Video editing contract, signed before you cut.
Fill in the form and download a clean PDF agreement: scope, deliverables, revision rounds, timeline, payment milestones, usage rights, portfolio, confidentiality and cancellation. Built in your browser.
Template only, not legal advice. Laws differ by country and state. Read every clause, change what does not fit, and have a lawyer review it before you rely on it.
Writing in Hindi, Punjabi or another Indian language? Pick it and type the way you text: "namaste", "sat sri akal".
- Add the editor's name.
- Add the client's name.
- Add the fee.
Write in English, Hindi, Marathi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Odia or Urdu: the PDF draws every script correctly, with the real ₹ sign.
Rather not chase footage and contracts at all? Shinel Studios edits for creators on monthly plans with revisions, turnaround and pricing already written down.
How to write a video editing contract
- Enter both parties. Type the editor's and the client's names, business names, emails and addresses.
- Describe the work. Write the scope and list each deliverable on its own line: how many videos, how long, what format.
- Set revisions and timeline. Choose how many revision rounds are included, the extra-round fee, and the days for first draft, feedback and final delivery.
- Set the fee and payment terms. Enter the fee and currency, pick 50/50, upfront, on delivery or custom milestones, and the days an invoice is due.
- Choose rights and clauses. Decide who owns the final video, whether the editor can show it in a portfolio, confidentiality and the cancellation fee.
- Download and review. Read the preview, download the PDF, and have it checked by a lawyer before both parties sign.
The three clauses that prevent most disputes
Most editing disputes come down to scope creep, endless revisions and late payment. Name every deliverable with its length and format, define a revision round as one consolidated list of changes, and release final files only after the last payment. If you are unsure what to charge, start with the video editor rate calculator, and read our hiring red flags guide to see the same contract from the client's side.
Frequently asked questions
Is this video editing contract legally binding?
A contract can be binding once both parties agree and sign, but whether this template works for you depends on where you and your client live and what you agree. It is a starting template, not legal advice. Have a lawyer in your country or state review it before you rely on it, especially for large projects or brand work.
What should a video editing contract include?
At minimum: who the parties are, the scope of work, a list of deliverables with lengths and formats, how many revision rounds are included, the timeline, the fee and when it is paid, who owns the final video, whether the editor can use it in a portfolio, confidentiality and what happens if either side cancels. This generator covers each of those.
How many revisions should a video editing contract include?
Two rounds per video is a common default, and it is what Shinel Studios includes. Define a round as one consolidated list of changes, and set a price for extra rounds, so feedback does not turn into an open-ended stream of small edits.
Should I ask for a deposit before editing?
Many freelance editors ask for 30 to 50 percent upfront, especially with new clients, and the rest on final delivery. The generator's default is 50 percent upfront and 50 percent on delivery, with final files released once paid. You can switch to custom milestones.
Who owns the video after editing?
Pick the option you agree on. The default transfers ownership of the final deliverables to the client once they have paid in full. The alternative keeps copyright with the editor and gives the client an unlimited licence to publish and monetise. Project files stay with the editor unless you tick the box to include them.
Is my contract stored on your servers?
No. The contract is built and turned into a PDF in your browser. Drafts are saved only in this browser's local storage, and you can delete them at any time.
Can I write the contract in Hindi or Punjabi?
Names, addresses, the project, scope and deliverables can be in any of 12 languages: pick one in Type in and type the way you text (“aasha”, “harpreet singh”), then choose the word from the suggestions, or use the on-screen keyboard. The PDF draws Devanagari, Gurmukhi, Gujarati, Bengali, Odia, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Urdu correctly. The clauses themselves are in English.
Can I sign the contract here?
You can add your signature to the PDF: type your name in one of six calligraphy fonts, draw it with your finger or mouse, or upload a photo of it. The client signs the printed or PDF copy. For a legally recognised e-signature in India, use an Aadhaar eSign or DSC service; this tool only places your signature image.
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