How to leave timestamped comments on a video (and why it saves a round of edits)
Why video feedback without timestamps causes extra edits, how to give precise notes on a cut, and how reviewers can comment on the frame itself.
“Around the middle there’s a bit where the logo looks odd.” Every video editor has received a note like this. It forces them to scrub through the cut, guess which moment the reviewer meant, and hope they guessed right. Timestamped comments fix that, and adding the position on the frame makes them even clearer.
Why timestamps matter
A timestamp turns a vague note into a precise instruction. “0:42: the logo comes in before the voice-over mentions the product” can be found and fixed in seconds. Without a time, the same note can take minutes to locate, and the editor may fix the wrong moment.
The same goes for where on the frame. A lower third, a background object and a face can all be on screen at once. Saying which one you mean, or better, pointing at it, removes the last bit of guesswork.
Ways to add timestamps to video feedback
Typing them by hand
The simplest method: pause, read the time from the player and type it next to your note, like “1:15 cut feels abrupt”. It works, but it’s easy to make mistakes, and reviewers often skip it when they’re in a hurry.
Using a review tool that records the time for you
Review tools capture the time automatically when you comment. In edits.io, reviewers pause the video and click on the frame: the comment is saved with its position on the frame and its timestamp. Clicking the comment later jumps the player straight back to that moment. Reviewers open a link and comment as guests, so clients don’t need an account.
How to give useful notes on a cut
- Watch it once without stopping. Your first impression is what the audience will feel. Note overall reactions: what works, what drags, what confuses.
- Go back and comment at specific moments. Pause at each issue and leave one note per issue.
- Explain why. “Feels slow” is a reaction. “Feels slow because we see the same product shot twice” is something the editor can fix.
- Separate must-fix from preference. Wrong names and spelling must change. A different music choice might be a preference.
What to check in a video review
- Story and structure: a strong opening, a clear message, a clear ending.
- Pacing: moments that drag or rush; total length for the platform.
- Picture: consistent colour, framing and focus.
- Audio: clear dialogue, music under the voice, no clicks or jumps in level.
- On-screen text: spelling, legibility, enough time to read, and clear of platform buttons.
- Delivery: aspect ratio, resolution and captions for each platform.
Our video feedback checklist has the full list to copy. For social videos, the Instagram reel and TikTok video size pages list current dimensions and safe zones.
Grabbing a still for feedback
Sometimes you want to send a single frame, for a thumbnail decision or to show a colour issue. Our free video frame grabber lets you step to the exact frame in your browser, save it as an image and annotate it with arrows and pins.
Summary
- Every video note should say when and where.
- Watch once for impressions, then comment at exact moments.
- Explain why, and separate must-fix from preference.
- Use a tool that records timestamps automatically, so reviewers don’t skip them.
Upload your next cut to edits.io and send the link to your reviewers. It’s free for 10 projects.