Becoming a Video Editor and Getting Paid: Where to Start
Becoming a video editor and making a living at it has never been more accessible: free tools, endless tutorials, skyrocketing demand, and no degree required. What makes the difference is your approach and hard work.
1. Choose your software and master the basics
- CapCut — perfect for getting started on mobile and for simple edits; it’s free software with paid features, but you’ll quickly hit limitations if you want to do more advanced edits.
- Alight Motion — the best mobile app for editing; easy to learn and capable of handling more advanced edits.
- DaVinci Resolve — free and professional, with excellent color grading. For very advanced editors seeking complexity and perfection in color and quality.
- After Effects — the best editing software available today. It can be difficult to get the hang of at first, but there are plenty of tutorials on YouTube. If you have a computer with at least 8 GB of RAM for simple edits and 16 GB of RAM for more advanced edits, choose After Effects.
Aim for: cuts in time with the rhythm, clean transitions, synchronization with the beat, and consistent color grading. Our guide on which software to use for creating viral edits details each tool.
2. Find Your Style (and Your Niche)
Mixtape edits, AMVs, flow style, velocity edits, motion graphics, vibe… There are dozens of different styles. Choose one you like, draw inspiration from your favorite editors, and practice as much as possible.
3. Build a portfolio—without waiting for a client
Create real projects now. The smartest move: enter paid editing contests. You’ll edit based on a professional brief, get a published, dated video for your portfolio—and you can win a cash prize. Competition is the best way to improve, and you’ll receive feedback from professional judges to help you grow.
4. Earn your first income
- Editing contests: the fastest way to get paid, without having to cold-call clients.
- Freelancing: Offer your services once you have a credible portfolio.
- UGC for brands and artists: videos paid per piece.
5. Build your skills and raise your rates
Add new skills to your repertoire (motion design, sound design) and raise your rates. A public ranking and contest wins are powerful social proof—that’s why starting with contests is so effective.
FAQ
Do you need a degree to become a video editor?
No. Film editing is a profession that relies on skills and a portfolio. What matters is what you can do and what you can show.
How can I get better at editing?
Enter our paid editing contests for a chance to win money while improving your skills by competing against dozens of editors on a common theme.