RakshaShort-form video is dominating digital platforms. Whether you’re building a brand on TikTok, boosting engagement on Instagram Reels, or growing your YouTube Shorts channel, the success of your content hinges on fast, captivating, and well-edited visuals.
Hiring a freelance video editor is a smart move, but only if you know how to brief them properly.
In this post, we’ll show you exactly how to brief a short-form video editor, what details to include, and provide a template you can copy and customize.
Why a Clear Brief Matters
Short-form video editors are creative professionals, but they’re not mind readers. A solid brief helps them:
- Understand your brand voice and style
- Edit to the right pace, format, and platform
- Avoid unnecessary revisions
- Deliver engaging content that performs well
Without a proper brief, you risk wasting time, budget, and momentum.
What to Include in a Short Form Video Brief
Here are the essential elements every client should include when hiring a video editor for TikTok, Reels, or Shorts:
1. Project Overview
Explain what the video is about and what platform it’s for.
Example:
We’re creating a 30-second TikTok to promote our eco-friendly water bottles using a customer testimonial and overlayed product shots.
2. Platform & Format
State the target platform(s)—each one has different trends, tone, and video length limits.
- TikTok: Vertical (9:16), up to 10 minutes, but 15–60 seconds performs best
- Instagram Reels: Vertical (9:16), up to 90 seconds
- YouTube Shorts: Vertical (9:16), up to 60 seconds
3. Video Length
Clarify the final duration(s) needed.
Example:
We need 2 versions: one 15-second version for Reels and a 45-second version for TikTok.
4. Raw Footage & Assets
Let the editor know what you’re providing:
- Raw clips (phone or camera?)
- Voiceovers
- Stock footage
- Music tracks (or if they need to source them)
- Brand elements: logos, fonts, color palette
Use cloud storage links (Google Drive, Dropbox, WeTransfer) and organize folders clearly.
5. Editing Style / Creative Direction
Give clear guidance on visual tone, speed, and reference videos. Include:
- Sample TikToks or Reels you like
- Transitions or effects to use/avoid
- Captions (burned-in, dynamic, subtitles)
- Text overlay style (casual, bold, minimal)
Example:
We like the fast-paced editing of @modernmillie and the caption style used by @glowrecipe. Please use energetic transitions and lo-fi background music.
6. Audio Direction
Specify what audio to include:
- Music (genre, vibe, or trending sound links)
- Voiceovers (if included or to be added)
- Sound effects (clicks, pops, zooms, whooshes)
7. Text, Captions, and CTAs
Are captions required? Should there be a call-to-action?
Example:
Add burned-in captions and end the video with “Shop now – link in bio.”
8. Deliverables Required
List what you need:
- Final video in MP4, vertical 1080×1920
- Source file (if needed – e.g., Premiere Pro, After Effects, CapCut, etc.)
- Thumbnails or stills for posting
9. Timeline
Set deadlines clearly:
- First draft due
- Revisions (if needed)
- Final delivery date
Allow time for edits and feedback rounds.
Sample Short Form Video Editing Brief Template
Project Name:
Promo Reel for EcoHydrate Water Bottles
Platform(s):
Instagram Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts
Video Length:
- TikTok: 45 seconds
- Reels & Shorts: 30 seconds
Footage Provided:
- iPhone testimonial video (Google Drive)
- B-roll product footage
- Brand kit folder (logos, fonts, hex codes)
Editing Style:
- Energetic, Gen Z-style jump cuts
- Text overlays like this: [link to reference]
- Burned-in captions in white bold font
- Quick zooms and swipe transitions between clips
Audio:
- Use trending lo-fi background music
- No voiceover needed
- Subtle sound effects (pops, whooshes)
Text/CTA:
Include caption: “EcoHydrate – Good for You, Good for the Planet”
End with: “Shop Now – Link in Bio”
Deliverables:
- Final video MP4 (1080x1920, vertical)
- Still thumbnail frame for IG preview
- Optional: Premiere Pro source file
Timeline:
- First draft: Monday, June 10
- Revisions: by Wednesday, June 12
- Final: Friday, June 14
Pro Tips for Clients
- Don’t over-direct; give creative freedom within boundaries. Freelancers thrive with clarity and trust.
- Label files clearly and organize footage folders by scene or priority.
- Use screen recordings or Loom videos to explain your ideas visually.
- Involve your editor early if you’re filming—many editors can advise on framing, pacing, and shot structure.
Final Thoughts
Short-form video is fast, fun, and high-stakes. With a thoughtful, detailed brief, you can set your freelance editor up for success and get high-quality, scroll-stopping content that connects with your audience.
Looking to hire a skilled short-form video editor?
👉 Find freelance TikTok & Reels editors on Twine and get custom proposals from talented creators who understand vertical video storytelling.
Vicky
