Any Editors (feature films) Here at DU?

[masmdu]

I'm interested in learning more about editing and would like to talk with people who do this for a living.

[FlashHarry]

1. I've edited plenty of TV commercials...

...not features, but we use the same equipment (Avid, Flame, etc.)

[masmdu]

2. Hi FH

Thanks for responding. Aren't FFs done on flat beds (KEMs)? Or has it all gone to digital for editing now?

[FlashHarry]

3. All digital these days

Although, I learned on flatbeds in college. White gloves. Splicing. The whole bit. The digital non-linear method is soooooo much better.

[masmdu]

4. So, what to study...?

Should I learn AVID FLAME ect? What else?

How likely is it that one can make a living at FF editing? Is the work constant enough?

[FlashHarry]

5. Features? I don't know.

I think you need to join the union, by the way. As far as commercial work goes, if you know your stuff, you can make a very good living at it. The best thing to do is to probably take a course in non-linear film editing. Pick up an issue of "Millimeter" or any other trade pub. You'll see ads for schools in the back.

[masmdu]

6. Thanks ...

Would you mind, if I have more questions at a later date, if I pick your brain (figuratively, of course)?

[FlashHarry]

7. Pick away...

Actually, I'm a producer, which means I hover over the editor and make him crazy, but I do know a thing or two about it.

[CanuckAmok]

9. I know some hardcore old-school editors who still snip 'n' stitch...

...but they're pretty much extinct. Preferences aside, most producers (apologies to FlashHarry) aren't willing to wait for the time linear editing takes. Everyone is too accustomed to the (relatively) lightning-fast digital processes.

[FlashHarry]

10. It's true. I'm a convert.

No apologies necessary (plus, when you're paying $700/hr, speed is nice.)

[CanuckAmok]

11. $700/hr?! Another reason to Film Canada! n/t

[FlashHarry]

12. Those are Minneapolis prices.

Actually, it depends. Flame is usually more expensive than Avid. Hell, I should just try to get my agency to spring for a Final Cut Pro workstation. It would pay for itself in a couple of weeks!

[CanuckAmok]

8. I have a PostProduction Audio Business.

Mobile ADR/foley studio. The guy who mixes for me is a FF editor--any specific questions I can forward to him on your behalf?

Audio post is mostly done on ProTools 24, which is a seamless transfer to Avid and most other editors.

By the way, you gotta go IATSE for this, which is pretty difficult without lots of experience. It's the ol' Union Membership Catch-22.