The editing department is responsible for cutting and editing together the rushes (raw filming material) of a production. An editor will be experienced using technical editing software and will be creative storytellers.

Duties include

• Before filming, work with the director to determine how the screenplay can be pieced together
• Analyse the rushes to assess the technical standards and performances
• Rework scenes and cut and edit them together
• Work from notes by the script supervisor
• Cut and refine assembly edit with director
• Put together the final edit which requires the producers’ approval to achieve final cut

Skills needed

• Technical aptitude for a variety of edit software, including Lightworks, Adobe Premier and Final Cut
• Understand how to compress media/compression
• Knowledge of the operational support needed to maintain edit suites
• Able to be creative with storytelling
• Be creative under pressure
• Attention to detail and strong organisational skills
• Strong ability to cut and edit
• Administrative skills and relevant IT skills for transporting media
• Have a familiarity with the technical specifications with different broadcasters.
• Imaginative and have a strong understanding of narrative

Useful Links

All about editing: Blue Planet II's editor on how he put together some of the show's iconic scenes

Getting into Editing | Tips in 60 seconds

Storytelling Through Editing | Tea Break Tips

Editing Masterclasses