Question for people using FCP in career.

[Brynn Sankey]

I agree with you David that editing is storytelling over hardware proficiency. My comments were meant more in addition to the contributions of others, I certainly wouldn’t suggest that software/hardware proficiency is all that is required to call yourself a pro – far from it.

But I do agree with what Grinner said – “When you know it and can edit anything and respond to any demand, you are ready.” And that takes proficiency as well as an ability to tell a visual story. If you’re full of grand ideas but don’t have the proficiency to match them, then in my opinion you’re not ready to handle “any and every demand.”

[Kai Cheong]

I remember reading previous threads where other Cow members readily agree to a job using software they’re not familiar with [esp. when they’re just starting out]… then embark on an ambitious [sometimes just overnight] crash course on picking up basics of the software… and managing to pull off the job with flying colors.

Not that it’s something I’d do at this point – I’m fairly upfront with the fact that I’m a one-trick pony in terms of NLE proficiency. But this hasn’t been an issue since the local market has been very taken with this one trick of mine ie. FCP is very popular with production houses and FCP editors are in demand.

Though I’d like to think that apart from software proficiency [which I hope to build on in time to come], I bring to my profession as a video editor some more holistic and invisible skills and sensibilities.

Kai
FCP Editor / Producer with Intuitive Films
https://kai-fcp-editor.blogspot.com
—
Now ‘LIVE’! Check Out The Intuitive Films Blog @ https://intuitive-films.blogspot.com
At Intuitive Films, We Create: TV Commercials, Documentaries, Corporate Videos and Feature Films
Visit us @ https://www.intuitivefilms.com
—
MacBook Pro 2.4GHz | 4GB RAM | FCP 5.1.4 | Mac OS X 10.5.7

8-Core Intel Mac Pro 2.26GHz | 8GB RAM | FCP 6.0.2 | Mac OS X 10.5.6 | 3.0TB CalDigit VR | 2 x 24″ Dell S2409W

[David Roth weiss]

[Brynn Sankey] “I certainly wouldn’t suggest that software/hardware proficiency is all that is required to call yourself a pro – far from it.”

Okay, just wanted to clarify Brynn. It sounds like we’re on the same page.

David Roth Weiss
Director/Editor/Colorist
David Weiss Productions, Inc.
Los Angeles

POST-PRODUCTION WITHOUT THE USUAL INSANITY ™

A forum host of Creative COW’s Apple Final Cut Pro, Business & Marketing, Indie Film & Documentary, and Film History & Appreciations forums.

[Walter Biscardi]

[Mike Nax] “How much knowledge is enough before you can advertise yourself as
a video editor?

Must I have a certification or Art Degree.”

The knowledge of storytelling is far more important than the ability to drive software. Anybody can learn to push buttons, use filters and apply transitions from a book or a class.

The art of storytelling is what differentiates professionals from wannabes. When I consider any editor for a position with my company I go solely by their reel and recommendations. The resume shows me where you might have worked, but your reel tells me if you can tell a story. If it’s full of filters, effects, and quick edits, I know you spent more time trying to impress me with your reel than with your skills. I like to see reels that have entire pieces on them so I can truly see what you can do.

I have hired people right out of college and also work with long time artists. In all cases, I look for storytellers.

Walter Biscardi, Jr.
Editor, Colorist, Director, Writer, Consultant, Author.
HD Post and Production
Biscardi Creative Media

“Foul Water, Fiery Serpent” now in Post.

Creative Cow Forum Host:
Apple Final Cut Pro, Apple Motion, Apple Color, AJA Kona, Business & Marketing, Maxx Digital.

Blog!

Twitter!