The Art of the Edit
A Three-Part Online Workshop Series for Youth Storytellers
Empowering Artists Through the Art of Editing
This workshop series is a collaboration between S.W.A.M.P. (Southwest Alternate Media Project) and Hakima Video Production, designed to introduce beginner filmmakers to the power of editing as a storytelling tool. Led by a veteran media educator with over 30 years in journalism and youth mentorship, the program emphasizes creativity, cultural voice, and hands-on learning.
Students will not only learn editing principles — they’ll discover how to shape emotion, rhythm, and meaning through their own stories. This is not a software tutorial. It’s a legacy-building experience in the art of editing and storytelling.
Workshop Overview
Audience: All beginner level filmakkers
Format: Live virtual workshops (Zoom or Google Meet)
Session Length: 1.5 hours plus 30-minute optional Q&A
Focus: Storytelling through editing — not software tutorials
Instructor Style: Media educator with over 30 years in journalism, youth mentorship, and hands-on filmmaking. Focused on legacy, empowerment, and creative clarity.
Session 1: Cutting with Purpose — Intro to Editing and the 321 Rule
Pre-Session Materials
About Me Letter: Personal story and teaching philosophy
PDF Terminology Guide: Key editing terms with visuals
YouTube Clip Links: Examples of strong editing choices
Practice Video Download: Raw footage for students to edit
Workshop Expectations: Clear note that software will not be taught
Live Breakdown (1.5 Hours)
0:00–0:10 Welcome and Icebreaker
Students share favorite movie scenes and why they stuck — opens discussion on emotional impact and editing’s role
0:10–0:25 What Is Editing?
Editing as emotional architecture. Instructor shares examples from journalism and youth-led projects
0:25–0:45 The 321 Rule
Three angles, two shots, one cutaway — students analyze clips and discuss how this rule builds dynamic scenes
0:45–1:05 Shot Types and Scene Breakdown
Wide, medium, close-up, insert — students identify shot types in clips and discuss how each contributes to story
1:05–1:25 Live Demo
Instructor edits a short scene using the 321 Rule, narrating choices. Students ask questions and suggest edits
1:25–1:30 Homework Briefing
Students begin a one-minute edit using the 321 Rule. They can use provided footage or film their own
Optional 30-Minute Q&A
Mentoring, concept review, creative feedback
Students share early ideas or ask for guidance
Session 2: Crafting the Cut — Rhythm, Audio and Workflow
Pre-Session Materials
PDF: Rhythm and Audio Tips
YouTube Clips: Examples of pacing, transitions, and sound design
Student Reminder: Bring rough cut or editing notes to share
Live Breakdown (1.5 Hours)
0:00–0:15 Check-In and Peer Sharing
Students share screens to show rough cuts or editing challenges. Group feedback and encouragement
0:15–0:35 Editing Styles
Fast versus slow, rhythmic versus chaotic — students watch clips and discuss how editing creates tone
0:35–0:55 Transitions and Audio
J-cuts, L-cuts, fades, music, sound effects — instructor demos and students suggest edits in real time
0:55–1:15 Workflow and Media Management
Naming files, organizing footage, saving versions — students share their own systems and learn best practices
1:15–1:25 Student-Led Demo
One or two students share screen and walk through their edit. Instructor and peers offer feedback
1:25–1:30 Homework Briefing
Finalize one-minute edit and prepare to present next session
Optional 30-Minute Q&A
Individual feedback
Troubleshooting creative choices
Students can share screens for deeper review
Session 3: Your Edit, Your Voice — Showcase and Feedback
Pre-Session Materials
Presentation Tips PDF: How to talk about your edit
Reminder Email: Time, format, and encouragement
Live Breakdown (1.5 Hours)
0:00–0:10 Welcome and Setup
Instructor explains feedback format and screen sharing tips
0:10–1:10 Student Presentations
Each student shares their one-minute edit. Instructor and peers offer affirming, constructive feedback
1:10–1:25 Group Reflection
Students reflect on what they learned, what surprised them, and what they’re proud of
1:25–1:30 Wrap-Up
Final thoughts, resources for continued learning, and invitation to stay connected
Optional 30-Minute Q&A
Career paths in editing and media
How to keep practicing
Students ask final questions or share future project ideas
Workshop Goals and Impact
Empower Creative Thinking
Students learn to make intentional editing choices that shape emotion and meaning
Demystify the Editing Process
Focus on universal principles, not software — accessible to all students
Foster Cultural Storytelling
Editing becomes a tool for amplifying voice, community, and lived experience
Build Legacy Through Mentorship
Students connect to a tradition of media as purpose-driven storytelling
About the Partners
S.W.A.M.P.
Southwest Alternate Media Project has been a cornerstone of Houston’s independent media scene for decades, supporting emerging filmmakers and amplifying diverse voices through education, grants, and community programming.
Hakima Video Production
Founded by a veteran broadcast journalist and educator, Hakima Video Production is a wisdom-driven media company focused on legacy, empowerment, and cultural storytelling. Hakima specializes in youth mentorship, hands-on filmmaking, and community-centered media education.