How to brief a video editor so you get the right cut the first time
A good brief saves days of revisions. Use this simple structure when you send footage to an editor.
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Most video revisions come from unclear briefs, not from poor editing. Give your editor these six things and the first cut will be much closer to what you want.
1. The goal of the video
Is it to get views, sell a product, explain something or recruit? One video, one goal.
2. The audience and platform
A Reel for Instagram, a YouTube tutorial and a website promo all need different pacing, framing and length. Tell the editor where it will be posted.
3. References
Send two or three videos you like and say what you like about each: the pace, the captions, the music, the transitions.
4. The structure you want
For short-form, the first three seconds matter most. Tell the editor the hook, the main points and the call to action.
5. Brand details
Share fonts, colours, a logo and any phrases that must appear. Mention words that must never be used.
6. Delivery details
List the formats, the deadline and the number of revision rounds you expect.
Make feedback easy
Give notes with timestamps, for example "00:12, cut the pause". Group all notes into one round instead of sending them one by one.
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Written by
The NextGen Agency team
We design, build and grow websites for small and mid-sized businesses.