Editing is one of the most essential parts of filmmaking. It is the process in which the raw footage acquired after shooting is pieced together into what will be your final film.
Although many advances have been made in film editing technology, its basic principles remain the same. These books, while not very software-specific, share timeless information with editing principles that could be applied across different software and methods.
You are reading: Books on video editing
I think this is more important when studying film editing, as it’s not about how many flashy effects you can do and how much you know about computer software. editing, while generally relying on technical equipment and software to get the job done, is mostly based on basic artistic principles such as movement, composition, rhythm, and timing.
In this article, you’ll find a list of some of the most useful and recommended books on the art and techniques of film editing, as well as some first-hand experiences from editors in the industry. We’ve also included some software-specific movie editing books, if you want to study the specific workflows of a certain software or medium.
the art, theory and techniques of film editing
The books in this section primarily cover the techniques and artistic principles that an editor uses in their work. These books also contain a bit of theory and history behind the art of editing, how it has evolved over the years, with different trends and technologies emerging, and how they have resulted in different editing styles that could influence storytelling. a movie and in the audiences. answers.
in the blink of an eye: a perspective on the cinematographic montage of walter murch
In the Blink of an Eye is essay format by acclaimed film and sound editor Walter Murch, who has worked since the 1970s on such films as Apocalypse Now (1979), Ghost (1990), The Godfather: Part iii (1990), and the English patient (1999).
Having worked in both mediums, the book also contains valuable insights into working with physical celluloid film and digital video editing. he speaks of concerns both in the aesthetics and in the practicality of different techniques.
With the book written in essay form, with accessible language, you won’t be drowned in technical jargon, but instead find the artistic principles behind film editing that you could apply in your own practice.
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art of the cut: conversations with film and television editors by steve hullfish
art of the cut by steve hullfish provides a good insight into what editing looks like on different platforms, and what principles and techniques film and television editors use.
This book contains insights and advice from more than 50 publishers working in the industry, including more than a dozen Best Editing Oscar winners and many other Oscar and Emmy nominees. some of the editors interviewed were margaret sixel (mad max: fury road), tom cross (whiplash, la la land) and joe walker (12 years a slave, sicario).
the book you can buy on amazon covers over a hundred hours of interviews, but hullfish managed to organize all the relevant topics, including a glossary of film and editing terminology for the reader to easily read, learn and use. as usual reference.
Cut Rhythms: Intuitive Movie Editing by Karen Pearlman
cutting rhythms by karen pearlman analyzes and focuses on one of the most important parts of film editing, which is rhythm. This book shows the reader how to develop a sense of rhythm that she could apply to film editing to effectively interact with the audience and hold their attention.
The book talks about developing your own creative process and allowing yourself to make creative decisions based on how specific cuts and edits “feel” to you and how that might enhance the storytelling of the film. Although this topic seems a bit abstract, the author does his best to explain the process in concrete terms, breaking down the concepts into how rhythm is perceived, learned, practiced and applied. you can consult it here.
on film editing: an introduction to the art of film construction by edward dmytryk
On Film Editing is often considered a classic book on film editing. it was first published in 1984, and yet it continues to sell and appear in book recommendations to this day. this book is on this list for precisely that reason.
Edward Dmytryk was a film editor during the 1930s and eventually moved on to directing until the late 1970s. Due to this, he has gained a lot of experience in the film industry and has witnessed the different trends and techniques used by filmmakers over the decades.
This book is a favorite of many due to its readability and the wealth of information it contains on its pages. Not only is it full of technical definitions, it contains practical advice and a good look at effective practices in editing and the entire film-building process. Amazon is the best place to get it.
film and video editing theory: how editing creates meaning by michael frierson
This book, as the title suggests, focuses on the different theories and techniques developed over the years that are applied to the practice of film and video editing, and how they are manipulated to create meaning and enhance storytelling.
although theory is heavy, the author manages to convey these topics in an easy to read and digestible way, covering theories and editing techniques from leading editors and academics such as herbert zettl, sergei eisenstein, noël burch, walter murch and edward dmytryk.
