Source Monitor
Source Monitor is a tool used in video editing that helps editors review and work with their raw video footage. Think of it as a preview window that lets video editors watch their original video clips before adding them to their final project. It's a standard feature in most video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer. When job descriptions mention Source Monitor, they're talking about an editor's ability to efficiently review, select, and trim footage before adding it to their final video sequence.
Examples in Resumes
Efficiently managed multiple video projects using Source Monitor for precise clip selection
Streamlined editing workflow through expert use of Source Monitor and Program Monitor tools
Trained junior editors in best practices for Source Monitor usage in professional video editing
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 organize a large project with multiple source footage files?
Expected Answer: A senior editor should explain their system for organizing footage, using bins/folders, naming conventions, and their process for efficiently reviewing content in the Source Monitor to save production time.
Q: How do you handle multi-camera footage in the Source Monitor?
Expected Answer: Should describe experience with synchronizing multiple camera angles, using the Source Monitor to preview different angles, and making quick decisions about which shots to use.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's your process for selecting the best takes using the Source Monitor?
Expected Answer: Should explain their method for marking good sections of clips, using in and out points, and organizing selected footage for the final edit.
Q: How do you use markers in the Source Monitor to improve your workflow?
Expected Answer: Should discuss using markers to note important moments, comments, or potential edit points in footage while reviewing in the Source Monitor.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between the Source Monitor and Program Monitor?
Expected Answer: Should explain that the Source Monitor is for reviewing raw footage, while the Program Monitor shows the final edited sequence.
Q: How do you set in and out points in the Source Monitor?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic knowledge of marking clip start and end points before adding them to the timeline.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic Source Monitor operations
- Setting in and out points
- Simple clip trimming
- Basic footage organization
Mid (2-5 years)
- Efficient footage review techniques
- Advanced marking and notation
- Multi-camera editing
- Quick selection methods
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex project organization
- Advanced workflow optimization
- Team training and coordination
- High-speed editing techniques
Red Flags to Watch For
- Inability to explain basic Source Monitor functions
- No knowledge of keyboard shortcuts for efficient editing
- Poor understanding of footage organization
- Lack of experience with different editing software platforms
Related Terms
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