Are you looking for video production tools for your next video project? Video production can be expensive, so you want to make an informed decision. You could spend hours researching across the web or talk to producers in person. The choice is yours, but I made a list of tools that might simplify this process.
Video Editing Tools for Beginners
The first 5 tools we’ve listed here are great for digital marketing students, hobbyists and independent entrepreneurs who are just starting out and want to try out a few different options to learn how to get the basics down.
VSDC Free Video Editor is one of the most comprehensive video editing software options out there, and best of all, it’s free! While it features a fairly powerful and versatile interface that offers the user a variety of objects and effects, it’s still simple and pleasant to practice with. It offers a simple drag-and-drop interface and easy-to-follow instructions.
One drawback of this option is that it can give beginner users too much information at one time, which could be overwhelming for those just starting out. In addition, some of the more specialized features aren’t as intuitive as they could be.
Easy to use and capable of great performance, Pinnacle Studio 21 is a great software option that gives the user plenty of options beyond simple editing. Featuring an effective drag-and-drop interface of user video and audio snippets, Pinnacle Studio is intuitive and accessible. It is professional quality in terms of its capacity and its range of functionalities.
The creative toolset at Pinnacle really stands out amongst others that are more geared towards beginners. You can capture and import material from a broad range of sources, and can incorporate unique effects like stop-motion and 360-degree editing.
This is one of the best video editing software options out there and although there is a paid version, the free version is great for beginners who are just testing things out. This professional-grade solution integrates several tools into one that allows for editing, calibration and audio post-production.
Primarily dedicated to colorimetry and post-production professionals, DaVinci Resolve has a wide range of advanced features for editing, mixing and producing high-quality video. A key feature here too is that it has built-in features for data storage and project collaboration.
The IMovie software is a great place to start for any Mac user and it consistently receives top ratings amongst all of the software available, which says a lot. It features an extremely simple and user-friendly interface, and just enough special features to keep things interesting without overwhelming new users.
Although less comprehensive than Final Cut Pro X, the paid version of Apple’s editing software it has everything you need for making quality video at a medium-professional level. In addition you can create clips, trailers and movies in 4k resolution.
One of its notable qualities is its multi-media aspect — for instance, you can start editing on a different device such as a mobile or tablet and move your material onto your Mac with no trouble. There’s also a green-screen feature which is great for those interested in digging into the arena of special effects.
Avidemux is a totally free video editing software that’s complete and accessible for those just starting out. It’s a linear video editing software available on multiple platforms.
With this simple and intuitive software, even a beginner will be able to encode his videos. For this, he will have the choice between several formats. The program has at its disposal, to perform this task, many codecs. This software also offers several video processing features.
Video Editing Software for Professionals
The following list is software that has higher level features and most of these options will use a considerable investment – they’re certainly worth the investment, but only if you know you have a skilled professional on the other end to take advantage of all the awesome features, or you’re committed to learning all the ins and outs of the program yourself.
The Adobe reference video editing solution is popular with many professionals in a range of industries. It’s really one of the best in its class and is a must-have for video editing and post-production professionals. It is full of advanced tools and is very powerful to process your video streams.
This non-linear editing tool allows direct access via a video acquisition source, which is why it’s frequently used by television studios. It’s super responsive, stable, and has all the professional tools you could need.
Final Cut Pro X is the standard for post-production and video editing on Mac OS X. Acquired by Apple in 1998, this software provides functionality for both beginners and video professionals.
A must-have video editing on Mac OS X, this one gets richer and more innovative with every update of new features. It now features 360-degree footage and HDR, quality 3D effects and more multi-camera options. This powerful and stable software is distinguished by its easy-to-use interface coupled with very good editing tools.
Avid is one of the top software programs used in the professional film industry today and stands out as one of the very best. Their new, simplified menu offers a better selection of menu categories and overall a more intuitive experience than previous versions. This is one of the more expensive ones on the market, in part because it’s one of the few editing tools that explicitly focuses on audio. But if you’re looking for high quality, this is the way to go.
