Stop your videos from looking cheap! Discover the 5 most common editing mistakes and learn how to give your content a professional touch.
Have you ever put in hours and hours editing a video, only to watch it later and think, “Why does this look… cheap?” Well, you’re definitely not the only one. With so many people creating content these days, it’s super important to make sure our videos stand out and look professional.
But here’s the thing – it’s not always about having the most expensive equipment or software. Sometimes, it’s those little things in the editing process that can trip us up.
In this blog post, we are gonna share with you the top 5 reasons why your video editing looks cheap, even if you’ve invested time and money into them.
1. Overusing Transitions And Effects
You know what we are talking about, right? Those flashy star wipes, those dizzying spin transitions, or those blinding lens flares.
While they might seem cool, they can be super distracting. Instead of a sleek, modern video, it ends up feeling like… well, a 90s slideshow.
So here’s the fix: Keep it simple. For most of your edits, a clean cut does the trick.
If you want to show time passing or a location change, maybe use a fade-in or fade-out—but use them wisely. And hey, if you’re set on using transitions, just make sure they fit the story.
2. Poor Color Grading
Ever noticed how some videos just seem… off? Like the colors are dull, or the scenes just don’t match up right? That’s where color grading comes in. It’s all about tweaking the colors and tones to make your footage shine.
Skip it or do it wrong, and your video might end up looking, well, kind of amateur.
Now, the fix is simpler than you might think. Dedicate some time to mastering the basics of color grading.
Software like Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or even Final Cut Pro? They’re your best friends here. Learn the basics, and aim for a consistent and natural look across all shots.
And remember – less can often be more. You want to enhance, not overwhelm.
Also see: 50 Premium LUTs Pack For Just $1.99
3. Bad Audio Quality
You see, it doesn’t matter how stunning your visuals are. If your audio is off, Like muffled voices or that annoying background hum? Viewers are going to notice.
And let’s be real, it’s going to make your video feel a bit… rookie.
So, what to do? First off, invest in a decent microphone. Good audio starts at the source. Capture it clean and clear right from the start
And once you’re in your editing software? Level out those sounds, clear out the noise, and make everything crisp. And if you’re adding music? Make sure it complements, not competes with, your main audio.
Always keep an ear out. Good sound is just as important as a good shot.
4. Lack of Storytelling Structure
Videos are stories, right? But imagine reading a book where the chapters are all out of order. Confusing? Absolutely.
The same goes for videos. If you’re jumping all over the place without a clear start, middle, or end? It’s gonna feel a bit… off. Maybe even a touch on the cheap side.
Here’s a tip: before you even touch that editing software, sketch out your vision. Like literally, on paper!
What’s your story? How does each clip fit into that story? If it doesn’t add to your narrative, even if it’s the most cinematic shot you’ve ever taken, maybe, just maybe, it doesn’t belong.
5. Ignoring Pacing & Rhythm
Ever watched a video and felt your attention drifting away because it’s dragging? Or maybe you’ve been on the other end, where everything’s moving so fast you’re left thinking, “Wait, what just happened?”
Here’s the deal: your video’s got a beat. It’s got a rhythm. And your edits? They need to dance to that beat.
If you’ve got background music, let your cuts groove with it. If you’ve got a high-octane chase scene, go for those quick cuts. But for those heartfelt, dramatic moments? Let it breathe. Give it time.
And don’t be shy. Get a second opinion or a third! Regularly review your edits, and show it to a friend. Fresh eyes can help you nail that perfect pace.