Is 30 Too Old to Learn Video Editing?

If you’re wondering whether you might be too old to start learning video editing, there’s no need to worry. It is possible to learn video editing at almost any age, and it’s actually very common for people to start learning it in their thirties. Video editing is an in-demand skill that can lead to a variety of different job options. Keep reading for more information about how long it takes to learn this skill and some tips about how to make the learning process easier.

Why Learn Video Editing at 30?

When you learn video editing, you’ll be gaining an in-demand skill that is needed in many different industries. Video content has become a common part of websites, social media, and other digital platforms. It is also becoming more common in many other types of content, like educational material and even business presentations. Researchers have found that video is engaging, memorable, and versatile and that using it is a great way to attract and retain the attention of viewers. Because video has become an integral part of so many different types of content, learning video editing can give you options in a wide range of different industries. 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a federal agency that compiles information about the U.S. job market, finds that film and video editing jobs in the country are likely to grow at a higher-than-average rate between 2022 and 2032. It explains that a major reason for this growth will be a result of a continual demand from consumers for more entertainment content. In particular, it says, “The number of online-only platforms, such as streaming services, is likely to increase, along with the number of shows produced for these platforms. This growth may lead to more work for film and video editors.” According to BLS, the median pay for Film and Video Editors is about $60,000 per year, which is higher than the national average salary. 

Not only can learning video editing lead to a wide range of different job options, but many people also find that video editing is a fulfilling and rewarding activity. Every video edit is unique and involves a creative process of figuring out how to arrange all of the elements involved. Jenni McCormick, executive director of the American Cinema Editors, an honorary society of film editors. In a July 5, 2021 LA Times article she is quoted as saying, “It is like a puzzle, putting a story together based on what footage you have.” 

How Long Will It Take to Learn Video Editing?

Learning video editing involves mastering all of the different tools of an editing application. In addition, you’ll need to be able to understand and apply a wide range of different principles and techniques. In a May 20, 2023, Industry Corner Spotlight on the Alison blog, editor Bradley Pather stresses the importance of mastering both technical skills and editing principles. He says, “Video editing is not just about putting together different shots or scenes; it’s about telling a story, conveying a message, or evoking emotions through visuals and audio. While technical skills are crucial in video editing, storytelling is what separates an excellent video editor from an average one.” Learning all of this is likely to take time and practice. Most people can expect to learn some basics within a few months, and should know enough to work on simple editing projects. Most experts say that you’ll probably become fairly comfortable with the editing process within about six months. Mastering video editing at a professional level is likely to take a year or more. If you already have some video editing skills or if you know how to use an editing application, you’re likely to learn more quickly. Enrolling in a live, paid class can also help you learn faster. Learning full-time will be quicker than learning part-time.

Ways to Make Learning Video Editing Easier and Quicker

While some people do successfully learn video editing on their own, many end up opting for a live, paid video editing class where they can follow a structured program and learn under the guidance of an expert. An expert instructor can personalize instruction to meet your needs, offer help and answer questions when needed, and provide feedback on your progress. With regular interaction and feedback, you can continually improve your skills and learn from both your mistakes and successes. Most instructors will have already spent many hours editing videos and can also offer valuable tips and tricks, in addition to industry insight and common mistakes to avoid.

Another benefit of a live class is that you’ll learn as part of a group. This can enhance the learning process and it can also lead to valuable networking opportunities. In addition, it will give you experience working with other people. Since video editing is often a collaborative process, that group experience can be extremely valuable. 

Finally, when you take a class you’ll have access to all of the resources that you’ll need in order to learn video editing. This includes the latest software and computer technology, and it also includes video footage that you can use to practice your editing skills. Not only can this benefit you financially because you won’t have to pay for everything yourself, but it’s also a great way to be sure that you are using the latest technology. Video editing techniques and tools change often. By taking a class that’s taught by an industry professional, you can be confident that you are learning the latest tools and techniques.

Some video editing classes come in both full-time and part-time options. With a full-time class, you can focus all of your attention on learning and complete your training as quickly as possible. However, if you have a busy schedule or other obligations, then a part-time program can be a good alternative because it allows you to learn at the same time as holding a job or meeting other obligations. In addition, with a part-time class, you’ll have more time to absorb all the new information you’re gaining, practice your editing skills, and develop a portfolio of projects. You can also spread out the cost of your education over a longer period of time. Further, when you learn part-time you may also have more time to accrue relevant work experience.

Learn Video Editing with Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop is a New York City-based school that offers a number of video editing classes, either in-person or in a live online format. It has both short classes that can help you quickly master the basics, and longer, more comprehensive courses that can help you develop the skills you’ll need to edit video in a professional setting. Noble Desktop is licensed by the New York State Education Department.

One of its most popular video editing courses is the Video Editing Certificate. This program is designed for students interested in gaining a wide range of video editing skills. You’ll learn the workflow required to take a project from concept to fully edited video. Covered skills include video editing, audio editing, motion graphics, and animation. You’ll learn to work with Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Audition. This is a hands-on class where you work on a variety of projects. In addition, you’ll complete a portfolio development unit, where you’ll build a demo reel that you can use to demonstrate your new skills to potential employers and clients. This class comes with five one-on-one mentoring sessions, and the option of a free course retake within a year.

Another certificate option is the Motion Graphic Certificate. In this course, you’ll learn to use Adobe After Effects to create motion graphics and visual effects, and Cinema 4D Lite for 3D animations. You’ll also learn to edit video, and add music and voiceover with Premiere Pro. In addition, you’ll work on a demo reel that showcases your skills. The course includes five one-on-one mentoring sessions. If you can’t decide between focusing on motion graphics or video editing, another option is the Video Editing & Motion Graphics Certificate, which covers both.

Noble Desktop also offers a number of classes where you can learn to use Adobe Premiere Pro, which is one of the most popular video editing applications. If you want to quickly learn the basics of Premiere Pro, you might be interested in Premiere Pro in a Day, which is a short, accelerated class. In this class, you’ll learn to organize projects, create sequences, fix audio and color, add B-roll, animating images, edit clips, and add lower third titles. At the end of the class, you’ll export a video that you can send to a client or upload to a social media platform.

The Premiere Pro Bootcamp is a longer class that covers everything you need to know to start making your own videos with this application. You’ll learn how to use Premiere Pro to add cuts and transitions between shots, correct color in the footage, sync up and correct audio, and incorporate After Effects assets in Premiere Pro. This course serves as an ideal introduction to Premiere Pro, and by the end of it, you should be prepared to start editing your own video content. 

Another bootcamp option is the Final Cut Pro Bootcamp. This course takes you from beginner to advanced features in Apple Final Cut Pro. You’ll learn to import and organize footage and put your elements into a timeline. You’ll also learn many different editing skills including cleaning up background noise, color correcting video, adding B-roll, adjusting audio volume, and adjusting the timing of footage. In addition, the bootcamp covers green screen removal, multi-cam editing, adding transitions, and exporting video.

Finally, Noble offers a Premiere Pro Certification Program, where you can become an Adobe Premiere Pro certified professional. This course includes two class sessions, which will take you from a beginner to an advanced level of mastery. You’ll also get six hours of private tutoring to address skills that you need more help with. After that, you’ll take the Adobe Premiere Pro Certification exam. Your course fee covers exam proctoring, plus a free retake. If you don’t want to take the exam, you can receive an extra hour of private tutoring instead.