and adjustments.

Importance of Storytelling

Storytelling is the heart of video editing. Regardless of the content, whether it’s a vlog,
tutorial, or promotional video, the way you edit your footage can dramatically impact the
narrative. Good storytelling in editing involves:

 Pacing: Controlling the speed and rhythm of your video to maintain viewer interest.

 Continuity: Ensuring a seamless flow between scenes, making the video easy to
follow.

 Emotion: Using editing techniques like close-ups, music, and timing to evoke
emotions in your audience.

3. Tools for Online Video Editing

Popular Online Video Editing Software

 Beginner:
 o Canva: Canva is an intuitive design tool that also offers basic video editing
capabilities. It’s ideal for beginners due to its drag-and-drop interface and a
wide range of templates. You can easily create simple videos for social media,
presentations, or personal projects.

o Clipchamp: Recently acquired by Microsoft, Clipchamp is a browser-based

video editor that offers a balance between ease of use and powerful features. It
includes a library of stock assets, text overlays, and audio tracks. It’s perfect
for creating quick and engaging videos without the need for extensive editing
skills.

o Kapwing: Kapwing is a collaborative video editing tool that’s great for teams
working remotely. It offers basic editing features like trimming, resizing, and
adding text, and is particularly popular for creating memes, GIFs, and short
social media videos.

 Intermediate:

o WeVideo: WeVideo is a cloud-based video editing platform that offers more

advanced features like multi-track editing, green screen, and voiceover
recording. It’s suitable for users who need more control over their projects but
still prefer a simple interface. WeVideo also supports 4K resolution exports,
making it a good choice for semi-professional content creators.

o Adobe Spark: Adobe Spark is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud and is
designed for creating short, visually appealing videos quickly. It’s ideal for
marketers and educators who need to create compelling content with minimal
effort. The tool offers branded templates, easy-to-use design elements, and a
seamless connection to other Adobe products.

o InVideo: InVideo is a versatile online video editor that caters to both

beginners and intermediate users. It comes with a vast library of templates,
stock footage, and audio tracks. InVideo’s AI-driven features can help speed
up the editing process, making it a great tool for marketers looking to produce
videos at scale.

 Advanced:
 o Adobe Premiere Rush: Adobe Premiere Rush is a cross-platform video
editing app that offers many of the features found in professional software like
Adobe Premiere Pro. It’s designed for creators who need to edit videos on the
go, with the ability to seamlessly transition projects between mobile and
desktop. It includes multi-track editing, advanced color correction, and built-in
social media export options.

o Final Cut Pro (online resources): Although Final Cut Pro is a desktop-based
software, many online resources allow for collaborative editing and cloud
storage. Final Cut Pro is used by professional editors and offers a rich set of
features, including advanced color grading, 360-degree video editing, and
motion graphics.

o DaVinci Resolve (cloud collaboration): DaVinci Resolve is known for its

powerful color correction tools, making it a favorite among filmmakers and
professional video editors. The software also includes editing, visual effects,
and audio post-production features. The latest versions support cloud
collaboration, allowing teams to work together on projects in real-time,
regardless of location.

Comparison of Tools

 Features:

o Canva and Clipchamp are ideal for quick, simple edits with easy-to-use
templates.

o WeVideo and Adobe Spark offer more advanced features without

overwhelming beginners.

o Adobe Premiere Rush, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve cater to
professional-grade editing needs, with powerful tools for color grading, audio
editing, and effects.

 Pricing:

o Canva and Kapwing offer free versions with limitations, with paid options
starting at $10 per month.
 o WeVideo’s pricing starts at around $4 per month for basic plans, with
advanced features available at higher tiers.

o Adobe Spark costs around $9.99 per month, while Premiere Rush is part of the
Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, starting at $20.99 per month.

o Final Cut Pro is a one-time purchase at $299.99, and DaVinci Resolve offers a
free version with a Studio version available for $295.

 Ease of Use:

o Canva, Kapwing, and Clipchamp are highly user-friendly, designed for

beginners.

o WeVideo and Adobe Spark offer more complexity but remain accessible to
those with some editing experience.

o Adobe Premiere Rush, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve require more time
to learn but offer unparalleled control and precision.

Choosing the Right Tool

When selecting a video editing tool, consider the following:

 Project Complexity: Simpler projects might not require advanced software. Start
with tools like Canva or WeVideo if your needs are basic.

 Budget: Determine if a free version of a tool will suffice or if investing in a paid

version is necessary for your projects.

 Learning Curve: Beginners should start with intuitive tools to avoid feeling
overwhelmed. If you’re ready to invest time in learning, more advanced tools like
Adobe Premiere Rush or DaVinci Resolve offer greater capabilities.

