Lower Thirds
Lower thirds are text overlays that appear in the bottom third of a video screen. They're commonly used to show information like people's names, titles, locations, or other important details while a video plays. You might recognize them from news broadcasts, documentaries, or YouTube videos where names appear at the bottom of the screen when someone is speaking. Video editors create these graphics to help viewers understand who's talking or what's being discussed. Similar terms include chyrons, name keys, or caption graphics.
Examples in Resumes
Created professional Lower Thirds for corporate training videos using After Effects
Designed animated Lower Third graphics for YouTube channel with 500k subscribers
Developed template system for Lower Thirds to maintain brand consistency across marketing videos
Typical job title: "Video Editors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Video Editors
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you manage lower thirds templates for large projects with multiple stakeholders?
Expected Answer: A senior editor should discuss creating style guides, template systems, managing client feedback, and ensuring brand consistency across multiple videos while maintaining efficient workflows.
Q: How do you handle last-minute name changes or corrections in lower thirds for a project that's nearly complete?
Expected Answer: Should explain project organization methods, version control, and efficient updating processes that minimize render time while maintaining quality and accuracy.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What considerations do you take into account when designing lower thirds?
Expected Answer: Should discuss readability, appropriate timing, brand colors, animation style, and making sure graphics don't interfere with important video content.
Q: How do you ensure lower thirds are visible across different viewing platforms?
Expected Answer: Should explain safe zones, font size considerations, color contrast, and testing across different devices and screen sizes.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What software do you use to create lower thirds?
Expected Answer: Should be able to name common video editing software (like Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects) and explain basic creation process.
Q: How long should a lower third typically stay on screen?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic timing principles (usually 3-5 seconds) and why proper timing is important for viewer comprehension.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic lower third creation
- Simple animations
- Working with templates
- Basic typography knowledge
Mid (2-4 years)
- Custom animations
- Brand style adherence
- Template creation
- Multiple software proficiency
Senior (4+ years)
- Advanced motion graphics
- Project management
- Training junior editors
- Creating style guides
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic design principles
- Unfamiliarity with industry-standard video editing software
- Poor attention to detail in text and spelling
- No understanding of broadcast safe zones
Related Terms
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