What Are the Three Types of Video Editing?

Video editing is the process of manipulating and rearranging video shots to create a new work. It is a crucial step in the post-production process that can make or break a video project.

There are three types of video editing that are commonly used in the industry: linear editing, non-linear editing, and vision mixing. In this article, we will take a closer look at each type and explore their benefits and drawbacks.

Linear Editing

Linear editing is the oldest form of video editing and was the only way to edit video until the 1990s when non-linear editing became widely available. Linear editing involves physically cutting and splicing pieces of film together to create a final product. This type of editing is time-consuming and requires precise planning before starting the project.

One advantage of linear editing is that it forces editors to think carefully about each shot before making any decisions. This can lead to a more deliberate and purposeful final product. However, it also means that mistakes cannot be easily corrected once the film has been cut.

Non-Linear Editing

Non-linear editing (NLE) revolutionized the industry by allowing editors to manipulate digital footage on their computers without destroying the original files. NLE software allows editors to cut, trim, rearrange, and add effects to their footage with ease. Popular NLE software includes Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and Avid Media Composer.

One advantage of NLE is its flexibility – clips can be moved around or deleted at any time without affecting other parts of the project. Additionally, most NLE software comes with built-in tools for color correction, audio mixing, and special effects.

Vision Mixing

Vision mixing (also known as live switching) is a type of video editing that happens in real-time during live events such as concerts or sports games. It involves switching between multiple camera feeds in real-time to create a seamless video feed for viewers.

One advantage of vision mixing is that it allows for a more dynamic viewing experience – different camera angles can be used to highlight different aspects of the event. However, it requires quick thinking and excellent coordination between the vision mixer and camera operators.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are three types of video editing: linear editing, non-linear editing, and vision mixing. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks depending on the project’s needs. Linear editing is the oldest type of editing but is time-consuming and inflexible.

Non-linear editing allows for greater flexibility but requires specialized software. Vision mixing is ideal for live events but requires quick thinking and coordination. As a video editor, it’s important to know which type of editing is best suited for each project.