There are a lot of video editing software available in the market today. Whether you're new to editing or have experience with it, it's easy to get lost in the digital trend when you shop around. As we know, the workflow of every editing software has its own unique bias, and even the most advanced software may not be suitable for all people. Here are some tips to make sure you choose the right editing software.
Tip 1: Use the Free Trial Version!
Many platforms have similar workflows, timelines, and effects. Try a variety of programs that will help you find the right editing software and provide you with the most advantageous learning curve.
Tip 2: Choose a Program Based on Your Level of Experience
If you're a complete newbie editor, you probably don't want to start with a professional video package. If you can organize video and transitions, but don't know how to manage color correction, or create a target tracking effect, it's best to choose an editing program with general functions, without excessive complex options. Likewise, if you've been using many different versions for years and gained editing experience, choosing a lower-priced program may not be enough. This means that your choices should fit your personal interest and learning curve, as well as the degree of functionality and ease of use required.
Tip 3: Allow Yourself to Choose Products Based on Price Ranges
If you only have $100 budget, browsing for $300 to $400 of products really doesn't make much sense to you. The good news, though, is that even a $100 budget can buy high-quality mid-level software, which also offers a lot of options and special effects. The bad news is that if you need advanced extensions, you'd better save up and wait for more advanced software. The more you invest in software, the more tools you have, and the more experience you need to explore the full functionality of the software.
Tip 4: Choose Software with An Intuitive Workflow
The software should have a smooth workflow so that you don't have to read the instructions every time. But if you really like to read the instructions and spend hours studying just to get the results you want, ignore this tip. Most of us have probably experienced this before, when we've been down and about for an hour, realizing that all we've done is import video to the editing software.
Tip 5: Multi-purpose Timelines
There are a number of effects options that can be applied to your timeline that are very beneficial to you, as shown below:
- audio track independent from video
- transitions between materials
-video frame and audio frequency spectrum
- intuitive symbols and markers for special effects
Tip 6: Pay Attention to Audio Options
If you choose video editing software with audio editing function, it will save you a lot of time and pressure. However, it will depend on how you handle audio, for example, if you need multiple tracks, etc., then you should pay attention to the following factors:
- does the audio on timeline have its own label or track?
- can audio be separated from video into a separate track?
- can I adjust the volume, add music, add audio or remove noise?
Tip 7: Match the Software to Your Machine
Which software is the best for my machine? Most importantly, you should know what video editing software system requirements your hardware can meet and will limit the range of software you can choose. Don't buy software that doesn't fit your system. Otherwise you may experience video jumps, system crashes, or job losses.
Tip 8: Choose the Right End Product
Do you usually make YouTube video or family movies? Would you like to go to a film festival or test out 4K feature on your TV? If you know you want to do 3D video, or record and produce HD video, then you need product that meets the requirements. Reading reviews and product comparisons will help you narrow down your options and select the right product.
Also, consider who your audience will be. Do they look for special effects in your video? Do they need subtitles or multiple tracks? The joy of the audience makes the editing process much more interesting.
