A Step-by-Step Guide to a Full Video Edit

When it comes to the sequence of operations in video editing, it becomes a lot like solving an algebra equation—certain steps must precede others for optimal results. Here's a breakdown of the essential steps we follow at our Chicago video production company to achieve a polished final product: 

1. Importing Footage 

The camera crew put in a lot of hard work to film the project, but before we begin editing, that footage needs to be brought into the editing software (at Production Craft, we use Adobe Premiere Pro). This is also a good time to modify audio channels to avoid future complications. 

2. Setting Up Bins 

Organize footage and separate any B-roll into bins describing shots. Selecting the best takes early on ensures a smooth editing process down the line when it’s time to implement them. Organizing sequences, After Effects renders, graphics, music, and footage establishes a solid foundation. 

3. Creating Assembly Edits

Once the footage is organized, create the groundwork for the project by setting up an assembly edit. This involves laying out the basic structure of the video, noting where you might want to include graphics or specific b-roll.

One common type of A-roll is interview footage. Check out this montage of some of our favorite "talking heads."

4. A-Roll Editing 

Once a script has been approved by the client, our video editors begin putting together the primary footage and story structure. It’s also a good time to review audio and make changes to transitions and tone to ensure the story will flow smoothly. 

5. B-Roll Integration 

Now that we have an outline of the content of the edit, we can see where supplementary footage would be most useful—or even necessary—to flesh out the story. All those bins we meticulously created early on? It’s their time to shine! Seamlessly incorporating supplemental footage enhances the overall narrative. 

Here's a sample of the motion graphics effects we've created for various industries.

6. Graphics Incorporation 

Whether you’re creating a corporate video or a marketing video, adding text and motion graphics is a great way to enhance or elaborate on the content already in place. Enhancing visual appeal with text overlays and motion effects can significantly boost the video's engagement. 

7. Color Correction 

While our camera crews light each shot and film at the highest quality possible, it’s still important to incorporate time to touch-up the footage so the video looks its best. Color correction ensures consistency and enhances the visual aesthetics. 

8. Music and SFX Integration 

Time music to complement the pacing and add any required sound effects. This step is best saved towards the end when the length of the video won’t need too much adjusting. The music can enhance the mood and tone of the video and can inspire emotion from the viewer.

9. Client Review 

Now that a first draft is completed, it’s time to send it off to the client for feedback. Seeking feedback for revisions and adjustments is a crucial part of the editing process. 

10. Revisions 

Once client revisions are received, our video producers and editors work together to implement any changes requested. Since our video editing process is organized for efficiency, we’re able to include quick turnarounds on revisions in our video production services. 

11. Final Touches 

After incorporating client feedback, we add the final touches. This includes polishing up effects, colors, transitions and more, ensuring that the video meets the highest quality standards. 

In the dynamic world of video production, a well-structured editing process is key to delivering exceptional content. By following these steps, you can ensure that your video projects are completed efficiently and effectively, resulting in a polished final product that captivates audiences and achieves client business goals. 

By following this structured workflow, the Production Craft video production agency ensures that every project, big or small, is handled with the utmost professionalism and precision, delivering results that meet and exceed client expectations.

To see some of what our Chicago production company offers, view our demo reel below:

Production Craft, Inc. is a video production company based in Chicago, serving markets worldwide.

We are proud to be a Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certified by the State of Illinois Business Enterprise Program (BEP) and the National Women Business Owners Corporation (NWBOC).