If you’re a YouTuber, you already know there’s a lot more to creating videos than just hitting record. You’ve got the filming, the lighting, the sound—and, of course, the editing.
And let’s be honest: editing can feel like a whole separate job on top of, well, everything else. It’s the difference between a good video and a video that keeps people glued till the end.
So, here’s the big question: Do you take on that editing yourself, or is it time to hand over the reins to a professional?
On the one hand, hiring a video editor could free up time, maybe even take your channel to the next level. On the other hand, it might feel like giving up control over your own vision.
It’s not a decision to take lightly, and today we’re breaking down the real pros and cons of bringing an editor into your YouTube process.
Ready to dig in? Let’s see what’s best for your channel.
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The Reality Check: Video Editing Time Breakdown
Ever wondered how long editing actually takes? Not the sugar-coated estimates, but the real deal. After working with hundreds of YouTubers, we’ve seen firsthand what goes into creating those polished videos you watch.
A basic 10-minute talking head video takes 4-6 hours to edit. That’s just for the simple stuff – cutting out mistakes, arranging clips, and making basic transitions.
Gaming videos? A 15-minute video usually needs 5-7 hours of editing time. Vloggers have it even tougher, spending 6-8 hours to turn random clips into a flowing story.
Here’s what really hits home: posting twice a week means spending 10-15 hours just on editing. That’s nearly two full workdays where you could be planning content, engaging with your audience, or improving your filming skills.
Instead, you’re stuck at your computer trying to figure out why your audio sounds weird or why that transition looks choppy.
Think about what your channel really needs right now. Is it better editing, or is it better content?
The Pros of Hiring a YouTube Video Editor
Why is hiring a video editor so important for YouTubers? You’ll find the answer in this section with several advantages why you should get a video editor.
Time Savings
Imagine getting hours back in your week. By handing off editing to a professional, you’re freeing up time for the parts you probably enjoy most: creating, connecting with your audience, and brainstorming new ideas.
Editing is a time-sink, and for most YouTubers, it’s a love-hate relationship. An editor can save you hours, letting you focus on growing your channel and engaging with your viewers.
Professional Quality
Let’s face it: a professional editor can add a level of polish that’s hard to match if you’re just dabbling in editing software.
From smoother cuts to eye-catching transitions and flawless color grading, a pro editor has the skills (and the tools) to make your videos stand out. Services like Your Video Editor have specific YouTube editing expertise.
It’s the kind of difference that keeps viewers watching and can even help you attract new subscribers.
Boosts Your Channel’s Growth Potential
The YouTube algorithm favors content that keeps viewers watching, and better-edited videos can do just that.
The right editor knows how to keep the pace engaging, cut the fluff, and highlight the moments that connect with your audience.
By upping your production value, you’re not just putting out better content—you’re also setting up your channel for more growth potential.
Creative Collaboration
Sometimes, another set of eyes is exactly what your content needs. Working with an editor can be a creative collaboration that brings new ideas to the table.
They might have suggestions or techniques you hadn’t considered, making your videos more dynamic and engaging.
Added Visual Effects
Plus, a good editor will understand your style and help bring out the best in your content without taking over your creative voice.
The Cons of Hiring a YouTube Video Editor
We’ve seen its advantages but are there also drawbacks to hiring a video editor as a YouTuber? I mean, why should people have a rethink about getting that video editor for their channel? We’re about to find out!
Cost
It always comes down to the cost of hiring a video editor, whether you’re looking for a freelancer or an agency.
Hiring a YouTube video editor can significantly increase the cost of running your channel especially if it is still in its early stages with little revenue.
Let’s be real, high quality video editing doesn’t come cheap. I mean all the color grading, special effects and audio enhancements that YouTube editing services like Your Video Editor offer require some high-level editing skills to perfect.
You Risk Losing Your Personal Touch
Your audience subscribes to your channel for you. They’re drawn to your personality, style, and quirks—and sometimes, those personal touches can get lost when someone else edits your videos.
There’s a risk that an outside editor might polish things up a bit too much, potentially taking away that unfiltered, genuine vibe your audience loves.
