7 Ways on How to Outsource Video Editing Services

Did you even know that 86% of businesses now use video as a marketing tool? Or that viewers retain 90% of a message when they watch it in a video, compared to 10% when reading it in text? 

This simply shows how video content is becoming more helpful in digital marketing. 

But creating high-quality videos won’t just make the magic happen, it is also about the magic that happens in post-production.

If your video content is not of lesser quality or lacks a professional touch, it will have some kind of good impression on your brand. 

That’s why your video creation and editing should always have a professional touch. 

So, who should you outsource your video editing job to give it a creative, yet, professional touch?

Why Outsource 

When you give out your video editing services to professionals, it helps.

• Time-saving: Video editing is no doubt time-consuming. But if you outsource it, you free up valuable hours to focus on other aspects of your business or content creation.
• Access to expertise: Professional video editors use their years of experience and a keen eye for detail, to ensure your final product looks professional.
• Cost-effective: Hiring a full-time in-house editor can be quite expensive. However, outsourcing allows you to pay only for the services you need when you need them.
• Advanced software and technology: Professional editors use high-end editing software and equipment, which can be costly to purchase and maintain on your own.
• Consistency: If you’re producing regular video content, outsourcing it can help maintain a consistent style and quality across all your videos.
• Fresh perspectives: Outsourcing Your video editing services to editors can bring new ideas and creative approaches to your content. It also helps it stand out among many others. 
• Quick turnaround: Many outsourcing options offer you fast turnaround times, and allow you to publish content more frequently.

Now that we’ve covered the why, let’s talk about the how. 

7 Ways on How to Outsource Video Editing Service

1. Freelance Platforms

Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have changed the way businesses connect with talent. 

These digital marketplaces are working with talents including video editors of all skill levels and specialities. 

To hire a video editor from a freelance platform, the process is easy.

First, create a buyer account on the platform and post a detailed job description. 

Be specific about your project requirements, timeline, and budget. Then, wait for the proposals to roll in. 

You’ll likely receive a flood of applications, so be prepared to go through them carefully.

On Upwork, you can review each freelancer’s portfolio, client feedback, and job success score. 

Fiverr works a bit differently, editors always have pre-packaged “gigs” that you can purchase outright.

✅Pros of using freelance platforms for your Video Editing Services

• Multitude of talent at various price points
• Flexibility to hire for one-off projects or ongoing work
• Ability to view portfolios and client feedback before hiring
• Direct communication with the editor

❌Cons:

• Time-consuming to go through applications and vet candidates one after the other. 
• Quality can be inconsistent, especially with less experienced freelancers
• Limited accountability if things go wrong
• There is potential for miscommunication due to language barriers or time zone differences

2. Specialized Agencies

When it comes to outsourcing video editing, specialized agencies like UGC Deck have a premium solution that combines the flexibility of freelancing with the reliability of a professional service.

These agencies have a team of experienced editors and ensure a high standard of quality across all projects. They often have established workflows and quality control processes, which can help to produce more consistent results.

UGC Deck, for instance, specializes in understanding the complexity of different social media platforms and can tailor your content accordingly to your needs. 

Which makes them an excellent choice for brands looking to leverage this powerful form of marketing. 

One of the significant advantages of using a specialized agency is the professional and hands-on approach they bring to the table. 

They often have project managers who act as a single point of contact, and make communication easy as well as ensure your business goal is accurately conveyed to the editing team.

✅Pros of using specialized agencies

• Consistent high-quality output
• Professional project management
• Access to a team of experienced editors
• They have industry-specific knowledge and touch
• Good to use for larger projects or campaigns
• Tailored and budget-friendly packages plus affordable video editing services 
• Great turnaround time. 

❌Cons of using specialized agencies:

• Generally more expensive than individual freelancers
• Less direct control over the editing process

However, while you might pay a premium, the peace of mind and quality assurance can be well worth the investment, especially for businesses serious about their video content strategy.

3. Local Talent

Using local talent for video editing services is another excellent option, especially if you value face-to-face interactions or want to support your local creative community. 

To find local video editors, start by reaching out to the people around you. 

Ask for recommendations on social media or professional networking sites. 

Check with local film schools or media arts programs, they often have talented students or recent graduates looking for work. 

You can also attend local networking events or filmmaker meetups to connect with editors directly.

✅Pros of using local talent for your video editing services 

• Face-to-face meetings facilitate better communication
• You would be supporting the local economy and creative community
• Potential for quicker turnaround due to lack of time zone differences

❌Cons of using local talent

• Limited pool of talent compared to specialized agencies’ options
• There is potential for higher rates depending on your location
• May lack specialized skills or experience with certain types of content

Specialized Agencies vs Local Talent

While local talent has the advantage of personal interaction, specialized agencies bring expertise and resources that may be hard to find locally. 

