I've used a variety of editing Software during my time as a broadcast journalist, including Final Cut Pro, Edius, and Premiere Pro. Although each program has its own specific layouts and shortcuts, I've found that they all utilize the same general tools and capabilities. That being said, it's important to fully understand what your program is capable of.
1. Get Familiar With Your Software
Rule #1: Know the software you're using. Whether it's on the job, or through a class, make sure you've been properly trained. There are plenty of books, online blogs, and tutorials out there to walk you through the basics.
2. Organize Your Footage
This tip is more applicable for long-form stories that contain larger amounts of footage, but some people like to categorize their shots - either by placing them in separate folders or bins, or even color-coding your clips.
3. Consult Your Script. Always.
Make sure you've printed off your script so you can ensure that your video matches your script. I've found that sometimes it even helps to write a description of the shots you'd like to use on your script before you get to the editing bays - just so you have a clear game plan of how to lay out your story on a timeline. Never edit video without your script.
4. Lead With Your Best Footage
This connects back to how your write your script - try to lead with your most interesting shots. This will draw the viewers in, and keep them hooked to your story. If a fire burned down 10 houses in a neighborhood, you absolutely need to start with that footage. Don't fall under the misconception that you have to lead up to your most interesting shots.
5. Use More Medium & Tight Shots Than Wide
Establishing shots (wide shots), are vital to a story. However, once the space is established, feel free to use more medium and tight shots. These convey more emotion, and tell a story better than an endless series of wide shots.
6. Stabilize Shaky Footage
Most video editing software comes with a stabilizing footage. This filter is a life-saver when it comes to using hand-held footage, or even shots that are shaky because of high winds, or other factors.
7. Color Correct
Although white balancing is important, it doesn't always mean your footage will have perfect color balance. This is where color correcting filters come into play. Be careful to not be too drastic with your corrections, or it will be obvious to the viewer. For example, if a specific shot is almost completely blacked out (let's say you were shooting outside at night) - you shouldn't try to make it as bright as it would be in the daylight. In this instance, color correcting probably won't fix the problem, and you probably shouldn't use that shot at all.
The image above is the perfect example of a subtle, yet effective color correction.
8. Correct Audio
The general rule I've learned is to keep your interview and VO tracks bouncing around the -6 range. NAT sound should be kept around -18 to -20, but it's up to you to determine a balanced audio mix.
9. Cross Fade NAT Sound
By using a cross fade filter, the transition between your NAT sound tracks will sound much smoother than if you were to leave them untouched.
10. Utilize Your NAT Sound
Interesting audio can be one of the most exciting and enhancing elements of a story. Don't be afraid to incorporate NAT pops to really bring your story-telling to life. For example, if your story is about construction, a NAT sound pop of heavy machinery would be fitting. Another excellent type of story to include NAT pops in is stories about motorcycles.
11. Re-Watch Your Story
No matter how tight of a deadline you're on, always re-watch your story before exporting it. Be sure to watch out for accidental black frames, jump cuts, or shaky footage.
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