Windows Movie Maker is a simple approach to frame-by-frame video editing and comes already installed on many PCs. This program is ideal for beginning users. Basic quick links for the basics–importing, editing and publishing–are provided in a task window.
The main project window displays the available media for the project, effects and transitions. Simple effects such as mirroring and zooming are preloaded and easily applied by dragging and dropping onto the timeline. Apply transitions such as fades and wipes using the same method between video frames. Preview the effects and transitions in a viewer window.
Add music, narration and titles to the project. All of these elements are organized separately in the timeline. View the project in real time in the viewer window.
This program also has an auto movie function that cuts down on time invested into actual frame-by-frame editing.
Adobe Premiere is a complex video editing program that will function on a Mac and a PC. The program can cost anywhere from $180 for Adobe Premiere Pro CS4 or up to $1,700 for the Adobe Master Suite Collection. This program is for intermediate to advanced users. Premiere is used by many professionals in the video production industry.
Multiple windows provide tabs for all project resources and program functions. Quick keys are available for most functions that are used most often such as cutting, rolling, slipping and sliding. Getting used to the interface may take some time. Hundreds of modifiable effects and transitions are offered to achieve a complex finished product.
Use audio effects to change or repair music and narration. Add multiple tracks of audio to blend and mix sounds. Composite modes are available to modify the layering of multiple video tracks.
Apple Final Cut is intended for Mac only. Purchase the Express version of the program for around $200 or get the full Studio version for around $1,000. Final Cut should be used by intermediate to advanced users. This program is often considered standard for the video production industry.
Find imported media in a browser window. Effects are also located under a separate tab in the browser window. Quick keys are available and defaults can be set for transitions for faster editing. Remap the keyboard to personalize quick keys.
A complex interface offers hundreds of functions and modifiable settings. Preloaded templates are available for titles and text. Modify templates in Apple Motion or create from scratch in Final Cut. Utilize composite modes to further change the look of multiple tracks of video.
Change or repair music and narration using Final Cut’s audio effects or use other programs in the Final Cut Studio for more complex modification. Multiple layers of audio can be mixed in Final Cut.