Looking to hire video editor for new talking head channel- Advice appreciated

Career Freelancing & Services
1

Hey guys, I am a CA and I want to start posting videos on youtube and Insta. It will be talking head videos where I present the tax topic to the audience.

My questions:

  1. As I am starting out, how much is pay for a decent freelance video editor? I am thinking 15-20 long form videos per month and 30ish shorts per month.
  2. Do I need a separate creative director to plan the screenplay?
  3. How do I test the screen for a good editor?
2
  1. Dont get an editor right now, first test it out yourself with videos amongst friends and collegues.
  2. I dont think you should get a director without getting an editor first
  3. Once you start editing you will realise the issues you are facing and use that as a test. For example - you want points of what you are speaking to appear on screen.

The main reason for telling to try yourself is that with softwares like clipchamp/imovie, most stuff can be done easily, plus you will get a feel for the work yourself.

Invest in a good mic, a good camera with face tracking as well as good lighting conditions plus background.

Take time to make your points, make scripts + and ensure you do not deviate. use AI to refine them well

1 Like
3

If you’re starting out, rather than investing in an editor/director, you should invest in your script(s). While you can get away with improv type videos for shorts, for longer videos you will need a proper script. Or at least have the main points you need to cover listed. A script will help you stay on topic and avoid unnecessary tangents and importantly, avoid those dreaded uhhh… ummm… you know… like.. and other such filler words, which are tough to edit out.

I would advise that you write your own script(s) first (since you know the topic best), then maybe get it vetted by some trusted friend/colleague/relative who can help you refine the language so that it is accessible and also maybe cutout unnescesary fluff. Later your can get a dedicated scriptwriter to help.

Rest; good lighting, a good stand/tripod and a decent mic and camera are your best friends. The latter two of those can be found in any mid-to-high-end smartphone, most of which can also handle basic cutting and editing within the device itself.

Since it’s a talking head video, in addition to the good lighting, make sure your background is distraction free, and you record in a quiet environment so no loud noises overpower your voice. Look into the camera lens as much as you can. Make sure the lens is clean. Do a small 10-20 second test video before recording your full video so you can see the result and fix any issues beforehand.

If by editor, you mean that you need someone to do motion graphics, supers etc., then a one-time editor/motion graphics person from Fiverr, Upwork and similar freelancing platforms might be your best bet, for the first few videos at least. But in the beginning, I feel you don’t need those, since you can use a simple whiteboard for illustrations, charts etc. if needed.

All the best for your channel!

4

Ty for guidance. I have the scripts sorted. I have been writing on reddit for 2-3 years now.

For long form: I am primarily looking for someone to apply cuts, add some effects

For short form: I will need a lot of effects and cuts

2 Likes
5

Check dm

6

@Akshit_Garg Dropped you a DM.
Surely I can help with getting you on track.

1 Like
7

Hi

I post shorts and reels on YouTube and Instagram. Have been doing that for the past 3 months.

I create videos using AI. Specifically LTX2. If you have a GPU you’re good to go. There’s a performance hit if you have low Vram but it’s really good for starting out.

You can also go ahead with a 12gb GPU. Make sure you have at least 64gb ram.

Happy to dm you my YouTube channel. You can check out the reels and shorts for yourself.

Let me know

Thanks

1 Like