When you hire a videographer, it’s safe to assume that they’re also great at editing. However, it doesn’t work this way. Consider yourself lucky if you get a videography service specialising in video editing. Otherwise, you might want to explore hiring them separately—a videographer and an editor.
What does a videographer do?
A videographer captures visual elements called video. A cameraman is a videographer, but the role has expanded to include skills associated with capturing visual aspects for a project. The videographer decides which camera to be used, deals with lighting and works with the sound to capture the best footage for a job. In some cases, the videographer is also responsible for post-production editing.
What does a video editor do?
A video editor is responsible for taking recorded footage and editing it down to a minute or two. They will trim away unnecessary content and get the story to fit within a given framework. Video editors are also responsible for adding special effects and titles.
Video editing is a creative process that can be as simple as dropping in a music track or as complex as meticulously piecing together hundreds of images from several different shots.
Video editor vs. videographer
When deciding if you want to work with a video editor or a videographer, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. You might be surprised to hear that a videographer knows almost nothing about editing. On the other hand, a video editor may have a visual and creative background, but they only understand the process of editing.
Video editor and videographer jobs require similar skill sets, but they have different roles in the production process. A videographer will be responsible for shooting and recording the footage, while the editor will be responsible for post-production and putting everything together. For example, the editor will source the music, the footage, the graphics, and film compositing. They might also be responsible for the colour correction process.
In this case, two roles are better than one. It can be highly advantageous to find a videographer and video editor team who can work together and take responsibility for every aspect of the project.
Which one should you hire?
If you are starting with an idea or a script in mind and are looking for a creative team to bring it to life, you would have to hire an editor. If you have a concept and want a video that encapsulates the idea but isn’t concerned with technical details, you are better off with a videographer.
If your project is simple, then it might make more sense to hire a videographer and let them handle the editing. However, suppose your project is complex or you want the video to be more engaging and appealing to your target audience. In that case, it is probably a good idea to hire a video editor.
The best choice
Ultimately, you will have to decide what your needs are and if working with a video editor or videographer is best. It all comes down to what your project requirements are. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you can make the most informed decision about whether or not to hire a video editor or a videographer.
Get videography services in Melbourne here at Studio Lore. We are a team of creatives who are always thinking outside the box. Get in touch with us!
