How To Use VLC As A Video Editor Guide Tutorial

VLC, widely known as a versatile media player, also offers a range of video editing features that can be incredibly useful for basic video manipulation. While it may not be as powerful as dedicated video editing software, VLC's editing capabilities can help you achieve several common tasks without needing additional software.

Trimming Videos in VLC

Trimming videos in VLC is a straightforward process, but it requires some specific steps to get it right.

1. Open the Video File:

   • Launch VLC and open the video file you want to trim by clicking Media > Open File > Open or by dragging and dropping the file into the VLC window.

2. Enable Advanced Controls:

   • Click View > Advanced Controls in the menu bar to enable the advanced controls. This will display additional buttons below the video player.

3. Set the Start and End Points:

• Play the video and drag the slider to the start point of the segment you want to trim.
• Click the Record button to start recording the segment.
• Click Pause at the end of the desired segment to stop recording.

4. Save the Trimmed Video:
   • The trimmed video will be saved in the default directory, which can be changed by going to Tools > Preferences > Input/Codecs and setting the record directory.

Cropping Videos in VLC

Cropping videos in VLC allows you to remove unwanted parts of the video frame.

1. Open the Video File:

   • Open the video file in VLC as described above.

2. Access Effects and Filters:

   • Go to Tools > Effects and Filters to open the "Adjustments and Effects" dialog box.

3. Set Crop Values:

• In the "Video Effects" tab, navigate to the "Crop" section.
• Enter the pixel values for the left, right, top, and bottom to define the crop area.

4. Apply and Save:
   • Apply the changes and save the cropped video by going to Media > Convert/Save and selecting the desired output format and location.

Rotating Videos in VLC

Rotating videos is another useful feature in VLC.

1. Open the Video File:

   • Open the video file in VLC.

2. Access Effects and Filters:

   • Go to Tools > Effects and Filters to open the "Adjustments and Effects" dialog box.

3. Rotate the Video:

• In the "Video Effects" tab, navigate to the "Geometry" section.
• Select the desired rotation angle (90, 180, or 270 degrees) to rotate the video.

4. Apply and Save:
   • Apply the changes and save the rotated video by going to Media > Convert/Save and selecting the desired output format and location.

Merging Videos in VLC

Merging multiple videos into one is also possible with VLC.

1. Open Multiple Files:

   • Go to Media > Open Multiple Files and add the videos you want to merge.

2. Convert and Save:

   • Press Alt+O to bring up the Convert window.
   • Choose a format from the Profile drop-down list.
   • Click Start to combine the videos into one file.

Adding Text and Subtitles to Videos in VLC

Adding text or subtitles to your videos can enhance their clarity and engagement.

1. Access Effects and Filters:

   • Go to Tools > Effects and Filters to open the "Adjustments and Effects" dialog box.

2. Add Text:

   • In the "Overlay" tab, type your desired text and set its position within the video.

3. Add Subtitles:

• Select the "Subtitle" menu option at the top and click "Add Subtitle File."
• Navigate to the "Synchronization" tab to sync the subtitles with the video.

4. Apply and Save:
   • Apply the changes and save the video with the added text or subtitles by going to Media > Convert/Save and selecting the desired output format and location.

Tips and Considerations

• Real-Time Preview: One of the limitations of using VLC for video editing is the lack of real-time preview, which can make the editing process less intuitive.
• Advanced Controls: Always enable "Advanced Controls" under View in the menu bar to access the editing features.
• Format Compatibility: VLC supports a wide range of video formats, but ensure your file is compatible before attempting to edit it.
• Alternative Software: For more advanced editing features, consider using dedicated video editing software like VideoProc Converter AI or Movavi Video Editor, which offer more intuitive interfaces and additional features.

By following these steps, you can effectively use VLC as a basic video editor to trim, crop, rotate, merge videos, and add text or subtitles, making it a versatile tool for your video editing needs.