CHLOE THEL DILAO (11): “I’ve been editing since I was 8 years old. I first got into it after seeing edits and designs online. I used to go on YouTube and Instagram to find edits from my favorite TV shows and movies; eventually I learned the basics of video editing  by experimenting with CapCut. Over time, I slowly got better, and it became something I genuinely enjoyed. Now, I use Adobe Illustrator to make my overlays and layouts for my edits.

Most of my work focuses on video editing. In terms of style, I don’t really have one; the themes of my edits are based on my mood at the time. I like to explore different styles and see what feels right at the moment. 

 I take inspiration from songs and audios that I like, and structure the edit according to the vibes I receive from the audio. If it’s a softer audio, then I use lighter colors and more cute shapes in the frame. Recently, I have started to look on Instagram or TikTok for more ideas and audios, then combine different inspirations into something that feels like my own.

One of the edits I’m most proud of involved a lot of transitions and movement. Those kinds of edits are hard because everything depends on getting the keyframes just right so the motion looks smooth. It takes patience, but when it comes together it feels really rewarding.

Even though I’m not in any video editing clubs at school, I’m always trying to improve my skills. I’ve also received commissions for my edits, which gives me confidence in that knowing my work is valuable to some people. Customers have reached out to me with the content they want, and I work with them to add details to bring their ideas to life. Getting paid for something I enjoy made me realize how far I’d come. I was once a girl who had no idea on how anything regarding graphic design worked, but now I get to enjoy the fruits of my labor. 

I’m not completely sure if graphic design is what I want to do long-term, but nonetheless, I’m passionate about it. I love editing and working with technology, so for now, I see it as a side hustle that lets me be creative while doing something I enjoy.”