Do you want to start editing videos? Are you confused about what exactly you need to get started?
Knowing what equipment you need is an important part of becoming the best video editor you can be.
Read on for our guide to video editing equipment.
Choose the Right Computer
First, you’ll need a good computer to run your video editing software. Choose a computer with as much RAM as possible, and upgrade the computer’s memory as much as you can.
You should also ensure you have the best possible video and graphics processors for the computer that you choose. You’ll need a computer with multi-core processors, ideally at least four or more. Get as much storage as possible on your computer.
If you’re a Mac person, make sure you choose the best Mac computer for video editing. And, no matter what you buy, make sure you have as much of a warranty as you can on your computer, just in case something goes wrong.
You can use a laptop for your video editing. Video editing on a MacBook is possible with a computer with enough memory and RAM. However, it’s preferable to stick with a desktop computer when possible.
Always stick with the most current version of the operating system for your computer, and update your operating system whenever you can.
You may also want to invest in another monitor or two, so you can have multiple screens for editing. That way, you can have your footage on one screen and your sequences on another, for example.
You’ll also want to make sure that your screens are large enough, particularly if your primary screen is a laptop screen. Look for monitors that are at least 21 inches. That way, you’ll be able to see your footage in all its glory.
Get the Right Software
There are lots of different video editing software out there, and it can be hard to choose the right one. Adobe Premiere is the professional standard, and it comes as part of an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. Unfortunately, the costs tend to add up with the monthly charge.
Other video editing software you might want to consider include Final Cut and Avid Media Composer.
You’ll also want to make sure you have complementary software, other than your main editing software. Adobe After Effects is one ideal option for those who want to create their own graphics.
You may want tools specifically targeted to audio, such as Avid Pro Tools, Apple Logic X, or Adobe Audition. You can use photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop to add specific elements to your work.
Headphones, Headphones, Headphones
It may seem unnecessary, but you need a good pair of headphones to properly edit videos. The audio quality can make or break a video. So, make sure that you’re getting high-quality headphones to ensure that you’re hearing your audio accurately.
You’ll also want to get a good pair of speakers. Different audio channels can work differently on speakers versus on headphones, so you’ll want to be able to test them on both. Make sure you have stood for your speakers, too, to keep your speakers functioning properly.
Get the Extras
There are other things you’ll need when video editing. You’ll want to make sure that you have at least one external hard drive with at least a terabyte or two of memory.
Some editors also use a tablet for editing, but that’s a more advanced technique that you may want to wait on until you’re further on in your editing career.
If you’re looking for more professional equipment, color grading control surfaces to bring your video quality to the next level.
Having a USB microphone on hand can be useful, particularly if you have voiceovers in your work. You’ll be able to do last-minute re-records in case of an emergency.
Be Prepared For Emergencies
Have extra USB hubs and extension cords on hand so that everything that needs to be plugged in will be plugged in. Get surge protectors to protect your equipment from any possible power issues.
You’ll need to keep all wires taped down and organized to keep them safe and stop yourself from tripping all over them. Gaff tape is good for organizing your wires.
Ensure that you have a proper desk and chair setup, to avoid back problems and other health issues. Get blue light filters for your screens to keep your eyes healthy and ward off headaches, if you don’t already have blue light glasses.
Having the right type of keyboard and mouse for your needs will also help you stay comfortable while you get in the editing groove. You can even get a special video editing keyboard for your specific purposes.
If you plan to shoot your own footage as well as edit it, look into high-quality cameras to supplement your video editing needs.
You may want to think about the possibility of investing in a closed captioning service. Accessibility is important, and closed captioning ensures that everyone has equal access to your content.
Get the Right Video Editing Equipment Today
You should now know all about the video editing equipment you need to edit professional videos in no time.
So, start filling up your shopping cart with this equipment and start on your journey to create amazing content, no matter what your niche is.
Looking for more information about the wonderful world of video editing? Check out some of the other articles on this website today.
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