Video editing has become a very popular and coveted skill. Since the success of many YouTube entrepreneurs, everyone seems to be trying their hands on it. If you are one of those people or someone who is truly looking to make career out of it, you will need a good video editing software as your companion. Depending on your goals and budget, the software you choose will differ from person to person. If you are just starting out as a beginner, you might prefer a free video editing software over the paid ones. Also, the editing software for a Windows user might differ from someone using a Mac or Linux computer. Some of you might even be into motion graphics and 3D-rendering. What I want to say is that there’s no one video editor which will suit everyone in this world. Hence, we have created a list which we think will cover most of the needs of people. So, ready to find out the best video editing software for you?

Free video editing software, free video editing program screen capture, screen recorder, video compositing, audio mixing, video editing multitrack, captions, picture-in-picture, video overlays, title, credits, video effects join, merge, fade scrolling credits, movie editor, movie maker, movie compositor, chroma key. ImmersaView Blend and ImmersaView Warp, blend multiple projectors into one seamless display. Each software package uses precision geometry correction and edge blending to enable flawless visuals on multi-projector displays. Blend is ideal for flat screens while Warp adds support for curved screens. Award-winning VideoPad Video Editing Software has all the features you need to make a quality movie. Easily edit videos, add effects/audio and share with friends. Download for Windows & Mac. Well, some marriage video mixing software might come with complex user interface which can only be understood by a professional video editor like Adobe video editor series. And you need to concern about the output quality of the video and the built-in video effects and transitions available to make. Most video editing softwares such as Filmora, Adobe Premier, Sony Vegas Pro, Maya, etc. Allows you to download free overlay effects. However, we are not going to discuss the complex software in video editing. We recommend Filmora Video Editor, an easy to use video editing software, which provides 200+ popular free video overlay effects. Video blend free download - Wise Video Converter, Video Download, YTD Video Downloader, and many more programs. This software is available to download from the publisher site.

15 Best Video Editing Software 2018

Because there are so many good options out there, to make it easier for you, in this article, we have divided the video editing software into several categories. Now, one thing to note here is that the categorization is not hard and fast, and hence, editing software mentioned in one category can be used for other categories also. However, if a video editor is mentioned in one category, it means that it is more suited for that work. With that out of the way, let’s begin.

1. Adobe Premiere Pro

When it comes to video editing software, Adobe Premiere Pro is the first one that you will hear and that too for good reasons. Think of a feature, any feature that you might need in a video software, and I will bet that Premiere Pro has it. The editor is not only powerful but also has a clean and familiar interface. But, the best part about using Adobe Premiere Pro is the ecosystem that it supports. Every other tool that Adobe offers you connects seamlessly with Premiere Pro. Whether you are using Photoshop for photos, After Effects for animations, or Adobe Audition for audio editing, everything plays nicely with the Premiere Pro. When you are buying the Premiere Pro, you are not just buying a video editor rather you are entering an ecosystem which gives you access to some of the best creative tools out there. For that reason alone, I recommend Premier Pro over any other video software in the world.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Supported Input Formats: MP4, MPEG, MPE, MPG (MPEG-1, MPEG-2), M2V (DVD-compliant MPEG-2), MTS (avchd), MOV, FLV, AVI
Supported Output Formats: H.264: AAC, 3GP, MP4, M4V, HEVC (H.265), MPEG-2 and MPEG-4, among others
Price: $19.99/month (Billed annually)

2. Final Cut Pro X

If you are a Mac user, I don’t think you should even consider buying any other editing software other than Final Cut Pro X. The only reason to choose any other software like Premiere Pro over the Final Cut is if you had already invested considerable time in learning some other video editor and just switched to Mac. However, if you are just starting out, Final Cut Pro is the best option for you as it is a beast on a Mac. Apple’s software are just so in sync with their hardware that you get the best possible performance. However, performance is not only the play here, as Final Cut is as powerful as any other video editor on this list. Not only that, if you are a beginner and ready to invest time and money in this software, you will find that it is one of the easier video editing software to get used to. As I said, if you are on a Mac and you can afford it, buy this one without hesitation.

