Taking videos is one of the best ways of capturing memorable moments. Rewatching an event after several weeks, months, or even years creates a nostalgic feeling. In recent years, the world of videography has grown tremendously. This development can be attributed to the current barriers of entry, which are a lot smaller than before. For instance, all you need as a beginner today is a phone with a good camera and a clear microphone.
However, there’s a lot that goes into making a good video than just a good camera and other tools. First, you’ll need to know which angles are the most ideal when shooting certain scenes. Remember, how you do this can significantly impact the message you relay in your videos.
Another critical factor is the video editing process. It might not seem like a great deal, but this is where many video creators, especially beginners, go wrong. Learning editing skills can be a never-ending rabbit hole, given the number of approaches and options available. Are you interested in this sector but don’t know where to start? Read on to learn more on how to get started down this exciting lane.
- Set up your tools
The first step before you even commence your editing project is to have all the necessary tools in place. So, what exactly do you require? Well, this includes the hardware and software features that meet the demands of your task. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Hardware
First, you’ll need to have a good computer that can handle the editing software. As you’d expect, the more complex features you want to integrate into your editing process, the more powerful system you’ll need. For instance, some effects can only be generated well if the hardware meets the demands. Therefore, if you want to get some of the best results, you must invest in a high-end computer.
The recommended specs include a recent Intel Corei5 or Corei7 processor, 4GB RAM, and a powerful graphics card. Also, since you’ll probably be dealing with high-quality videos, you’ll need enough storage for your files. One terabyte should serve the purpose, but invest in as much storage space as you can.
- Software
Another must-have tool when getting into such projects is video editing software. It’s worth noting that there’s a wide array of options when it comes to software. Of course, some of them are better than others, but there are rarely any right or wrong answers to which is the ideal option for you.
It’s always recommended that you choose a software that you feel comfortable using. Your preference will probably range from the overall design and how easy it is to navigate various tabs. But as a beginner, you might not be able to choose between the available software options simply because you’re not sure about what to look for in these tools.
So what are some of the things you should consider? Price is one of the most important factors to keep in mind. Every developer or brand has a different price range for its products and services. As such, you should choose one that doesn’t only meet all your needs but also demands an affordable amount of money.
Another important consideration is the learning curve. How long does it take a beginner to learn the basics and start using the software seamlessly? The easier it is to learn using editing software, the faster you’ll be able to produce professional-looking videos. Other essential features include multi-GPGPU acceleration and advanced editing tools.
- Shoot your videos according to plan
Video editing begins before you even get into the studio. How scenes are shot on the ground will determine how well you can edit your videos. Keep in mind that there are some things that can’t be changed even after editing and will still have a huge impact on the final quality of the videos. (1)
To avoid any form of disappointment, it’s always a good idea to plan your video shooting in advance. This way, you’ll be able to carry everything you need for the scenes and adjust the angles for better lighting. Some people fail to consider this and, in the end, find themselves going back to the field to shoot certain parts of the video for the second time. This is time-consuming, and given how long it’ll take to organize things and start the process again. It can also cost you some extra cash, especially if the actors were hired.
- Have a proper file management system
As a beginner, you’re likely to forget anything regarding the storage and file management space on your computer. Unfortunately, this is another very important factor that can bring your editing process to a standstill. Remember, every editing project requires effects to make it look more professional and for it to pass the right message.
It’s also common to find a video that needs a few patches here and there for it to be complete. The files used in the process are very many and may increase depending on the type and size of the project at hand. Therefore, investing in a reliable file management system will give you an easy time when looking for specific videos or images from a huge library. In the long run, this will save you a lot of time, both as a beginner and a seasoned video editor.
- Don’t overdo the effects
Effects are one part of video editing because they determine the value of the final product. However, many beginners make the mistake of overdoing them. Doing so only deteriorates the quality of the videos, and the final products will always look unprofessional. Therefore, make sure you go easy on the effects for your final videos to come out professionally and well-made. (2)
Conclusion
Video editing is a skill that anyone can learn—that is, provided they have the determination and urge to do so. As a beginner, some factors you need before commencing your projects include the necessary tools (a computer and editing software) and a file management system. Planning your shoots beforehand and reducing the number of editing effects that you put in every video will also ensure great final results.
References
- “How To Edit Videos”, Source: https://www.wikihow.com/Edit-Videos
- “5 Beginner Video Editing Tips To Create View-Worthy Content”, Source: https://medium.com/honest-creative/5-beginner-video-editing-tips-to-create-view-worthy-content-362efd0dab7c