How I became a Netflix video editor in 3 months

By Ken Lyon, Standard Story Company

I always had a passion for filmmaking, but I didn't know how to turn it into a career. I was working as a waiter in a mediocre steakhouse when an opportunity presented itself. I was editing a web series when the producers noticed my skills and suggested that I become a professional editor. This sparked something in me, and I embarked on a journey to transition from a waiter to a video editor. Surprisingly, it only took me three months to achieve my goal. In this article, I will share my plan and the steps I took to become a Netflix video editor in such a short time.

Step 1: Hone in on editing skills

My editing software of choice was Adobe Premiere, which I had used for my own short films. To sharpen my skills, I went through in-depth Adobe Premiere courses on Lynda.com. I also learned all the shortcuts and technical workflows that I had missed as a self-taught editor. Additionally, I consumed as much content as possible about the industry and learned about the role of a freelance editor.

Step 2: Reach out and learn

I reached out to everyone possible, whether through personal connections or cold calls, to learn more about the editing industry and freelancing. I gathered information on what editing clients looked for and how to present myself effectively. This networking also helped me make valuable contacts that would later lead to job opportunities.

Step 3: Compile a resume and reel

With newfound skills and knowledge, I created a professional resume and reel. I started applying for assistant editor positions, acknowledging that I needed to gain experience and pay my dues. My goal was to work as an assistant editor for up to a year while aggressively networking and finding new clients to eventually position myself as an editor.

The surprising reality

To my great surprise, the journey took a different and faster path than expected. Within a week of actively searching, I landed my first paying gig as an assistant editor, which soon turned into a full week of work. This job provided invaluable experience and allowed me to ask questions and learn from an established editor. The gig gave me the confidence to continue pursuing my editing career.

I then continued to network and reached out to contacts in the industry. This led to an opportunity with a small production company in LA that focused on internal corporate videos for a major film studio. I impressed them during a trial project and was promoted to an editor. This breakthrough allowed me to skip the assistant editor stage and start establishing myself as an editor sooner than expected.

Additionally, I received a recommendation from an editor I had previously assisted, which led to another editing project. With each job, I gained confidence, raised my rates, and expanded my freelance client base. Eventually, after three months of hard work and dedication, I was able to quit my restaurant job and become a full-time video editor.

Keywords:

Transitioning to video editing, Adobe Premiere, Networking, Freelancing, Assistant editor, Gaining experience, Raising rates, Landing high-profile clients, Quitting day job, Becoming a full-time video editor

FAQ:

Q: How long did it take for you to become a video editor?
A: Surprisingly, it only took me three months of focused effort and dedication to transition from a waiter to a full-time video editor.

Q: What software did you use for video editing?
A: I chose Adobe Premiere as my editing software and honed my skills through online courses and self-practice.

Q: Did you have any prior experience before becoming an editor?
A: I had a background in filmmaking and had directed and edited my own short films. However, I needed to learn the technical aspects and workflows of professional editing.

Q: How did you find clients and job opportunities?
A: I actively reached out to contacts in the industry, made cold calls, and joined relevant online groups. Networking played a crucial role in finding clients and job opportunities.

Q: How did you determine your rates as a freelance editor?
A: At first, I set my rates lower to attract clients and gain experience. However, as I gained more confidence and built my reputation, I raised my rates accordingly.

Q: What advice do you have for aspiring video editors?
A: Focus on honing your skills, build a strong network, and continually seek new opportunities. Don't be afraid to start as an assistant editor and work your way up. Persistence and dedication are key.