A few months ago I started testing a “sound-first” workflow for short-form content. Instead of editing visuals in silence, I now begin with royalty free music to establish pacing before building the full sequence. This approach unexpectedly reduced the number of timeline corrections I usually make during late-stage edits. Once the rhythm is defined early, transitions feel smoother and scene timing becomes easier to control. I also like that I can quickly switch between ambient, cinematic, or upbeat directions without interrupting focus. For fast turnaround projects, this method has become part of my regular production routine rather than an experiment.