Cutting a video on Windows is as easy as pie! All you really need is a computer running Windows and a video file you want to edit. With just a few clicks, you can trim your video down to the perfect length using the built-in Photos app. Here’s a quick rundown: open the video in the Photos app, select the “Trim” option, adjust the sliders to choose the section you want to keep, and then save your new trimmed video. It’s like snipping out the best part of a movie!
How to Trim a Video on Windows
Trimming a video on Windows is super simple with the Photos app, which is already installed on most Windows computers. Follow these steps to chop down your video like a pro:
Step 1: Open the Video in the Photos App
Start by locating your video file on your computer, right-click it, and select “Open with” > “Photos”.
The Photos app isn’t just for pictures. In fact, it has some handy-dandy video editing features baked right in! Once the app is open, your video should start playing automatically.
Step 2: Access the Trim Feature
With the video open, click on the “Edit & Create” button at the top right, then choose “Trim” from the dropdown menu.
The “Edit & Create” button is like a magic wand. Clicking “Trim” will bring up a timeline at the bottom with sliders you can adjust to select the part of the video you want to keep.
Step 3: Adjust the Sliders
Drag the sliders to the beginning and end of the section you want to keep, making sure to preview your selection.
It’s like slicing a piece of bread from a loaf. Make sure you play the selected portion to ensure you’ve captured exactly what you want.
Step 4: Save the Trimmed Video
Once you’re satisfied with your selection, click the “Save a copy” button to save your trimmed video.
Your trimmed slice of video goodness will be saved as a separate file, so you don’t have to worry about losing the original.
Step 5: Find Your New Video
Check the folder where you originally opened the video; your trimmed version should be saved there.
Your new video will typically have “Trimmed” added to its filename. It’s a good idea to give it a quick watch to confirm everything looks just right.
After completing these steps, your video is now neatly trimmed to your desired length. It’s as if you’ve just given it a fresh haircut! You can now share it, upload it, or watch it to your heart’s content without those pesky extra seconds.
Tips for Trimming a Video on Windows
- Get to Know the Photos App: Experiment with other video editing features available in the Photos app to enhance your trimmed videos.
- Mind the Quality: Trimming should not affect the quality, but always check the final output.
- Keep the Original: Always save the trimmed file separately to keep the original intact for future edits.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with shortcuts like spacebar for play/pause to streamline the process.
- Consider Third-Party Tools: If you need more advanced features, third-party video editors might offer additional functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trim multiple sections from one video file?
No, the Photos app allows you to trim only one section at a time. However, you can repeat the process to make multiple trims.
Does trimming a video reduce its quality?
Trimming a video should not affect its quality. The Photos app maintains the original resolution and quality.
Can I undo a trim in the Photos app?
Once the trim is saved, it cannot be undone. Always save a copy instead of overwriting the original file.
How do I find my trimmed video?
Look in the same folder as your original video. The trimmed version usually has “Trimmed” in the filename.
Is there a way to merge trimmed clips in the Photos app?
The Photos app has basic video editing features to combine clips. Check out the “Create a video with music” option for more.
Summary
- Open the video in the Photos app.
- Access the trim feature.
- Adjust the sliders.
- Save the trimmed video.
- Find your new video.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! Trimming a video on Windows is a breeze with the built-in Photos app. Whether you’re looking to snip out those awkward pauses, cut out a blooper, or simply create a short clip from a longer video, these steps have got you covered. Not only does trimming make your videos more engaging and to the point, but it also allows you to focus on what truly matters in your footage.
Feel free to explore the Photos app further; it’s a treasure trove of editing tools that might surprise you. You might find other cool features like adding music, filters, or text to your videos. And if you find yourself craving even more editing power, there are plenty of third-party options out there to explore.
Give it a try and see how easy it is to turn your raw footage into content that shines. Your journey into video editing doesn’t have to stop here. There’s a whole world of creative possibilities waiting for you. 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.