Video Activist Network (VAN)
www.videoactivism.org
Also visit the Video Activist Network's more extensive Editing Tips
and the Editing Links on that same page.
Tips for Editing Your First Activist Video
Activists have known for a long time that we can't rely on the corporate media to tell our stories for us. If they cover our issues at all, they rarely do it accurately. To get our messages out the way we want we have to bypass the big guys and produce our own programs and publications' create our own media!,
In just the past three years, the tools for creating broadcast-quality video have gotten much cheaper, faster, and more powerful. Many low-budget artists and activists finally have access to the same tools that the big guys have. Most cities have a place to learn editing, whether it's the local cable access station or a community media center which increasingly offer non-linear (computer) editing. No matter what tools you're using, however, these tips should help as you set out to craft your first project.
1. Defining the Project
No matter how you are going to finish your video, you should always begin by thinking through some fundamental questions: "What do I want to communicate with this video?" "Who is my audience?" "What is the purpose of this video?" Perhaps you want to make a video about police brutality. You still need to ask yourself: do you want to make a 10 minute organizing video, a 90 minute documentary, or a 30 second Public Service Announcement (PSA)? Am I trying to educate, examine, or inspire? Any of these can be very effective, but if you have a clear idea of what you want to produce before you begin, you'll be much better able to make decisions along the way.
2. Keep it Short
The most common problem that beginning editors run into is that they can't bear to leave anything out. Especially with activist productions, when you are emotionally invested in the source material, and passionate about the issue. It's hard to leave out good shots, simplify complicated issues, and leave out interesting details. But that's what an editor does. To make your video interesting and to keep yourself sane, pick a shorter project the first time around. Five to seven minutes is a good length.
3. Tell a Story
Whether you are making a feature, documentary, or art piece, remember to tell a story that engages the viewer. Stories in the western tradition have beginnings, middles and endings. There is conflict and resolution. No matter how informative, artsy, or dramatic your footage is, it won't stand on its own. How well you organize that footage into an interesting narrative will determine whether your audience stays with you until the end or begins to yawn halfway through.
4. Don't Overdo the Special Effects
A good video can be ruined with too many effects. Use effects to reinforce your content and to make your cuts appear seamless. If they're overdone, or they're not done well, they can be distracting instead. A good rule of thumb is that if you can't easily explain why you're using an effect, you probably don't need it.
5. Be Creative!
Traditionally, documentarians string together their talking heads, and then put cut-aways (visuals) on top. This might be okay for a rough draft, but take some chances! Consider the rhythm of your piece. Pauses allow the audience to reflect on a powerful point or to enjoy a funny joke. You might want to take time out from your narrative to show your audience something in a different style that is funny or illuminating. Your most valuable footage won't be talking heads or cut-aways, but footage of events unfolding. Even in video, showing is better than telling.
Don't get discouraged if it goes slowly. It's easy to get bogged down in the editing room. When you do, show your piece to a friend and get some feedback. Take breaks, exercise, and get some fresh air. Good luck!
For guides to improving your video footage, editing, video distribution and more, visit www.videoactivism.org/resource.html.
Last updated on 25/FEB/04
Give feedback to:
Video Activist Network
PO Box 40130
San Francisco, CA 94140 USA
(415) 789-8484
info@videoactivism.org