This book, which you can get on amazon, is recommended for editors or film enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of film construction and criticism, and be able to recognize different techniques used to elicit different audience reactions or film techniques. narration. which they may choose to apply to their own filmmaking or editing practice.
film editing technique by karel reisz and gavin millar
This book by Karel Reisz and Gavin Millar is another classic of movie editing books, first published in the 1960s.
Movie Editing Technique is a good reference for beginning or novice editors, or even professional editors who want an easy editing reference on hand. The book explores different editing techniques and styles, from narrative to documentary, from soft to jarring, as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
This book, now in its second edition, was published in 2009 and is billed as an updated version of the beloved first edition. however, the second edition appears to have retained some of its language, as some outdated terms were noted by some readers.
However, this does not detract from its technical and informative merit. some technologies mentioned may have been removed, but it’s a good look at how things used to be, and the principles and techniques in pacing and storytelling are still very applicable and relevant today.
movie editing: great cuts every filmmaker and movie lover should know by gael chandler
This book could be classified as a good coffee table book for movie editing enthusiasts. It is richly illustrated and filled with over six hundred colorful images from popular movies that many audiences are already familiar with.
The book shows the different cuts and techniques commonly used by film editors, as well as the different examples where we were able to see these specific techniques in action. is a good book for visual learners as it contains many images and illustrations. buy it here on amazon.
is a good introduction to the art and hard work that goes into every movie we see. also works well as a quick reference guide, identifying the different techniques used with some notes on how they are used to enhance the narrative and construction of the film.
film and video editing technique: history, theory and practice by ken dancyger
This giant book is one of my favorites on this list, it aims to cover everything a beginner needs to know about film and video editing. its coverage of a wide variety of editing-related topics makes it a good resource for film students and teachers in their film and editing classes.
This book not only teaches the reader how to edit, the techniques and tricks that can be used in practice, but also puts into context every action and creative decision a film editor might take while working on a film. the reader will learn about the history of cinema and publishing, as well as its evolution over the years.
It also covers different editing techniques for different genres or forms of film, such as traditional narratives, documentaries, or experimental films.
Now in its sixth edition, this latest version contains examples of more recent movies that many readers may have already seen and could relate to, making it easier to drive home the writer’s points.
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The author, Ken Dancyger, is a professor of film and television at New York University and has written several books on filmmaking, screenwriting, and editing. he also conducts regular workshops on script writing and editing.
If you want to get just one of the books on this list, I recommend you buy this one. here is a link to amazon where you can buy it.
cut by cut: editing your film or video by gael chandler
Cut by Cut focuses deeply on the practical and technical process of editing. follows the entire post-production process, from completing the shoot, to transferring the footage to the editor and post-production team, through editing and sound design, to releasing the film or video onto whatever platform the filmmakers wish to use .
The book shows the different techniques that can be used in filmmaking, from the different types of cuts to the different approaches an editor can use when working on different types of films, such as comedies, documentaries, dramas, videos musicals etc
The author focuses more on digital publishing, especially for more modern forms other than filmmaking, such as editing for youtube and other online media. This book is a useful guide for filmmakers and digital editors, especially those just beginning to explore editing.
the invisible cut: how editors make movie magic by bobbie o’steen
this book is divided into two parts, the first part is a discussion of the different techniques that professional hollywood editors use in the movies we usually see on the big screen, and the second part shows different examples in which use the techniques discussed. in different movies through the years. you can buy it here on amazon.
