My approach to organizing and managing large amounts of footage begins with creating a clean file structure with clear and easy to find folder names, including information pertinent to organizing the footage (date, time, scene, take). I log footage through clear labeling and add metadata information to the clips, such as keywords and notes. Within Premiere Pro, I use color coding to further organize footage by frame per second (fps) and resolution of the footage within each folder bin.

Additionally, I create and work with proxies for large amounts of footage to streamline the editing process. To prevent data loss, I back up footage through local and cloud-based solutions. I also utilize Frame.io to use as a remote access point for checking in with and collaborating with other stakeholders for feedback. This includes uploading project file backups, and making revised project changes.

How I ensure smooth transitions in my projects:

I utilize clean cuts based on the motion in the footage for seamless transitions and maintain continuity between shots. To help maintain smooth transitions between shots for audio, I use J-cuts and L-cuts. I utilize establishing shots to give scenes context. To set the pacing of the video, I use music to carry the narrative through the music’s tempo and rhythm which also may involve trimming the music piece all while ensuring the piece has a natural beginning and end. I implement keyframes (using ease in and ease out, accordingly) within the video and audio structure for smooth transitions.

How I maintain consistency style and tone project to project:

Developing a clearly defined style and tone consistently across multiple videos would involve having a set of standards that would align with the overall visual style, tone and language style of the video or series. Ideally, I’d include following predefined scripts, having visuals (graphics, intro/outro), consistent color grading (to ensure that each video has a similar visual flow), and having a music style that will carry the series and bring it all together in a consistent and cohesive way. And finally, to ensure consistency, I would want to ensure there’s a coordinated effort with other team members to maintain those established standards, but at the same time, be open to evolving the content to change with an audience’s interests.

How I handle feedback during the editing process:

I make it a priority to approach feedback and revisions with a positive attitude and mindset. I review feedback and revisions carefully and make sure I understand the clients or team members comments and concerns prior to making any changes to the edit. Once I’m confident of the changes that need to be made, I make sure to prioritize the most important and immediate changes first. If I need additional information or clarification I will reach out to the clients or team members (depending on how the procedures for contact are set up) and implement the changes. I take a version control approach to labeling each revision made in order to keep track of different iterations of a project.

This approach provides previous versions in the event that clients or team members prefer an earlier edit and provides a clear history of the changes that have been made during the editing process. I view each round of feedback and revisions as a learning tool to better understand the preferences of the clients or team members to provide improved results on future edits.

What I love about storytelling:

My inspiration and love for storytelling come from my desire to tell great stories that connect with people on an individual and emotional level. Crafting a meaningful narrative means finding the heart of a story and transforming the story’s visual and sound elements into a well-edited and engaging experience for the audience. Visual storytelling through film has provided a dynamic way to connect with the audience’s emotions and to explore the way we as people, emotionally perceive the world around us and through those shared emotional connections, bring us all together.