Supported Platforms: macOS
Supported Input Formats: H.264, Apple Animation codec, Apple ProRes (all versions), AVHCD, DVCAM, DVCPRO, and more
Supported Output Formats: Apple Pro-res, H.264, HDV, MPEG, and HDV among others
Price: $299.99

3. Avid Media Composer

Generally I don’t suggest Avid Media Composer to anyone because it’s such a high-end product, however, recently the company has released a free version of their video editor called the “Avid Media Composer First” and it’s a great news for all the budding video editors out there. If you have not heard about Avid before, it’s because it is a software used by professionals taking on big projects. Your favourite movies and tv-shows are edited on Avid. Movies like the Guardian of Galaxy (vol. 2), the Martian, and Baby Driver have been edited using Avid. So, know this, if you are trying to take on a big project, like a feature film or a tv-series Avid is the industry leader here. That being said, the pro version of Avid costs you $49.99/month and there’s that. However, since they have released a free version with restrictions which will only affect users who want the full power of the editor, it has become accessible to normal customers. So, if you want to experience a true professional grade video editor give Avid Media Composer First a try.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Supported Input Formats: MPEG, DV, DVPRO, H.264, XDCAM, MPEG-4, AVCHD, and more (click here to learn more)
Supported Output Formats: MPEG, DV, DVPRO, H.264, AVC, AVC-Intra, MP4, and more (click here to learn more)
Price: (Free, $49.99/month)

Best Editing Software For YouTube

Any of the above video editors will work great for budding YouTube editors, however, every one of them will also cost you a lot that is if you don’t go for the free version of Avid Media Composer. That being said, if you are just starting out, you should start with a software which is not only fairly cheap but is also easy to learn. The video editors mentioned in this section are cheap and easy to learn than those mentioned above. Again, if you want the best of the bunch, choose one from the above, however, I would suggest first you start with any of these and then upgrade yourself as get more comfortable with video editing.

1. Shotcut

If you are a budding YouTuber and you need a software which is not only free but also doesn’t cut down on features, look no further than Shotcut. Shotcut is an open source and free video editor which provides you with all the editing tool you will ever need. Since the editor is open source and completely free, if you are just starting out, it’s a great place to learn the basics of video editing without investing any money. Most of the video editors follow the same editing basics, hence once you are ready to move to a professional grade editing software like Premiere Pro or Final Cut, the switch won’t be that hard. The best part about using Shotcut is that despite being free it doesn’t cut down on too many features. The editor supports a wide variety of video and audio formats with a good selection of effects and color correction tools. Also, Shotcut is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, so no matter which OS you are running, you can install and use Shotcut on your device.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, and Linux
Supported Input Formats: Based on FFmpeg hence supports most of the video formats
Supported Output Formats: H.264, WebM, ProRes, MPEG-2, and others
Price: (Free)

2. Hit Film Express

If you are looking for a full professional grade video editor which is also free, Hit Film Express is your best bet. The only con of using this software is the one which is same for any professional grade software, that is, you will have to invest a considerable amount of time in learning it. On the scale of video editor learning process, this one falls on the harder side. However, if you are ready to invest your time, Hit Film Express can become the only editing software that you are ever going to need. It has everything that you will need to support your expanding editing skills. The editor supports almost every know video and audio format and has over 180 visual effects which you can use. The company also keeps a great selection of free tutorials which can get you started. However, as I said earlier, you will need to invest a considerable amount of time in learning this one. Also, the editor is a little heavy on the resources so you will need a good system to run it smoothly.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Supported Input Formats: MP4, H.264, AVCHD, QuickTime Import, AVI, M2T, M2TS, MTS, MXF (DVCPro HD), DV, HDV, and WMV among others.
Supported Output Formats: MP4, H.264 among others
Price: (Free – Can add extra functionality at $349)

