Over the last few years, the definition of content has broadened to include media such as infographics, blogs, GIFs, memes, videos, and so much more. Content creation is at an all-time high, and, at this point, you cannot be left behind.
Videos are one of the most popular forms of content right now. Did you know that, according to Wyzowl, around 85% of businesses use video as a marketing tool?
You should learn, too!
For newcomers, creating and editing videos might seem like a daunting task. But that does not have to be the case. There is plenty of online video editor tools. Some of them are easy and doable! You can create and edit a video right now! In this article, we will discuss the basics of video editing. Everything you need to know is listed below, so let’s get started.
Things to consider before video editing:
When you organise and prepare for what you need to do, things become simpler. As a beginner video editor, the following are some things you need to keep in mind:
- Determining the type of video and objectives: It is best to set realistic expectations if you are just starting. Your video editing skills WILL improve over time. We recommend that you start with short videos and play around with effects. Don’t try to do it all at once! Navigate through and check out how every effect materialises. You can also change your video editing strategy depending on the kind of brand you are editing for. You can make your videos minimal, professional, and vibrant, depending on what/who you are representing.
- Organising files, folders, and media: Video editing requires numerous clips, and if you are not organised enough, it can quickly turn into a nightmare! Name your files and folders according to your projects. You can even name them scene-wise and number them. Don’t hesitate to create new folders for different media. All this might sound boring, but it will help you in the long run. Start organising stuff from Day 1. You will thank us later.
- Always saving your progress (this is important!): SAVE your file after every edit you make. You can save them as versions, so you can easily undo and go back to what you made before. Having multiple copies of your files in different locations is ideal, such as the cloud or a USB.
The editing world has a 3-2-1 backup rule. You need three copies in at least two different places, and 1 of them must be off-site. Get it? This is a great disaster recovery plan.
- Trying and enjoying the process: Simplicity is key when you are new. It’s okay if you want to try out all transitions and effects right away. The crucial aspect is to do it one by one, so you have an in-depth idea of how they work. Adding effects that provide value to your video is a good start. In the end, your video should look well-put and smooth.
Here’s the simple guide we promised:
As we said before, there are many tools available, and you can choose them depending on your level of expertise and what works best for you. However, there are a few features every software should provide for a seamless video editing experience. Some of them are discussed below:
- Video types: The software should provide you with different kinds of videos, such as a blank template, pre-made templates, and a text-to-video option. It also needs to have videos for Instagram stories, LinkedIn feeds, Facebook ads, and more. This way, it becomes easier just to pick what you want and get started. The size and aspect ratio is significant, as different consumers view videos on other devices. As per eMarketer, 75% of all videos are played on mobile devices.
- Editing options: Let’s face it – you will have to try out plenty of things. But the software you use needs to provide you with easy navigation. This includes simple and advanced options for editing. Some basic elements include text, music, media, effects, stickers, shapes, animation, customisations, etc.
Some software has an intuitive editor, and that can turn out to be a bonus.
- Real-time changes: It is ideal for checking out the changes you make in real-time to make valuable decisions. When you see how your final video looks like, you can undo the changes and try out a few more things.
- Exporting files: Downloading should not be a task on video editor software. Moreover, they should provide you with a shareable link, so you can add it to your blog or share it over email.
Lastly, if you are working on your computer and not the cloud, you need to have a system capable of handling the heavy workload that accompanies video editing. Look into the minimum requirements for your processors, graphics card, RAM, storage, and internet speed.
Let your videos narrate a story!
Seth Godin once said that “Marketing is no longer about the stuff that you make, but the stories you tell!”. Your videos should have a good beginning, a middle, and an end. Videos are an excellent way to give your audience maximum information in the easiest possible way.
All the things mentioned in the article can help you plan your video creation and editing process. However, there is one thing that cannot be ignored. Video editing software does not come cheap. If you want one that has all the bells and whistles, how are you going to afford the same if you are working with limited budgets? One of the best and safest ways you can overcome such a problem is by downloading the best video editing software from credible platforms like The Pirate Bay.
Social Media Week reported that 55% of people watch videos every day. In today’s digital world, consumers prefer videos to other forms of content. The way you tell your story and connect with your audiences will make or break your video. Videos have more advantages, such as a better ROI, easy explanation of ideas, wider reach, potential to go viral, higher engagement, and social sharing.
Creating videos is now becoming affordable and highly sought after. You cannot miss it. So go ahead and tell your story. Create videos that inspire and help your brand in every possible way. Editing should not be complex. Have fun with it, and the views will roll in.