Make your first short video

Take a short recording from a rough cut to a clean export with a small, focused editing toolkit.

1. 01

   Build a tiny rough cut

   Import three clips you own into Shotcut. Arrange 30 seconds, trim dead time, and save the project before adding effects. Start at a resolution your computer handles comfortably.

   Before moving on: The timeline plays in order and the saved project reopens with every clip available.

   

   ShotcutView access details and original source →
2. 02

   Prepare one clear voice track

   If the video needs narration, record a short take in Audacity. Keep the original recording and export a separate edited copy. Listen on headphones before adding it to the timeline.

   Before moving on: Speech is understandable, with no clipped peaks or unexpected silence.

   

   AudacityView access details and original source →
3. 03

   Create a readable cover

   Use GIMP to make a cover from an image you own. Keep the title short and test it at phone size. Return to Shotcut, export a short sample, and watch the complete final file.

   Before moving on: The cover is readable at small size; audio, captions, and the exported duration are correct.

   

   GIMPView access details and original source →

Go deeper: Read the practical guide →

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