Best Video Editing Software For Beginners

1. iMovie

iMovie is my favourite video editor to I recommend to beginners. It’s a shame that the software is exclusive to macOS and hence neither Windows nor Linux user can enjoy this editor. However, If you do own a Mac, you must know that iMovie comes pre-installed with your Mac which essentially makes it free. But that’s not what makes it best for beginners. The best part about iMovie is its simple and intuitive interface which is really easy to figure out, even without help. Also, Apple’s optimisation makes iMovie a really snappy editor which can be used even on older Macs without any problem. As a beginner, iMovie is the best video editor you can use on a Mac. I say this especially because iMovie acts as a really good primer for Final Cut Pro, which you are essentially going to use as you get more and more comfortable with video editing and iMovie no longer satisfies your requirements.

Supported Platforms: macOS
Supported Input Formats: DV, HDV, AVCHD, Apple Intermediate Codec, Apple Animation Codec, Motion JPEG/A, iFrame, h.264, some, but not all, varieties of MP4, MOV.
Supported Output Formats: H.264, HDV, Apple Pixlet Video, Apple VC H.263, MPEG, and HDV among others
Price: (Free)

2. Adobe Premiere Elements

If you are a Windows user and looking for a good video editing software which is capable yet beginner friendly, Adobe Premiere Elements is to the software to go for. I know at $99.99, it is not exactly cheap, however, I still think that it is good for beginners who are willing to spend a little money. Those looking for a free alternative should go for Shotcut, which I mentioned earlier (best video editors for YouTube). I prefer Premier Elements because of a few reasons. Firstly, just like iMovie acts as a great primer for Final Cut, Premiere Elements is the stepping stone to Premiere Pro. If you see yourself as a professional video editor few months down the line, you should start in such a way that you can reach there. You will have to switch to a professional grade video editing software in the future, so why not start with something which will help you do just that. For me, that alone is a reason you should consider this one. You will also love it sleek interface along with its natural and intuitive editing environment. It also comes with all the horsepower that you will need as a beginner. if you are serious about video editing, you should start with this one.

Supported Platforms: macOS, Windows
Supported Input Formats: H.264 (.mp4, .m4v), H.264-encoded QuickTime (.mov, .mp4, .m4v), MPEG-1 (.mpeg), MPEG-2 (.m2v, .mpg) and others.
Supported Output Formats: H.264 (.mp4), H.264-encoded QuickTime (.mov, .mp4),MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and others
Price: ($99.99)

Best Software Available for All Platforms (Windows, macOS and Linux)

In a world which is dominated by Windows and macOS, Linux users are often neglected when it comes to creative software such as video editors. While, it is true that most of the mainstream professional grade video-editing software doesn’t offer a Linux counterpart, there are some really good options available for Linux users. We already covered one such option in our YouTube subsection which is Shotcut. Here are some more options that you can look at:

1. Lightworks

If you are looking for a professional-grade video editing software for Linux, it doesn’t get better than Lightworks. What best about Lightworks is that it offers a free version along with its paid version. So, if you are just starting out you can start with the free version and then upgrade to the paid version, once you are comfortable with your video editing skills. The company also offers a good selection of tutorial videos to get you started on your video editing journey. When it comes to features, Lightworks doesn’t disappoint. The editor natively supports almost all the video formats you can think of. When it comes to exporting the software comes with a dedicated web export (MPEG4/H.264), so your videos are share-ready as soon as you complete your editing process. It also supports multi-cam editing and can support 4K content really well. The bottom line is, this is one of the best professional-grade video editing software you can get on Linux, Period.

