A comparison of video editing software
Hello! Are you new to video editing? If so, you are probably confused by the wide variety of video editing software programs on the market.
When I started in video editing, no one gave me a proper comparison of video editing software programs. So I experimented on my own.
I tried using Microsoft Movie Maker and other free software. Over time, as I gained confidence in the editing process, I moved on to commercial software like Adobe Premiere and Corel VideoStudio.
In this article, I’d like to give you a comparison of the best video editing software programs out there so you can be more creative with your productions.
1. Beginner level
Let’s start with the basics. If you’re a beginner and haven’t done much video editing, I recommend starting with a free video editing package like Microsoft MovieMaker. This allows you to understand the video timeline, splitting, trimming, and how to add basic effects to your production.
Once you have some basic knowledge, get a good video editor for beginners like MovAVI. I use MovAVI a lot these days to edit and quickly record/upload my videos to YouTube.
MovAVI automates most of the post production process for me. I simply import my video, select a default theme, and the software does the rest. This saves me a lot of time, especially if I have a bunch of vacation videos that I’m too lazy to do a deep edit on.
2. Intermediate level
OK, moving on to intermediate level software. These programs have basic video editing features for beginners, but also contain advanced features for those who want to be more creative.
In this category, my personal preference is Corel Video Studio. I’ve used competing products like Adobe Premiere Elements and Pinnacle Studio before, but I keep coming back to VideoStudio for the rich set of templates it has and the intuitive application interface.
Corel VideoStudio allows me to do things like chroma key (remove green screens from a video so I can overlay another background), add titles, transitions, and manipulate audio. I also like that I can export my video in a variety of formats, including uploading it online to YouTube with no problem. This is the software I use most often for editing select video projects where I need a quick basic workflow but have room for creative work.
Advanced level
There are more advanced level video editing software packages like Adobe Premiere, sony vegas Y Final Cut Pro. While I like their features (and these are industrial-grade features used by filmmakers), I find them too expensive. Something like the full suite of Adobe Premiere will easily set you back almost $1000. I’m not paying that much money for a video app unless I’m doing this full time.
For hobbyists, I strongly suggest using intermediate level software. Advanced features in professional-grade packages like Adobe Premiere tend to be rarely used. Once you’ve done a lot of video projects and want to go pro, then these packages make sense.
4. Online applications
Well, so far we have made a comparison of desktop video editing software. But you should know that there are also other online video editing apps appearing all over the store.
One that particularly caught my attention is Animotowhich is a great online application.
This is a robust and intuitive online video editor that allows you to simply upload your work and apply a series of automatic edits and effects. Again, very useful stuff for those who require a quick workflow without a lot of fuss.
5. Mobile applications
Finally, if you are on a mobile device like the iPhone or have an Android device, you will be aware of a plethora of video editing apps appearing on your app store.
I particularly like play your video for iOS. This little app lets you import videos from your phone’s library, then bring them to life with effects like slow motion, Charlie Chaplin comic effects, as well as a variety of other cool stuff. Test it.
If you make a comparison of mobile video editing software with its desktop competitors, you will find that they are lacking in features. But they make up for it in terms of portability. Just take out your phone, record the video and edit it. It is very fast and simple compared to a desktop approach.
In addition, there are, of course, other video editing applications. You can try browsing the “Featured” or “Top Charts” categories on your iPhone or iPad to see which apps are the best right now.
Ending…
I hope the above has given you a good comparison of video editing software packages on the market. Remember, try to select a package that meets your needs. If you’re just a beginner, don’t buy something expensive like Adobe Premiere. Get your feet wet first with simple video editors like VideoStudio, then move on to more advanced stuff when you’re ready.
The other point is just practice. I remember going through at least 20 projects in Corel VideoStudio before deciding to try Adobe Premiere. Once you practice, you’ll begin to understand the basics of the video editing workflow, and those skills can be applied to any video editing application you have in the future.
Until next time, have fun editing your videos!