Top 6 Video Editing Mistakes to Avoid

There are number of things to remember in the video editing phase of post production. Editing, when done correctly, is not noticeable to the average viewer and will give the video good flow. However, when done incorrectly, or with mistakes, editing can make a project subpar.

Here are some common video editing mistakes to avoid in order to achieve a better end result:

1. Avoid Jump Cuts
   Generally, a jump cut is an edit within the same shot of footage. It can be jarring for the viewer, as the picture appears to unnaturally jump from one position to another, within the same shot. Instead of using a jump cut in the video editing process, consider using a cutaway shot that shows something else. This allows you to return to the needed spot in the previous footage. Cutaways will give a more natural appearance for the viewer.
2. Find the Right Pace
   Pacing is so important in video production. While a music video will have one type of pace, a documentary will have another. It is imperative to get the right pace for your project in order to effectively deliver a message. You can create pacing through well-timed video editing, using shots with slower camera moves and soft transitions for slower paced projects. You can use more whip pans and cuts, paired with quick shots for faster paced projects. Music will also help you set the pace of your project.
3. Audio
   Have you ever watched a video where the audio of the voices didn’t quite match up with the footage you were watching? Annoying, right? Don’t make that mistake when editing your project. Ensure your audio clips remain in sync with your footage so that it does not become a distraction for your viewers.
4. Make a Plan
   Ideally your editing plan will be created in the pre-production process. While planning out the shots and footage needed to be captured in production, you should already be thinking about post-production. Consider exactly what shots will be needed to create the end result you want. Then consider how you will edit this footage together in order to create a well-flowing video project.
5. Use Effects Only When Needed
   When using any special effects in the video editing phase, make sure you do not over use them. While some visual effects will add to the overall effectiveness of your video, using too many could be distracting for the viewer and could lead to the end result looking amateurish. Before using the effects, ask yourself if they contribute to the overall project and are necessary in telling the story. If they aren’t, you might want to consider skipping them.
6. Pick The Right Music
   The music that is added during post production will have a big impact on the finished product. Music can affect the pacing and mood of the video project, ultimately affecting the final message. Ensure that you pick music to add in the video editing stage that will be the most effective for your project.