Supported Platforms: Linux, Windows, and macOS
Supported Input Formats: MPEG-2 I-Frame SD, Apple Pro Res, DVCAM / DVCPRO 25, AVCHD (M2T, M2TS, MPEG4, H.264) and others
Supported Output Formats: Web-compatible file (MPEG4/H.264), WebM, Blu-ray and others
Price: (Free, $24.99 to $437.99)

Video Blending Software

2. OpenShot

The best part about using Linux is that most of the software available for Linux are open-source and free. So, if you are just getting started OpenShot can be a very good option for you. OpenShot is an incredibly good free video editing tool. Its interface is clean and easy to get around and is backed by a great set of professional video editing tools including 3D-rendering, video effects, animations, keyframes, and more. Despite being open source, the software is constantly updated to bring you new features and smooth performance. The software is built on powerful FFmpeg library hence it can read and write most video and image formats. For a Linux user, OpenShot is a great place to start.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, and Linux
Supported Input Formats: Based on FFmpeg hence supports most of the video formats
Supported Output Formats: H.264, WebM, ProRes, MPEG-2, and others
Price: (Free)

Best Editing Software For Color Correction

DaVinci Resolve

While all the other video editing software do offer built-in color correction tools, none of them offer as extensive control over color correction as DaVinci Resolve. This video editor started its journey as a color correction tool which slowly evolved into a full-fledged video editor. Needless to say, color correction still remains its biggest weapon that it can hold over other professional grade video editing software. In fact, its color correction tools are so good that it’s the default choice for film and tv-series makers for color grading purposes. Apart from its extensive color correction toolset, DaVinci resolve offers a familiar multi-track timeline with quick edit pop-up and customisable keyboard shortcuts. It also offers a plethora of video transitions and effects along with features like multi-cam editing, keyframes, speed effects and more. DaVinci Resolve is a very competent video editing software, with the best color correction tools to go with it.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Supported Input Formats: QuickTime, AVI, R3D, MXF, Prores, DNxHD, MXF, DPX, CIN, EXR and others
Supported Output Formats: H.264, HDV, MPEG, and others
Price: (Free, Pro-version is sold through offline stores – for more info click here)

Best Software For Motion Graphics and Visual Effects

Adobe After Effects

Okay, I know that this is not strictly a video editor, however, I still wanted to include this on the list for people who are mainly looking to create graphics and visual effects for videos. In fact, learning Motion Graphics and Visual Effects has become a required skill set for any video editor. If you call yourself a video editor, you need to learn at least the basics of motion graphics, and there is no software better than Adobe After Effects which can help you do that. Whether you use Final Cut or Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects is the go-to tool for editors who want to add motion graphics and visual effects to their videos. Whether you are a beginner or a Pro video editor, if you want to get into things like motion graphics, visual effects, animations, and special effects, this is the place to start.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Supported Input Formats: MPEG, MP4, M4V, M4A, MOV, AVI, WAV and others.
Supported Output Formats: MOV, OMF, AVI, 3GP, 3G2, AMC, and more.
Price: ($19.99/month – billed annually)

Best Editing Software For 3D Modelling

Blender

Just like After Effects, Blender is also not your normal video editing software, rather it’s a tool for creators who want to get into 3D Modelling Field. Truth be told, Blender does come with a full-fledged built-in video editor and theoretically you can create and produce a full movie just using Blender, however, I would not recommend that. However, if you want to get into 3D modeling, Blender is the software to do it with. The primary reason I suggest Blender over any other 3D Modelling software is because it is an open source software and is totally free. If you have done your research you might know that a 3D modeling software along with their various plug-ins doesn’t come cheap, hence, not many of us can afford them. Secondly, Blender is a cross-platform app with support for Mac, Windows, and, Linux. However, Blender also has a weakness. It has a very steep learning curve and hence you might find the software a bit intimidating at first. However, if you are ready to invest time to learn this software, you won’t find any missing feature here.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, and Linux
Supported Input Formats: OBJ, FBX, 3DS, PLY, STL, and more
Supported Output Formats: OBJ, FBX, 3DS, PLY, STL, and more
Price: (Free)

Beginners and Professionals

We have already covered a lot of video editing software, however, if for some reason none of them satisfy your needs, these are some other popular and good video editing software that you might want to consider. I know people who don’t like to buy Adobe products as they employ a subscription-based price. Many people don’t own a Mac, hence Final Cut is out of the picture. Basically, if there is any reason which is stopping you from investing time and money on any of the above-mentioned software, here are some other great options for you.