4. Practical Demonstrations

Basic Editing Workflow

1. Importing Media: Start by importing your video, audio, and image files into the
editing software. Most tools support drag-and-drop, making it easy to gather your
 assets. It’s essential to organize your files (e.g., creating folders for raw footage,
audio, and images) to streamline the editing process.

2. Cutting and Arranging Clips: Begin by placing your video clips on the timeline.
Use the trimming tool to remove unwanted sections. Arrange the clips in the order
that best tells your story or conveys your message. Pay attention to the flow, ensuring
that each scene transitions smoothly to the next.

3. Adding Transitions and Effects: Once your clips are in order, add transitions
between them. This can be a simple fade or a more elaborate effect depending on the
tone of your video. Additionally, apply filters or effects to enhance the visual appeal.
For example, you might want to adjust the brightness and contrast, apply a vintage
filter, or add a slow-motion effect to highlight a particular moment.

4. Exporting the Final Video: After finalizing your edits, it’s time to export your video.
Choose the appropriate format and resolution based on your distribution platform
(e.g., MP4 for YouTube, MOV for high-quality playback). Ensure you’ve selected the
right aspect ratio and resolution (e.g., 16:9 for YouTube, 1:1 for Instagram) before
exporting.

Using Advanced Features

 Multi-track Editing: Multi-track editing allows you to layer video, audio, and effects
on separate tracks. This is useful for adding background music, voiceovers, or
overlaying text and graphics. For example, you can have one track for your main
footage, another for background music, and additional tracks for sound effects or
graphics. This feature provides more control over your video and enables more
complex edits.

 Color Correction: Color correction involves adjusting the colors in your video to
achieve a consistent look or to correct any lighting issues. This can include adjusting
the white balance, contrast, saturation, and exposure. Advanced tools like DaVinci
Resolve offer color grading features that allow you to apply specific color styles,
giving your video a professional finish.

 Audio Enhancement: Good audio is as important as good visuals. Use audio editing
tools to clean up background noise, balance audio levels, and enhance clarity. You can
also add sound effects, music, or voiceovers to complement the visuals. Tools like
 WeVideo and Adobe Premiere Rush offer built-in audio libraries and effects that make
this process easier.

 Motion Graphics and Titles: Motion graphics and titles can add a dynamic element
to your videos. This might include animated text, lower thirds (informational text that
appears on the lower part of the screen), or intro sequences. Advanced tools like Final
Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Rush allow you to create custom animations and
graphics directly within the software or integrate with external tools like Adobe After
Effects.

Live Editing Session

During this part of the seminar, a live editing session will be conducted. Here’s how it will
proceed:

 Project Setup: Walkthrough on how to start a new project, set up the timeline, and
import media.

 Basic Edits: Demonstrate cutting, trimming, and arranging clips to form a simple
sequence.

 Adding Enhancements: Apply transitions, effects, and basic color correction.

 Finalizing: Show how to export the edited video, ready for sharing on social media or
other platforms.

Attendees will be encouraged to follow along on their devices if they have the software
installed or to watch closely to understand the workflow.

5. Best Practices in Video Editing

Consistency in Style

Maintaining a consistent style is crucial for creating a cohesive video. This includes using the
same color grading, transitions, and text styles throughout your video. Consistency helps
reinforce your brand identity and makes your video look professional. To achieve this:

 Use Presets: Most editing software allows you to save presets for color correction,
transitions, and effects. Use these to ensure a uniform look across your video.
  Create a Style Guide: If you’re working on multiple videos, consider creating a style
guide that outlines the fonts, colors, and effects you’ll use consistently.

Optimizing for Different Platforms

Each platform has specific requirements for video content. Here’s what to consider:

 Aspect Ratios: Use 16:9 for YouTube, 1:1 or 4:5 for Instagram, and vertical (9:16) for
stories or TikTok.

 Resolution: Export in 1080p for most platforms, but consider 4K if you’re producing
high-quality content for YouTube or Vimeo.

 File Formats: MP4 is the most universally accepted format, but check each
platform’s recommendations.

Understanding Copyright and Fair Use

When using music, stock footage, or images, ensure you have the rights to do so. Here’s how
to stay on the right side of the law:

 Licensed Music: Use music from royalty-free libraries or purchase licenses from
platforms like AudioJungle or Epidemic Sound.

 Stock Footage and Images: Only use stock footage and images from reputable
sources that provide licenses, such as Shutterstock or Pexels.

 Fair Use Considerations: Understand the limitations of fair use, especially if you’re
using clips from other creators. Commentary, criticism, or educational use may
qualify, but always give proper credit and ensure your use falls within legal
boundaries.

