The Internet is full of bad advice on how to “make it big” with video editing.
Most of it talks about the grand vision without really offering workable solutions.
The worst is the advice or observations offered by those who built their empire years ago. That was when the landscape was less saturated.
These two cents are annoying. It is no different from the advice offered by those who dabbled in video editing. They might have found moderate success, but have no urgency to truly capitalize on their skills.
The advice goes something like this: “I started editing videos in my dorm room. I just learned this state-of-the-art video editing program and kept at it. One day, a huge brand noticed me. Now I’m a millionaire.”
Does it offer anything useful to a beginner who’s looking to make money with video editing immediately? Nope!
So, how do you actually make money with video editing without learning complex video editing software with bells and whistles you don’t actually need?
Easy. You use an online video editor, especially if you’re a complete beginner.
Forget the gurus and the overnight success stories. Here are five practical ways, and why anyone can start today, using a no-brainer online video editor.
Contents
1. Social Media Video Clips
The demand for short, engaging video content across platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts is insatiable. Businesses, influencers, and even individuals constantly need quick edits.
These platforms thrive on raw, authentic content. You don’t need cinema-level production. Basic cuts, text overlays, trending music, and simple transitions are often all that’s required.
They can easily be achieved with an online video editor.
Start by offering services to local businesses or aspiring influencers in your network. Show them how you can make their existing footage more dynamic.
2. Basic Explainer Videos for Small Businesses
Many small businesses, from local cafes to independent craftspeople, struggle to explain their products or services visually.
A simple, animated explainer video or a video showcasing their process can be invaluable.
These videos don’t need complex motion graphics. Often, it’s about combining stock footage or existing product shots with voiceovers, text, and clear, concise editing.
Online editors offer templates and easy ways to add royalty-free music and effects.
Approach businesses directly with a portfolio of a few simple example videos you’ve created for imaginary clients. Yes, you don’t even need existing clients to get started.
3. Video Testimonial Editing
Businesses are always looking for compelling customer testimonials.
Raw video testimonials, however, often need significant cleanup – trimming pauses, improving audio, adding intro/outro screens, and branding.
This is a fantastic entry point. The reason? You’ll be working with existing footage. Your job is to make it look professional and polished.
Most online editors have noise reduction, audio leveling, and simple branding features. You can even offer to record basic testimonials for local businesses on your phone, then edit them.
4. YouTube Channel Management (Editing Focus)
Many aspiring YouTubers or smaller channels have great content ideas but lack the time or skill to edit. They need someone to take their raw footage and turn it into a watchable video.
Start by targeting channels with smaller subscriber counts or those that clearly have unpolished editing.
Offer to do a few videos for free or at a very low rate to build your portfolio. Your focus will be on basic cuts, improving pacing, adding B-roll, and simple graphics. Online editors are perfectly capable of handling these tasks.
5. Event Highlights
People record tons of footage at events like weddings, birthdays and local gigs. Few, however, ever get around to compiling it into a cohesive highlight reel.
Offering to turn hours of raw footage into a memorable 2 to 5-minute video is an in-demand service.
This is about storytelling through selective editing. You’ll be trimming, sequencing, and adding music to evoke emotion.
Online editors excel at timeline management and adding musical tracks. Start with friends and family events to build your initial portfolio.
Online Video Editors Offer Quick Solutions
The truth is, making money with an online video editor isn’t about grand gestures or viral hits to start.
It’s about solving simple, tangible problems for people and businesses who need video content but lack the time, skill, or budget for professional studios.
Pick one of these five avenues, start small, and consistently build your skills and your portfolio. The tools are free or affordable, and the demand is real.
If you’re looking to get started with an online video editor, give Flexclip a try.
