If video editing isn’t your cup of tea, then you might want to look into outsourcing this job.
This is the most straight-forward guide about video editing outsourcing. My goal is to answer the internet’s most asked questions on this topic:
- What is VE outsourcing
- Why do it
- How to do it (of course: if it’s proven that you actually need it)
Let’s get going.
The Basics: Video-Editing Outsourcing
In this section, I’m aiming to answer the most frequently asked questions on this topic.
Pro Tip: Skip this section using the Table of Contents (on the sidebar on PC & at the top on Mobile) if you want to learn how to outsource properly.
1. What is outsourcing in video editing?
Answer: Outsourcing in video editing means hiring external professionals or agencies to handle video editing tasks instead of doing it in-house.
Companies or individuals may outsource to save time, reduce costs, or gain access to specialized editing skills. It’s commonly used when businesses want to focus on core activities or need high-quality content without expanding their internal team.
2. Can you outsource video editors?
Answer: Yes, you can outsource video editors. Many businesses and content creators hire freelance video editors or editing agencies to handle their projects.
- This is a common practice to save time, cut costs, or access expertise without having to hire full-time staff.
- You can find outsourced video editors on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or through specialized video editing agencies.
However, first you should ask yourself…
3. Should I hire a video editor or do it myself?
Answer: If time and quality are critical, outsourcing is often worth it. If you’re just starting or on a budget, learning to edit can be valuable.
| Criteria | Hire a Video Editor | Do It Yourself |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Quality | Professional, polished, high-quality work. | Depends on your skills; may take time to reach pro level. |
| 2. Time | Saves you time to focus on other tasks. | Time-consuming, especially if you’re learning. |
| 3. Cost | Higher upfront cost. | Low cost if you already have editing software. |
| 4. Skill Level | Access to expert skills and techniques. | Requires learning and mastering editing skills. |
| 5. Scalability | Easier to produce more content quickly. | Can be limiting if you have to handle all editing yourself. |
| 6. Creative Control | Less control over fine details unless specified in briefs. | Full creative control over the editing process. |
| 7. Complexity | Ideal for complex editing needs (effects, color grading, etc.). | Best for simpler editing tasks if you’re not experienced. |
| 8. Flexibility | Can choose specific experts for different types of projects. | Flexible but requires more effort on your part. |
Hope this table helps you figure it out easily.
4. Where to find expert video editors?
Answer: From my own experience, Upwork is the best place to find video editors simply because of the time-to-money ratio. You don’t need to spend much time or money to find great talent.
| Source | Description |
|---|---|
| Freelance Platforms | Upwork, Fiverr for hiring experienced freelancers. |
| Video Editing Agencies | Agencies specializing in video editing and post-production services. |
| Job Boards | LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor for direct hiring of video editors. |
| Creative Networks | Platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or Vimeo to review portfolios. |
| Social Media & Forums | Reddit, Facebook Groups, or other forums for finding editors. |
| Local or Remote Talent | Contact local film schools or media companies for expert editors. |
Alternatively, you can reach out to local film schools or production companies to find local or remote talent.
Now let’s go to the best section of this guide.
How To Outsource YOUR Video Editing
1. Define Your Needs
Start by clearly identifying what you need from your video editor. This includes the type of content you’re working with and your specific style and aesthetic preferences.
Identify the Type of Content:
- Short-form vs. Long-form: Are you focusing on quick clips for social media or detailed videos?
- Style and Aesthetic: What kind of look are you going for? Professional, casual, cinematic?
Set Clear Objectives:
- Timeline: How quickly do you need the edits done?
- Budget: What is your spending limit?
2. Find the Right Talent
Choosing the right editor or agency is crucial for achieving the desired results. Evaluate your options carefully to ensure they meet your standards and can deliver on time.
Freelancers vs. Agencies:
- Freelancers: Often more affordable and flexible. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are good starting points.
- Agencies: Typically offer more comprehensive services and may have more experienced editors, but can be pricier.
Look for previous work that aligns with your style and quality expectations. Also, ensure the editor or agency has a track record of reliability and quality.
3. Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key to a successful outsourcing experience. Provide a detailed brief and set up a workflow to ensure your vision is accurately executed.
Create a Detailed Brief:
- Project Scope: Describe the project, including length, style, and specific requirements.
- Examples: Provide examples of the desired outcome or previous work that captures the style you want.
Set Up a Workflow:
- Feedback Loop: Establish a process for reviewing drafts and providing feedback.
- Deadlines: Set clear deadlines for revisions and final delivery.
4. Manage your Project
Keep track of progress and ensure that the final product meets your expectations. Regular check-ins and constructive feedback are essential for achieving the best results.
- Track Progress: Use project management tools like Trello or Asana to keep track of milestones and deadlines.
- Review Deliverables: Check that the edits align with your initial brief and make sure they meet your quality standards.
- Provide Constructive Feedback: Be specific and clear about what changes are needed. This helps the editor meet your expectations more efficiently.
5. Use AI for Short-Form
If you’re looking to streamline the editing process for short-form content, consider using automation tools like SendShort. This tool can save you time and ensure consistency in your short videos.
Why Use SendShort?
- Efficiency: Automate the creation of engaging short videos from longer content.
- Consistency: Maintain a uniform style and quality across all your short-form videos.
- Ease of Use: Simple interface and quick turnaround make it ideal for busy schedules.
How to Integrate SendShort:
- Upload Your Long-Form Content: Easily upload and manage your video files.
- Customize Templates: Choose from various templates to match your style.
- Generate Shorts: Let SendShort handle the bulk of the editing, producing short, engaging clips ready for social media.
6. Go Live
Once your project is complete, finalize payment and prepare to launch your content. Monitor its performance to make adjustments for future projects.
- Finalize Payment: Ensure all invoices are settled and contracts are fulfilled.
- Launch Your Content: Publish your videos according to your content calendar and monitor performance.
- Review and Adjust: Analyze the performance of your outsourced content and make adjustments for future projects if needed.
Cost of Outsourcing Video Editing
Q: “How much does outsourcing video editing cost?”
A: Typically $30–$100 for simple edits and $150–$500 for more complex projects.
Rates vary based on complexity, editor experience, video length, and turnaround time.
Estimated cost
- Extras, such as expedited services, usually cost more.
- However, this table should give you a general idea:
| Option | Cost Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freelancers | $30 – $250 per hour | Affordable for simple projects; flexible. | Quality and reliability can vary; more management needed. |
| Agencies | $500 – $10,000+ per project | High-quality work; full-service; experienced editors. | More expensive; less flexible. |
| AI Automation | $10 – $50 per month or pay-per-use | Efficient for high volumes; consistent results. | Less personalized; limited to tool’s features. |
Factors affecting cost
For a precise quote, it’s best to contact a few editors with details about your project:
- Project Complexity: More complex edits or effects will increase costs.
- Turnaround Time: Rush jobs or expedited services may cost more.
- Editor Experience: Highly experienced editors or agencies charge higher rates.
Understanding these cost factors will help you make an informed decision about outsourcing your video editing needs.
Conclusion
Outsourcing video editing saves time and improves content quality, giving you room to focus on growing your business or personal brand.
By following this guide, you’ll efficiently manage the outsourcing process and ensure high-quality content.
Thanks a lot for reading this,
David Ch
Head of the Editing Team at SendShort
