How to Edit Videos

Updated on
July 31, 2024
|
How to guides
Published

Are you ready to turn your raw footage into a work of art?

A man holding a camera filming himself on top of a balcony overlooking mountains and scenery
Photo: Canva

Have you ever watched a movie and found yourself completely absorbed, not just by the story, but by the seamless flow of images and sound that transport you to another world? That magic is the art of video editing—a craft that turns raw footage into a compelling narrative. But how do you bridge the gap between shooting clips and creating a visual masterpiece? Whether you're a budding YouTuber, an aspiring filmmaker, or just looking to polish your vacation memories, this blog post is your roadmap to video editing mastery.

Imagine this: You've captured some incredible footage. Now, it's just a collection of moments, waiting to be woven into a story. But where do you start? What software should you use, and how do you organize the chaos of clips into a coherent tale? With the right tools and techniques, you can transform your videos from unremarkable to unforgettable. Let's embark on this journey together, as we explore the essentials of video editing, from the initial selection of software to the final export of your cinematic creation.

Step 0: How to Create a Storyboard

Creating a storyboard is a critical step in planning for the production or editing of footage. It acts as a visual script, detailing how each shot contributes to the story. For new footage, it helps filmmakers plan scenes and shots, ensuring nothing important is missed and aligning with the creative direction.

A desk with a storyboard paper, a camera, and a laptop with Premiere Pro open
Photo: Canva

The process begins with a script breakdown, identifying essential actions, dialogue, and transitions for each scene to determine the required number of storyboard panels. Then, within each panel, the creator sketches the shots, capturing key elements such as composition, camera movement (shown with arrows), and specific details like lighting or effects. Simple sketches using basic shapes or stick figures are sufficient. This visual plan helps communicate the director's vision and can streamline the filmmaking process, saving time and resources.

Step 1: Choose the Right Video Editing Software

Before you start editing, you need to choose a video editing program that suits your needs. Here are some popular options:

Software Description User Level
Adobe Premiere Pro Professional-grade software with comprehensive tools Professional
Final Cut Pro X Known for its user-friendly interface Mac Users
DaVinci Resolve Robust color correction and professional audio post-production Advanced Users
iMovie Beginner-friendly option for Mac users Beginners
Shotcut Free, open-source editor that's great for beginners Beginners
Windows Video Editor Basic, free editor that comes with Windows 10 Beginners

Tips: Can Complex Video Making Be Made Easier?

Are you tired of the logistical nightmares associated with traditional video making? DeepBrain AI Studios is tearing down these barriers with groundbreaking technology that is set to transform the video content landscape. Gone are the days of coordinating with actors, production crews, and grappling with the high costs and time constraints of video production. Ready to glide into the future of content creation with ease? Let's explore how DeepBrain AI Studios is redefining the craft of video making.

AI Studios video editing software with black logo from DeepBrain AI
Photo: DeepBrain AI/ AI Studios

Experience the Future of Video Making with AI Studios

  • Create With AI Humans: Immerse yourself in the era of AI-generated videos. AI Studios gifts you the ability to craft videos featuring AI-powered humans with just a few clicks.
  • Custom Video Content: Customize your video content without needing a single actor, camera, or production set. AI Studios empowers you to produce professional-grade videos effortlessly.
  • AI Video Production Tool: Utilize our cutting-edge AI video production tool to generate content with virtual human avatars. Choose from celebrities or models across various nationalities for a truly diverse range of presenters.
  • Script-to-Video In Minutes: Have a script ready? Watch it transform into a polished video within 5 minutes of input. It's not just fast; it's groundbreaking.

Edit Like a Pro: AI's Edge for YouTube Videos

You don't need a film degree or a Hollywood budget to create standout video content. With DeepBrain AI Studios, you're at the helm of a revolutionary platform that delivers captivating videos infused with the personality and warmth of human presence.

Photo: DeepBrain AI/ AI Studios/Canva

Step 2: Import Your Footage

Once you've chosen your software, it's time to import your video clips into the program.

  1. Open your video editing software.
  2. Look for an "Import" or "Media" option in the menu. This is usually found under File > Import or by clicking an "Import" button in the library or media panel.
  3. Select the video files you want to edit from your computer.

Step 3: Organize Your Clips

Organization is key in video editing. Create bins or folders within your project to categorize your footage, music, and other assets.

  1. In your project panel, right-click and choose New Bin or New Folder.
  2. Name your bins according to their content (e.g., Interviews, B-Roll, Music).

Step 4: Assemble Your Timeline

The timeline is where you'll build your video. Here's how to get started:

  1. Drag and drop your clips from the project panel to the timeline.
  2. Arrange the clips in the order you want them to appear.
  3. Trim the start or end of clips by clicking and dragging the edges to the desired length.
Close up of Adobe Premiere Pro editing software with neon colored clips
Photo: Canva

Step 5: Edit Your Clips

Editing is all about making your video flow smoothly. Here are some basic editing techniques:

  • Cutting: Remove unwanted parts by using the Razor or Cut tool.
  • Transitions: Add transitions between clips for a smoother change of scenes.
  • Effects: Apply video effects to enhance or correct your footage.
  • Text: Insert titles, captions, or credits using the text tool.

Step 6: Add Music and Sound Effects

Audio can dramatically affect the mood of your video. To add audio:

  1. Import your audio files following the steps in Step 2.
  2. Drag the audio files onto the timeline, usually on a separate track from the video.
  3. Adjust the audio level to ensure it's balanced with the spoken content.
Audio levels being adjusted on video editing software
Photo: Canva

Step 7: Color Correction and Grading

Color correction and grading can make your video look more professional. Most editing software has color correction tools that allow you to adjust the brightness, contrast, saturation, and more.

  1. Select the clip you want to correct.
  2. Open the color correction panel.
  3. Adjust the settings to achieve the desired look.
Color grading wheels on a PC monitor from a video editing software
Photo: Canva

Step 8: Export Your Video

Once you're satisfied with your edit, it's time to export:

  1. Go to File > Export or click the Export button.
  2. Choose the format and settings that best suit your delivery platform (e.g., YouTube, Facebook).
  3. Click Export to render and save your video.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • Video not importing: Ensure the format is compatible with your software. Convert it using a video converter if needed.
  • Audio out of sync: Detach the audio from the video and manually align it, or use an auto-sync feature if available.
  • Poor performance: Lower the playback resolution, close other programs, or consider upgrading your hardware.

Transforming raw footage into a captivating narrative requires mastering the art of video editing. This process involves choosing the right software, organizing clips, assembling a timeline, editing for flow, adding audio, color correction, and finally exporting the finished product. Don’t forget, DeepBrain AI Studios offers innovative solutions to streamline video production using AI-generated content! By following these steps and utilizing available tools, anyone from beginners to advanced users can create professional-looking videos.

How to Edit Videos
Divya Sood

Digital Content Marketer

With a robust background in digital marketing spanning diverse industries, from her tenure at Meta to contributing to the marketing strategies at California's Great America, Divya Smith brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic insight to her writing. Her literary journey is seamlessly intertwined with her expertise in AI and its applications in cybersecurity, as well as her passion for the dynamic worlds of skincare/cosmetics and design. A delightful twist to Divya's story is her unique journey from being born on the east coast to being raised on the west coast—a duality that echoes in the diverse themes of her writing and the marketing worlds she navigates.