9 Must-Have Video Editing Software Features for Beginners
Summary: In this blog post, you’ll take a look at the 9 best video editing software features that all beginners should be aware of. From choosing the right program to understanding the different editing functions, this post will provide you with all the information you need to get started.
- • Convert videos to 1000+ format without loss
- • Compress the high-quality video and audio while retaining original quality
- • Embedded with video editing functions like cropping, effect, and watermark
Table of Contents
Are you new to video editing? If so, you need to know the must-have video editing software features for beginners. Editing videos can be tricky, but having the right tools at your disposal makes it much easier. Stay tuned with us to get the features and help you choose the best video editor.
1. User interface
One of the features that all beginner video editors should familiarize themselves with is the user interface. According to the Interaction Design Foundation, the user interface of any video editing program is its foundation, as it allows users to access and modify its many tools.
The user interface will vary depending on the program used, but its main components are typically quite similar. These include:
- Timeline to organize project clips and sequences
- Preview window
- Navigation tools, such as scrubbing and zooming
- Menus and panels containing options to customize projects
- Playback controls
For first-time users, understanding how these elements work together will make navigating the software much simpler.
2. Plugins and add-ons
Plugins and add-ons are pieces of code written by third parties that you can use to enhance your video projects. They allow you to customize your videos with special effects, transitions, and other features that can help make your project more professional looking.
In addition, plugins provide access to different tools for video editing, such as color correction and audio mixing—which can help take your project to the next level. They also allow you to integrate media from other sources, such as stock footage libraries and music libraries into your project easily and quickly.
In some instances, video editing software programs integrate with a CRM tool. You can find an Infusionsoft alternative if you need more options. This integration helps promote your videos online.
3. Supported file formats
When looking for the best video editing software for beginners, keep in mind that the variety of file formats that are supported by different programs can vary greatly. And knowing which file formats are compatible with your software will ensure you can get started on your project quickly and without any technical issues.
Most software providers have a library of supported file formats, including popular ones like MP4, AVI, MOV, 3GP, and MKV. Depending on the software package you choose, you may also be able to work with more complex formats, such as ProRes or AVCHD. It’s worth researching these in advance so you can make sure any footage you acquire is compatible with your chosen editing suite.
4. Recording and audio editing capabilities
One of the most basic functions that any beginner should understand is the ability to record audio. This can include soundscapes, voice-over narration, background music, and even sound effects.
Most video editing for beginners comes with some type of built-in recording feature so users can easily capture their audio directly from within their projects. Additionally, many programs also offer support for external microphones so you can achieve higher-quality sound recordings when needed.
Audio editing is another crucial feature for beginners to learn about. Most video editing software will offer basic tools to allow users to trim and clean up their sound recordings. This may include using fading effects and compression techniques, as well as being able to adjust the pitch and add filters like reverb or echo to create the desired effect.
5. Sharing options
Video editing software programs allow users to create stunning videos, but oftentimes they don't know how to share them. Hence, you should become familiar with the sharing options available on your video editor.
The most common way to share videos is through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. All these platforms have their own set of rules for uploads, and beginners need to familiarize them. YouTube is also a great option for sharing videos since it’s widely used by people all around the world.
If you want to share your videos across multiple platforms using only a single dashboard, you may use a social media management software.
6. Transitions and effects
Transitions help seamlessly move between clips while adding visual interest with a simple click of a button. Effects, on the other hand, can be used to alter colors or add motion blur or text overlays—all to give videos a unique look and feel.
With so much potential for creativity, it’s no wonder why transitions and effects have become one of the go-to tools for novice video editors around the world. Whether you’re just getting started in video editing or looking to take your skills up a notch, exploring transitions and effects is essential.
7. Text and titles
Texts and titles allow you to add captions and labels to your videos—making them more dynamic and effective in conveying a message. By using texts, you can highlight certain parts of the video or provide additional context for viewers. Titles also help draw attention to specific elements within a video, which allows for more creative freedom in terms of design and layout.
Moreover, texts and titles can be customized with various fonts, colors, sizes, and styles—allowing users to create unique visuals for their projects.
Overall, texts and titles are key elements of video editing software, and beginners should know how to use them effectively. As per an article by Medium, knowing how to add texts and titles can be the difference between having an average-looking video and one that looks professional.
8. Green screen
When it comes to video editing, the green screen is a powerful tool that should be in every beginner's arsenal. It allows users to replace the background of a scene with any other image or video. This feature can also help you create amazing effects for your videos—from transporting your subjects to different locations to making them disappear in an instant.
The concept of green screening involves superimposing one image on top of another so that only one image appears in the final product. This is possible because the background of a scene can be replaced with an alternate background while foreground elements remain in place.
For example, if you wanted to make your subject appear as though they were standing in front of an erupting volcano, you could use a green screen to achieve this effect without ever leaving your home. If anything, the green screen is a great tool for beginner editors who want to create special effects in their videos.
9. 360 video
According to StudioBinder, the 360 video feature is a 3D format that creates an immersive viewing experience. This type of video provides viewers with a full range of motion, allowing them to look around and explore the scene from any angle they choose.
As such, it gives filmmakers more control over how they tell their stories and lets them craft truly unique experiences for audiences. Additionally, 360 videos make use of virtual reality technology, enabling viewers to feel as if they’re actually in the scene themselves.
Get Started Today
If you’re looking for video editing software that can meet your needs as a beginner, make sure to look for the features listed above. With these features, you’ll be able to easily create stunning videos that are perfect for any project or occasion.
Don’t settle for anything less than the best and don’t forget to explore all the options available before making a decision. Start your search today and take your video editing skills to the next level!