Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Rotoscoping • Ken Burns • Jump Cut

EDL

Term from Editing industry explained for recruiters

EDL (Edit Decision List) is a basic tool used in video and film editing that works like a recipe for how a video should be put together. It's a simple list that shows the exact order of video clips, where they should be cut, and how they should be arranged. Think of it as a blueprint that editors use to recreate their work across different editing systems. While newer formats like XML and AAF have become more common, EDLs are still used in many editing workflows, especially when working with older footage or systems. It's similar to having a detailed instruction manual that helps editors rebuild their work on different editing software.

Examples in Resumes

Managed complex video projects using EDL exports for collaborative editing

Coordinated multiple editing systems through EDL transfers and conforming

Successfully delivered international projects using EDLs and Edit Decision Lists for final delivery

Typical job title: "Video Editors"

Also try searching for:

Film Editor Video Editor Post-Production Editor Digital Media Editor Broadcast Editor Content Editor

Where to Find Video Editors

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle EDL workflow issues when working with multiple editing platforms?

Expected Answer: A senior editor should explain how they manage compatibility between different editing systems, troubleshoot common EDL errors, and ensure smooth transitions between offline and online editing.

Q: Can you explain your experience with managing complex EDL-based projects?

Expected Answer: They should describe experience with large-scale projects, managing multiple EDLs, and coordinating with post-production teams across different facilities.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements of an EDL and why are they important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basic components like timecode, reel numbers, and edit types in simple terms, and why they matter for project organization.

Q: How do you handle frame rate differences when working with EDLs?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of common frame rate issues and how to resolve them when transferring projects between systems.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is an EDL and when would you use one?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that an EDL is a list of editing decisions and describe basic scenarios where EDLs are useful in the editing process.

Q: What are the most common EDL formats you've worked with?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with basic EDL formats and able to explain when they might use different types.