1:1 with James Lester

Looking for personalized, one-on-one instruction? Whether you're a total beginner eager to learn editing from scratch or an intermediate to advanced editor seeking hands-on feedback and targeted skill development, private lessons with Emmy-nominated editor James Lester offer the individualized attention you need to take your editing to a much higher level.

Unlike a normal class with a set syllabus and schedule, James Lester’s private instruction is adaptive and fluid. With the deep understanding that each student is a totally unique human being, James seeks to tailor every session to the individual, creating lessons and assignments that lean into the strengths of the individual student while illuminating and addressing areas that need improvement. He doesn’t just teach software—he teaches the craft of editing, helping students build strong storytelling instincts and professional-level skills. Many of his students have gone on to work in the film and television industry, and James is known for providing meaningful mentorship and career guidance along the way.

Course schedules and meeting times are developed by James and each student together, allowing flexibility for schedule and forming a totally unique experience of film editing education!