How to start editing new genres

Our careers often start with the first genre available

At this stage, you’re just happy to be editing! For me it was non-profit promos.

Eventually, though, you may decide you want more creative challenge. You may start a family and need better pay, or need to move and work somewhere different.

The thing is, changing genres can be a catch-22. You need samples to get new work, but you can’t get samples unless you get new work! So what do you do?

3 ways to get into new genres

Be willing to start from the ground up. It’s humbling to start at the bottom of the ladder again, especially if you’ve been editing for a long time. But if we swallow our pride, we can come on as an edit assist or second or third editor.

And remember, you’re not starting from nothing, because your experience will transfer. You’ll be able to pick up the ropes much faster than a new editor and you can proof your worth very quickly.

Build relationships and find someone who is willing to take a chance on you. Relationships are a huge part of a long-term career. All of my full-time jobs have been through friends.

People who know your experience and skill will be more willing to give you an opportunity to cut new things, because they’ve seen what you can do. You could also negotiate a slightly lower rate as incentive so there’s less risk for them.

Make it yourself. This can feel like the most intimidating because you’ll need to pick up a camera. But it’s also the most freeing! You can make anything you want, in whatever style you like.

You are also adding new skills, it shows initiative, and it gives you the opportunity to try something new.

My friend Kenny has been a fantastic documentary editor for the past 15 years. But recently he bought a camera and is going to start shooting his own film about a topic he’s passionate about.

Experience is the key

A cornerstone of your editing career is experience. Don’t limit yourself to only these 3 ways of getting it. Think outside of the box and look for ways to get that experience.

It can be a big leap, but taking initiative and building those relationships will go a long way.

Helpful Links

• SPONSOR: If you have ever wanted to tell better stories with your editing, I made this specifically for you

• Paul Rogers (Best Editing winner at the Oscars) called out post production’s unhealthy work style, and nailed it.

• Season 1 of the Ask An Editor podcast is out! 12 answers to frequent editor questions.

Thanks for reading!

Changing genres can be intimidating, but it’s absolutely doable. I hope these 3 ideas help.

Keep cutting,

– Jesse