What to send your video editor

A video editor needs the intended message, audience, and delivery versions as well as original picture and sound files. A folder of clips alone does not show what matters or what the finished video should achieve.

Organize the material clearly

Deliver files in their original quality using the agreed method. Group them by shoot day, topic, or camera, and preserve identifiers needed by production. Do not substitute compressed messaging-app copies when a high-quality original is available.

Include the script, shot list, speech transcripts, or other material that helps locate the content. Mark important moments and known problems, such as missing sound or a name needing correction.

Define the finished video requirements

Specify the goal, approximate length, publication channels, and aspect ratios. Supply logos, colors, job titles, and correct spellings for captions. Clarify rights for music and other third-party material.

If you want the editor to develop a story from the footage, include that explicitly in the assignment. Following a finished script and building the content from scratch involve different amounts of work.

Consolidate feedback

Agree on review versions, feedback rounds, and who approves. Use timecodes and describe requested changes precisely. Combine your organization’s comments before sending them so the editor does not receive conflicting instructions.

When ordering several publication versions, approve the shared content first and agree on version checks. Ask about project-file handover and retention periods if you expect to commission more edits later.