All budding video editors must have a firm grip and know all the ins and outs when it comes to editing software. You probably aren’t going to end up with a satisfactory final product if you have used subpar editing software, even if your video rocks. It is crucial that you learn all there is to know about the kind of editing software and when to use what. Playing in the big leagues is no walk in the park and you should have your A-game prepared. Editing software will do the job of adding that sheen and the professionalism that your video needs. There are various software that you can use to enhance your videos. Here we have a handpicked list of all the bare essentials that you may need to complement your pro editing skills.
ADOBE PREMIERE PRO
We probably don’t need to sing praises of this software as it has already made a much reputable name for it in the video editing fraternity. It is used for a multitude of purposes, from YouTube videos to short films and advertisements. Its versatility has made it pretty popular with the masses and even a layman is aware of this desirable editing tool. The fact that it is expensive is the only downside of this software, but then it won’t be money down the drain as it will be worth every penny that you spend on it. And if you are still unsure, they do provide you with a 7-day free trial so that you can get a taste of the pro features. A very favourable tool always preferred by the top professionals in the field, it has likeable features and sophistication that has caught the editors’ eye. Adobe Premiere Pro is available for both Mac and Windows.FINAL CUT PRO X
If you’re a Mac user, then this editing software is a no-brainer. The brilliant interface and powerful editing that this software gives you are unbeatable. It is one of the industry-standard tools and professionals always seem to lean towards it. Some of its intelligent features are 360-degree video, organizational tools, Magnetic Timeline and a myriad of effects. What’s more? Final Cut Pro is subscription-free. So you will be only required to pay once and you are all set to edit your video like an expert.ADOBE PREMIERE ELEMENTS
If you are still at the dawn of your editing skills and you need a beginner’s tool before you can jump on to a more professional one that has more options than you can even make sense of, this is for you. Adobe Premiere Elements is easy to use and handle and it will be a good way to get the ball rolling before you move on to the industry-standard tools. Also, the first two options on this list are quite expensive and an investment. So if you want an option that will not burn a hole in your pocket, you ought to have this software. A simplified version of Premiere Pro, it is still equipped with a range of features that will attract you. Some of these are chroma-keying, transitions, automated functions like smart toning etc. There is a 30-day free trial period too if you want to know what you would be diving into. It is available for both Windows and Mac.
CYBERLINK POWERDIRECTOR 365
Popular amongst experienced filmmakers, this software packs a lot of powerful tools to make the editing experience smooth and give you an end product that is nothing short of perfect. It is available for both Windows as well as Mac users. Relatively cheaper than Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro, it lets you get a subscription or you can just buy it once and be done. Its multi-cam editing, video correction tools, 360-degree video editing and motion tracking features are unrivalled. With a wide range of features comes the downside of a difficult-to-use interface but once you get a lay of the land, it becomes progressively easier. And you can get many tutorials online on how to use it skillfully.KINEMASTER
In the list, this is the only software that is free and available on iOS and Android. If you are a beginner or even an Instagram content creator and all you need to do is edit a few minor clips, then you ought to opt for this one. If you think editing software that can be used on your smartphone might not have as varied features as others on this list, we urge you to reconsider. Its easy-to-use interface coupled with features like multiple layers editing, attractive audio tracks integration, editing at frame and sub-frame level makes it all the more attractive to a smartphone user. They offer a premium version too that has more advanced feature than the basic free one so if you want to take your editing to the next level from your phone, this is for you.DAVINCI RESOLVE
A powerful tool used by big-budget films and editing enthusiasts, this software has earned a reputation for having the best colour correction feature. Other than the conventional features, you will also find curve editors, primary colour wheels and facial recognition and tracking on this software. It is available on Windows, Mac and Linux. Another perk is that it is absolutely free for use and that’s surprising since the features it offers can be rivalled with industry-standard tools like Adobe and Final Cut. It uses Fairlight for audio which enables you to mix up to 1000 channels so that you end up with seamless audio quality.Now that you have operational knowledge of which software is best suited for your level and work, you can put these powerful tools to use. Your videos will stand out more and your skills will be applauded once you start using these tools to your advantage. Good software is an editor’s best friend and you can’t hope of making it big without getting it right.