The world of video editing can often feel dull, but freelancing may offer an exciting new career path to those who want to tell stories while flexing their video editing chops—and on their own terms.
Whether you’re into creating witty commercials, short films, or corporate-style videos, there’s a wealth of potential here.
If you have the right skills, a great portfolio, and focus on networking with the right people, it can lead to an entire niche of freelance video editing work from home where you can build a schedule that works for you.
A Shift Toward the Digital Workspace
Our work habits have been fundamentally changed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual teams had started to emerge prior to the pandemic, but with fewer face-time moments, classic office settings were just as rare. On the other hand, this change has caused more video views because people are now trying to have access to more entertainment and information at home.
This unique landscape creates an increased need for video editors who have the ability to amplify the kind of content people want. With even more companies pivoting to online communication, your editing skills could actually be in greater demand than ever.
Managing Finances as a Freelancer
One of the most important things to remember as a freelancer is that you’re responsible for managing your finances. But dealing with money can be tricky without help.
Apps like Hiveage help you bill and get paid professionally, all while increasing your efficiency with time management.
This enables you to spend more time on your creative work and less on the administrative part of running a business.
Video Editing Opportunities
So where is there work to be had for a freelance video editor? We recommend you start looking for opportunities like these to help you get a foot in the door and a check in the bank.
Conference Video Editing
With a plethora of organizations using virtual conferences, these type activities are being recorded and need experienced editors to refine your recorded sessions. If you work to create long-term partnerships with businesses that require these services, this can become a steady income stream very quickly.
Explainer Video Production
Companies regularly use explainer videos to refine their messaging, be it for marketing or for internal use. Working with clients to cut these projects adds experience and content to your portfolio.
Talking Head Productions
As business communication continues to shift online, there arises a need for video content of spokespersons and experts with cutaway footage. Such projects demand an acute awareness of pacing and clarity to ensure that the message lands with viewers.
While many of these are entry-level roles, the freelance landscape is always changing and gives you the chance to discover new ways of working in video editing.
What You Need to Succeed at Freelance Video Editing Work From Home
If you want to turn your home into a video editing studio, you’ll need the right tools to make it happen:
- Splice – Ideal for video editors that need the highest audio quality on their edits. Splice also offers cloud backup and version control, so your creative process is safe but also efficient.
- InShot — an easy-to-use app that provides several editing functions, including trimming, filters, resizing, and speed adjustment that works great for mobile editing.
- Magisto — this creative platform goes one step further by harnessing the power of technology to speed up editing with features such as facial recognition and stabilization so that your projects can shine.
Building Your Portfolio and Finding Work
A portfolio acts like a visual CV and showcases your skills to prospective clients. You’ll build a portfolio over time, but you can also take steps to actively curate one. Prove your skills by building sample projects or working on personal projects of yours. Client work has its benefits, but portfolio pieces of your own will lead to a more comprehensive showcase of what you can do.
To find client work, you’ll want to start by checking out freelance marketplaces. Sites like Upwork and Fiverr can help match freelancers with clients seeking specific editing services. This can also help you hone particular skills or carve out a niche in your field.
Social media is also a great place to search for work. Create an account on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to start posting your work and exposure for potential clients. Otherwise, websites like We Work Remotely, Glassdoor and Ladders offer listings that might cater specifically to your freelance video editing job search.
Establishing Terms
Freelancers are their own boss. While that certainly offers a lot of freedom, it means that creating your working scenario, terms for payments, and schedule all hinge on whatever structure you build.
Knowing your worth is important; do some market research so you know what you should charge for services. Make sure you aren’t undercharging or overcharging to give yourself the best chance of finding work that aligns with what you deserve and what people are willing to pay.
Payment terms are also essential. Decide whether you’d prefer to get a deposit paid in advance or if the client will pay when the project is complete. Depending on how you’ve met with the client, this step might already be taken care of for you, like with many freelance marketplaces.
Wrapping Up with Freelance Video Editing Work From Home
If you’re interested in becoming a freelancer, start by building a portfolio, knowing your worth, and researching places to find work.
Once you have some established work, go ahead and use internet platforms to display your work and expand market availability on your services. Setting clear terms of service and being inherently open to feedback means that you can continue to level up your game while attracting bigger clients.
With these steps and a drive to find fulfilling, good-paying jobs, freelance video editing work from home is not just something you could do as a side gig, but a lucrative career option if you have the right attitude and skill sets!