editing and post production

Nonlinear editing (NLE)

A form of editing in which clips can be arranged, trimmed, moved, and rearranged on a timeline without following a fixed playback order.

Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe's nonlinear video editing software used to assemble, edit, and refine video projects.

Avid

A professional nonlinear editing system commonly used in broadcast and film production, including long-form projects.

Final Cut Pro

Apple's nonlinear video editing software for assembling and editing video projects.

DaVinci Resolve

Video editing software known for editing, color correction, and color grading, with a free version available.

Rough cut

An early version of an edited project that arranges the main footage into a basic sequence before detailed refinement.

Fine cut

A more refined edit in which timing, transitions, shot selection, and other details are adjusted after the rough cut.

Ingesting footage

The process of transferring or importing recorded media into a system for editing and organizing.

Footage logging

The process of reviewing and documenting recorded clips so that editors can identify and locate useful material.

Archiving

Storing media and project files for long-term preservation and possible future use.

Color correction

Adjusting footage to make colors and exposure appear consistent and accurate.

Color grading

Applying a deliberate visual color treatment to establish or enhance a particular look or atmosphere.

Audio mixing

Balancing dialogue, music, sound effects, and other audio elements so they work together appropriately.

Graphics and titles

Visual elements added during editing to identify people, provide information, establish branding, or enhance a production.

Captions

On-screen text representing spoken dialogue and, when appropriate, relevant non-speech audio information.

Final export

The process of rendering and saving the completed project into a format suitable for delivery or distribution.

Why organize footage before editing?

Organized files make it easier to locate clips, identify usable material, collaborate, and avoid wasting time searching through recordings.

Why is a rough cut created before final editing?

It establishes the basic story and sequence first, allowing the editor to refine the project before spending time on detailed finishing work.

Why should problems be fixed during production when possible?

Recording missing or poor-quality material while the crew is still available can provide more options than trying to compensate during editing.

Why should footage be backed up in multiple places?

Multiple backups reduce the risk of losing important media if one storage location or device fails.