Advances in home computers have allowed video editing to become a popular tool applied to everyday video projects. Even if you are new at computer-based editing, you can learn tips and tricks that will help ease you into this skill set.
Programs
Video editing can be done in multiple formats and on a standard computer it is often free. Windows owners can utilize the Windows Movie Maker editing software to edit and create video collections. Mac owners have iMovie, which features the same basic layout of Windows Movie Maker. Two more advanced movie editing programs are Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro. Adobe Premiere Pro is available on both Mac and Windows computers, while Final Cut Pro is only available on Mac computers.
Uploading
When uploading footage from a digital device like a video camera or digital camera, one of the easiest ways to process it is through a DV cable. These cables provide clear quality and secure connections. Limit each upload to around nine or 10 minutes of video footage. Any longer and you could lose frames and experience audio delays.
Organizing
A quick video editing project will benefit from organization. Keep videos in folders by date, scene or shot. The more detailed, the better. Renaming clips will make it easier on you than dealing with "Video_1", "Video_2", and "Video_3." You can organize clips within the video editing program as well and separated into multiple "sub-folders."
Cutting
Learn to use the main editing tools. One of the easiest tools to use is the "Trim" tool, which can help you take sections of video off from the beginning and the end. If you want to take multiple sections of a shot, the "splice" tool can split it up for easier maneuvering. Use multiple video slots in your timeline to layer the video files, which makes clicking and dragging them easier.
Audio Mixing
Use headphones to mix audio so that you can hear the sound clearly, without outside interference. Advanced video editors feature an audio mixer that lets you clearly see the levels. Other video editors merely use the sound they are given. Make sure audio levels match from scene to scene so the sound plays evenly when rendered.
Transitions
Transitions are a great way to cut from shot to shot. When planning for a transition, leave an extra second or two of footage. Otherwise the transitions may cut into dialogue or important cinematic moments. The best way to do this is by shooting extra footage during the actual shoot. If this is not possible, then extend the footage as much as you can.
Keyboards
Almost every video editing program features keyboard shortcuts to make the process easier. This will save time and allow you to trim frame by frame if necessary. Use your program's help menu to find the detailed layout and learn the keys, or label your keys using masking tape. A professional video editing keyboard is also available for certain programs.
Black Video
Add at least five seconds of black to the opening and end of your video. Do this by creating a "new black matte" that is available with most video-editing software. This ensures that your video will not be cut off or distorted at the beginning or end.
Tags: video editing, Adobe Premiere, editing program, Movie Maker, video editing, video editing program, video editors