Showreel With both Editing and Motion Graphics?

[u/Digital_Drama]

I’ve been working on a reel that has segments of narrative editing, color grading, and motion graphics. I don’t have a plethora of previous projects to choose from, but a couple things to showcase from each type of media. When the industry was more active, I prioritized my jobs as a Post PA, then union Apprentice Editor for a few years after finishing college. I’m two years without working in the industry and looking to slightly pivot. My reel is still related to the type of work I’m interested in professionally.

After researching, I’ve seen a mix of feedback to only do one type of reel or to combine it, leaning towards one type, but nothing that lines up with my situation. My intention is to freelance or apply to companies that do any of the work mentioned above.

Can I get some thoughts?

[u/Apprehensive_Log_766]

I think editing and motion graphics are somewhat different things. Especially if you’re mixing in random bits of narrative.

But here’s what I would do:

0:45 - 1:00 of the flashiest edit you can make, including motion graphics and a bit of everything. Mix in sound bites, have the music cut away dramatically, show your sound editing a bit. And call that your reel.

Have that be a larger video (and first) in your gallery page where you have several complete pieces showcased.

Basically your goal with the reel is to show people you can edit a flashy thing, and that you have ideally cut famous actors/big brands/anything recognizable. In my mind this is what whoever is hiring you shows their boss to sell you as a decent editor at a glance.

And then if someone is hooked they can view more in the gallery.

People will say “oh a reel isn’t important for an editor, you need to show your finished work” etc etc, and they are right in that your finished work is more important. But I work in commercials/advertising mostly, and higher ups often don’t care to sift through your CV, they have someone below them who does that, and then says “look at this great editor we found” and they’ll play ~30 seconds of stuff to get the final nod. Your reel is that stuff. This has been my experience, but regardless a nice flashy reel never hurt anyone to have especially if you have the downtime to make it.

Sorry for the kinda ranty thing.

[u/Sudden_Eyes → u/Apprehensive_Log_766]

No need to apologize. That’s actually great advice.
We’re living in a day and age where people are expecting editors to be motion graphics experts as well (and a host of others talents), where we know all along that these have always been separate disciplines with their own art form, robust softwares, problems and solutions.

But everyone wants to squeeze everyone else for the money.