Irene Sabet - Freelance Video Editor
Editor
Experience 5+ years
“ Build a network of contacts, be patient and open, especially when it comes to feedback and criticism. Keep up with trends and technology, and most importantly, work on developing your own style.”
Describe your job role and the kinds of projects/clients you work with.
I am an Italian Video Editor. I specialize primarily in editing TV commercials for various brands, but I’ve had the opportunity to explore and experiment with different formats and lengths. I consider myself a curious, dynamic, and detail-oriented person. My strong curiosity is the driving force behind my desire to continuously expand my knowledge and experience. I am deeply passionate about the world of visual arts and the many forms of expression that can be achieved through video, especially the distinct languages and emotions conveyed through editing. What I find most fascinating is the ability to cut, merge, and craft stories that evoke unique atmospheres.
I am also passionate about creating moodboard and collage, particularly with paper, which I find closely related to the editing process.
What does an average day look like in your post-production working world?
8:30 - 9:00
Arrive at the office or connect remotely. First thing: check emails and review the latest updates on current projects. Often, there are feedback notes from the director, client, or post-production supervisor regarding changes to be made to the video.
9:00 - 10:30
Start the project in progress. If the editing has already begun, the first task is reviewing the suggested changes. If it’s a new phase, import the footage and organize it based on scenes, best takes, and audio files. Proper organization of the material is essential for efficient editing.
10:30 - 12:30
Begin the actual editing. During this phase, the best takes are selected, scenes are cut, and the narrative starts to take shape. The editor works closely with the director or producer, following the project’s mood and the desired pace. Test edits are often done to see how different cuts and transitions affect the overall tone of the video.
12:30 - 13:30
Lunch break. Many editors use this time to recharge or discuss creative ideas or technical challenges with colleagues.
13:30 - 15:30
Continue working on the edit. At this stage, more detailed aspects of the video are tackled: audio synchronization, adding effects, basic color correction, and ensuring visual continuity. Maintaining the right pace is crucial, so it’s essential to check that each scene flows smoothly into the next.
15:30 - 16:00
Review with the director or client. There are often approval sessions where a preliminary version of the edit (the “rough cut”) is sent for feedback. At this point, discussions take place on any changes, such as shortening scenes, speeding up the pace, or adding specific effects.
16:00 - 17:30
Implement feedback. The notes received are reviewed, and the requested changes are applied. This could involve reworking certain parts of the edit, adjusting the rhythm, or working on visual and audio effects.
17:30 - 18:00
Backup and archive the day’s work. Updated versions of the project are saved, and a backup copy is made, often on a server or external hard drive, to avoid losing valuable progress.
18:00 - 18:30
End of the day. If a deadline is approaching, it might be necessary to work overtime, but otherwise, the work wraps up, and preparations are made for the following day.
This routine can vary depending on the type of project (commercial, film, documentary) and the stage of work, but it generally reflects the daily process a video editor faces in post-production.
How did your career in post production begin?
My passion for the world of post-production began at an early age, when, around the age of 10, I discovered that I could tell stories through images and videos. I started using iMovie to create fun montages and emotional videos as birthday gifts for my friends. It was then that I realized how much I loved this hobby, and I decided to nurture it. I enrolled in an art high school with a focus on audiovisual and multimedia, where I had the chance to delve deeper into post-production, especially video editing.
Later, I pursued a three-year degree in Video Design at the European Institute of Design (IED), where I grew professionally and gained a comprehensive understanding of the production process, from pre-production to post-production. Earning my degree confirmed my passion and solidified my decision to pursue this career.
During those three years, I worked on my first projects and began collaborating with major clients. After completing my studies at IED, I undertook an internship and eventually became a full-time freelancer. Today, I collaborate with various production and post-production companies and agencies to create a wide range of projects.
What has been your career highlight?
One of the most pivotal moments in my journey was undoubtedly my internship. It was my first opportunity to work in a highly structured post-production house, which played a crucial role in my professional development. Since this company frequently collaborates with others specializing in 3D and VFX, I learned how essential it is to maintain order and precision, whether it’s in sharing materials, preparing presentations, managing archives, or handling internal operations.
When you’re new to the industry, especially in such a specialized field, it’s not easy to gain credibility and trust. However, thanks to my supervisor at the time, I had the chance to experiment and create, conducting numerous creative tests that were highly valuable for my growth.
Who are your role models in post?
1. Hank Corwin
Why: His style is frenetic, almost “chaotic,” and he uses editing to give a unique rhythm to the narrative, emphasizing the content and emotion of the film. Corwin fragments time and space, jumping between images and scenes that create a non-linear narrative, pushing the boundaries of traditional cinematic continuity.
2. Thelma Schoonmaker
Why: She is an example of precision and control over narrative rhythm. She masters the balance between action and drama, bringing out the characters and their emotions through editing. Her work is fluid and effortless, handling complex scenes without losing the narrative’s pace.
3. Walter Murch
Why: Considered a true theorist of editing, Walter Murch worked on iconic films like Apocalypse Now. He is known for his reflective and methodical approach, based on six editing rules that balance emotion, narrative, rhythm, and continuity. Murch also pioneered the use of digital editing. I’ve also read his book, which helped me deepen my understanding of not just the technique but also the theory behind editing.
4. Paul Machliss
Why: Machliss uses editing to visually and narratively synchronize action with music, creating scenes where rhythm becomes an integral part of the story. He’s an editor to study for anyone interested in experimenting with rhythm and blending music and imagery in innovative ways.
5. Cristiano Travaglioli
Why: Cristiano Travaglioli is an excellent example of film editing due to his work on movies like The Great Beauty, where he showcases an extraordinary ability to balance rhythm and atmosphere. His editing enhances the visual aesthetic and emotional flow of the films, contributing to an intense and poetic cinematic experience, with each cut perfectly calibrated to elevate the narrative.
Each of these editors has a different approach to the art of editing, from strict narrative control (Schoonmaker, Murch) to experimental and frenetic editing (Corwin, Machliss). Studying their work allows you to understand the various expressive possibilities that editing offers and how they can influence a film’s emotional and narrative perception.
What advice do you have for others wanting to start a career in post?
The advice I would give to someone looking to enter the world of post-production, particularly editing, is to start by studying extensively and gaining a basic understanding of cinema and its techniques. Learn professional editing software, develop a critical eye for editing, practice consistently, and take care to stay organized. It’s also important to develop skills in audio and color grading to become more versatile, as small adjustments in these areas can significantly improve the final result. Build a network of contacts, be patient and open, especially when it comes to feedback and criticism. Keep up with trends and technology, and most importantly, work on developing your own style.
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