Editor

An editor has a very important role in the production of a full feature film. It is there job to edit and put together the footage that has been filmed for the production. the way the story is perceived and grabs the audiences attention is one of the main important objectives in film making. The film must flow throughout from beginning to end effortlessly, each shot of each scene is selected carefully and are them assembled together to create the finished film. Editors are also responsible for Assistant editors and trainee's when working on a big production. The editor will work closely with the director working on the daily rushes to adhere them into a whole. Editors will need to check the technical standards as well as the unfolding of the story and the performance of the actors because the scenes will not necessarily been editing in chronological order of the narrative. During the post production period at a point the director and the editor will work closely together to develop a directors cut of the film which must be approved by the producer until they reach the fine cut, editors are usually just supervisory role during this process.
To become an Editor you will usually start at the bottom and work your way up. Professionally Editors usually start off being runners then will become trainee editors and then work up to being an assistant editor, second then first, and then finally an editor. Editors will work long unsociable hours in the editing suite and cutting room and often be under pressure.
Editors require many skills, they must have a degree of technical ability and a wide range of experience with the post production process. They must also be able to use different types of editing programmes and equipment, also they should understand dramatic story telling to be able to edit the film successfully, focusing on rhythm, pace and tension. The main key skills and editor should have are:

• The ability to be creative whilst under pressure
• imagination and an understanding of narrative
• excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• developed sense of rhythm and timing in story telling
• ability to lead a team
• patience, attention to detail and good organisational skills

The skills above would definitely help to possess if you want to be a successful editor although you do not need any specific qualifications to become an editor.
Editors get work based on their reputation and experience therefore if word gets out or a film you have edited is successful you will tend to get more work compared to someone who hasn't edited a successful film or hasn't done a lot so therefore doesn't have much experience. To build up your reputation you need to gain experience and with experience you can improve your editing skills and techniques therefore helping you to get more work.