An Amarillo Texas native, editor Heidi Black is known for her comedic timing, humanistic storytelling, and passion for sports. If you cut comedy it helps to be funny, and if you’ve ever been in her edit suite, there’s no doubt that Heidi had you chuckling with her dry and observational sense of humor. A consummate professional, Heidi has developed lasting relationships with The Martin Agency, Deutsch, TBWA\Chiat\Day, Wolfgang, and Leo Burnett telling stories for global brands including Geico, Discover, Bridgestone, Bubly, and Amazon. In addition to her comedy prowess, Heidi is also drawn to emotional storytelling. She’s the editor who likely moved you to tears with Google’s powerful It Gets Better, which was honored at both Cannes and AICP. On the other side of the spectrum, Heidi edited the hilarious Hyundai First Date for Super Bowl 50, starring Kevin Hart and earning the #1 ranking on USA Today’s Ad Meter. A generous editor committed to paying it forward, Heidi has been instrumental in mentoring the next generation of Whitehouse talent, many of whom have grown to become successful editors in their own right.
What’s your favorite thing about editing and why?
It’s like writing without having to know how to type.
Biggest creative challenge you’ve faced?
Starting the Google Chrome “It Gets Better” spot with just a kernel of an idea and the entire internet to choose from. Working with the fabulous BBH team on it was one of the most challenging, fulfilling, terrifying and fun things I’ve ever done.
Best advice you’ve received?
If you can’t figure out why a cut isn’t working, watch it with no sound and narrate it out loud. When you can’t keep up with the story, that’s where the trouble lies.
Is there something you wish you knew when you were starting out?
Presenting a cut for the first time will always give you butterflies. And that’s a good thing, so just get used to it.
Favorite time of day?
Early morning. It’s all endless possibilities until about 11am. Then reality sets in.
Something that makes you smile.
My sweet Lucille.
Favorite holiday?
Thanksgiving. A totally secular day devoted to football and food with no regrets.
Favorite place?
The bar at L’Opossum.
Favorite insta account?
@b_a_l_L_h_a_u_s and @animalsdoingthings
Something that would surprise people?
I cry at commercials, even knowing how the sausage gets made.
Would you rather fly or be invisible?
1000% be invisible.
What fictional character do you identify most with, and why?
Heidi. For obvious reasons.
Best album to work to?
Yentl. Change my mind.
What is your office “must have?” (ie. Piece of tech, favorite drink, special cushion for your chair)
The LA production team. I’d be lost without that group of amazing women.