Lightworks is a complete video editing software that’s best for more advanced users. Using it to its full extent does require a high level of technical knowledge. Although it can be downloaded for free, this program has a Pro version with additional features and greater export flexibility.
Lightworks offers a simple and intuitive interface. After registration, the software invites the user to launch his first project, within a somewhat austere interface but rather simple to handle. It consists of four tabs with all the tools to manage audio / video files, edit video, add effects and edit audio files.
A toolbar provides access to a video or audio stream capturing tool, import windows (video, sound and image) and export windows, as well as the video editing tool
First developed and edited by Sony and then taken over in 2016 by Magix, Vegas Pro is a longstanding software and is a must-have for professionals for movies, TV shows and more. Vegas Pro has an intuitive user interface for quality results. You can use it to create special effects like 3D titles and you can also even use it to copyright your own discs.
It’s great for editing and media processing, and amongst other features, it offers the opportunity to create professional-level video montages. The software is constantly evolving to offer users the most up-to-date options in the industry and as such it remains one of the best professional tools out there.
Why is choosing the right videography equipment important?
The right videography equipment can make a difference when it comes to the quality of your completed video. You might also find it easier to complete projects when you have the right equipment. Some pieces of videography equipment, like your camera and audio cables, are necessary to shoot videos. Other pieces, like a tripod or external microphone, you may decide to add later to improve the professionalism of your videos.
Videography equipment
Here are a few important pieces of videography equipment to consider:
1. Video camera
A video camera is the basis of your videography equipment. It will likely set the tone for the type of equipment you pair with it. You might choose a DSLR or mirrorless camera, or even use your smartphone. When choosing the right video camera, consider things like:
- Budget: Video cameras come in all different budgets. Consider how much you want to spend on your camera before shopping.
- Type of video shooting: Consider the type of video shooting you plan to do, with options like static or stealth. You also want to consider options like high definition or 4K.
- Where you publish your videos: How, and where, you plan to publish your videos can help you choose the right camera. You might choose a webcam, action camera or camcorder.
- If your videos include audio: Some video cameras have better built-in audio settings. However, you can also always add an external audio source if the camera you want does not.
2. Tripod
A tripod is a piece of equipment that keeps your camera sturdy when filming. It is useful when shooting static videos. It also allows you to pan across multiple angles with a smoother transition. When choosing the right tripod, consider things like:
- Durability: If your videography projects take you away from home, you want to choose a tripod that is durable.
- Flexibility: You also want to consider how flexible a tripod is. A fluid head tripod allows you to move your camera as needed. You might even choose a slider if you prefer to run and shoot.
- Fit: You want a tripod that is made to fit your video camera. Even if you’re shooting with your iPhone, there are tripods designed for specific models.
- Height: Most tripods can be extended for additional height but do have a limit. Make sure you choose a tripod that is the right height for your subjects.
3. Camera lighting
A camera light can help you highlight your focus subject or fill in dark spots. Lights are also a useful accessory when filming interviews or documentaries. A light reflector can be useful in improving the quality of your videos. If you plan on shooting most of your videos in a single location, then you might choose a videography studio lighting kit.
4. Microphone
Even if your camera comes with a built-in microphone, a stand-alone one can give you a higher quality of video audio. Having a microphone ensures you capture all necessary sounds when filming. Here are a few microphone types to consider:
- Boom pole: A boom pole allows you to capture audio from multiple subjects. It is ideal for larger groups or crowds.
- Wireless microphone: A wireless microphone improves audio from your subjects. It is a good option if you don’t have someone to hold a boom.
- Portable digital: A portable digital audio recorder is an external microphone that you can also use to capture additional sounds.
- Shotgun microphone: A shotgun microphone allows you to pinpoint specific audio cues. You can attach it to a boom pole or hold it manually.
- Handheld microphone: Handheld microphones are good for run-and-shoot types of videos. They give you more control over movement when you’re filming.
- Lapel microphones: Lapel microphones are convenient in that you can attach them to your subject’s shirt or collar. This gives you clearer audio sounds.
