Video Editing Classes NYC — 5 Q’s to Ask to Find Your Fit

 When selecting from the many video editing classes in NYC, there are some obvious questions to ask. These include cost, timing and duration of course, and what gear is provided. Still, if you’re truly interested in learning to be a successful video editor, there are a few more in-depth queries to pose. 

#1: What does your program mean by hands-on?

It’s a safe bet that every program offering you find will tout its “hands-on” or “experiential learning” opportunities. It’s your job to ask what that really means. Practical experience is key to your video editing success. Find out what equipment you will work with and how soon will you get actual hands-on time with that equipment.

#2: What are the faculty credentials and industry experience?

When looking into video editing classes in NYC, you’ll often encounter a ratio that takes you back to high school math. This one is illustrating the teacher to student ratio, and is meant to indicate how personalized the learning will be.

Consider also who you will be learning from. Ask:

• How were the instructors trained to teach students?
• What is their professional experience with video editing?
• Are the faculty going to help you make connections in the industry and find jobs?
• What kind of feedback can you expect?

#3: Who will I be working with in class?

You already know New York City is home to millions of different people with varied backgrounds. Whether you are taking a single class or several courses, you can bet you’re going to be collaborating with classmates. You’ll enjoy your learning experience more if you are grouped with students with similar levels of video editing knowledge and common goals.

If you can attend an introductory session or an admissions event, be sure to talk to those around you to find out what they want from the program. This can help you get a sense of how someone with your level of experience, motivation and commitment to the course will fit in.

#4: What kinds of projects are encouraged?

There are many different types of video to produce: storytelling, experimental, stop-motion, news, advertising, video installation art… If you’re looking to make music videos, but all of your course work is going to require you to edit and produce news features, you won’t be happy. Sure, all experience is good experience, but you want to enjoy your time learning to be a video editor.

#5: What will I have to show for myself when I complete these courses?

Unless you’re looking into these courses to get better at a hobby, you want to know what you get out of your investment of time, money and energy. Some courses make it possible for you to gain certifications after meeting certain course requirements. This can help you land a job in the field afterwards.

See 5 Ways to Build Experience for Video Production Jobs

Also consider the value of having a video portfolio when you’re finished with your classes. Find out what you will have, quite literally, to show potential clients or companies when you’re done. What breadth of skills are you looking to demonstrate? Will the courses you are looking at make that possible?

The art and technique of video editing requires an understanding of many different editing tools and software. An introduction to theory and the evolution of video production can also be a good foundation for a career in post-production.

Really, the final question to ask is: What do I want to accomplish by taking video editing classes? If you don’t have a solid answer to this question before you decide where to take your courses, you may have a more difficult time finding the right fit.

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