How to turn a reference video into clear editing instructions

Separate the reference into pace, framing, captions, transitions and sound. Choose the traits that suit your own material.

Start with a clear direction

Describe a fast first shot, short detail inserts and a longer final reveal separately. State which traits to keep and which would distract from your message.

Put it into your edit

Upload your clips to Shorty and describe the result you want. Add a reference if it helps show the pace or visual treatment. Play the first cut, then use chat to shape the next version.

An instruction to make your own

Use this direction for my video: Describe a fast first shot, short detail inserts and a longer final reveal separately. State which traits to keep and which would distract from your message. Check the result against those selected traits rather than expecting every frame of the reference to be reproduced.

Check the detail that matters

Check the result against those selected traits rather than expecting every frame of the reference to be reproduced.

Keep the next change focused

Name the moment, say what should change and describe what you want to keep. For a title, supply the replacement words. For pacing, identify the shot that needs more or less time. Play the surrounding sequence after the revision to hear and see how the change fits.

Questions, answered.

How do I apply this in Shorty?

Upload your clips to Shorty and describe the result you want. Add a reference if it helps show the pace or visual treatment. Play the first cut, then use chat to shape the next version.

What should I look for in the result?

Check the result against those selected traits rather than expecting every frame of the reference to be reproduced.

Your next video starts here.

Bring the footage. Tell us the idea. Shape the edit.

Start editing