Did you ever see a funny video and say to yourself: ‘How the hell was this made?’ As it turns out, you’re not the only one. Video editing can sometimes feel like the closest thing we have to a superpower, and the tech wizards that know how to wield it are often seen as some of the most privileged among us. But you don’t have to be born with superpowers. Everything you need to be a video-editing hero already exists within you. Whether you want to jazz-up the videos you share with your family, or you have dreams of being the next YouTube sensation, I have 10 tips for how to do just that.
Are you finally ready to have awesome looking videos produced from your raw video footage? Well, don’t wait any longer! This free Beginner’s Guide to Video Editing is a must-have for those who want to get good at editing videos, guaranteed to put you from a zero to a hero, so start CLICK HERE NOW!
1. Choose the Right Software
Step one: choose a weapon: given the enormous and ever-changing sea of options when it comes to video editing software, you might be daunted by the task. So, let’s keep it simple: if you are just getting started, download iMovie (Mac) or HitFilm Express (Mac and Windows) and get yourself something that’s intuitive and full-featured enough to keep your interest as you develop your skills.
“But professional software is better, right?”
Not at all! Start simple. You can always upgrade later. Learn the basics on beginner-friendly software, then you can move on to more complex programmes like Adobe Premiere Pro.
2. Organize Your Media
Picture trying to prepare a gourmet meal in a messy kitchen. That sounds like a nightmare, right? Well, your video-editing experience will be the same if your media files aren’t properly organized – have folders for videos, audio, images, and the rest of your assets. It’ll save you time and frustration down-the-line.
3. Learn Basic Cuts and Transitions
But before you think about all the bells and whistles, make sure you’ve mastered the basics – the essential stuff that goes in to making any really good video. You can start really simply. Learn how to trim and crop, and how to make cuts from one clip to another. Then try adding some simple transitions – the crossfade is great for moving from presentation titles to slides and the vanishing wipe is too cool not to try at least once – and you’ll find that you already have the beginnings of a pretty professional-looking finished sequence.
“Speaking of effects, we’ll get to some cool tricks later. But first…”
4. Focus on the Story
Without a story, a video is the same as a book without a plot: boring! Do you want a two-minute or a 10-minute video? Whichever length you settle on, it should have a clear beginning, middle and end. This even applies to a simple vlog. If filmed in the right way, and following a narrative arc, it can tell a story. First, think about what shots you want to tell.
5. Use B-Roll
Have you ever wondered how professional videos change camera angles or cut to related footage? It’s B-roll. Professional editors use shots of material other than the primary picture content to provide information and explain your story. Film extra footage of your surroundings, or of things or activities related to your main story.
6. Get the Audio Right
Poor audio will destroy the most beautiful of videos. Buy a decent mic, and learn how to set your sound levels. Secondary audio, such as background music, must be carefully judged – look for tracks that complement a video, rather than overwhelm a viewer with noise.
“But good mics are expensive!”
You can get lots of really good quality cheaply- just take a look at our section on lapel mics or USB microphones.
7. Experiment with Effects
That open loop about cool tricks? Here it is! When you’re comfortable with the basics, start fiddling with effects. Add some text overlays. Fix the color balance. Put it in slow mo. Don’t go overboard. Less is more.
8. Use Keyboard Shortcuts
Time is money, right? Massively accelerate your way through your edits. Invest a few minutes learning the most common keyboard shortcuts for your software. You’ll thank you.
9. Review and Revise
Don’t settle for your first take. Watch the video over and over again, looking for ways it might be improved. Share it with a colleague – they might be able to spot what you missed.
10. Export with the Right Settings
After all that effort, it deserves to be viewed at the highest resolution possible. When exporting, choose the appropriate settings for your host platform. YouTube can handle 1080p with a high bitrate.
“Ready to show the world your masterpiece? Just one last thing…”
Bonus Tip: Keep Learning
Video editing is a constantly changing landscape. Keep track of the latest cool edits and new tricks alongside tutorials and tips by joining an online community where you can share and receive feedback. That’s it! Just so you know, we’ll continue building your knowledge of editing on our blog so you can keep growing as a video editor. From zero to hero, and straight into the sky. Keep on pointing and clicking!
Consider yourself armed and ready to turn those raw clips into something wonderful. Armed with all these tips, you’re on your way. And now you’re the smart one, the newbie who will soon be the expert. Go forth, good video heroe!