It can be tricky to find an editor who really “gets” your style and knows how to keep it authentically you.
Communication Challenges – Translating Your Vision Isn’t Always Easy
Trying to explain exactly what you want in an edit can be like trying to teach someone how to read your mind. You may have a clear vision in your head, but translating that to another person isn’t always straightforward.
You could find yourself going back and forth on tweaks, adjustments, and revisions, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.
Miscommunication can lead to edits that just don’t feel right, and that back-and-forth can sometimes make the whole process feel more complicated than it’s worth.
Privacy Concerns – Sharing Your Content Feels Vulnerable
Handing over raw footage means sharing a lot of personal moments—maybe even some you’d rather keep private.
If your videos involve family members, behind-the-scenes moments, or sensitive content, giving that to an editor can feel a bit invasive.
While most editors are professionals, it’s still important to trust the person you’re working with to respect your boundaries and keep your footage secure.
When Should You Hire a YouTube Video Editor?
Hiring a video editor for your YouTube channel clearly has some great benefits but its drawbacks are also valid when you consider it critically. So what do you do when faced with this dilemma?
So to the main question-when should you get a video editor? Find your answers below:
1. When You Need Higher Quality Videos?
If you notice your videos do not match up to the quality you require or that of the top channels in your niche, it may be time to get that video editor. Video editors have the necessary skills and tools, yes, certain tools are required to make great video edits.
If you lack these tools and the level of editing expertise required to make breathtaking edits, you’ll do well to hire an editor for your channel.
2. When You Can Afford it?
It’s already a consensus that quality video editing services are not cheap, so you should put off getting an editor until you can afford it. Small channels, with little or no revenue may struggle to pay a video editor.
You should consider the cost of hiring a video editor and ensure you can afford it before going ahead with the decision.
3. When You Have Limited Time?
When starting out, it is easy to handle all the different aspects of the channel including shooting the video, editing and managing the channel. However, with time this becomes more cumbersome as the channel grows.
If you no longer have the time, or are struggling with meeting up with your posting schedules, it may be time for a video editor.
These editors will help take off the load from you, delivering high quality videos and ensuring you have enough time to focus on other aspects of running a successful YouTube channel.
Tips For Hiring The Right Video Editor
Now, you’re interested. Hiring a video editor for your channel seems like the right decision for you. But now you’re wondering how to hire the right video editor. Well, here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Check Their Portfolio – Look for Style and Substance
The first thing to ask any potential editor for is their portfolio. But don’t just look at the flashy transitions—pay attention to pacing, storytelling, and whether their editing style matches your vision.
A portfolio tells you a lot about an editor’s range and whether they can capture a mood or vibe that feels true to you.
Look for videos in a similar genre to yours if possible, so you get a sense of how they might handle your content specifically.
2. Test Their Communication Style – Are They Easy to Work With?
Editing is a partnership, and good communication is the foundation. During your initial conversations, pay attention to how well they understand your vision and how open they are to your input.
A great editor should ask questions about your brand, your style, and what you’re trying to achieve with your videos.
Clear, friendly, and proactive communication means they’re more likely to “get” you and will be easier to work with in the long run.
3. Start with a Trial Project – Try Before You Commit
Before you dive into a long-term arrangement, consider starting with a trial project. This could be a shorter video or a less complicated edit, just to see how they handle the workflow and how well they align with your expectations.
A trial run gives you a safe space to figure out if you’re a good match without a big commitment. Plus, it gives them a chance to learn your style in action.
Conclusion
As a YouTuber, hiring a video editor can elevate your videos and boost your channel. It can also free up your calendar and ensure you focus on other vital activities.
However, before you make a decision, make sure you can afford the extra cost, then you’ll enjoy the extra time and quality videos that decision will provide you.
Video editing services like Your Video Editor even have packages that can handle subsequent video editing from your channel so you can simply disconnect from that aspect.
If you’re looking for an editing service for your YouTube channel that’ll understand your needs, take privacy seriously, and make quality edits without losing your style, Your Video Editor should be your go-to service!
