Whether you're just starting as a video editor or want a few tricks to up your game, you've come to the right place. These tips and tricks include best practices that will help you make enviable video spots for Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and other platforms. We've even thrown in some terminology to help you improve your professional vocabulary as well as your skills!

1. Choose the Right SoftwareThere are hundreds of software applications claiming to make video editing easy. So, the first step is choosing a software package with an excellent user interface and a wide array of functions. While getting recommendations online or from friends can help you whittle down your choices, you ultimately need to find a program that works for you.Here are some video editors that contain advanced features and tiered pricing so that you can scale your cost as you learn:

• After Effects
• Autodesk Smoke
• DaVinci Resolve
• Premiere Pro
• Lightworks
• Avid Media Composer
• Final Cut Pro

2. Recording Tips

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while recording:Natural light boosts video quality.Keep your mic close for better sound.Close-ups should belong to the star of your video, the products.

3. Is Your Subject a Drag? Pile on the B Roll

If your subject has a monotonous voice or tells a story that drags on, help your video pop with some appropriate b roll (supplemental or alternative footage intercut with the main shot). You can always cut back to a close-up of the interviewee if they say anything fascinating. Cover up the cuts to help keep the story moving seamlessly.

4. Up Your Work (a Lot): 321 Rule

Keep three digital copies of each version of the video. Ensure two copies are in different places, such as your desktop, Google Drive or another online repository. You may have security concerns if you haven't yet released the video. However, choose at least one backup apart from a physical location. That way, you will always have access to your work if anything happens.

5. Learn from the Best: Watch Tutorials from Pros

Youtube, masterclasses, educational websites and many other online sources provide access to excellent video editing tutorials. Wondering where to get started? Look for free tutorials on websites such as the following:

• Video Copilot
• Skillshare
• Red Giant Tutorials

If you're just getting started, it's helpful to watch longer videos that cover a range of skills. However, as you advance, you'll find tutorials on specific tasks that will help you develop expertise.

6. Talk the Talk: Terminology

Here are a few standard terms to help you learn the lingo:Jump Cuts – edits that omit boring or predictable scenes.J Cut – Audio goes before the video.L Cut – Video comes before the audio.Montage – Series of clips to show transformation or chronological sequence.Cutting on Action – Cutting a scene while the subject is still in motion to create visual interest.Match Cut – Splicing together similar shots.Cutaways – Adding transition pieces to add dramatic tension.As you read articles and watch tutorials, it's worth looking up terms you don't know. Talking the talk can help you earn credibility with both customers and experienced video editors. However, keep in mind that it's more important to focus on communication when dealing with individual clients.

7. Adding Effects Enhances Visual and Auditory Experience

When you add sound or visual effects to your clips, you make them more compelling for your audience. However, there is such a thing as overdoing it. The trick is walking the line between exciting elements and ridiculousness.Essential Designs provides expert application developers in Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto. Contact us for more video editing tips or assistance with custom app development.