1. Sony Vegas Pro 15

Sony Vegas Pro has always been one of the best video editing software in the market. I love Sony Vegas Pro because of its built-in audio editing features. While other editing software like Final Cut and Premiere Pro provide some control over audio editing, Vegas Pro brings a full-fledged audio editor. It allows you to edit high-res multi-track audio to match with your video quality. The Vegas Pro 15 is bringing numerous new features including support for high-end graphics cards, a totally flexible workflow environment, powerful new tools and other minor improvements to make your editing journey as smooth as possible. The software comes in 3 different versions with each of them asking for a one-time payment. There’s no subscription-based pricing here.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS
Supported Input Formats: DV, HDV, AVCHD, NXCAM, MOV, MP4, WMV, MPEG-1/2/4, H.264/AVC, and more.
Supported Output Formats: DVD, Blu-ray Disc, AVCHD Disc, (DV-)AVI, MJPEG, MXF, MOV, WMV, XAVC, XAVC S, MPEG-1/2/4, H.264/AV, and more
Price: ($399 to $799)

2. Cyberlink Power Director 16

If you can’t afford to pay for the Sony Vegas Pro 15, you should look at the Cyberlink Power Director 16 which provides you with a great editing environment at almost 3rd of a price. Despite being cheap, Power Director 16 is no slouch when it comes to video editing. It is regularly updated and adds the newest feature as soon as possible. It was one of the first video editing software to add support for 360-degree video editing. Like DaVinci Resolve, this one also focuses heavily on color correction and provides you with a plethora of tools to get that perfect tint on your videos. Other features include support for a wide variety of audio, video, and image format along with support for multi-cam editing.

Supported Platforms: Windows
Supported Input Formats: H.265/HEVC, MVC (MTS), MP4 (XAVC S), FLV (H.264), MPEG-4 AVC, and more.
Supported Output Formats: H.264 AVC, WMV, H.265 HEVC, XAVC S, and more.
Price: (Starts at $99.99)

3. Pinnacle Studio

It is one of the cheapest full-fledged video editing software out there. The software focuses more on effects, transitions, and color correction. It provides with a precise multi-track editing environment with customisable workspaces. It also supports both 4K and multi-cam video editing along with power audio-editing tools with royalty-free music, voice-over effects and more. Just like others, it also supports most of the popular video and audio formats, so whatever format your footage is in, you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. Basically, if you are looking for a cheap video editing software with lots of cool features, this one is the one to get.

Supported Platforms: Windows
Supported Input Formats: AVCHD; DivX; MKV; MPEG-1, 2, and 4, QuickTime, WMV, XAVC S and others.
Supported Output Formats: MP4, MOV, AVI, and others.
Price: (Starts at $59.95)

SEE ALSO: 15 Best Cameras for YouTube Videos You Can Buy

Best Video Editing Software To Get You Started

At last, you have reached the end of the article and hopefully, now you have a fairly good idea which video editing software you should go for. The choice really depends on your need, skills, and budget. Don’t just the most popular ones, pick the one which is good for you. If this article helped in the choosing your favourite video editing software, do let us know which one you’re picked in the comments section below. Also tell us, if you are already in love with some other video editing software which is not on our list.


OnePlus 8 Renders Show off Punch-hole Camera; Wireless Charging Rumored

The OnePlus 7T was only recently launched, and the OnePlus 7T Pro isn't even launched yet, but we already have a leak for the..

MSI GF63: The Budget Gaming Laptop to Buy Right Now

The MSI GF63 9SC gaming laptop is a pretty solid option for gamers. It's usually priced at around Rs. 67,990 but right now, with..

Microsoft Announces Surface Neo with Dual-Screens, Running Windows 10X

Well, the rumors were indeed true. Microsoft's Product Chief Panos Panay took stage at today's hardware event in New York to show off what..

7 Exciting Smartphones Coming in October

In the past month, we saw some exciting smartphone launches from major smartphone brands like Apple, OnePlus, Realme, Asus and more. Well, we've reached..