Most Hollywood or conventional narrative films use “invisible” editing, which stitches the shots together seamlessly, so the audience is more interested in the story of the film and doesn’t pay much attention to editing, that it is not better not to draw attention to yourself. this maximizes the strength of the narrative, which is what mainstream movies generally aim to do.
the invisible cut is written by a veteran of the film industry. bobbie o’steen grew up exposed to film and editing through her father, who was an editor, and eventually grew up to become a screenwriter and editor herself. Due to her first-hand experience, the book is not filled with jargon that is difficult to understand, but rather is written in accessible language, while sharing deep insights into the practice of editing and the film industry itself.
grammar edition of christopher j. bowen and roy thompson
The book talks about film editing as if it were a language, hence the clever title, and it is, in a way. Authors Bowen and Thompson discuss the techniques used in film editing and how they combine to give structure and rhythm to the final film.
explains the different editing techniques and the reasoning behind each editor’s creative decisions. The book shows a good overview of the entire post-production process. not only does it explain cuts and pacing, but it also discusses color grading and sound editing, which could help aspiring editors complete their movies.
the art of the cut: editing concepts every filmmaker should know by greg keast
the art of cutting is a good introduction to film editing, its different concepts, techniques and the different types of cuts that an editor keeps in his arsenal.
Although it contains a wide variety of topics and concepts, this book is not very instructive and should not be expected to be a comprehensive and detailed guide to actual editing practice. it is more of a reference book, dictionary or glossary of different publishing terms.
Could be a good way to introduce editing concepts to beginners or film enthusiasts, or as a source of inspiration for practicing editors, helping them try different techniques on their projects. you can buy the book on amazon.
montage by jacques aumont
This book is for the more academic editors or film enthusiasts. is not an instructional guide to editing, but rather an essay exploring the various editing styles and theories developed and practiced by leading editors and film scholars.
aumont studies the techniques of editors and filmmakers who pioneered different cinematic movements and editing styles throughout the history of cinema, from the use of celluloid film to digital video. some editors and filmmakers studied are sergei eisenstein, jia zhangke, abbas kiarostami, andré bazin, jean-luc godard and pier paolo pasolini.
digital video editing: the complete creative and technical guide by robert m. goodman and patrick mcgrath
For anyone who wants to get started in the real world of digital video editing, this book is a good starting point. provides a basic exploration of different video editing programs and how to use them, without being too software specific. Complete beginners can learn from this book with ease, and experienced editors can use it as a quick reference. It is available to purchase here.
The authors review and explain the commonly used features and elements an editor needs, such as making cuts, titles, editing sound, organizing projects and files, keys, mattes, layers, effects, digital video formats, and more. provides guidance on how to create a post-production workflow that helps with editing quality and efficiency.
montage and montage in international film and video: theory and technique of luis fernando morales morante
This book effectively combines the theory, history, and practice of film editing and editing from around the world. introduces the different filmmaking and editing movements around the world over the years, and explains why such patterns have emerged in the art of filmmaking.
The topics covered in this book could be very useful for editors who want to expand their creativity and explore other editing methods and styles than conventional storytelling, the invisible editing we often see in movies. hopefully this could also help readers appreciate the different types of editing used in different cultures in different forms of media, such as movies, television, documentaries, music videos, commercials, etc., and how these they could be effective in telling stories. .
To help readers put their theories and learnings into practice, the book also contains self-study exercises.
documentary editing: principles & jacob bricca practice as
Frankly speaking, documentaries are often easily overlooked by most audiences, as most of us gravitate towards dramatic narratives and retelling when choosing movies to watch. however, documentaries also deal with stories and narratives, although the form is a bit different.
This book delves into the specifics and unique aspects of documentary film editing, which might be a bit different from traditional narrative editing. the author makes sure to help not only with the different types of cuts and techniques that could be used, but also with structuring the documentaries in a way that they can capture the audience’s attention and tell the story that the filmmaker or documentary subject needs . count.
