Emily Hadley - Assistant Editor
Job title - Assistant Editor
Experience - 5+ years
“It can be easy to work in isolation and forget that we are part of a team. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others, be curious and ask questions. Odds are someone in the room knows the answer and if not, then there’s always Google. ”
Describe your job role and the kinds of projects/clients you work with.
I have been an assistant editor for both scripted film and television shows. My first feature was a documentary and afterwards I pursued work in scripted content. Most recently, I was an assistant for the amazing editor Spenser Reich on the TV show "Power IV: Force." Since I’m a contract worker, my job changes a bit from project to project but ultimately my role is to help the editor’s job run as smoothly as possible. I help the editor and post-team with any creative, technical, or organizational support that I can offer.
What does an average day look like in your post production working world?
When first starting a job, I familiarize myself with the current workflow by talking with the editor and any fellow assistant editors. Once dailies come in then my day becomes focused on sorting the paperwork, dailies and script synching. As the editor begins assembling the full timeline I am simultaneously trying to build the sound design and any temp VFX for each scene. After the first cut goes out, then I often will take notes for the editor during their editing sessions with directors, show runners, and/or producers. I am also cleaning up the timeline, updating the various tracking sheets (for music, ADR, VFX etc), and outputting the cuts for viewing. Once we picture lock then I complete turnovers and send them off to other vendors. On a feature, my main focus is to send the vendors any patches and update the tracking sheets. If you’re on a TV show, then you’ll be completing similar tasks but also juggling multiple episodes at a time. Whether it’s assisting on television or features, I try to always keep in mind the overall creative vision for the project and effectively work with the team to help achieve it.
How did your career in post production begin?
While attending USC’s School of Cinematic Arts Program, I discovered a love for editing. It’s cliché, but I loved problem solving and piecing together sections of a puzzle to create a story. It was intriguing to me how 5 different editors could take the exact same footage and create 5 completely different versions. After graduating, I focused on finding jobs in post as an assistant editor to pursue the long term goal of becoming an editor.
What has been your career highlight?
I have been fortunate enough to have worked with highly dedicated, supportive, and awesome groups of people. On each project, I’ve been told how lucky we are that the team is so wonderful and how rare that can be. Having the opportunity and privilege to work with such incredible teams is a highlight in itself.
I’m incredibly proud to have been a part of all of the projects I’ve assisted on. In terms of editing, I’m really proud of a short film I edited called "Tell Me Something I Don’t Know" (Directed by Neal Mulani).
Who are your role models in post?
It’s difficult to choose just one role model because I’ve been fortunate enough to have worked with many talented and supportive editors and mentors in post. In particular, I am thankful for my mentor, Thomas Miller who is an editor and was my USC professor. He is incredibly thoughtful and precise as an editor. As a mentor, he challenges and supports his students beyond what is expected. His passion for editing and storytelling shines through when he teaches and is truly infectious.
What advice do you have for others wanting to start a career in post?
It’s ok not to know everything so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Early on in my career there was a problem with the dailies. It was overwhelming and it felt like everyone wanted me to have the answers. I had to ask for help, which as an introverted and shy person was difficult and I felt like a failure. Other assistants who were not even assigned to my project came to help. Together we problem solved and found solutions.
It can be easy to work in isolation and forget that we are part of a team. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others, be curious and ask questions. Odds are someone in the room knows the answer and if not, then there's always Google.