Samsung Galaxy Fold Launched in India at a Crazy Rs. 1.65 Lakh

After launching the Galaxy Fold in South Korea and the US last month, Samsung has finally launched it in India, as planned. The device..

Lenovo Legion Y540 Review: A Sleek Laptop with Great Performance

Asus Vivobook 14 X403 Review: Insane Battery Life, Impressive Performance

Asus ROG G703GXR Review: What Can’t This Thing Do!?

Blending modes are often seen as trial-and-error tools that reveal their power only when the desired result is stumbled upon. In truth, blending modes provide one of the easiest ways to composite images, if you know how they work.ByChris “Ace” Gates -

The world of image creation used to be siloed into different media. Graphic design was separate from photography, which although centered on the camera, was vastly different than videography and animation was something left for creatives from another realm. Travellers of these worlds were bound to find artifacts of the other arts as the crafts of imagery converged and technology allowed the magic from one to transfer to another. One artifact that has existed for years inside of video editing programs is blending modes. Video editors are used to seeing blending modes, whether they wield them when necessary or stumble across them, never knowing what they’ll get.

Blending modes are rooted in the history of darkroom photography and were adopted into and expanded upon by digital imaging programs, such as Adobe Photoshop. The ability of blending modes to composite two or more images into a resultant combined image proved to be desirable and were quickly implemented into other imaging software, such as the standard video editing suite.

What are Blending Modes?

Blending modes are a way to use the color information in two digital images to create a composite image. There are normally two images layered together to make a composite with blending modes. The bottom layer is the base layer while the top layer is the blend layer. Each blend mode applies its unique mathematical operation to the color information of each pixel in the blend layer and combines it with color information of each corresponding pixel in the base layer. This produces a resultant composite image.

Normal

The Normal mode is the default blend mode for any image. What you see is what you get. A composite only happens when there is variable transparency applied to the top, blend layer. Otherwise the image will look the same, whether it is on top of another image or isolated by itself.

Dissolve

The Dissolve mode is more of a random operation than it is a composited blend. With Dissolve, random pixels from the blend layer are replaced with pixels from the base layer. The resultant image looks like it is dithered with noticeable digital artifacts.

Multiply

Multiply is one of the most popular and widely used blending modes. It multiples the color information of the blend layer with the color information of the base layer, this results in darker values except for where there is pure white in the image. The name multiply can add to some confusion when deducting how this operation works because multiplication would indicate an increase in value, and thus lighter colors. It helps to think of a pixel’s color value as a fraction on a scale from zero to one. When a fraction less than one is multiplied by another fraction, which is less than one, the result is a lower number. Apply this analogy to color values and the result is a lower color value and therefore darker.

A blend between two video clips doesn’t tax the processing power of a computer and provides a quick way to develop a unique look.

For the video editor, Multiply is useful in adding texture to footage and casting vignettes on the screen. It also helps in compositing shadows, as well as deep colors to a shot.

Free Video Blending Software

Screen

Screen, like Multiply, is popular and used frequently in the edit bay. However, the Screen mode works completely opposite to the multiply blend mode. It multiplies the inverse of the blend layer’s color values by the inverse of the base layer’s color values. The resultant image is one that is brighter than either of the source layers. Of course, black will not result in any change when using the Screen mode.

Video editors and visual effects artists use Screen to composite lens flares and light effects into scenes. The popular look of washed over lens flares and chromatic aberrations is often accomplished in post production through the use of Screen and stock footage lens flares.

Overlay

Overlay can be considered a hybrid blending mode, it’s mathematical operation varies and is contingent on the value of the base layer’s color values. If the color information of a pixel in the base layer is dark, Overlay will Multiply the blend layer. If the color information of a pixel in the base layer is light, Overlay will Screen the blend layer. If the color information is truly neutral, such as fifty-percent gray, it will result in no change.

Overlay can create some unique looks in the edit bay, from a collage style double exposure effect to being used as a tool to stretch the dynamic range of an image.