5. Audio cables
Audio cables connect your microphone to the camera. They can give you a higher quality of sound. A few audio cables you might need include:
- HDMI: HDMI cables fit most DSLR or high-definition camcorders.
- USB: USB cables are important for connecting your camera to your computer for editing purposes.
- XLR: You might need an XLR cable if you want a balanced audio signal.
- MIDI: You might need MIDI cables if you’re transferring musical instruments to your videos.
6. Headphones
A good pair of headphones can help you when editing sounds and compiling clips of your video. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right pair of headphones:
- Comfort: You spend a lot of time editing and headphones with sufficient cushioning can be important to the process.
- Type of operation: Determine the type of operation you use when creating videos. Considering if you use your headphones primarily for editing, or you also need them for mixing can help you choose the right ones.
- Fit: Fit can be a matter of preference but headphones are available in different styles including open-back, closed-back and semi-open.
- Isolation: The level of foam on a pair of headphones is not only about comfort. It can also influence the isolation of sounds which can make a difference when it comes to editing videos.
7. Lenses
Camera lenses allow you to adjust your camera based on what you are filming. They come as either a prime lens, which is a lens with a fixed focal length, or a zoom lens, which has a variable focal distance. Here are a few types of lenses to consider:
- Wide-angle: WIde-angle lenses have a small focal length that allows you to take in more of your subject.
- ND filter: A natural density filter controls the level of light in your videos.
- Macro lens: Macro lenses are good for capturing closeups of inanimate objects.
- Versatile kits: If you’re new to videography or building your equipment for the first time, you might choose a versatile kit.
8. Batteries
Adding a few batteries to your videography equipment can help you prepare for long film days. Always bring at least four extra batteries with you. If you’re shooting all day or over the course of the weekend, you may need even more than that. Rechargeable batteries are always a good idea because you can charge the batteries when they’re not in use.
9. Memory cards
It is also good to prepare with extra memory cards. Make sure they are the right fit and type for your camera and that they are empty. Compact flash memory cards are the best option because they are small and can hold a lot of video footage. You also want to consider how much storage they offer. Memory cards come in all different sizes including16GB, 32GB and 64GB.
10. Hard drive
An external hard drive is useful if you plan to capture a lot of footage. You can use it to transfer your videos from your camera and continue shooting. When you’re done shooting for the day, you can easily transfer the footage from the portable hard drive to your desktop computer for editing.
11. Camera bag
You need a good camera bag to transport your videography equipment between jobs. It can be helpful to stock up on your videography equipment first so you know how much storage you need. You want a camera bag that is sturdy, weather-resistant and protective.
12. Mount rig
A mount rig can help you capture smoother videos, especially in situations when a tripod may not be realistic. Other mount rigs you might consider include:
- The dolly: A dolly comes with a track that gives you more fluidity with filming.
- Jibs and cranes: Jibs and cranes allow you to film at elevated heights, sweeping through different radiuses.
- Shoulder rigs: Shoulder rigs give you more freedom to move around while mounting the camera to your shoulder.
- Dynamic stabilizers: Dynamic stabilizers give you free movement without the choppiness that can come with handheld videos.
13. Live streaming monitors
Live streaming monitors allow you to watch your videos while filming and editing them. There are a lot of live streaming monitors available in the market. You want to consider things like size, brand and price. Larger streaming monitors are not always better, especially if you film and edit on the go.
14. Video editing software
Once you finish capturing your videos, you need a good video editing software program. You also need a good computer to store your data and videos. There are a lot of options available and the best one for you will depend on your type of editing. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a video editing software:
- Price: Video editing software programs come at all different price points. Consider your budget ahead of time.
- Available features: Consider what features are most important to you. Video editing software allows you to cut and combine videos, add text, include music or add special effects.
- Editing knowledge: It can also be helpful to consider your editing knowledge. Some programs are better suited for beginners whereas others are designed for videographers with previous knowledge.
- Customer support: It is also a good idea to consider a video software program that has a built-in support system.
Conclusion
Optimizing your video material is an important effort to increase the amount of conversions you get. This article will show you a few tools that you can use for your video production.