Outsourcing video editing to talent, agencies, and systems

How to outsource video editing (Unsplash/Nejc Soklič)

What is the video editing process?

Outsourced video editing is the solution for cost efficiency and saving valuable time from the stressful editing process. Many of us hired an editing service to avoid this issue and get the work done. 

Video editing is a creative process that involves selecting, arranging, and refining video footage to create an engaging final product. Some steps include trimming clips, adding transitions, applying effects, enhancing audio, and incorporating graphics or text to achieve great storytelling and visual appeal. 

Why do you need to edit videos?

Raw footage without the editing process cannot provide viewers with clear and direct information. The process includes assembling the footage into a coherent storyline and adding elements like subtitles, music, and special effects to increase the viewer's experience. 

Editing aims to make a final product that viewers can enjoy and understand. This complete form of content will determine the viewer's traffic to your YouTube channel. 

Why is video editing important and for who?

Video editing is essential for anyone with something to tell, especially those who use interactive and engaging formats like video. The editing is not always dedicated to content creators; it is also helpful for various occupations. Video format helps people in the educational field deliver learning materials, making them more accessible and improving comprehension. The format also works to produce promotional videos, customer testimonials, and training materials for business purposes.

Why is video editing so hard?

Editing video is not something you can master in one night. Here’s why:

  1. Professional video editing software and hardware often come with hefty price tags because they demand high-end computers with essential features.
  2. Beyond creativity, editors must understand every technical aspect; this makes resource demands complex.
  3. The time commitment for mastering video editing software requires substantial effort.

How to create a video brief

A clear introduction to the project is a sign of a good brief. The team will be able to work efficiently under a good brief by deciding on a suitable content plan and reaching the target audience easily. Here's the key point for making a well-crafted brief:

  1. Define objectives 
  2. Outline key messages
  3. Detail the style and tone 
  4. Set timeline and budget

Define scope of work for a video

The scope outlines the project's details and sets expectations for all involved parties. First, the purpose of the video should be clear, whether it's entertainment, marketing, training, or other purposes. 

Next, consider the video length. The duration should align with the video's purpose and audience engagement levels. Along with this, you need to identify the audience. Consider demographics such as age, gender, location, and specific interests or needs.

The turnaround time is another critical element. Establishing a project completion timeline ensures all team members are aligned on deadlines and helps manage client expectations. Then, you have to calculate your budget. A detailed budget plan helps prevent overspending and efficiently allocates funds.   

How to outsource video editing

You can start by narrowing down the specific needs. The next step is to investigate potential partners thoroughly. Look for companies with a proven track record in your industry. Check their past projects, customer reviews, and case studies to determine their expertise and reliability. 

Evaluating potential partners involves assessing their technical capabilities and infrastructure. Ensure they have the skills and resources to handle your projects effectively. Communication is vital, so choose a responsive company that offers a transparent communication process. The last part of this process is establishing a formal contract and payment agreement to ensure a smooth and productive collaboration.    

How to find outsourcing companies

Finding a reliable outsourcing company for video editing can streamline your content production process. Here's a concise guide to help you:

  1. Define your needs, including style, budget, and turnaround time
  2. Research providers to find reputable video editing companies
  3. Evaluate expertise by looking for companies with experience in your specific industry
  4. Communicate clearly by discussing your project in detail

Assessing your candidates

There are several considerations when assessing the outsourcing candidates, such as:

  1. Language Proficiency: Language proficiency is crucial to ensure smooth communication. You can evaluate your candidate's language skills by writing tests, interviews, and presentations. 
  2. Technology Capacity: Assessing a candidate's comfort and expertise with technology can determine their ability to adapt to the company's tools and systems. Evaluate the candidate's technical skills by testing their familiarity with the tools and give them problem-solving tasks.       
  3. Skills and Experience: A candidate's skills and experience are often the cornerstone of their suitability. They are effectively evaluated through resume reviews, behavior interviews, and skill assessments. 
  4. Previous Work: Evaluating a candidate's previous work provides tangible evidence of their capabilities and work ethic. Review candidates' portfolios first, check the references, then request detailed descriptions of previous projects.
  5. Test Projects: Test projects offer a hands-on method to assess a candidate's skills and how they approach work in a real-world context. Give candidates assignment-based evaluation, team collaboration and feedback loop.

Video editing platforms to consider

One of the most widely used software in video editing is Adobe Premiere Pro, which has advanced features like multi-cam editing and AI-powered tools. It provides users with a comprehensive tool to edit and enhance video quality. 

Another professional-grade software commonly used by editors is Final Cut Pro. It has an intuitive interface and powerful performance. It offers advanced features like magnetic timelines and HDR support, making it a favorite among professional video editors and filmmakers.     

Benefits of outsourcing video editing

Professional editors bring advanced skills and experience. Their editing techniques can elevate your content to a professional standard. Outsourcing video editing helps you free up valuable time and offers a cost-effective solution by allowing you to pay for editing services on a flexible contract.

Risks to avoid when outsourcing video editing

Outsourcing video editing can bring professional quality to your content, but it comes with risks. Knowing your common pitfalls to avoid them is a must. The outsourcing process demands clear communication between both parties to avoid mistakes and misunderstandings. Always provide detailed briefs and maintain regular check-ins to ensure alignment. 

The next problem is quality control issues. Having less direct oversight can make it difficult to ensure the video meets specific quality standards. To prevent a lack of control, you can review portfolios and request samples before hiring candidates. You must also set firm timelines and discuss turnaround times upfront to prevent delays with your request. Having contingency plans in place can help manage unexpected delays.     

How to calculate outsourcing cost

Calculating the cost of outsourcing involves several vital elements for transparency and alignment between parties. Here's a guide to help you accurately determine outsourcing costs:

  1. Define payment terms
  2. Outline qork expectations 
  3. Specify deliverables
  4. Negotiate and finalize

What is the future of video editing?

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are set to become the cornerstones of video editing. Their tools and techniques can speed up the editing process and allow creators to focus on the more innovative aspects of their work. Those two factors undoubtedly impact the outsourcing landscape. 

For instance, it will reduce the need for essential editing services. This shift could decrease outsourcing for essential editing work but simultaneously open new opportunities for advanced and specialized editing services.



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