Ep11: Mastering Long-Form vs. Short-Form Video Editing

In this episode of The Video Editing Guru, Dustin delves into the difference between editing long-form and short-form videos, providing insights and tips suitable for both newcomers to the scene or those needing a content style adjustment. Understanding that long-form videos focus on in-depth exploration and storytelling, Dustin highlights the importance of efficient structure, flow, and sound design to maintain audience engagement. Conversely, he emphasizes capturing the audience's attention within the initial seconds for short-form content, such as TikTok or YouTube Shorts, advising on instantaneous hooks, quick pacing, and effective use of visual aids. The episode also covers the nuances of editing specifically for different social media platforms with specific techniques to optimize viewer engagement. It concludes with the shared key to mastering both formats: understanding the audience and the chosen platform.

• Dustin Elkin - Professional Video Editor / Home

Episode Transcript

Speaker 1 (00:04):
Hey, what's up, fellow creators. Welcome back to another episode
of the Video Editing Guru, the podcast where I dive
into all things video editing to help you become a
master in the art of post production. I'm your host Dustin.
Today we'll impact the significant distinction between editing long form
and short form video and how to ace both, particularly

(00:25):
as it pertains to social media content creation. Whether you're
a newcomer to the scene or shifting your content style.
This is an episode rich with valuable insights that could
help enhance your editing style. Let's get the show on
the road, shall we. Let's kick things off by understanding
the basics. What's the difference between long form and short

(00:46):
form video. Well, long form video, typically composed of content
extending over ten minutes, like YouTube videos, documentaries, or TV shows,
permits in depth exploration of topics, character development, and more
intricate storytelling. Short form video, on the other hand, is
more compact, often stretching from thirty seconds to two minutes,
perfect for Instagram reels, tik tok or YouTube shorts. The

(01:10):
objective here is to snatch attention swiftly and deliver your
message within a restricted time span as you can imagine
each model has its unique set of challenges and rewards. Therefore,
we'll be looking at some of the best editing techniques
tailored for each type. For long form video editing, even
though you have a bit more latitude, you can afford
to let your content stagnate. Instead, you must maintain active

(01:32):
audience engagement throughout. Here are some key techniques efficient structure
and flow, fortunate pacing, deep storytelling and emotional beats, and finally,
sound design and transitions. All these elements work cohesively to
create an immersive viewing experience. Remember, long form videos need

(01:53):
a strong narrative arc and the transitions between sections are instrumental.
Don't trivialize the role of good sound design. Now. When
it comes to short form video, the game completely alters.
With platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, shorts, attention spans
are microscopic, meaning you must seize and retain your audience's
interest within seconds. This includes creating an impactful hook within

(02:15):
the first few seconds, maintaining a relentless, snappy pacing, and
making effective use of text and graphics. Always remember every
second counts, and you are not at liberty to waste
any space with superfluous details. It's also prudent to infuse
trending components into your content that fits your brand and message. Essentially,
short form videos need to be designed with the mobile

(02:35):
viewer in mind, keeping important visual elements centered on the screen.
Speaking of short form, it's crucial to understand how you
can edit specifically for social media. Each platform has its peculiarity,
so it's vital to adapt your content accordingly. For Instagram
reels and TikTok, the age old formula rings true. Quicken
engaging content reigns supreme. With YouTube shorts, it's a similar ballgame,

(03:00):
but you're afforded a bit more room for instructional content.
As for professional platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, even though
short form content performs well, you might want to opt
for slightly lengthier content, keeping it informative, professional, and engaging
at all times. Always remember to add captions for accessibility.
So whether you're editing long form or short form content,

(03:21):
the secret sauce lies in understanding the audience and the
platform you're catering to. Always remember long form allows for
deeper storytelling and pacing, while short form demands an instantaneous hook,
fast pacing and visually engaging content. In a nutshell, the
rules for social media editing are straightforward. Snatch attention at
lightning speed, deliver your message effectively, and always customize for

(03:44):
the platform. Nail down these techniques and you're well underway
to mastering both formats. It's time to wrap up this
episode of the Video Editing Guru. Remember always keep creating,
keep editing, and keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible
in video production. Don't forget to subscribe, share this podcast
with your fellow creators, and check out the show notes

(04:04):
for any links or articles mentioned in today's episode. For
more of my work or to get in touch for
video editing services, head over to my website you'll find
in the show notes. Until next time, folks, keep creating,
keep editing, and keep bending the rules of video production possibilities.