Video content is one of the most popular marketing strategies today. According to a study, 88% of marketers reported that videos are a surefire way to get higher ROIs. However, creating videos isn't as easy as it seems. There is a process that turns raw videos into professional-quality content called editing. For this, you'll need video editing services.
Here's all that you need to know.
What do video editing services include?
Video editing companies offer a variety of services; however, no two provide the same offerings. When you get the services of a video editing company, you'll typically be getting the following:
- Removal of unwanted footage
- Format conversion
- Arrangement and merging of sequences
- Color correction
- Removal of background noise
- Special Effects and Enrichments
- Subtitling and text additions
- Sound effects
- Sound mixing
- Voice overs
- 2D and 3D effects
- Animations
- Background scoring
- Color correction
- Color grading
- Thumbnail correction
- Distortion removal
- Decluttering of footage
- Pixel correction
These services may or may not be included depending on the company. To make sure that you get your money's worth, determine what services you need before searching for a video editing service. This way, you'll find the right one that will cater to your every video editing requirement.
Take note that some video editing services specialize in one or two genres. These offer services that are more specific such as the following:
- Movie editing services
- Motion graphics services
- YouTube monitoring services
- Audio editing
- Home video cutting
- Drone video editing services
- Medical video editing services
- Many more
Types of videos they can edit
As mentioned earlier, services depend on which video editing company you go to. Generally, these companies will do professional editing for the following types of videos:
- Short films
- TV commercials
- Corporate presentations
- Event videos
- Educational videos
- Client testimonial videos
- Music videos
- Training videos
- TV shows
Alternatively, there are different types of video editing, and it pays to know what you're getting. Below is a list of the most common types of video editing:
- Linear editing - the process of selecting, editing, and arranging images and sounds in a fixed order.
- Non-linear video editing - also known as NLE, is the process of placing audio and video files on numerous tracks using any sequence.
- Standard cutting - the most basic cut in video editing. This is the move that's done intelligently and seamlessly between clips. The aim is to transition smoothly without any jarring at all.
- Bespoke editing - this is the type of video editing that conforms to the specifications of the client.
- Review for editing - the process of having the editors review a film that hasn't been viewed for a long time (those on DVDs or similar), then have them do simple editing on it.
- Theme-based editing - editing that is based on a holiday, location, or people. This is done by retaining clips that are related to the specified theme. It also includes reducing a long video to come up with a more manageable length (e.g., wedding, family event, etc.).
- Third-party editing - this type of video editing lets you shoot the film and leave all the editing to the video editors.
How much do video editing services cost?
Video editing is the process of refining and perfecting raw video footage. It entails the laborious task of polishing a choppy and rough recording of an event and turning it into a well-executed story that educates, engages, and informs.
While there are software you can use if you're into DIYing your video editing, nothing matches the skills of professionals. And this will cost you. Let's find out the costs if you decide to go to a video editing service.
Factors that affect video editing costs
Before we get into the actual costs, let's look at what dictates the price tags on video editing.
Length
The length of the original footage and the final video has a lot to do with its costs. Of course, a three-hour video will cost more than a three-minute one. In addition, finalizing a three-minute video from three-hour raw footage also needs consideration.
Be prepared to pay more for this work, as the video editor will have more to work on. They will also spend more time sorting through footage and finding those that need to be included. In summary, the longer the video footage that needs to be edited, the costlier.
Video Type
Video editing costs will depend on the outcome you want. How polished you want your video to come out or how many additional features you want to be added may also dictate the price. Furthermore, some instances will require more editing, which will add to the final cost of the service.
Old footage that needs more blemish removals or noise reduction will, of course, cost more. Also, videos that need to look impeccable, such as TV or online commercials, will be more expensive to edit.
Add-ons
Special effects, graphics, animation, and many other add-ons can also increase video editing costs. The more additional elements, the higher the total cost will be.
Other factors that add to the cost of video editing
The following as additional factors that add to your video editing costs:
- The equipment and software that the editor will use
- The number of people that will be involved in the post-production process
- Whether it is a rush job and needs to be the top priority
- The quality of the final video
Here are some costs to give you an idea of how video editing professionals and agencies charge:
- A typical media production company will charge
- $350-$400 for a three-minute, pre-shot video. This includes image and audio enhancements, plus basic 2-D graphics.
- $1,000 for a 30-minute, pre-shot video with the same inclusions as above.
- $1,500 for a 90-minute, pre-shot video with the same inclusions as above.
If you choose to find a freelance video editor, the costs may be less. Note that this will depend on the factors above AND the freelancer's skills, expertise, and experience. The list below will help you gauge the final costs:
Beginner
Basic editing services using software such as Adobe Premiere, Final Cut, or Pro: $20-$45 per hour
Intermediate/Advanced
Knows videography, cinematography, montage sequences, and animation beyond the fundamentals: $45-$100 per hour
Expert
Expert at all types of editing, understands project management, knows live action, whiteboard videos, and storyboarding: $60-$100 per hour.
