Categorized as Video Marketing

Video Trimming: The Definitive Guide

How to Trim a Video The Definitive Guide
by Andre Oentoro Originally published   ·  Updated 

Video creation and editing are the competition for online visibility and higher rankings. For the best results, you should learn various techniques and tools of the video editing process.

One of the main parts of video editing is trimming. Trimming is the must-use technique in any video and refers to cutting out the unnecessary parts of your videos.

So, how do you attract viewers with high-quality videos? What is video trimming, and how do you trim videos professionally?

Let’s talk about these main things in the world of video editing and much more!

What is Video Trimming?

Trimming is cutting off the beginning or ending parts of a video to leave the part you want in your complete video. Trimming helps video editors shorten the length of the video and reduce the file size.

So, video trimming is essential if you want to create a video with an engaging opening and memorable ending parts.

Why is video trimming important?

  • Firstly, it helps to attract more audience and keep their attention on the video.
  • Secondly, trimming allows video creators to get small-size videos that are easily uploaded on various platforms.
  • Thirdly, no one loves long videos! A lot of viewers lose their focus after a few seconds of boring content, so it’s extremely important to create a short and trimmed video.
  • Finally, trimming enhances the smooth storytelling and gives the target audience a seamless experience.

The Differences Between Trimming, Cropping, and Cutting

Trimming, cropping, and cutting often are thought to be similar. They are all somehow adjusting the video size, but they have slight differences every video editor should know.

Trimming, as was already mentioned, is about removing beginning or ending parts. It helps to make a video more attractive and clean.

Cropping is about removing the edges of an image or a video. Cropping helps to focus on the main subject and create a clear frame by removing any distractions.

What about cutting? Cutting is a general word that can be used for trimming and cropping as well. In the context of video editing and video creation, it mainly refers to dividing a video into small parts.

So, each of these techniques is unique and is used for different purposes.

How to Trim a Video?

Trimming a video is an essential part of the video editing process and overall video marketing plan. The whole process consists of several steps. Let’s dive into the main steps:

Picking the Perfect Tool

First things first, you need to choose a video editing tool that suits your needs. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming. Whether you’re looking for something basic to get started or a professional-grade powerhouse, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the tools Google recommends while you’re searching for video trimming tools:

Getting Your Footage Ready

Once you’ve got the perfect tool, it’s time to import your footage. This is where you bring your vision to life, so choose wisely! Open up your chosen software and hit that import button. Select the video file you want to work with and let the magic begin.

Setting the Stage: Placing Your Video

Now that your footage is in the software, placing it on the timeline is time. Think of the timeline as your canvas – this is where you’ll piece together your video and make it shine. Simply drag and drop your footage onto the timeline and get ready to work your magic.

Trimming Like an Expert

Here’s where the real fun begins: trimming your video. Find those trim tools – they usually hide in a toolbar or menu somewhere. Look out for icons like scissors or trimmers. Once you’ve located them, it’s time to get slicing. Click and drag those handles to trim away the excess and keep only the good stuff.

Perfecting Your Piece: Preview and Polish

After trimming the excess, it’s time to give your masterpiece a once-over. Hit that preview button and watch your video come to life. Ensure everything flows smoothly and you’ve captured your vision’s essence.

Saving Your Work of Art

Once you’re happy with your creation, it’s time to save or export it. Most editing software will give you many options regarding formats and resolutions, so choose the one that suits your needs best. Hit that save button and pat yourself on the back – you’re one step closer to sharing your masterpiece with the world.

Putting on the Finishing Touches

Before you call it a day, take a moment to add those final touches. These little details can take your video to the next level, whether it’s a slick transition or a subtle effect. Once you’re satisfied, it’s time to share your creation with the world.

Top Video Trimming Tools

So, when it comes to video trimming, the most important part is surely choosing the right tools in the abundance of millions of software and apps.

Surely some tools can be used online, there are software and apps for your phone. Depending on what you are looking for and what gadgets you are using, you can choose from the popular and useful tools out there. So, let’s talk about some of these tools:

Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is a prominent and widely-used tool, that has a large suite of various features. Surely, it has different trimming capabilities, both for professional film editing and video marketing for beginners.

DaVinci Resolve

The next tool, that should be mentioned is DaVinci Resolve. DaVinci is known for its color-grading and color-correction features. It offers video trimming and cutting tools, that will elevate any video’s quality.

Canva

One of the most popular online tools today is Canva. Canva is known for its simple-to-use interface and design capabilities to create captivating graphics. Surely it has several video editing capabilities, including trimming. It is widely used for creating social media content.

iMovie

iMovie is a free video editing software made by Apple for the Mac, the iPhone, and the iPad. So, if someone is looking for a budget-friendly option to trim their videos, iMovie is a perfect choice.

Conclusion

Video trimming is considered an important part of video editing. It helps to have the complete video, delete the unnecessary parts of your footage, and attract a viewer from the first seconds. So, approach this process carefully, and choose the best tool, that suits your purposes completely!

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About the Author

Natasha Rei is the Digital Marketing Manager of Explainerd, an explainer video production agency. She ensures strategic goals are met by directing online and social media campaigns.

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