'There is a scope of mistake in every type of work we do, even if it is video editing' . Do you agree with this?
But what if you get to know about those mistakes earlier. Don't worry I am not playing Abra Ca Dabra with you, where you will get to know the future beforehand.
It is a practical knowledge of video editing errors that webdew wants to share with you today. Video editing is an art that requires skill, creativity, and attention to detail. However, editors tend to commit some mistakes especially when they are newbies.
8 common video editing mistakes you need to avoid in 2023
1. Not having a workflow 💼
- Some common issues without a work process include missed deadlines, incomplete projects, and a lack of consistency in the editing style.
- Without a well-defined workflow, video editing can become chaotic and disorganized, making the process much more time-consuming and less efficient.
- Having a bad workflow can negatively impact collaboration with other team members, such as directors, producers, and sound designers. It can be challenging to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal, leading to confusion, delays, and ultimately a subpar final product.
2. Improper use of Jump Cuts 🎞️
- Avoid jump cuts usage for too many times in a video. It can make it look fast-paced and overwhelming to the viewer. These cuts should not be used all the time. Only when they enhance the video's message or create a specific visual effect.
- Another mistake is using such cuts inappropriately, breaking the continuity of the video and making it difficult for the viewer to follow. For example, using jump cuts to skip important parts of the story or dialogue can leave the viewer disengaged.
3. Using a video editor that doesn’t suit your needs and skill level 💻
- Using a too-basic editor can be a mistake for more experienced editors. It may not provide the advanced features and tools necessary to create complex visual effects or edits. But, using a too-advanced editor for a beginner can lead to confusion, overwhelm, and frustration.
- By not researching and selecting the right editor with useful tools and features can consume more time and money, with no high-quality video results.
- Various editors come with tutorials and resources that can help editors learn how to use the software effectively. Hence, not taking advantage of these resources can lead to errors and frustration.
4. Not making the most of your tools 🛠️
- Many video editing software programs have a wide range of options, from . But, without proper training and research, it can be easy to overlook some of the features of editor programs whether complex color grading or special effects.
- Another common issue is not using the available plugins and add-ons that various software comprises. These may include audio effects, color presets, and other specialized tools that can save time and improve the quality of the final product.
- Finally, not making the most of your tools can result from improper organization and management of video files. By organizing the files and using features such as tagging and labeling, editors can find the necessary assets and spend more time creating and refining the video production.
5. Not creating visual variation 🖼️
- Editors may need to create more visual variation because they get too comfortable with a particular style or technique. Editors should experiment with different angles and shot sizes, mixing them up to create a situation where the viewer is less likely to feel bored.
- By not varying the color grading throughout the video, the viewer may become disinterested or bored. Editors should experiment with the color palette and grading techniques to highlight particular emotions or themes throughout the video.
- Special effects are also a powerful tool for creating visual variation. But, if too many special effects are used, it can become distracting and detract from the entire video's message.
6. Not using the right music 🎵
- The right music can help to set the mood, create an emotional connection, and enhance the viewer's experience. In contrast, the wrong music can detract from the video's message and be jarring to the viewer.
- One mistake is using music that's too loud or overpowering, drowning out the video's audio. This can make it difficult for the viewer to follow the video's message, leading to confusion or disinterest.
- Another mistake is using music irrelevant to the video's message or theme. For example, using upbeat and happy music for a serious or somber video can create a dissonant effect that confuses the viewer.
- Finally, using copyrighted music without permission can lead to legal issues and costly fines. Editors should always use royalty-free music. Using this free music or obtaining proper licensing to avoid legal issues.
7. Poor sound mixing 🔀
- Using low-quality or inappropriate equipment can result in poor sound quality, making it difficult for the viewer to understand the video's message. To avoid this, editors should focus on the sound and use high-quality microphones and recording equipment appropriate for the video's setting and intended audience.
- Another mistake is not balancing the levels of the different audio tracks. If one track is too loud or soft, it can make become hard to hear for the viewer or understand the video's message.
- Background music or noise is another common issue that can distract the viewer and make the video difficult to follow. Editors should use noise reduction techniques to cut or reduce background noise, making viewer feel aligned with the video's message.
- Finally, not paying attention to the EQ (equalization) of the audio tracks can result in distortion or an unbalanced sound. Editors should use EQ to adjust the frequencies of each audio track and create a cohesive sound.
8. Overusing Effects and Filters ✨
With effects and filters, video editors can enhance color and contrast, add transitions between shots, create special effects, and even alter the footage's speed or orientation. However, overusing these tools can lead to problems.
- Editors using too many effects and filters sparingly can detract viewer from video's message and make it look amateurish.
- Another mistake is using effects and filters that do not complement the video's tone or message. For example, a vintage filter for a modern video can create a dissonant effect that confuses the viewer.
- Using generic or overused effects and filters is also a basic mistake. These effects and filters can make the video appear generic and unoriginal, detracting from the video's impact. To avoid this mistake, editors should use unique and creative effects and filters appropriate for the video's message and intended audience.
- Finally, not understanding how to use effects and filters properly can result in a video that looks amateurish or unprofessional. Editors should take the time to understand how they affect the video's visual impact and use them to enhance its quality.