Fully edited vs Raw footage
Learn the difference between raw and edited footage and what brands may expect you to deliver
When working with brands on Insense, the Campaign Brief will specify whether the brand requires raw footage, fully edited content, or both.
Reviewing these requirements before filming will help you plan your content and ensure you deliver exactly what the brand is expecting.
Raw Footage
Raw footage refers to unedited video files recorded directly on your phone or camera.
These files have not been trimmed, edited, color-corrected, or enhanced in any way.
Raw footage may include:
- Multiple takes of the same scene;
- Different camera angles;
- Product close-ups and B-Roll;
- Alternative hooks and CTAs;
- Original audio recordings;
- Unedited product demonstrations.
Brands often request raw footage because it gives them maximum flexibility to create their own edits and test different creative variations.
Fully Edited Footage
Fully edited footage is content that has been finalized and is ready to publish.
Edited videos typically include:
- Trimmed clips and clean cuts;
- Smooth transitions;
- Adjusted lighting and framing;
- Captions or subtitles;
- Text overlays and graphics;
- Music or sound effects, when permitted by the brief.
This is the finished version of the content that viewers would typically see on social media.
Why Brands May Request Both
Some brands request both raw and edited footage to maximize the value of the content they receive.
Providing both allows brands to:
- Use your finished video immediately;
- Create additional versions for testing;
- Edit content for different platforms and audiences;
- Repurpose footage for future campaigns.
Having access to both formats gives brands greater flexibility and often improves the overall performance of their marketing efforts.
Best Practices
Before filming, always check the Campaign Brief to confirm what deliverables are required.
If the brand requests raw footage:
- Save your original video files;
- Avoid deleting alternative takes;
- Keep footage organized for easy submission.
If the brand requests edited content:
- Follow all editing requirements outlined in the brief;
- Review captions, text, and audio before submitting;
- Ensure the final video is polished and ready to use.
Understanding the difference between raw and fully edited footage will help you deliver higher-quality content and create a smoother experience for both you and the brand.