• Specialized Agencies have teams with diverse skills and experiences as well as refined workflows for efficient project management.
• Unlike Local Talents, the agencies can easily handle larger projects or increased workload.
• With multiple editors and quality checks, agencies ensure consistent output.

4. Online Marketplaces

Another way how to outsource video editing services is through online marketplaces. 

Online marketplaces offer another way for you to find video editing services since the platforms are designed specifically for creative professionals, including video editors.

To use these marketplaces, you need to create a project listing that explains in detail your requirements and job description. 

Video Editors who fit into it can then submit their portfolios or bid on your project. 

Some platforms also allow you to browse through editor profiles and invite them to your project.

These platforms make it easy to find someone whose style matches what you are looking for. 

Even though the process of setting up contracts and payments is a bit more involved than on freelance platforms.

✅Pros of using online marketplaces for your video editing services

• The focus on creative professionals ensures a certain level of quality
• They are easy to view and compare via their visual portfolios
• Often have built-in project management tools
• Can be good for finding niche or specialized editing skills

❌Cons of using online marketplaces:

• May have fewer options than larger freelance platforms
• Pricing can be higher due to the focus on professional creatives
• Less standardized processes for contracts and payments, unlike specialized agencies. 
• May require more hands-on project management from your side

Specialized Agencies vs Online Marketplaces

While online marketplaces have a selection of creative professionals, specialized agencies like UGC Deck provide a more comprehensive service. 

• They handle everything from editor selection to project management.
• With a vetted team and established processes, agencies ensure reliable output.
• Agencies focus on specific types of content and offer deeper insights.
• They can easily handle increased workloads or more complex projects.
• Unlike online marketplaces, agencies offer continuous support and can adjust to your changing needs over time.

5. In-House Team

Another option is to build an in-house video editing team.

Building an in-house video editing team is a great investment for your business but it is only good for companies with consistent, high-volume video needs. 

Because it involves hiring full-time video editors as part of your staff.

To build an in-house team, start by defining the roles you need. 

You might want a lead editor, assistant editors, and possibly a motion graphics specialist. 

You should post your job listings on industry-specific job boards, LinkedIn, Facebook groups, and your company website. 

Then look for candidates with relevant experience and a portfolio that aligns with your brand’s style.

The process may take several months, from defining roles to hiring and training, but it will pay off in terms of brand consistency and quick turnaround times for client projects.

✅Pros of using an in-house team for your video editing services 

• Complete control over the editing process
• Video editors will  become intimately familiar with your brand and style
• Quick turnaround times for urgent projects

❌Cons of using an in-house team

• High upfront and ongoing costs including salaries, benefits, equipment
• Limited flexibility in scaling up or down based on workload
• There might be a  need for ongoing training to keep skills current
• There is potential for team burnout during high-volume periods

Specialized Agencies vs In-House Team

While an in-house team gives you maximum control of your projects, specialized agencies provide flexibility and expertise that can be hard to match internally. 

With specialized agencies, 

• No need for full-time salaries, benefits, or equipment investments.
• They can easily handle fluctuating workloads without hiring or layoffs.
• They have access to broad specialized skills and perspectives.
• Agencies stay current with industry trends and technologies.
• Unlike in-house teams, external editors can bring new ideas to prevent creative stagnation.

6. Educational Institutions

Working with educational institutions is also an innovative way to outsource your video editing needs. 

Many universities and colleges have strong film and media programs with talented students who are eager to gain experience.

To hire them for your video editing services, reach out to the career centres or media departments of local educational institutions near you. 

Explain your needs and see if they have internship programs or are willing to set up a partnership. 

Some schools might even add your projects to their curriculum as assignments.

Moreover, the students’ eagerness and fresh perspectives might bring a unique energy to the videos, and the project will provide them with valuable portfolio pieces.

✅Pros:

• Access to new, creative talent
• Often more affordable than professional services
• Opportunity to support education and give back to the community
• potential to discover and nurture rising talent

❌Cons:

• Less experienced editors may need more guidance
• Their academic schedules may not align with your deadlines
• Video quality and consistency can vary
• Limited availability during school breaks

Specialized Agencies vs Educational Institutions

While educational institutions have new talents and it’s cost savings, specialized agencies provide professional-grade services that are hard to match with student work. 

Here’s why 

• Agencies have seasoned editors with industry experience.
• They have established processes to ensure reliable, high-quality output.
• Professional editors can work more efficiently than students.
• Unlike educational institutions, agencies can handle all aspects of the project, from start to finish.

• Specialized agencies also have deep expertise in specific types of content.

7. Social Media and Online Communities

Social media platforms and online communities are another way to find video editing talent and outsource your video editing services. 

Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even TikTok are full of editors showcasing their work and looking for opportunities.

To find editors through these channels, start by using relevant hashtags like #VideoEdito.r

You can also engage with content you like and reach out to creators directly. 

