Tag: #video

  • The Value of Video Editing: Why Fair Compensation Matters

    The Value of Video Editing: Why Fair Compensation Matters

    Many clients who seek the services of video editors are not fully aware of the intricate processes involved in video editing. This lack of clarity often emboldens them to challenge the video editors they engage in attempts to get them to accept low pay for the comprehensive services provided.

    Unfortunately, some video producers in the industry offer low wages to video editors, promising higher pay once they secure more projects. However, this often leads to a situation where editors find themselves overwhelmed with work, leaving little time for their personal lives. While it’s true that increased editing hours can result in higher earnings, this can come at the cost of work-life balance.

    Given the potential negative impact on mental health caused by excessive workload, video editors should prioritize their well-being by setting fair rates for their services. Instead of undercutting their value, editors should establish a standard hourly rate that reflects the complexity of the project and the time required to complete it. By valuing their work and charging accordingly, editors can achieve a healthier work-life balance and enjoy their profession

    If editors adopt this approach, it could revolutionize the post-production sector. However, for such a transformation to occur, it’s essential that every professional video editor meticulously records and assesses the frequent obstacles encountered during the editing process. By doing so, they can accurately gauge the time invested in each client’s project.

    So What are the typical challenges faced by video editors during the creation, editing, and production stages of video content?

    File Download Time

    Video assets play a crucial role in the video editing process. However, the file size can significantly impact the workflow. Professional video editors should consider the time it takes to download large files from clients when estimating project timelines and setting rates.

    Why? because you pay internet service providers (ISPs) for internet access, which you use to download files. Since internet usage often involves costs, it’s reasonable to consider charging for large file downloads. Implementing a fee for files exceeding a certain size, such as 5GB, can help offset the costs associated with high-bandwidth usage, especially considering varying internet speeds across different regions

    Even when the download occurs in the background, it utilizes your electricity, computer, and paid internet service. In recognition of these resources, there should be a corresponding benefit provided by the client.

    It’s important to account for all costs, including those that may seem minor. If a client shares large video files, such as 20 or 100GB, and expects you to download and edit them, the time spent waiting for the download can be significant. Depending on your internet speed, this could take several hours. It’s reasonable to consider charging for this time, as it represents a valuable resource that could have been used for other tasks.

    System Upgrade

    Many video editors face challenges due to inadequate computer systems. Video editing performance is heavily influenced by factors such as disk space, disk type, graphics card, and RAM. While most computers can handle basic video editing, high-quality or complex projects require more powerful hardware. This can lead to increased editing times, which clients may not fully understand or appreciate.

    A video editor’s performance in terms of speed and efficiency is directly tied to the fees they command for their services. To deliver optimal results, a high-specification computer is essential. Should this not be feasible, upgrading certain hardware and software components becomes necessary to enhance processing speeds. However, consistently low service charges may render such improvements unattainable, thereby limiting the editor’s ability to work at their best.

    To improve their efficiency and well-being, video editors should consider adjusting their pricing to reflect the value of their services. Clients who understand the importance of efficiency and are willing to invest in quality will appreciate the premium pricing and support the editor’s efforts to provide exceptional work.

    Payment Frequency

    Prioritizing payment for your editor post-delivery is essential. The promptness of your payment upon work approval is significant. It’s important not to presume that the editor is in a stable financial situation, which would allow for delayed payment at your convenience.

    delivery can serve as a significant motivator. Should you entrust them with future projects, this timely remuneration may inspire heightened creativity in their approach to your assignments. Moreover, such prompt payment positions you favorably as a top-tier and preferred client in their considerations.

    Gaining the respect of an editor is crucial, especially when your livelihood hinges on content creation. The manner in which you value and honor the editor’s time will shape the nature of your collaboration. Furthermore, the editor’s benevolence is a significant factor in your path to success.

    Conclusion

    Video editors, like any creative professional, face unique challenges in delivering high-quality work. It’s essential for clients to recognize the value of their time and creativity. These qualities are crucial for crafting compelling visuals that effectively market products or services. By appreciating the efforts of video editors, clients can contribute to a sustainable and rewarding career for these skilled individuals.

    Seeking top-tier video editing services? Look no further. As a seasoned professional, I offer expert video editing solutions tailored to your specific needs. Working collaboratively with a talented team, I provide services to clients worldwide. To learn more about my work and explore my portfolio, please visit my company website here.

    Up until next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on all social media networks @cheptionymutai

  • 5 Ways to Positively Deal With Irritating, Slow & Unresponsive Clients

    If you are an organized freelancer, you know how disappointing a client who is slow to respond can be. They share their feedback after a very looooonnnng.. time. If you are a video producer, you will be tempted to think that they are experimenting with the video you produced for them first, before providing you with their feedback.

    Others will provide their feedback 3 weeks later and expect you to act on them ASAP. Such client behaviors will mess up with your priorities as you will need to shift your attention to their request first.

    And after you submit the corrections, the same client will go silent again and weeks later, they will respond with more request for changes. Honestly, such conduct is unfair.

    Over time, I have dealt with such clients and here are five ways to manage it without loosing your motivation.

    Set Your Rules

    Base the rules on your experience overtime. Rules will vary based on the job that you do. Apply them based on the conditions that your client sets. For example, you will not use the rule of delay when the client has clearly stated that they want their work completed within a set period of time. Unless, they surpass the deadline without any reason, you can then use them.

    Your penalty has to be reasonable. Something that your client is happy to accept. For example, I usually charge extra $50 if the client provides his/her feedback later than 7 days. This is unless the client explains in advance that there will be a delay in feedback. Client knowing that there is a penalty will speed up his/her review process.

    This works only after the client is happy with the first video review and wants some minor changes. Also, the period it takes the client to provide their first feedback review is a good indicator. Most freelancing sites automatically releases payment within 7-14 days. At the end, even if they take 30 days to respond, you will have the full payment with you.

    Only do this if your efforts are futile. The support team will message them and advise them to contact you. In most occasions, it works.

    Some clients do not delay intentionally. They may be dealing with a big team and thus delay. Tell them the effects of them delaying. For instance, if you are working with a voice over guy like I do, the working terms you have with them may not accommodate delays. e.g The V.O guy may give me a 2 days revision window period.

    And that is it from me today.

    If you need help to create professional screen-cast videos, let me know by requesting a free quote here.

    Until next time, bye bye and take care.

    Follow me on twitter @cheptionymutai