How much does a 3-minute video cost?
There is no record of an editor's time to complete a certain video length. A rough estimate would be about 5 to 6 hours. For a 3-minute video to be used for a website, the cost will be around $50 to $500,000.
Again, the rates range differently depending on the video editing company. Another estimate we found is at $3,000 to $5000 on average per finished minute of video. Therefore, a 3-minute video will cost around $9,000 to $15,000.
How much does a 5-minute video cost?
The exact estimation of the 3-minute video costs can be true for 5-minute footage. Again, you need to factor in who's editing, the outcome you want, and many other considerations. Setting up a budget before finding a video editing service may be a good idea. This way, they can provide you with a ballpark estimate based on your requirements.
How long does it take to edit videos?
There are many variables to find an exact answer to this question. It will depend on the quantity and quality of the raw material, the type of editing you want, and the outcome you need, among many others.
Generally, it's safe to expect an average of 30 to 60 minutes of editing work for each finished minute of video content. The turnaround times will also vary, although you can expect a minimum of two business days before getting your first draft.
Freelance Video Editor vs Video Editing Services
Outsourcing your video editing tasks can be confusing, especially when weighing in costs. To help you make an informed decision, we listed the advantages and disadvantages of both options. Check them out below:
The Difference Between Freelance Video Editors vs Video Editing Services
Freelance video editors are mostly a one-man show. It's quite the opposite of a video editing service with a team that takes care of everything. These have dedicated editors and staff members to handle administrative concerns.
As a result, you will notice a considerable difference in the costs of both these channels. When speed is of utmost importance to you, an editing service may be your best bet. Only the best of the best freelancers can edit videos in the shortest time possible.
Let's look at the pros and cons of each:
Freelance Video Editors
Pros
- More affordable - they don't have high overhead expenses and staff to pay
- Flexible hours - can customize their time and schedule depending on your project
- Expertise - you can find one that has the exact knowledge you need
Cons
- Unreliable - most freelancers have multiple clients that can slow down the progress of your project
- Communication issues - coordinating with freelancers can be hard
Where to Find Freelance Video Editors
Should you decide on hiring a freelance video editor, here is a short list of the best websites to find one.
- Upwork
One of the most popular online job marketplaces, Upwork has a database with hundreds of freelance video editors. All you have to do is create a job posting, list the details and wait for the perfect candidate to find you.
- Fiverr
You can also browse through resumes and portfolios at Fiverr. The freelancers list their skills and price, making it easy for those on tight budgets.
- PeoplePerHour
Another online job marketplace, PeoplePerHour, has a massive database of freelancers. You can post a want ad or browse through profiles to find the right video editor for you.
- ProductionHub
While the above options can find you a variety of freelancer niches, ProductionHub is explicitly created for video and film production. Use its filters to find video editors working full time, per project basis, and even interns.
- Viedit
Just like ProductionHub, Viedit specializes in finding the right freelance video editor for you. It allows you to check a freelancer's portfolio to quickly check if their work fits your needs.
Video Editing Services
Pros:
- Faster turnaround times: they have people working on every aspect of your project
- Higher quality of work: these companies have several editors with varying skills, experience, and expertise
- Reliable: you won't worry about an editor abandoning your project for a higher-paying gig
Cons:
- Expensive: they have offices and staff to maintain, passing on the costs to you
- Less personalization: these companies have multiple clients, which means you'll have less of a personal connection
The 5 Best Video Editing Services
Below is a list of the best video editing services you can work with:
- Tasty Edits
With experienced editors, affordable plans, and top-quality work, Tasty Edits tops this list. They take price in their Video Order Management Application that lets you submit your videos for editing in a smooth and hassle-free workflow.
- webdew
Primarily a video production company, webdew has a team of graphic designers, motion graphic artists, and video editors. Founded in 2016, this company has over 1,000 explainer videos and 3,000 production minutes under its belt.
- Replayed.co
Specializing in complex video editing, Replayed.co is an excellent choice if you want videos that amaze. Their service is priced per video, so you won't have to pay monthly or subscription fees.
- FixThePhoto
From adding a soundtrack to creating an appealing color scheme, FixThePhoto is an excellent option. They offer a multitude of video editing services at affordable rates.
- Video Husky
If you've seen "talking heads" videos and want one for your business, Video Husky is the service you need. They specialize in this genre, along with many other video editing services.
Final Thoughts
Whether you go for a freelance video editor or a video editing service, this guide covers both. Hopefully, it helps you decide where to outsource your video editing needs.
