What is OpenShot?

Not an expert in editing videos? Don’t worry. We know one perfect application you can use. It’s called OpenShot. What’s great about this app is that you don’t have to be a certified video specialist to make edits. Regardless of experience, you can create professional-looking video content in no time.

About OpenShot

OpenShot is a free to use video editing app for Macs and Windows. Although it has a pretty basic interface, it actually has everything you need from a video editing app. With its powerful features, this video editor has even managed to amass a wide community of users who are always looking forward to the next update.

How to Use OpenShot

It is easy to use OpenShot. This quick guide should help you through how to use the features of OpenShot.

Adding a Project File

To add a project file on OpenShot, follow these steps:

1. Launch OpenShot.
2. Press CTRL + F.
3. Select Import Files.
4. Locate the video file that you want to import. Click on it and hit OK.
5. The file will automatically be added to the Project Files section of your interface. If you want to use it, drag and drop it to the tracks at the bottom.

Adding Effects

OpenShot has improved its transition effects collection, making it easier to insert and position them. Here’s how:

1. Go to the Transitions tab.
2. Choose an effect and drag and drop it into the Tracks timeline.
3. If you wish to change the duration or length of the effect, extend the effect box by simply dragging the sides.
4. If you want to see a reverse effect, right-click on the effect box and select the reverse effect option.
5. If you wish to apply brightness or chromatic effects, go to the Effects tab and locate the mentioned effect. Drag and drop it into the clip.

Splitting Clips

One of the best features of OpenShot is the so-called splitting clip that allows you to add several effects into different sections of the clip. To use it, follow the instructions below:

1. Go to Project Files and right-click on the clip of your choice.
2. Click Split Clip. By now, a new window will pop up. This will allow you to set a start and end point for splitting the clip.

Adding Music to Timeline

Do you want to make your video more interesting? Try to add music. Here’s how:

1. Import a music file. You can do so by following the process on how to add a project file.
2. Assuming you have already added one, click on the music file on the Projects section and drag it onto the video timeline.
3. If you think the music is too long, drag the edge of the clip to resize it.

Previewing Your Project

Here’s the most exciting part. How do you preview your project so far? Follow these steps:

1. Click the Play button in the Preview window.
2. Feel free to Pause, Fast-Forward, or Rewind your video project.

Exporting Your Project

Once you are completely happy with your video, it’s time that you export it. Let the instructions below guide you on what to do:

1. Go to the File menu and select Export Video.
2. Select one of the different preset export options.
3. Hit the Export Video button.

The Pros and Cons of OpenShot

Like other free video editors, OpenShot has its own fair share of pros and cons. By knowing all this, it will be easier for you to make a decision about whether or not it’s worth using.

Here are the pros and cons of OpenShot:

PROS

• Free to use
• Supports different platforms
• Receives regular updates
• New features are constantly being introduced
• User-friendly interface

CONS

• Becomes extremely slow when effects are applied
• Some features don’t work as expected, which makes editing a bit frustrating
• Other features are buggy

Our Verdict

So, is OpenShot worth a try? Well, there are still a few handy features that are lacking and there are existing features that do not function, making for a bad experience. But overall, OpenShot has such great potential. Plus, it gets updated every now and then, so there’s room for improvement.

What other video editing tools and applications do you use? Share them in the comments!