i
ii
Hi,
This is a short sample of the book as such all the links are not fully
functional but these few pages and especially the table of contents
should give you a good idea of what the full book contains. With
nearly 600 links it is one of the most comprehensive resources for
those interested in pursuing a media career or expanding their
current one. If you would like access to a time limited copy of the
book to review please send a request with your name, job title and
email address to SwiftStudyGuides@gmail.com to receive a link to a
copy of the book.
Thanks,
JD Freedman
iii
“As someone who started from scratch at the age of 21 and has
since put in over 40 years of working successfully in the film
business. I think this book is an invaluable resource for anyone that
wants to make a living working in film and video. Whether they are
just getting started or for experienced people that want to find new
income streams."
Bob Gorelick, SOC
I’m impressed with how this book is packed with practical ideas of how
to get into and stay in the post-production business as an individual
artist/contractor. I like the inspirational style which makes one feel
he/she can really do it
Boris Yamnitsky, CEO Boris FX
I appreciate all the value instilled in this book. As a College Professor,
I appreciate what this book does in spades, which is to teach how to get
into the industry and sustain a career. Congratulations on such a
thorough, useful and timely book. Very impressive.
Dan Lowenthal
I have never read a book that so thoroughly covers everything you
would want to know about how to be successful in post production. It
would literally take YEARS to gather all this information that is now
presented in a very digestible form.
Don Packer
It's easy to read, well organized and covers all the bases, written by a
filmmaker who’s still in the trenches, so everything is current practice
and trade tested. I recommend it highly.
Thomas Burstyn
It's like getting 10 years of insider know how and connections. right on
my phone. The ultimate hack. Michel de Freitas Young Filmmaker
iv
Swift Study Guide #1
Make Money Editing Video
Introductory Video
v
Swift Study Guide #1
Make Money Editing Video
The Ultimate Hub for Creative Pros
By
JD Freedman
Published by BrandCom TV
vi
© 2024 Jon David Freedman
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior
written permission of the publisher.
First published in 2024 by Brandcom TV
ISBN: 979-8-9915905-0-1
For permissions and other inquiries,
contact SwiftStudyGuides@Gmail.com
www.SwiftStudyGuides.com
vii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introductory Video
Forward
1
Preface
3
How To Use This Guide
6
1 Overview of the Editing Market
8
Mainstream Media
8
Self-made Content
8
Client-based Editing
9
Location
9
Software considerations
13
2 Finding Your Niche
18
Benefits of Specializing
19
Identifying Interests/Strengths
20
Self-assessment exercises
20
Researching Promising Niches
20
Creating Opportunity
21
Become an expert
21
Social Media Expertise
23
Understanding Current Trends
24
Additional Resources
25
3 Demo Reel Considerations
28
Why a demo reel is crucial for jobs
28
The 8 Most Important Factors
28
1. Showcase Your Best Work
28
2. Highlight Editing Skills
29
3. Utilize Stock Footage
30
4. Titles and Graphics
30
5. Tailor to Your Audience
31
6. Keep It Updated
31
7. Contact Information
31
Additional Resources
32
viii
4 The Winning Formula
34
Research
35
Learn from the Best
35
Profile Title
37
Unique Value Proposition
38
Video Thumbnail
39
Job Success Score
40
Detailed Analysis
42
My Approach
44
Overview Hacks
44
Daily Job Feeds
46
Upwork Resources
48
On Commitment
51
5 Word of Warning
52
6 Writing a Job Proposal Letter
58
Quick Tip
58
Proposal components
59
1. Purpose
59
2. Client's Needs
59
3. Structuring Proposal
60
4. Highlighting Experience
60
5. Demonstrate Understanding
61
6. Client's Pain Points
61
7. Showcasing Your UVP
62
8. Keep It Concise
63
9. Your Approach
63
10. Proofreading
63
11. Following Up
64
12. Example Proposal Letter
64
Conclusion
65
Additional Resources
65
7 Building a Portfolio Website
68
Your Website's Purpose
68
Functionality
69
ix
Platform and Domain Name
70
Responsive Layout
71
Showcase Your Best Work
71
Calls to Action
72
Optimize for Search Engines
73
Wix Video App
75
Professional Templates
76
Robust Video Integration
76
Extensive Customization
76
SEO and Marketing Features
76
Creative Inspiration
77
Additional Resources
78
8 Writing the Perfect Resume
80
Highlight Relevant Skills
80
Showcase Accomplishments
80
Tailor Your Resume
81
Optimize Your Summary
81
Include Your Editing Portfolio
81
Professional Resume Services
82
Limited Experience Resume
84
Functional-Combination Resume
84
Highlight Your Relevant Skills
84
Showcase Accomplishments.
84
Resume Summary
84
Education and Certifications
85
Sample Functional Resume
86
Sample Combination Resume
87
Additional Resources
89
9 Networking for Video Editors
92
Fundraising Videos
93
Equity Compensation
93
Networking 101
94
Networking Goals
94
Research and Prepare
94
Showcase Your Expertise
95
x
Leverage Online Platforms
95
Meaningful Connections
96
Mentors/Collaborators
97
Identify Potential Mentors
97
Observe and Assess Fit
98
Ask for Advice/Guidance
98
Leverage Connections
98
Send a Thank You
98
Follow-Up Meeting
99
Share Relevant Updates
99
Engage with Their Content
99
Ask Thoughtful Questions
100
Summary
100
Additional Resources
100
10 Pricing Your Services
102
Pricing Your Services
94
Understand going rates
95
Factors to Consider
95
Creative Pricing Strategies
96
Wise Insights
97
Determine Minimum Rate
97
Highlight Your Expertise
98
Focus on Value
98
Use Anchoring and Framing
98
Be Willing to Negotiate
99
Determining Editing Rates
99
Tips for Billing and Estimating
99
Additional Resources
100
11 Editing Courses and Resources
102
Recommended Resources
102
Online Platforms
103
Software Specific Resources
104
YouTube Instructors
107
Resource Lists
108
Online Communities
108