The Best Free Video Editing Software for Youtubers

Introduction

After over 14 years of editing in Premiere Pro, I recently made the switch to DaVinci Resolve, and I must say, it’s hands-down one of the best free video editing apps available for YouTubers. This article will explore why DaVinci Resolve stands out as a superior choice for content creators, especially those looking for professional-grade editing software on a budget.

Why Choose DaVinci Resolve?

One of the primary reasons I chose to move to DaVinci Resolve is to cater to aspiring YouTubers who may not have the financial means to maintain a Creative Cloud subscription. The best part? DaVinci Resolve offers a robust free version that includes almost all the essential features needed for high-quality video editing.

Many YouTubers have begun to abandon Premiere Pro in favor of DaVinci Resolve, mainly due to its advanced features like color grading and animation capabilities. However, the main draw for most users is its completely free version.

While the premium version of DaVinci Resolve is available for a one-time payment—approximately $ 300—most users will find that the free version is sufficient for around 99.9% of their editing needs. I personally edited my videos on the free version for months before deciding to upgrade.

Features of DaVinci Resolve

Dynamic Graphics

One of the first features I fell in love with is the ability to add movement to graphics or visual elements. For instance, if I want to showcase a thumbnail and have it jiggle slightly, it’s as simple as searching for “camera shake” in the effects panel. This simple action significantly elevates the visual experience of my videos.

Blanking Fill for Vertical Footage

When working with vertical footage, you may encounter unsightly black bars on the sides when fitting that footage into a horizontal timeline. Luckily, with the “blanking fill” effect, you can easily solve this issue. With just a click and drag, a blurred-out background can be generated in the timeline.

Object Tracking

Another fantastic feature is the ability to easily track moving objects within a frame. If I need to blur out sensitive information, like a shipping label, DaVinci Resolve’s tracking capabilities ensure that the blur stays in place as the object moves throughout the video. This feature is incredibly easy to use and is also available in the free version.

Enhanced Viewer Engagement

All these effects not only make your video more engaging but can also positively impact viewer retention. Adding b-roll and dynamic visuals can significantly contribute to the quality of your video, ultimately helping you grow as a content creator.

Getting Started with DaVinci Resolve

If you're new to DaVinci Resolve, loading up the software may feel intimidating. Don't worry! Below is a quick primer for beginners:

1. Edit Panel: After opening Resolve, navigate to the edit panel. This is where your video editing will primarily take place.

2. Media Pool: This is the section where you import your raw footage.

3. Timeline: Here, you can arrange the clips that will make up your final video. The final edit can be previewed in the adjoining video player.

4. Effects Panel: Click on the effects button to view the effects panel. You can search for various effects here and simply drag them onto your clips to apply them.

5. Inspector Panel: This panel allows you to change settings for specific clips, similar to the effects controls in Premiere Pro.

6. Bringing in Clips: You can import clips directly into the timeline from the media pool or use the source panel to review clips before dragging them into the timeline.

7. Exporting: When your video is ready for upload, click on the "Deliver" panel to export it as an mp4, making your video ready for YouTube.

Conclusion

DaVinci Resolve perfectly balances power and accessibility, making it an excellent starting point for budding video editors. Its modern aesthetic and user-friendly interface encourage experimentation without feeling overwhelming. Whether you're new to video editing or just transitioning from another software, I highly recommend giving DaVinci Resolve a try.

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Keywords

• DaVinci Resolve
• Free Video Editing Software
• YouTube Editing
• Graphics
• Object Tracking
• Viewer Engagement
• Editing Features

FAQ

1. Is DaVinci Resolve really free?
Yes, DaVinci Resolve offers a robust free version that includes many professional-grade features.

2. What are the key features of DaVinci Resolve?
Key features include dynamic graphics, blanking fill for vertical footage, and object tracking capabilities.

3. Do I need to upgrade to the paid version?
For most users, the free version is sufficient. The paid version is available for a one-time fee of about $ 300 if you require additional features.

4. Is DaVinci Resolve suitable for beginners?
Yes! DaVinci Resolve is designed to be user-friendly for newcomers, with a modern interface that is not intimidating.