File Management

Organizing your files properly can save you time and prevent mistakes. Here’s how to
manage your project files efficiently:

 Folder Structure: Create separate folders for raw footage, audio files, graphics, and
project files. Label them clearly to avoid confusion.
  Backup Regularly: Use cloud storage or an external hard drive to back up your
project files. Regular backups protect you from data loss due to software crashes or
hardware failure.

 Version Control: Save multiple versions of your project, especially after making
significant changes. This allows you to revert to an earlier version if needed.

Collaboration Tips

When collaborating on video projects, communication and organization are key. Here are
some tips:

 Use Cloud-Based Tools: Platforms like WeVideo or Adobe Creative Cloud allow for
easy collaboration. Team members can access and edit the project simultaneously,
streamlining the workflow.

 Assign Roles: Clearly define each team member’s role, whether they’re responsible
for editing, color grading, or sound design. This avoids overlap and confusion.

 Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular meetings or updates to ensure everyone is on

the same page and to address any issues promptly.

6. Trends and Innovations in Online Video Editing

AI and Automation in Editing

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing video editing by automating repetitive tasks and
enhancing creativity. Here’s how AI is being used:

 Auto-Cutting: Some tools can automatically cut clips based on scene changes,
making it easier to compile raw footage quickly.

 Color Matching: AI can match colors across different clips to maintain visual
consistency, saving time on manual color correction.

 Content Recognition: AI can analyze your footage to identify faces, objects, or even
emotions, which can then be used to organize clips or suggest edits.

Mobile Editing Apps

With the rise of mobile content creation, mobile editing apps have become increasingly
powerful. These apps allow you to edit videos on the go with features that rival desktop
software:

 Adobe Premiere Rush: Offers multi-track editing, built-in templates, and direct
sharing to social media platforms.

 LumaFusion: A professional-grade mobile editor for iOS with advanced features like
color correction, keyframe animation, and multi-cam editing.

 Kinemaster: A user-friendly app available on both Android and iOS that supports
multi-layer video editing, chroma key (green screen), and blending modes.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are expanding the possibilities of video
content. Here’s how they’re impacting video editing:

 360-Degree Video Editing: Editing 360-degree videos requires specialized tools that
allow you to pan, zoom, and adjust the viewer’s perspective. Adobe Premiere Pro and
Final Cut Pro have integrated support for 360-degree editing.

 AR Effects: Augmented Reality effects, such as those seen on Snapchat or Instagram,

can be added to videos to create interactive and immersive experiences. This trend is
growing, especially in marketing and entertainment.

7. Q&A Session

 Open Floor for Questions: After covering all the material, open the floor to
questions. Encourage attendees to ask about specific tools, techniques, or challenges
they’re facing.

 Personalized Advice: Offer tailored advice based on the questions asked. For
example, if someone is struggling with audio editing, provide tips or recommend
specific tutorials.

 Interactive Problem-Solving: If time allows, consider solving a problem live, such

as demonstrating how to fix a common editing issue or showing how to apply a
specific effect.
8. Conclusion

Recap of Key Points

 Video Editing Basics: Reiterate the importance of understanding the timeline,

cutting, transitions, and effects.

 Tools: Remind participants of the various tools available at different skill levels, from
Canva and Clipchamp for beginners to DaVinci Resolve for advanced users.

 Best Practices: Emphasize the importance of consistency, optimizing for platforms,

and understanding copyright laws.

Further Learning Resources

 Books: Recommend titles such as “In the Blink of an Eye” by Walter Murch (on film
editing) or “The Art of Film Editing” by Vincent LoBrutto.

 Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer
courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels in video editing.

 YouTube Channels: Channels like Peter McKinnon and Film Riot provide tutorials
and tips on editing, filmmaking, and content creation.

Networking

 Encourage Connection: Suggest that participants exchange contact information or

social media profiles to stay in touch and support each other’s learning journeys.

 Join Online Communities: Recommend joining online forums or groups dedicated to

video editing, such as those on Reddit or Facebook.

Feedback and Next Steps

 Collect Feedback: Distribute a feedback form or survey to gather insights on what

participants found useful and what could be improved.

 Follow-up Opportunities: Inform participants about upcoming workshops or

advanced seminars. Consider offering one-on-one coaching sessions or a more in-
depth course for those interested in further development.
9. Appendices (Optional)

Glossary of Terms

 B-roll: Supplementary footage that is intercut with the main shot to add depth or
context.

 Chroma Key: A technique used to replace a specific color in a video, often used for
green screen effects.

 Keyframes: Points in a timeline where specific changes occur in an animation or

effect.

Additional Resources

 Software Guides: Links to official tutorials or manuals for the editing software
covered in the seminar.

 Templates: Downloadable templates or presets for participants to use in their own

projects.

 Cheat Sheets: Quick-reference guides for common keyboard shortcuts or editing

workflows.