Editing Videos on Windows 10
Editing videos on Windows 10 is pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. The built-in Photos app isn’t just for pictures; it also packs a surprisingly powerful video editor. You can trim, split, add text, and even add background music to your videos. In just a few steps, you’ll have a polished video ready to share.
How to Edit Videos on Windows 10
Editing videos might sound daunting, but it’s simpler than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Windows 10’s built-in video editor.
Step 1: Open the Photos App
First, open the Photos app by searching for it in the Start menu.
Once the Photos app is open, you’ll need to navigate to the "Video Editor" tab at the top. This will take you to the section where you can start a new project.
Step 2: Start a New Video Project
Click on "New video project" to begin creating your video.
You’ll be prompted to name your project. Choose something that makes sense to you, like "Vacation Clips" or "School Project."
Step 3: Add Video Clips
Click on the "Add" button to import your video clips.
You can import videos from your PC, OneDrive, or even directly from your webcam. Just click "From this PC" if your clips are stored locally, and select the files you want to use.
Step 4: Arrange Your Clips
Drag the video clips to the storyboard at the bottom of the screen.
This is where you can arrange the order of your clips. Simply click and drag them to reorder or remove clips as needed.
Step 5: Trim and Split
Select a clip and use the "Trim" or "Split" options to cut your footage.
If you need to shorten a clip, click "Trim" and adjust the sliders. If you want to divide a clip into two, click "Split" and place the marker where you want the cut.
Step 6: Add Text and Effects
Click on "Text" or "3D effects" to add captions or special effects to your video.
You can choose from various text styles and animations. For 3D effects, you can add things like fireworks or falling leaves to make your video more engaging.
Step 7: Add Background Music
Click "Background music" to add some tunes to your video.
The Photos app offers a library of free music tracks that you can use. Just select a track, and it will automatically adjust to the length of your video.
Step 8: Export Your Video
Finally, click "Finish video" to export your project.
You’ll be prompted to choose the video quality. Higher quality means larger file size, so pick what’s appropriate for your needs. Once you select the quality, click "Export," and your video will be saved to your chosen location.
After you’ve followed these steps, you’ll have a fully edited video ready to share. Whether it’s for a school project, social media, or just personal memories, your video is now polished and professional-looking.
Tips for Editing Videos on Windows 10
- Keep it simple: Don’t go overboard with effects and transitions.
- Use high-quality clips: Start with good footage to make the editing process easier.
- Experiment: Try different styles and effects to see what works best.
- Save often: Save your project frequently to avoid losing progress.
- Preview often: Watch your video frequently during editing to make sure everything flows well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I edit videos in Windows 10 without additional software?
Yes, the Photos app in Windows 10 has a built-in video editor that can handle basic editing tasks.
Is the video editor in Windows 10 free to use?
Absolutely, it’s completely free and comes pre-installed with Windows 10.
Can I add music to my videos in Windows 10?
Yes, you can add background music from a library of free tracks available in the Photos app.
What file formats are supported in the Windows 10 video editor?
The Photos app supports various formats, including MP4, WMV, and AVI.
Can I share my edited video directly from the Photos app?
Yes, after exporting, you can share your video directly via email, social media, or other platforms.
Summary
- Open the Photos App.
- Start a New Video Project.
- Add Video Clips.
- Arrange Your Clips.
- Trim and Split.
- Add Text and Effects.
- Add Background Music.
- Export Your Video.
Conclusion
Editing videos on Windows 10 doesn’t have to be a complex task. With the built-in video editor in the Photos app, you can handle basic editing without needing any additional software. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a polished video ready for any occasion.
Remember, the key to great video editing is keeping it simple and ensuring your clips flow smoothly. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own style. Whether you’re making a school project, a social media post, or just preserving memories, mastering these editing skills will serve you well.
For further reading, you might want to explore more advanced video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve if you find yourself needing more features. But for now, the Photos app in Windows 10 offers a fantastic starting point. 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.