While in the editing suite, when the urge arises to vent frustrations at the DP, sound specialist, boom handler, AD, script overseer, and so on, take a deep breath and empathize. The crew isn’t purposely erring to make things difficult for you. Remember, they might’ve been grappling with tremendous stress, tight schedules, exhaustion, hunger, or the cold on that particular day. This realization paves the way to the next piece of advice.
Dwelling on limitations and setbacks isn’t productive; instead, seek out solutions. They’re always around, waiting to be found.
Films can often be succinct and still impactful. It’s easy to think that removing any part might destabilize your entire creation, especially when you’ve meticulously crafted every scene. However, try shifting your viewpoint. You might find that trimming some scenes you deemed crucial might actually refine and elevate the narrative. Stay curious and open to revising even the seemingly indispensable parts.
When you view your dailies or raw clips for the first time, maintain absolute concentration. Diminish all distractions – remember, you only get one chance at a first impression. Throughout your editing journey, your initial reactions will prove invaluable. A sharp, untainted recall of that first viewing will always serve you well.
Commit to excellence in everything you undertake. As an editor, it’s your duty to enhance the material at hand. Whether you’re polishing an already stellar piece or salvaging less-than-perfect footage, always strive for the best. The true champions in editing are those who transform modest resources into commendable outcomes. After all, your future opportunities might be influenced by your current dedication. No one will justify subpar work based on poor raw material or modest remuneration. If the end result is mediocre, it’s assumed that’s the best you can offer. So always deliver your best, regardless of the project’s scale or challenges.