It is easy to read and also shares experiences from documentarians and editors, who often need to travel long distances and talk to all kinds of people to capture and present the compelling stories we see in the final product.
twilight for the gods: the art and history of film editing by jack tucker
This book effectively explores and conveys the rich history and film editing technique that has developed over the years. looks at how much editing has changed and what art forms have influenced it, as well as its role in different film movements throughout history around the world. the book also focuses on how film editing shapes a film’s story, and how much it contributes to and affects the final film.
is filled with different movie examples to further emphasize the writer’s point of view. It also contains practical tips on editing etiquette, how to interact with the director and crew members, and some industry anecdotes, which are useful information if one wishes to pursue a career in editing.
experiences and points of view of film editors
The books in this section may not be as technical or particular as the previous section, but these books, written by publishing veterans and professionals, provide insight into their creative processes and practices, as well as as some anecdotes and ideas about what it is like to work as an editor in the film industry.
Many of these books still provide editing tips and techniques, but they also offer a unique perspective on the world of editing and filmmaking that might be helpful if you want to pursue editing as a career.
a long time ago, in a cutting room far, far away: my fifty years editing hollywood hits: star wars, carrie, ferris bueller’s day off, mission: impossible and more by paul hirsch
The title says it all-this book is a career memoir of sorts, with film editor Paul Hirsch detailing his fifty-year editing career in Hollywood. In this book, he breaks down his editing career movie by movie, explaining his creative process per film, and showing how he arrived at the different editing decisions he has made depending on the circumstances of his work.
This book is perfect for film and editing enthusiasts who want a more personal look at the different editing techniques and styles Hirsch has used throughout his career and the film industry in general. it’s less technical and instructive, but definitely contains a lot of relevant information for editors and creatives.
Paul Hirsch is one of the best known editors in Hollywood, and his portfolio and work definitely back it up. he has worked in many successful and well-known movies; the movies in the title itself have probably already stirred up something familiar.
the conversations: walter murch and the art of film editing by michael ondaatje
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This book offers a unique perspective as it recounts conversations and interviews between film editor Walter Murch and writer Michael Ondaatje. These conversations occurred mainly during the process of making the film adaptation of Ondaatje’s novel The English Patient, which Murch edited.
The resulting book is interesting and covers not only the technical and creative aspects of editing, but also the principles of storytelling in general. he painted the similarities and differences of storytelling in different media, with filmmaking, editing, and writing as major themes.
here is a link to amazon where you can buy this delightfully entertaining book.
He also gives insight into how movies are made and references the work of other prominent filmmakers and editors, including Francis Ford Coppola, George Lucas, Fred Zinneman, and Anthony Minghella, of whom he speaks.
when the shoot ends… the cut begins: a film editor’s story by ralph rosenblum and robert karen
This book is a first-hand account of the editor’s technical and creative processes once post-production begins. the examples used are usually from the 1960s and 1970s, when celluloid film was still in use, so they may look a bit dated. however, the principles of pacing and what makes a good cut remain relevant to modern editing technologies commonly used today.
ralph rosenblum is a film editor who worked on six films for woody allen, the pawnbroker, the producers and goodbye, columbus. The book focuses heavily on Annie Hall, but also discusses other works by Rosenblum.
Together with journalist Robert Karen, they have produced an entertaining, accessible, informative, and insightful book on film editing, post-production, and the industry in general.
dream fixer: adventures in film editing by jim clark
This book is a fairly entertaining account of Jim Clark’s publishing career, which spans decades, from the 1950s to the present.
Of course, the book details his creative and technical processes, and shows how his techniques were applied from film to digital, but the main takeaway for readers is his colorful account of life in the film industry. The accounts of her professional life intertwine beautifully with accounts of her personal life, showing how the two interacted and clashed at times.
Readers also noted the book’s “gossip” tone at times, as Clark divulges industry happenings and secrets. This book is not a strict how-to book, but it does offer first-hand insight into the ups and downs of working in the film industry.
cut to the chase: forty-five years editing america’s favorite movies by sam o’steen
This book chronicles the life and career of film editor Sam O’steen, who worked as a film editor from the 1960s until his death in 2000. Some of his notable films include The Graduate (1967), rosemary’s baby (1968). ), and silkwood (1983).
