The Harsh Reality Of Video Editing

Today's newsletter is a bit shorter, but no less important.

I recently came across an article in USA Today that ranked video editing as one of the Top 10 Most Stressful Jobs in the USA.

Can you guess where it landed? Number two.

Yes, it secured the second spot on a list that included other stressful professions like urologists, nurses, judges, retail worker supervisors, and various others.

While I acknowledge that there are more inherently stressful jobs out there (police, army, firefighters come to mind immediately), it brings up a crucial topic for discussion.

This job, which let's be honest, is a dream job, still comes with its fair share of stress, leading us to challenging situations and circumstances.

A freelance career lacks the security of a traditional job; you're constantly vying for the next opportunity or paycheque.

Most of the time, you're striving to be creative in situations where you're working with people who aren't creative, but have hired you for a job, only to sometimes hinder your progress.

You deal with deadlines, time constraints, rush rates, technical challenges, and the demand for creative expertise.

Constantly, you're proving your worth through your work, chasing payments, and waiting for clients to sign contracts.

There are people out there undervaluing and underpaying editors like you and me, diminishing the value of the work we do.

We're under more stress than ever to produce and edit content that emphasises retention and storytelling. We're tasked with creating compelling motion graphics sequences, often forced to do it for some clients.

But despite it all, I wouldn't choose any other career.

I wouldn't want to spend my hours doing anything other than telling stories, creating or designing graphics, and refining sound design and music to such detail that the audience might not even notice.

That feeling of hitting the perfect flow on an edit. Nailing a sound effect or cut on the first try. The satisfaction that no other creative work can provide.

The point of today's newsletter is this: while there might be more stressful occupations, we do have our fair share of stress and anxiety.

Don't let others tell you that what you do is easy or replaceable. What you bring to the creative table is unique and valuable.

Learn the skills to be the best you can be, and don't let anyone diminish your work or worth.

Keep doing what you love, and make sure to focus on yourself. Do things to support and aid your mental health. It's crucial in careers like ours.

And that's it for today. Nothing to teach, but an important reminder.

Until next time, happy editing!

Sam 👋🏻

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