The Truth About TEST EDITS (bad for beginner freelance video editors?)

[@ColleenCavolo]

So where do you stand? Yay or Nay for Test Edits?

[@editsbyJammy]

I Yay with an ugly watermark on the test edit clip

[@alexanderbarron8987]

I think if you're going for a job with nothing equivalent in your portfolio it miiight be a good idea, but I'd limit the length of the test. No editing a full video they could steal even with a watermark. Recently did a test for a reels job only because I've never done reels and wanted the learning experience. Client said it takes his other editor 30-60 minutes each (not a huge time commitment) plus he sent a job that was already finished, so no worries he was taking the work for free (the finished video came with the media for reference). I'm going to watch the video now 😄

[@mementocokcafe]

I just went through this. I was asked to make a test video of a 30-minute video for a KZbin channel. In the end the guy thought my price was too high (around 25 dollars per video) and he got an entire edited video without paying anything. Watching your video now Colleen, I feel like I was exploited, because I lost around 7 hours of work for nothing

[@kristenenation]

That’s frustrating, and you’re right. If someone asks for a “test video” again, offer to make a paid KZbin Short instead. You should be paid for your work.

[@ColleenCavolo]

Wow, yes unfortunately you may have been exploited just so he could get some free work. It happens quite often and it’s a really sad reality of the industry right now. I will say it’s something a lot of freelancers go through and it’s a great way of reminding us to set these boundaries on future projects to protect ourselves.

[@ColleenCavolo]

I totally agree with this, it’s a great idea!

[@stephenadams6455]

Maybe use a water mark and if they like the edit you can charge them

[@ColleenCavolo]

I agree!

[@megangates7107]

Am I a video editor? No. Did I watch this entire video? Yes! I could listen to her explain anything. Well thought out and witty :)

[@james-zx8ly]

hey, Colleen , what is the best way to say not to a test Edit to the client ? so that they can understand [if they are genuine and understanding ] , i mean what are the points that can be said ?

[@ColleenCavolo]

In my opinion, there’s usually a specific reason why a client wants a test edit, and saying no to that could easily lead to them passing on you bc so many other editors will do the test edit. I guess if it were me, I would stay confident and polite, and say that unfortunately you do not offer test edits because (explain your reason as short as possible) you can find an example of my editing style at (insert time code) in my reel that closely resembles how I would edit your video, and I’m happy to provide references as well. You could also offer to start on a three week or three month trial so the client feels better feeling like they’re just “testing you out”

[@nathanisings_]

It's obviously impossible to set a global standard for not entertaining test edits for gigs, especially when those jobs tend to be on the lower end, but I think the biggest reason they shouldn't be standardized is because it completely dilutes the value of the job, even if you're paid a small amount for it (by your example, 50$). If you're charging 50-100/hour, but you've already given 1-2 days of your time for a test edit, your rate effectively got cut by a significant fraction. The client doesn't see it this way, but it just doesn't make any sense for a freelancer who sells their time directly. (those 1-2 days could've been used for more outreach, finding other gigs, business development etc.) Also, I've never been asked to do a test edit from my most reputable/highest paid clients, even the first time. But if you do face the problem of not having a huge/great portfolio, SPEC edits for jobs you may not have on your reel are a much better way to invest your free time, because that gives you a reusable asset that you can use to prove your worth for the jobs you really want.

[@sajidrasheed193]

test edit is a mess. don't try ever

[@piochuajr]

If you already have a portfolio and/or showreel, yes for 2 conditions: 1. Should be paid 2. Watermarked

[@piochuajr]

Also, some KZbinrs keep posting job openings and include a link to their latest uploaded video as a reference video for the editing style they want but never hires anyone! Every month or every time they have a new video, they are looking for a new editor! Scheming way of soliciting views!

[@ColleenCavolo]

Oh my GOSH do you think that’s all it’s for? Is for views?? That’s crazy! What a silly and scammy idea. I don’t trust anyone anymore lol people are wild

[@piochuajr]

@ColleenCavolo I think so. Either they kept replacing their editors or they aren't hiring at all. And its quite obvious since the reference video for the editing style in the job posting is always their latest video. 🥺 Anws, thanks for the tips and new supporter here! 🤗