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So you want to take your first steps into video editing but don’t fancy paying for expensive software to install on your PC (that probably won’t even run very well because you failed to notice the required high minimum specification of the software and you need to buy more RAM and a faster graphics card).Amazingly through the power of the modern web browser you can actually create your masterpiece online, for free.
There are several services that have come and gone, but here’s my pick of current free online video editing software:
The world’s most popular video sharing site naturally has its own suite of tools to help you improve your videos. YouTube Video Editor is a simple and easy way to trim clips, add music, insert transitions and even stabilise clips. Video stabilisation is one feature that is commonly only found on desktop PC software so it’s nice to see it included within the YouTube Video Editor.
JayCut (Update: No longer available)
The latest version of JayCut (2.2) features a fantastic new drawing/annotation tool which can allow you to create your very own sports commentary highlights video amongst others. Tie this with the ability to create slow motion effects, add a background via green screen chroma keying, record your own voice overs and you have a very powerful editing suite that even some desktop software would be envious of.
Tip: Before completing the short sign up you can try JayCut out in the video editor demo.
As well as Pixorial being your own personal online video library, there is a handy video editor under the ‘Producer’ tab that lets you combine videos, add transitions and titles. Once your video is complete there are buttons to easily share it on Twitter and Facebook as well as being able to email, download and even order a DVD copy of your edited video.
There’s a new service, Creaza Movie Editor, that looks very slick and promises to capture the essence of cloud computing by combining support for multiple devices and allowing multiple collaborators on each video project. It is current in closed Beta.
The main advantages of not having to spend money on desktop based software package may, for some, outweigh the fact that you have to wait what seems like an eternity for your video footage to be uploaded to these websites, especially for HD video. However, with the current trend for the online ‘digital locker’ it may prove to be a good idea to have full quality backups of your video on the web just in case your PC decides it’s going to fail and your important data disappears forever.
Whether you choose to stick to desktop based video editing or even in-camera editing, you should give these services a go and enjoy the ease of use that comes with a browser based interface.