Having worked primarily for Hollywood films, this book contains great insight into what editing techniques and processes work for the conventional studio system. is a good mix of techniques and personal anecdotes about working as an editor in Hollywood, making it an informative yet entertaining read.
The book was written through interviews of Sam by his wife Bobbie, who also works in film, making sure his ideas and views are presented and printed in the right context. Sam O’steen passed away shortly after this book was published.
the making of a motion picture editor by thomas a ohanian
This book, although not written by a film editor, offers insight into the creative processes and experiences of editors in the film industry.
For the book, Thomas Ohanian interviewed several award-winning film editors over the years, spanning 551 films, 360 Academy Awards, and 785 nominations. Due to the scope of this work, this book contains a great deal of information on filmmaking and film editing.
This also means that this book covers a diverse range of opinions and creative processes, from editing musicals, to traditional narratives, dramas, science fiction, comedies, documentaries, etc. it’s a good way to compare and contrast different editing methods and which practices are best for specific themes and genres.
This book could be very useful for filmmakers, editors, and film enthusiasts who want to explore different genres and approaches to editing and storytelling through film. there is definitely something here for you.
software/media specific edition books
Compared to the books discussed in the previous sections, these books are less concerned with the artistic principles and theory behind using editing to tell stories, and more about the modern software used in film editing. currently.
We’ve included books on four of the most common editing software used by hobbyists and professionals alike, and how to maximize the tools and features included in each program to help editors with any project they may have. these are good books to get if you’ve already decided on a software to use, or want to settle on one.
avid editing: a guide for beginners and intermediate users
avid is one of the most widely used editing software in professional film environments, and this book offers holistic instruction for the avid user. In addition to covering the technical side of the software, the book also discusses the creative principles essential to film editing.
This book provides an easy-to-follow editing workflow to maximize what the software can do. Teaches all of the most commonly used avid features, including trimming, audio, effects, titles, correction color, customization, input and output. Book purchase also includes an online electronic resource of professionally shot clips for editing practice, and this sixth edition is updated for HD, UHD, 2K, and 4K editing workflows.
adobe premiere pro cc classroom in a book
adobe premiere pro is another very popular editing software, which comes with the adobe creative suite, allowing easy use and adaptation of assets between the different programs it contains.
adobe premiere pro could be quite overwhelming, especially for the beginning editor, but this book aims to break down all the features and tools available in the program to help readers create a workflow and maximize the tools it offers the program.
This book is highly recommended for students and beginners who want to use Adobe Premiere Pro in their editing practice, either as a hobby or professional work. It contains clear explanations and practical exercises for readers to learn more easily. the print editions of the book also contain a dvd with footage and other project files that could be used for practice.
final cut pro x 10.4 – how it works: a different kind of manual – the visual approach
This instructional book by edgar rothermich is a favorite among final cut pro x users, with readers raving about the details and usefulness of this book as a reference guide in using the software.
This book is very detailed and covers all the features and tools of the program, with tips for creating an easy and efficient workflow for editors. also contains many illustrations, which is ideal for visual learners and for learning the visual landscape of this program.
The amount of detail this book covers means it’s not a quick read, but it guarantees that whatever you’re looking for in regards to the program, you’ll find it here.
davinci resolve 16 beginners guide: learn editing, color, audio & effects
This book is an official blackmagic design training and certification book from the makers of the program designed for beginning users. davinci resolve is fairly new on the market, but it offers a wide variety of features, from editing to color correction, audio post-production and visual effects, making it easily popular.
This book provides tutorials and instructions on how to navigate the program’s interface and how to use the various features the program offers to maximize the potential of your project. it’s extremely detailed and spans over 400 pages, ensuring proper explanations, exercises, and tips and tricks to polish your finished project.
conclusion
Editing is a very important part of filmmaking. It has evolved so much over the years, with the emergence of different techniques and theories, that it is not surprising that so many books have been written about it. this list is just a fraction of everything there is to know about editing, but we think it’s a good place to start. choose a book, sit back and enjoy reading!
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