You can also join Facebook groups or subreddit communities dedicated to video editing and post about your needs there.

It’s also easy to find editors on Twitter by engaging with their content and then moving to DMs to discuss the projects. 

Though It’s a more informal process, it can lead to great collaborations.

✅Pros of using social media and online communities for your video editing services 

• They have direct access to a wide range of talent
• There is an opportunity to see editors’ work in action on their profiles
• It often leads to more personal connections
• You can easily find editors with specific niche skills or styles

❌Cons of using social media and online communities for your video editing services 

• It is time-consuming to search and go through potential editors’ profiles. 
• It has less formal processes for contracts and payments
• There is potential for unreliability or unprofessionalism
• Limited alternative if things go wrong

Specialized Agencies vs Social Media and Online Communities

While social media can connect you with individual talents, specialized agencies offer you a more structured and reliable service.

• Specialized agencies carefully select their editors, to ensure high-quality work.
• These Agencies handle all aspects of the project, to reduce your workload.
• They have established workflows to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery.
• Agencies can also easily handle increased workloads or more complex projects.
• Unlike Social Media and Online Communities, Agencies maintain high standards of professionalism and reliability.

Making the Right Decision

Having followed this guide to this stage, you will agree that we have fulfilled our promises. 

We’ve promised to show several ways to outsource video editing services, from freelance platforms and specialized agencies to educational institutions and social media communities. 

You will also agree that each option has its unique advantages and considerations, as well as they cater to different needs and preferences.

However, when comparing these various channels, specialized agencies like UGC Deck consistently stand out as a top choice for businesses serious about their video content strategy. 

Specialized agencies bring a level of expertise, industry knowledge, and technical skill that’s hard to match with other options.

More so, with established processes and dedicated teams, agencies ensure consistent quality and timely delivery.

Whether you need one video or a hundred, agencies can adjust to your changing needs without the hassle of hiring or managing multiple freelancers.

In addition, video editing agencies can handle all aspects of the editing process from understanding your brand voice to delivering the final cut.

Agencies don’t just edit, they bring valuable insights to improve your video strategy.

That being said, when choosing a specialized agency, consider the following criteria:

• Look for work that aligns with your style and goals.
• Ensure they have experience in your specific type of content.
• Choose an agency that values clear, prompt communication.
• Understand their pricing model and ensure it fits your budget.
• Make sure they can meet your deadlines consistently.

Also, make sure they offer extras like strategy consulting or distribution support.

While there are other ways to outsource video editing, specialized agencies offer a spot of quality, reliability, and expertise service.s 

They take away the guesswork and variability that come with other outsourcing methods and allow you to focus on what you do best: creating great business content. 

If you are serious about taking your video content and editing to the next level, you should consider partnering with a specialized agency like UGC Deck.

Your audience and your brand will thank you for it.

You can reach out to us via +2348063469469 for WhatsApp and phone calls and hey@ugcdeck.co for email contact.

We hope this guide has been helpful to you to make an informed decision on how to outsource video editing services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it generally cost to outsource video editing?

The costs of outsourcing video editing services can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the outsourcing method. 

Freelancers might charge anywhere from $25 to $150 per hour, while agencies often have project-based pricing.

How long does it usually take to get a video edited?

Turnaround times depend on the video length and complexity. 

A simple 5-minute video might take 1 to 2 days, while a complex 30-minute video could take a week or more.

What should I look for in a video editor’s portfolio?

When hiring a video editor, look for technical skills, creativity, and experience with projects similar to yours. 

You should also pay attention to pacing, transitions, and how well the editing improves the story and video content. 

How do I ensure the outsourced editor understands my brand voice?

While choosing a video editor, you should provide a detailed brief, including examples of videos you like. 

Many agencies, like UGC Deck, have processes that ensure they capture and maintain your brand voice consistently.

Is it better to hire a freelancer or use an agency for video editing?

The answer depends on your needs. Freelancers might be a great option for one-off projects, while agencies offer more consistency and scalability for ongoing needs.

What file formats should I provide to my video editor?

Most video editors prefer raw, high-quality footage. Other common formats include .mov, .mp4, or .avi. 

However, you should always discuss preferred formats with your editor or agency before sending files.

How can I protect my raw footage when outsourcing?

You can use secure file transfer methods and consider having the editor sign a non-disclosure agreement. 

However, working with reputable agencies like UGC deck, you won’t have to worry about that because we have established security protocols.

Can outsourced editors help with other aspects of video production, like sound design?

Many of them can, especially if you’re working with a full-service agency. 

Don’t forget to always clarify what you want your video editing services to be when starting a project.

How do video editors handle revision?

Many editors and agencies have a set number of revisions included in their pricing, so you should ask and clarify this upfront.  

However, if you are working with an agency like UGC Deck, there is usually an established feedback system that ensures smooth teamwork and timely revisions.