Using the right editing program to match your needs and skill level is crucial. You can have the most sophisticated application and be frustrated, not knowing what to do with it. On the other hand, you can have a very simple program that does not match your creativity. The right software can make the difference between a good movie and an awesome one.

You really need to research what your needs are, and truly look at your skill set and designs, before making that software purchase. If you think you might want to start low and move into a higher-end program someday, check to see if the platform of the one you're thinking of purchasing is exceptionally different from something you might want to upgrade to. Every time you change programs, there's a new learning curve, and even the long-term pros have to go through that when they change. Don't buy software to edit a very special once-in-a-lifetime event and not give yourself time to learn it, regardless of your computer skills or editing knowledge.

Teresa Echazabal is a Hollywood video editor and producer.

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