There is no one-fits-all solution when it comes to becoming a professional video game editor. Your road map should depend on your ultimate career goals. I went above and beyond to land my first job offer and get an internship position, but you may be luckier if you avoid making some typical mistakes and select a good school.
At first, video game editing will be your side job, but gradually you will learn how to make a living by editing engaging video content. Read on to learn about the handy tips that you can use to become a video game editor.
Mastering Video Editing Software
I started by learning how to use Premiere Pro CC. For several years, I believed that it would suffice to use this software. In addition, I learned how to use Movavi and other programs as well.
Later, I found out that it’s impossible to grow as a video editor and advance your career unless you master the tools used by seasoned professionals.
Once you know how to use them, it will be easier for you to grab the attention of leading production companies. Ultimately, it will enable you to earn more. However, mastering Premiere Pro CC should still be the first step you take. After learning the basics, you will be able to start working on simple projects and edit footage of different lengths.
What I learned too late is that many companies are looking for video game editors who know Autodesk 3ds Max and Cinema 4D. They are willing to pay more if a candidate demonstrates that they know how to use these programs.
Getting Invited to an Interview
After learning the basics of mesh video editing and mastering animation, I started to look for an internship position. I already created a mini-documentary, so I included a link to it in my CV.
The most difficult thing was finding a recruiter who would be interested in my skills. As the video game industry doesn’t have many job opportunities for junior video editors, I had to practice my networking skills a lot. I was elated when one person told me that they were looking for an intern. It helped that I had a degree in animation. However, they were more interested in my documentary during the interview.
When looking for an internship position, keep in mind that you will need to use it to establish new connections with people from the industry. If you want to stay in LA, you need to meet professionals who work there. Make sure to let them know that you are looking for a job and ask them for a piece of advice.
Tips for Acing an Interview for a Video Editing Job
I knew that I had to impress the interviewer with my skills, so I showed them my portfolio, which included only my best works. If you still don’t have one, start to work on a project of your own and try to create a movie or a short clip.
Besides, do the following things:
- Remain friendly and approachable throughout the interview, and tell a recruiter that you are ready to master new skills.
- Be ready to work more than 9 hours a day to become a good video game editor.
- Show that you have realistic expectations. You will need to work for at least five years to become a pro, so don’t promise that you will learn everything in less than a year.
- Demonstrate your interest in different genres of video games.
I graduated from a decent school, but it didn’t have a lot of networking opportunities. As a result, I spent more than a year trying to break into the industry. It’s better to find a school that provides good education and an opportunity to meet important people from the video game industry.
Make sure to visit popular gaming events and introduce yourself to the professionals who already work in this field. It will help you achieve your goal faster.
Final Thoughts
I had to spend a lot of time trying to meet people from the video game industry. However, I was lucky enough to get offered a job position after my internship. Try to impress your boss and meet as many people as you can when working as an intern. It will make it easier for you to find a job in a good company and become a professional video game editor.
