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A Beginners Guide to Video Editing
A plain-language walk through the stages of a video edit, from importing footage and building a rough cut to polishing, mixing sound and exporting the file.
Making Video
Editing and Finishing
Cutting, grading, graphics and delivery of finished video.
Adding Captions and Subtitles to Video
How to create, time and style captions and subtitles, the difference between open and closed captions, and what common caption file formats contain.
Choosing Video Editing Software
How free and paid video editors differ in features and learning curve, and a practical way to match an editor to your computer, projects and budget.
Color Correction and Grading Basics
Learn the difference between color correction and grading, how to fix exposure and white balance, match shots, and then apply a deliberate, consistent look.
Cuts, Transitions and Continuity
When to use hard cuts, fades, dissolves and other transitions, and how continuity habits keep edits smooth so viewers notice the story instead of the effects.
Exporting Video for the Web
How to choose resolution, frame rate, bitrate and file format when rendering a finished video for the web, with a simple method for balancing quality and size.
Motion Graphics and Titles
How to use animated text, lower thirds and simple graphics to clarify a video, with guidance on timing, legibility, consistency and keeping animation restrained.
Organizing Footage and Project Files
A practical system for naming, folder structure, backups and archiving that keeps large video projects manageable and protects footage from loss.
Sound Mixing and Music in Video
How to balance dialogue, music and sound effects in a video mix, with practical steps for cleaning voices, ducking music, setting levels and checking on speakers.
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