Edit a video

n faster n easier n better

As all great directors know, the real magic happens in the cutting room.

Record more than you need. It’s easier to delete extra footage than to get more after the fact.

Cut! Edit for clarity and length. When working with interviews, select the sound bites that best convey the speaker’s position. Just don’t edit to alter meaning or intent, or you won’t get many interviews in the future.

Don’t skip the credits. For added impact, use titles to introduce sections of your film. Cite any video or music used at the end, just like a works cited page for a research paper.

Give yourself plenty of time. Video editing is a slow process. It’s fun if you’re not rushed.

HOW WE CAN HELP

Use popular video editing software

like Adobe Premiere in the Terrapin Learning Commons.

Borrow recording equipment at the TLC Tech Desk on the 2nd floor of McKeldin Library. See what’s available at lib.umd.edu/tlc/equipment.

Borrow a 360° camera from the STEM Library: go.umd.edu/STEMequiptloans.