What is a freelance videographer/editor and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read
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As a freelance videographer/editor, you will plan, shoot, and edit video productions for various projects. The employer will determine the type of project you'll be working on. You'll ensure all video and sound meet quality standards. You'll create storyboards for narrative work. Also, you'll ensure timely execution and delivery of high-quality video productions. Furthermore, you'll be accountable for maintaining assigned video equipment and also ensure that you stay updated with the latest trends in video production.

The basic requirements for this job vary by employers. Employers seek candidates with a bachelor's degree in cinematography, film production, or a related discipline. They also require at least two years of related work experience. Key skills include communication, attention to detail, time management, and multitasking. You must be an expert in camera operation, lighting, and audio capture. You must be proficient in using relevant software. These professionals earn an average annual salary of $49,315. This ranges between $33,000 and $70,000.

ScoreFreelance Videographer/EditorUS Average
Salary
3.8

Avg. Salary $48,481

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level
5.5

Growth Rate 12%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity
4.1
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.25%

Asian 7.08%

Black or African American 6.61%

Hispanic or Latino 17.90%

Unknown 5.24%

White 62.92%

Gender

female 19.96%

male 80.04%

Age - 36
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 36
Stress Level
5.5

Stress level is manageable

7.1 - high

Complexity Level
9.0

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance
4.4

Work Life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

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Freelance Videographer/Editor career paths

Key steps to become a freelance videographer/editor

  1. Explore freelance videographer/editor education requirements

    Most common freelance videographer/editor degrees

    Bachelor's

    74.9 %

    Associate

    15.2 %

    Master's

    3.8 %
  2. Start to develop specific freelance videographer/editor skills

    Skills
    ascdesc
    Percentages
    ascdesc
    Training Videos38.36%
    Video Content5.61%
    Video Production4.33%
    Camera Operation3.68%
    Video Projects3.38%
  3. Complete relevant freelance videographer/editor training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New freelance videographer/editors learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a freelance videographer/editor based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real freelance videographer/editor resumes.
  4. Research freelance videographer/editor duties and responsibilities

    • Provide right-hand executive assistance to the editor-in-chief; manage all aspects of professional life.
    • Upload the video to YouTube and make some DVD copies for them to hand out to customers.
    • Experience in using DSLR cameras and HD video camcorders such as: Sony EX3, and Sony PMW 350K and others.
    • Edit and post the footage to the association's Facebook page.
  5. Prepare your freelance videographer/editor resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your freelance videographer/editor resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a freelance videographer/editor resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose From 10+ Customizable Freelance Videographer/Editor Resume templates

    Build a professional Freelance Videographer/Editor resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Freelance Videographer/Editor resume.
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    Freelance Videographer/Editor Resume
    Freelance Videographer/Editor Resume
  6. Apply for freelance videographer/editor jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for a freelance videographer/editor job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

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Average freelance videographer/editor salary

The average Freelance Videographer/Editor salary in the United States is $48,481 per year or $23 per hour. Freelance videographer/editor salaries range between $34,000 and $67,000 per year.

Average Freelance Videographer/Editor Salary
$48,481 Yearly
$23.31 hourly

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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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