Yet, what makes that editor, what discernable characteristics shape these bold co-conspirators who revise and correct, polish and formulate a flow of time that raps with the directors, the creatives and ultimately the clients vision?

"Editors have to be many things. For a start, they have to be collaborative and not just sit there and be a pair of hands," explains Angus Wall of LA-based Rock, Paper, Scissors. Wall's work has accentuated the commercial, promo and feature worlds for the likes of David Fincher and a whole slew of talented directors. "If you're a creative or a director, you need an editor who can bring something to the work, but who's not going to take it away from you and run. An editor needs to collaborate, communicate and help carry the torch."

The ability to work closely with industry peeps is paramount during the weaving and sewing process. The editor, in essence, becomes the right hand man (or woman as the case may be), a partner in crime so to speak. Yet also required, beyond the physical knowledge of the Avid, is a visual sensibility that years of training may not necessarily enhance.

"It's someone who can appreciate a good shot because it's not about where you make the cut but the actual shot selection itself," clarifies Wall on the flow of narrative and need for aesthetically-charged shots. "You can really see when someone has an appreciation for photography and that's entirely different from just cutting the material you receive."

As technical as the process becomes, attention to detail during the edit may actually hinder the creative process, as JD Smyth (one of six editors on display over the proceeding pages) discovered upon taking up the art of the Avid:

"Continuity is the first thing that goes out the window," explains Smyth who plies his trade for Rock Paper Scissors, LA. "It's one of the first things that you learn. It's more about the narrative, the rhythm, the emotion and the storytelling."

So what is it that makes the great editor, one respected by his peers and sought out by the powers that be? "Simply put," concludes Wall, "you have to love the fruition of an idea, be in total focus throughout the process and have the ability to entertain the viewer."

NOTE:

The six up-and-coming editors chosen in this issue possess an understanding of rhythm, strong storytelling abilities and a visual competence that stood out amongst a flurry of reels that Boards received. Not every editor could be covered in this issue and we must thank all those individuals who entered their reels.

Check out the up-and-comers here: