Even beginners can edit videos! Explains a simple method including useful editing software

Recently, it has become commonplace for not only corporations but also individuals to shoot and edit their own videos and publish original videos online such as YouTube. Additionally, viewing videos on smartphones has become a standard style for users.

Under such circumstances, there are many questions such as, “I want to publish a video on a company’s official account, but I don’t know the specific method of video editing.” “I want to start making videos, but I want to know if even a beginner can edit videos.” “Which video editing tools are available?” Some people may be worried about video editing, such as “Should I use this?”

Therefore, this time, for those who are beginners in video editing, we will introduce an overview of video editing, the necessary tools, and useful editing software (both free and paid), and then we will also introduce specific video editing methods. .

What is video editing?

Recently, we have often heard the term “video editing,” but for beginners, it may be unclear or vague what video editing refers to.

Video editing refers to the process of creating a video work by skillfully stitching together materials such as recorded videos on a computer to create a single video, and processing the necessary parts.

In the past, this work was something that only video editors with specialized knowledge and skills could do, but now, as exemplified by YouTube, it has become possible for individuals to easily shoot and publish videos. However, it has become easy to edit videos using smartphones and free tools.

Nowadays, as online marketing becomes the main battlefield for companies, there are likely to be more opportunities for companies to create, upload, and publish videos. Under these circumstances, it has become increasingly important to create excellent and attractive videos.

After shooting a video with a camera, the output data will not become a video work. This is because there are unnecessary blank spaces, things that shouldn’t be shown are shown, and parts that are difficult to understand without explanations. Also, if you want to make your video more dramatic and have a story, you need to assemble it into a story. Therefore, video editing is required.

Generally speaking, the general flow of video editing is to first connect the materials together, then add audio, music, background music, etc. while considering the design, layout, story, etc. to make the video attractive. .

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Tools needed for video editing

If you want to start editing videos, check what tools you will need.

material

First of all, you will need materials. Material refers to video data, image data, and audio data. It goes without saying that video editing requires video data to be edited. You can use video data taken with a camera or existing video data in your company.

It is also common practice to use images in videos, so it is a good idea to prepare images if necessary. Audio data is also essential for making videos attractive. Another option is to use free sound sources for videos.

When it comes to materials, be careful not to infringe on copyright. Of course, if you use any video data, image data, or audio data that is not originally created by your company’s employees or yourself, that is, created by someone else, it will be a copyright violation. Therefore it cannot be used.

You may also use free materials such as free images and free sound sources. Even in that case, you must carefully check the terms of use and confirm the intention of the author before using it. Please note that even if it is a free image, it may not be possible to use it for commercial purposes.

No matter how attractive a video you can edit and produce, if you infringe on copyright, you will be left with nothing.

PC for editing

To edit videos, you basically need a computer. We live in an era where you can edit videos on your smartphone, but if you want to edit videos for a company, you should still use a computer.

A computer is required to install the video editing software described below. There is some software that is compatible with smartphones, but basically you will need a computer. Regarding the OS, whether Windows or macOS is better depends on the video editing software you use.

Also, as mentioned earlier, video data is required when editing a video, but since video data is a large amount of data, a certain amount of storage space is required on the computer. It depends on the specs of your computer, but in general, if you don’t have enough free space, your computer may run slower. In order to proceed with video editing smoothly, you need to have a computer with a certain amount of storage capacity.

video editing software

The most important thing for video editing is video editing software.

Video editing software refers to software that edits video materials on a computer.

Currently, there are a large number of video editing software available both domestically and internationally, and there are two types: those that are free to use and those that require a fee.

Here we will introduce the functions of common video editing software.

With video editing software, you can mainly cut videos and join multiple videos together, as well as add text captions, audio, background music, effects, etc., and arrange and process them. And of course, you can ultimately export it as a video.

The scope, functions, effects, etc. that can be performed vary depending on the video editing software, so be sure to check the specifications before actually using each video editing software that we will introduce below. Sho.

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11 useful video editing software

Here we will introduce 11 video editing software. There are free and paid versions, each with different functions. Please find the video editing software that suits you.

Please note that the OS supported by each software is briefly listed, but since the OS version differs depending on the software, please check the OS version of your computer before using it. Check whether it is compatible.

[Free software]

1.AviUtl (AviUtl/AviUtl)

Compatible OS: Windows

http://spring-fragrance.mints.ne.jp/aviutl/

AviUtl is one of the oldest and most popular free video editing software. It is made for Windows and is not compatible with macOS. It is convenient because it is lightweight and can do all the tasks you want to do, mainly when editing videos.

For example, you can cut and combine video data, add videos, images, audio, and captions, trim, change playback speed, deinterlace, and remove noise. Additionally, by using plug-ins, you can create effects such as mosaic and color correction.

2.iMovie

Compatible OS: macOS, iOS


https://www.apple.com/jp/imovie/

iMovie is a video editing software developed by Apple and is compatible with both macOS and iOS.

Since it’s free and can be used on iPhones and other devices, its selling point is that you can easily create attractive, high-quality videos.

You can create professional videos without any editing expertise. For example, you can easily perform trimming operations or fade in and out sounds while using your iPhone with your fingers.

Also, multiple video filters are provided and you can choose and apply the one you like. Examples include “an old-fashioned silent movie style,” “an old western look,” and “futuristic, stylish blue tones.”

3.Microsoft Photo (Video Editor) (Microsoft Photo Video Editor)

Compatible OS: Windows


https://www.microsoft.com/ja-jp/windows/photo-movie-editor

Microsoft Photo (video editor) is software developed by Microsoft, and is one of the functions of Microsoft Photo, which is included as standard in Windows 10. Since it is a standard installed tool, it is not intended for professional use, but is limited to simple functions that can be easily used by the average person.

For example, in addition to simple cut editing, you can add background music, text captions, filters, and export. This is suitable if you want to edit a small video at home and enjoy it with your family or close friends.

4.Lightworks

Compatible OS: Windows, macOS, Linux


https://lwks.com/lightworks/

This is video editing software from overseas. The Lightworks series has free and paid versions, and the free version has limitations such as being able to save edited videos only in MP4 format, which is optimized for YouTube and Vimeo. Membership registration is required to use the free version.

This software has basic functions, but compared to other free software, it is said to be aimed at intermediate to advanced users, so it may be a hurdle for beginners. It may be a good idea to try using it for the first time after using other software and decide that you would like something with more functionality. Recommended for people who want to master video editing. It has over 100 built-in effect functions and is used even by professionals.

5.DaVinci Resolve 17 (DaVinci Resolve 17)

Compatible OS: Windows, macOS, Linux


https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/jp/products/davinciresolve/

It is a video editing software originating from overseas, and it is attracting even more attention since it was updated in December 2021. It is said to be highly praised by professionals because of its high functionality and high performance considering it is available for free.

It is popular among Japanese users as it is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, and a Japanese manual is also available. The manual became a hot topic as it was over 3,600 pages long.

It is said that even beginners can use it by reading the manual, so please give it a try.

6.VideoPad

Compatible OS: Windows, macOS


https://www.nchsoftware.com/videopad/jp/index.html

VideoPad is a software developed overseas, but it supports Japanese. There is a free version and a paid version, but the free version can only be used for non-commercial purposes, so you will need to pay for commercial use.

It is a simple and highly functional software that allows anyone to easily perform professional video editing. The highlight is that it is fast and stress-free. It has the basic functions found in video editing software, and has over 50 types of effects.

However, the free version cannot be used by company personnel, so it is fine if you are just using it for practice.

[Paid software]

7.Adobe Premiere Pro

Compatible OS: Windows, macOS


https://www.adobe.com/jp/products/premiere.html

This is video editing software provided by Adobe. Adobe Premiere Pro is a full-fledged professional video editing software. It is said that it is already widely used by YouTube creators and Hollywood movie producers. Recommended for those who are not satisfied with free video editing software and want to express what they want to express to their heart’s content.

Since it is compatible with both Windows and macOS, it can be used by a wide range of users. Even if you are a beginner, it is a good idea to use this software, which allows you to create high-quality, professional-quality videos.

It has all the functions necessary for video editing, so you won’t have to worry about editing videos. It is equipped with AI-based automation functions, making it suitable for professional use.

It is provided by Adobe Creative Cloud and can be used at a relatively low monthly fee.

8.FinalCut Pro

Compatible OS: macOS


https://www.apple.com/jp/final-cut-pro/

FinalCut Pro is a full-fledged paid video editing software provided by Apple. Since it is made for people who make videos as a profession, it may seem difficult to use, but it is actually an evolved version of iMovie, which I introduced earlier regarding the free version.

iMovie was characterized by the ability to edit videos even for beginners and iPhones, but FinalCut Pro can be used with intuitive operations not only by people who are used to iMovie but also by beginners, so it can be said that the hurdles are low. It is highly compatible with iMovie, so it is recommended for companies using macOS devices. It is also worth noting that there are over 1,000 materials such as music and sound effects.

Of course, it is not compatible with Windows, so be careful.

9.VEGAS Pro 19

Compatible OS: Windows


https://www.sourcenext.com/product/vegas/vegaspro/

VEGAS Pro 19 is software from overseas. Contains four functions: “VEGAS Edit 19” for video editing, “VEGAS Stream” for live streaming, “Boris FX Primatte Studio” for chromakey synthesis, and “SOUND FORGE Audio Studio 15” for sound editing. A highly functional video editing software. Compatible with Windows only.

This software is also popular among professional users, and has a good reputation for its light operation and intuitive usability. By using plug-ins, you can add functions, so as you use it more and more, you will likely find it becomes your favorite video editing software.

10.Filmora

Compatible OS: Windows, macOS

https://filmora.wondershare.jp/

Filmora is a paid video editing software from overseas that has basic functions. Compared to the video editing software from the famous manufacturers introduced earlier, it is said to not have very high functionality, and it is also said to be relatively inexpensive among paid software, so it is recommended for beginners.

The feature is that you can create stylish videos. For example, it has unique features such as the ability to apply audio effects such as echo, reverb, and phone calls to video clips, and the “AR Sticker” feature that allows you to add stickers that respond to facial movements.

11.PowerDirector

Compatible OS: Windows, macOS


https://jp.cyberlink.com/products/powerdirector-video-editing-software/features_ja_JP.html

This overseas PowerDirector is suitable for everyone from beginners to advanced users. Both Windows and macOS are available, but Windows seems to be the main choice.

It has a wide range of effects and other materials, and has a wealth of functions suitable for professional use. You can easily edit videos at a professional level. The latest feature is “AI motion tracking,” which allows text and images to move by following the movement of objects.

It’s also said to be relatively inexpensive, so it’s good for beginners.

Points to consider when choosing video editing software

If you are thinking of using video editing software, please be sure to check the following points beforehand. By keeping these things in mind, you will be able to choose the video editing software that is best for you, and you will be able to do it smoothly and without regrets during actual production.

Is it compatible with the data format of the video camera?

Since the data formats that can be output vary depending on the video camera, you may end up using video editing software that does not support the video data format of your video camera. Be careful when choosing compatibility.

Is it compatible with the computer specs?

Similar to compatibility with a video camera, compatibility with a computer is a major prerequisite. As mentioned earlier, video editing software supports different operating systems such as Windows and macOS, so you need to be careful. Be sure to check whether it is compatible with your computer’s OS and its version.

It is also important that the specifications match. The “operating environment” is always written on the official website of each video editing software, so be sure to check it in advance.

Also, in the case of paid versions, there are often free trial versions available, so we recommend trying it out to see if the specifications match.

Is the cost worth it?

The cost of video editing software will vary depending on the purpose and quality of the video you want to create. If you want simple effects, you may not need to go through the trouble of purchasing the paid version.

Also, even if it is a paid version, the payment format differs, such as whether it is a one-time purchase or a monthly subscription. If you want to implement it at your company, there may be plans available for companies, so be sure to check them out.

Is there a function you want to express?

In terms of functionality, all video editing software is fully equipped. However, once you start implementing it, you may find that there are only a few features that you don’t use at all. Failure is not an option, especially when using the paid version, so in addition to trying out the free version, be sure to check in advance if there are any features, effects, or sound source materials that you might want to use.

Does it match your video editing skill level?

If you are a beginner, we recommend a video editing software that has been proven by experience that even beginners can use it. It is better to choose according to your skill level. However, if your company wants to focus more on video production in the future, it would be a good idea to install a paid version with high functionality from the beginning.

Are there sufficient manuals and support?

Video editing is easy once you learn it, but there are surprisingly many steps, and beginners cannot immediately master video editing software. If you want to read the manual carefully first, it is recommended that you have a well-organized manual.

Also, it would be even better if the support is strong and you can respond in a courteous manner.

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Basic flow of video editing that beginners should know

Once you have installed the video editing software, it’s time to start the actual work. Here we will introduce the very basic process of video editing for beginners.

1. Load videos, images, and sound sources

When you start up your video editing software, first load the video data you have prepared and materials such as images and sound sources into the software. Once loaded, you can start editing the material, such as cutting it or applying effects.

2. Perform cutting and trimming

Next, open the loaded video data and edit it. How long is the total length of the video you want to make? Depending on the number of minutes, the video is cut and stitched together.

If you have a story, scenario, storyboard, composition sheet, etc. in advance, it will be clear how to cut, trim, and connect them. Prepare these as needed.

3. Arrange and process

Once the videos have been stitched together and completed, the next step is to arrange and process them. This allows you to create more appealing video works. For example, there are the following arrangement and processing methods.

4. Output the video

After all editing work is completed, it’s time to output the video. By uploading videos to SNS or YouTube, you can get your audience to watch them.

These steps are just basic steps, so we recommend that you experiment with different methods yourself and stick to the method that works best for you.

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