Work clearly from a distance

A practical handoff for remote video editing

Quick answer: A useful remote-editing handoff groups source files, one project brief, clearly labeled feedback, and a list of requested output formats. The actual process and deliverables still need to be agreed for that project.

View the project page: Homeowners

Before starting a project

This is general project-preparation guidance, not Esteban Moreno Media policy. Packages, process, review terms, timing, file transfer, and deliverables are defined for each project.

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How do you package files and context together?

Place the original footage, audio, approved graphics, copy, and references in a structure that another person can follow. Add one brief that explains the goal, intended use, deadline, and requested deliverables. For a real-world example of remote video post-production from supplied footage, explore the Homeowners real estate editing project (and Homeowners case study).

Keep assumptions separate from confirmed facts. This preparation does not decide which files an editor will accept or what the eventual scope, transfer method, schedule, or deliverables will include.

Send the original files through a transfer link or a shared drive rather than a messaging app, which recompresses video, and keep the folder structure from each camera card so clips stay matched to their audio and their day.

How do you make feedback easy to locate?

When reviewing any shared draft, identify the exact moment or element that needs attention. Write what should change and, when useful, why it matters to the message or placement.

A timestamp can help when the chosen review method supports one, but no tool, number of review rounds, or feedback process is assumed here. Collecting comments before sending them can still reduce conflicting requests.

Note which version you reviewed, such as v1 or v2, so a comment on an older export is not applied to the newer one by mistake.

Name the exact moment or element
Describe the requested change
Include replacement wording when text must change
Resolve conflicting feedback before sending it

Which output needs should the handoff list?

List the versions requested for web, social, or archive. Orientation, captions, text placement, and file naming may differ across those uses.

Treat that list as an input to the conversation, not a promise of delivery. File transfer, schedule, accepted deliverables, and review points remain open until they are agreed for the individual project.

List each requested orientation and placement
State whether text or captions should appear in the image
Keep source material, review versions, and any approved files in separate folders

Pre-Production Handoff Checklist

Remote Video Footage Handoff Checklist

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Suggested Folder Structure

01_RAW_FOOTAGE/
├── Camera_A/
└── Camera_B/
02_AUDIO_STEMS/
├── Dialogue_Lavalier.wav
└── Room_Tone_10s.wav
03_BRAND_ASSETS/
├── Logo_Transparent.png
└── Brand_Guidelines.pdf
04_REFERENCES/
└── Style_Inspiration_Links.txt