Non-Linear Editing (NLE)
Definition
Non-Linear Editing (NLE) is a method of editing video and audio in which the original source material is not modified. Instead, the editing software creates a sequence of edit decisions that reference specific sections of the source media, allowing the editor to rearrange, trim, and modify the edit at any time without affecting the original files. This is in contrast to linear editing, where edits are made by physically cutting and splicing tape or film. The most widely used NLE systems in professional production include Avid Media Composer, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Apple Final Cut Pro.
Contextual Usage
A production company is evaluating its post-production workflow and the post supervisor recommends, "We should standardize on a single NLE system across all our projects. Using different editing software for different projects creates compatibility issues when we need to share projects or bring in additional editors."
About this section
The editorial department is where the raw footage is transformed into a finished story. The editor is often described as the "invisible storyteller" — their work, when done well, is completely transpa...
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