Diving into the editing process

Finally, we're getting hands-on with editing our footage. If you've watched Aaron's main screencasting course, you might recall his preliminary rough cut using ScreenFlow where he removed bad takes and eliminated larger gaps. Now, it's time for us to refine and tighten everything up. Let's dive back into our project and start editing with some of Steve's video.

As I come across specific techniques, I'll pause to explain them, but generally speaking, we’re just going to dive into the editing process.

Focusing on waveforms and initial cuts

Before jumping in, I want to emphasize the importance of waveforms. Being pretty zoomed in helps expose issues like pops or other unwanted sounds. For instance, a noticeable pop can be your cue to start the video after it and clean up unnecessary footage.

To make initial cuts:

• Use Command + A to select all tracks.
• Use Command + K to cut them.
• Use Option + Delete to ripple delete unused footage to the first frame.

Syncing visuals and audio

When editing, it's important to ensure the visuals and audio are synced. If someone points to their screen, make sure that screen content is visible. If necessary:

• Option-click on the full-screen talking head footage.
• Use Shift + Command + E to disable it, revealing the screen content with any required effects applied.

Managing audio gaps

In editing, always listen through the audio carefully:

• Look at the waveforms to identify unnatural gaps.
• Review if any throat clearances or pauses need editing.

For instance, significant pauses may indicate a need to cut and synchronize clips:

• Command + A to select all tracks.
• Use Command + K to make cuts where needed.
• Then use Option + Delete to cleanly splice clips together.

Breathing life into edits with natural flow

Natural breath and flow in videos can make them feel more spontaneous and engaging:

• Evaluate if breaths should be kept by playing back clips with eyes closed.
• Edit smartly, maintaining fluidity without awkward jumps.

Using full-screen to smooth transitions

To avoid noticeable jump cuts, decide strategically when to go full screen:

• Option-click the appropriate top layer.
• Use the razor tool (C key) to split exactly where needed.
• Shift + Command + E to enable a smooth transition to full screen.

B-roll and freeze frames as editing tools

B-roll can effectively hide cuts:

• Open B-roll in the source monitor.
• Set in and out points with keys I and O.
• Drag the selected portion into the timeline.

When running low on B-roll, utilize freeze frames:

• Set the playhead at the desired frame.
• Use “Add Frame Hold” to extend the frame as needed.

The importance of timing and finesse

Editing is an art form where timing and finesse are crucial. Timing has to be just right to engage the audience:

• Flexible, creative problem solving is often necessary.
• Keep working with what you have, refining with practice.

Ultimately, these editing strategies will enhance your videos' quality and impact, helping you connect with your audience more effectively.

Wrapping up the edit

I hope these techniques prove useful in your editing endeavors. Remember, practice makes perfect. I'll continue with this edit and see you in the next video!