Video editing is an essential part of creating a successful and powerful explainer video. This is the process that turns raw footage into a professional video.
But choosing the right video editing software can be daunting since there are so many of them. That’s why we’ve collected a list of tips to help you with this difficult choice.
Importance of Video Editing in Making Explainer Videos
Explainer videos are designed to break down complex topics, products, or services into easy-to-digest visuals. Their goal is to inform, engage, and persuade viewers quickly and effectively.
While raw footage might help you achieve that goal too, you can never underestimate the power of editing. Just a couple of smooth transitions and text overlays can completely transform your content and take it to another level.
Quality video editing gives your content a professional finish that keeps viewers watching. Poorly edited videos, on the other hand, can appear confusing or even untrustworthy.
Video editing allows you to piece together visuals, add animations, adjust pacing, and layer in voiceovers or soundtracks seamlessly.
You may look at some great explainer video examples and see how the magic of video editing improved them: https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/explainer-videos
7 Tips on How to Choose the Right Video Editing Software for Explainer Videos
When it comes to choosing video editing software, it’s important to select a program that aligns with your goals, technical skill, and editing requirements. Here are a few tips to help you make a choice.
Consider Your Skill Level
There are dozens of video editors available, and each of them fits a different skill level. Are you a beginner, intermediate, or professional? Depending on your answer, the choice of editing software might vary.
If you’re new to editing, look for software with an intuitive interface and drag-and-drop functionality. Moreover, see whether software offers various templates and presets to make the editing process easier.
Experienced users should look for programs that offer advanced tools, such as motion graphics, 3D animations, customizability, and more.
For beginners, software like iMovie or Movavi Video Editor offer a simple interface without overwhelming features, whereas something like Final Cut Pro is better suited for more experienced and even pro-grade editors.
Identify Your Video Requirements
Before choosing software, determine what your explainer video needs.
Are you satisfied with basic cuts and trims or you’re planning to add animations, visual effects, or multi-layer audio?
Some video editors excel in animations, while others are ideal for detailed color grading and simple transitions. If you only need to edit video in a straightforward manner, go for a simpler tool that can help you get professional results without excessive complexity.
Check for Format Compatibility
Explainer videos are typically shared across social media or embedded on websites. Choose video editing software that supports a wide range of export formats so you don’t have compatibility issues later.
The good news is, most editing software support MP4 output format, which is practically the best one for sharing online. However, other formats, such as AVI or MOV can offer better quality, so you might want to check whether the software of your choice provides them, too.
Look at the User Interface
As we’ve said, an intuitive user interface is especially important for video editing beginners. However, advanced users don’t want to spend all day trying to figure out how each step of the editing process works, either.
A well-organized and intuitive interface can make editing easier and more enjoyable. If the layout is overly complex, it could slow down your workflow, especially if you’re working on a tight deadline.
Some video editors, like Magix Vegas Pro, have a friendly and visually appealing interface, while others, like DaVinci Resolve, may have a steeper learning curve due to their extensive features.
Consider doing a trial run with the software to see if the interface fits your editing style and pace.
Check for Audio Editing Capabilities
Good audio is just as important as visuals, so select video editing software with audio editing capabilities.
Audio features such as background music integration, voiceover options, and sound effects can greatly enhance the video’s impact.
Additionally, check whether software allows multi-track editing, since there’s a great chance you’ll want to add more than one audio track (for example, a voiceover and some music).
Review Price and Licensing Options
The cost of video editing software varies significantly.
Subscription-based programs offer flexibility with monthly plans, while others require a one-time payment. Consider your budget and how often you’re going to use the software.
Free or low-cost software can be excellent if you only need to make occasional edits. But keep in mind that professional or high-quality explainer videos may require investing in more powerful software.
Look for Customer Support and Tutorials
Check whether there are tutorials, customer support, and online resources available for the software of your choice. It’s especially important if you’re a beginner or if the software has advanced features.
Some simpler editors often provide tutorials within the software itself, while more advanced programs require external learning.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right video editing software might seem frightening, but you shouldn’t be scared.
Set a goal, consider your skills, look for features that you might need, and see whether the software of your choice has an online support community.
This way, you can find the perfect software that will allow you to make the best explainer videos that stand out.
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