3 Tips for How to Edit Videos: A Beginner’s Guide

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Did you know that by the time you finish reading this introduction, another 300 hours of video will have been uploaded to YouTube? If that many people are uploading their work to YouTube, why shouldn’t you?

Learning how to edit videos can seem tough, but with a willingness to learn and some helpful hints, you can get started on your journey in no time.

Keep reading as we walk you through three of the best tips for new video editors!

1. Find Software That Works for You

It’s often said that an artist is only as good as their tools. Given how expensive some editing software can be, you might think your fun new hobby spells doom for your wallet.

But there are plenty of great linear editing programs that you can try for free.

Adobe, creators of Photoshop, have a free online video maker app, for example. Since it’s a part of their Creative Cloud Express software suite, you can even incorporate elements of other multimedia projects like photos, audio, and text to give your videos a unique look.

Adobe isn’t the only game in town, though. You can download trials of industry-grade software like Final Cut and Avid, or try entirely free editing software like DaVinci Resolve or Movie Maker Online.

It might take some time to find video content editing software that clicks with you. But don’t sweat it. Keep experimenting until you find a piece of software that fits your needs and experience level.

2. Take Your Time

Video editing can be a lot of fun. For some editors, it puts them in an almost zen-like state where they get into a groove and hours feel like minutes.

By the same token, however, learning to edit videos can also be an arduous and time-consuming process. After all, it can take hours to edit a single minute-long sequence.

Take your time and don’t be afraid to take frequent breaks.

Learning to edit videos isn’t something that happens overnight, nor is it something that happens quickly. At least, not if you want it done well.

So take a deep breath and enjoy the learning process. Before you know it, you’ll have all sorts of keyboard shortcuts memorized and color correction techniques mastered.

3. Match Your Editing Style to the Content

Next time you’re watching TV, at the movies, or find yourself browsing social media, pay close attention to the editing styles. You’ll soon start to pick how just how different the content creation is for each media type!

Take video content marketing, for example. You’d use fewer cuts and transitions than you would if you were making a video for a social platform like TikTok or Snapchat, as the latter favor quick, rapid-fire video editing.

Grab some footage and try editing in each style as an experiment. Not only is this a fun way to learn more about the video production world, but it’s a great way to diversify your skillset!


PhotoDirector 365

How to Edit Videos Like a Pro in 3 Easy Steps

The best way to learn how to edit videos is simply to get started and try it for yourself. You don’t have to spend a ton on software, nor do you need to turn pro overnight. Take your time and have fun!

For more tips on staying creative, be sure to check out the other great content on our blog!