The book is packed full of examples showing how Microsoft’s ground-up rewrite of Core 2 enables native cross-platform applications that are fast and modular, allowing your cloud-ready server applications to scale as your business grows.Major topics covered in the book include the fundamentals and core concepts of ASP.NET Core 2. Rest api design pdf. You’ll progress from the basics of the framework through to solving the complex problems encountered in implementing secure RESTful services. You’ll learn about building RESTful APIs with the MVC pattern using proven best practices and following the six principles of REST. Examples in this book help you build APIs that are fast and scalable.

Hard Light

Hard Light works the same as Overlay, except that it samples from the blend layer as opposed to the base layer. It can create dramatic contrast in an image. Pure black in the blend layer will result in black in the composite, while white will remain as white.

Soft Light

The Soft Light blending mode works in a similar function to the Hard Light blending mode, but instead of using Multiply and Screen with the blend layer it uses Darken and Lighten. The resultant image has less contrast than the resultant image of a blend made with the same layers using Hard Light.

Darken

The Darken blending mode compares the color information between the base and blend layers. Each pixel in the resultant image is from the darker of the two layers. Darken is especially useful in creating darkened texture for use as a component in another composite.

Lighten

The Lighten blending mode works in the opposite of the Darken blending mode. It similarly compares the color information between the base and blend layers, but each pixel in the resultant image is from the lighter of the two layers.

Mix It

Blending modes are quite powerful and a simple solution to many aesthetic challenges. A blend between two video clips doesn’t tax the processing power of a computer and provides a quick way to develop a unique look. More often than not, blending modes take time because the video editor gets stuck making a decision. An informed video editor can make can make subtle changes with blending modes, mixing up their visual style and satisfying their audience.

SIDEBAR:

Blending modes are useful in many ways for the video editor. Sometimes they’re part of a complex composite, other times they become a one-click technique that instantly ups the production value of a project. Here are four ways they are implemented in the edit bay.

Video Blending Software For Kids

Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire

Blending modes are often used to composite fire and smoke elements into a scene. It’s incredibly easy to place stock footage of fire or smoke over a shot and change it’s blending mode. The trick is in making it look real.

Double Exposure

Double exposure portraits are a recent trend in still photography, where a person’s portraiture is intertwined with another image. Whether it’s a cityscape or elements of nature, the double exposure trend is making its way into video. Video cameras don’t capture an image the same way as silver halide. That’s where blending modes and post-production come in to save the day, helping to craft composite images.

Soft Glows, Deep Shadows, and Beauty Passes

There’s no reason the same video clip can’t be used upon itself as both the blend and the base layer. Video editors can drastically adjust the luminance levels of a clip to either a few specular highlights or spotted dark shadows. Then with a blur effect added to the blend layer, a select blending mode for the desired result and a quick tweak to the blend layer’s opacity will result in soft glowing highlights, deep dark shadows or smooth soft images. The video editor only needs to decide what they want to do.

Graphic Anchors

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. A basic colored shape, such as a green circle, can be blended with a video clip and serve as a visual anchor for text or logos that appear on screen.

The world of image creation used to be siloed into different media. Graphic design was separate from photography, which although centered on the camera, was vastly different than videography and animation was something left for creatives from another realm. Travellers of these worlds were bound to find artifacts of the other arts as the crafts of imagery converged and technology allowed the magic from one to transfer to another. One artifact that has existed for years inside of video editing programs is blending modes. Video editors are used to seeing blending modes, whether they wield them when necessary or stumble across them, never knowing what they’ll get.

Blending modes are rooted in the history of darkroom photography and were adopted into and expanded upon by digital imaging programs, such as Adobe Photoshop. The ability of blending modes to composite two or more images into a resultant combined image proved to be desirable and were quickly implemented into other imaging software, such as the standard video editing suite.

Video Mixing Software Free

Chris “Ace” Gates is an Emmy Award-winning writer and video producer.

Video Blending Software For Windows

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

What are proxies and why do we need them?

Visual storytelling

Using Color Bars to Calibrate a Monitor

Free Video Mixer Software Download

The Keys To Chromakey: How To Use A Green Screen

Video formats explained

Create a YouTube studio in your home