How to Crop a Video in Windows 10
Cropping a video in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that can be accomplished using built-in tools like the Photos app, or third-party software like VLC or Shotcut. In just a few steps, you’ll be able to remove unwanted parts of your video, leaving you with a perfectly cropped clip. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you get the job done quickly and efficiently.
How to Crop a Video in Windows 10
In this section, we’ll cover the specific steps needed to crop a video using the Photos app in Windows 10. This simple method will have you editing like a pro in no time.
Step 1: Open the Photos App
First, open the Photos app by clicking on the Start menu and typing "Photos."
The Photos app comes pre-installed on Windows 10, making it easily accessible. By typing "Photos" in the Start menu, you can quickly locate and open the app without having to search through your programs.
Step 2: Import Your Video
Click on "Import" and select the video you want to crop from your files.
After opening the Photos app, you’ll see an option to import files. Click on it, and you’ll be able to browse your computer for the video you need to edit. Select the video and click "Open" to import it into the app.
Step 3: Edit & Create
Click on "Edit & Create" and then select "Create a video with text."
Once your video is imported, you’ll find the "Edit & Create" option at the top of the Photos app. Clicking on this will give you several editing options. For cropping, select "Create a video with text" to start the editing process.
Step 4: Trim Your Video
Use the trim tool to cut out unwanted sections, then select "Done."
In the video editor, you’ll see a trim tool that allows you to cut out the beginning or end of your video. Adjust the sliders to the desired start and end points, then click "Done" to save your changes.
Step 5: Save Your Video
Finally, click on "Finish video" to save your cropped video to your desired location.
After trimming your video, you’ll need to save it. Click on "Finish video" and choose the file format and quality. Save the video to your preferred location on your computer.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a neatly cropped video ready for sharing or further editing. The Photos app in Windows 10 makes it surprisingly easy to trim and edit your videos without needing advanced software.
Tips for Cropping a Video in Windows 10
- Use keyboard shortcuts: Familiarizing yourself with shortcuts can speed up your editing process.
- Preview your edits: Always preview your video after cropping to ensure it looks the way you want.
- Save drafts: Keep a copy of the original video in case you need to revert to it later.
- Experiment with tools: Don’t hesitate to explore other editing tools in the Photos app for additional enhancements.
- Consider third-party software: If the built-in app doesn’t meet your needs, try software like VLC or Shotcut for more advanced options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I crop videos with Windows Media Player?
No, Windows Media Player does not have video editing capabilities. You’ll need to use another tool like the Photos app or third-party software.
Does cropping a video reduce its quality?
Cropping alone doesn’t reduce video quality, but saving it in a lower resolution or compressing it can.
Is the Photos app free to use?
Yes, the Photos app comes pre-installed on Windows 10 and is completely free to use.
Can I undo my edits in the Photos app?
Yes, you can undo edits by reopening the original video file and starting the editing process again.
What other video formats can I crop in the Photos app?
The Photos app supports various formats including MP4, AVI, and MOV, among others.
Summary
- Open the Photos app.
- Import your video.
- Click on "Edit & Create."
- Trim your video.
- Save your video.
Conclusion
Cropping a video in Windows 10 is a breeze thanks to the user-friendly Photos app. Whether you’re trimming down a vacation video or preparing a professional presentation, this built-in tool can handle your basic editing needs without any fuss. If you find the Photos app’s features limited, don’t hesitate to explore third-party software options like VLC or Shotcut for more advanced editing capabilities.
Remember to always save a copy of the original video before you start editing, just in case you need to go back. And finally, practice makes perfect—so don’t be afraid to experiment with different features and settings to find what works best for you.
For more tips and tricks on video editing or to dive deeper into advanced techniques, check out our other articles or tutorials. Happy editing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.