Good editing makes your content tighter and more engaging. You can do it all on your phone with free apps. Below are the most popular options, plus what to watch out for when editing content for brands.
Popular free editing apps
- CapCut (iOS, Android, desktop) is the most widely used editing app among creators. It's easy to use and has many features, including automatic captions, noise reduction and stabilization. Some features are only available in the paid version.
- Edits (iOS, Android) is Instagram's own editing app. It's free, exports without a watermark and is designed for vertical video.
- VN Video Editor (iOS, Android, desktop) offers a lot of control over your edit, such as multiple layers and precise cuts, without a watermark.
- iMovie (iPhone, iPad, Mac) is free for Apple users. It's simple and reliable for basic edits.
- InShot (iOS, Android) is very user-friendly, but the free version adds a watermark to your videos.
- DaVinci Resolve (desktop) is professional editing software with an extensive free version. It's ideal if you want to edit on a computer and go further with color correction.
What to look for in an editing app
- No watermark. Brands want clean content without an app logo.
- High-quality export. Make sure you can export in at least 1080p, preferably 4K.
- Captions. Many viewers watch without sound, so automatic captions save a lot of time.
- Basic tools. Look for cutting, adjusting speed, color correction, stabilization and noise reduction.
Watch out for music and templates
Editing apps often have a library of music, sound effects and templates. These can't always be used for commercial purposes, such as in ads. If you add music that the brand isn't allowed to use, they may not be able to use your content at all. So only add music if the brief asks for it, and preferably deliver a version without music.
Tips for editing UGC
- Follow the brief. Some brands want raw clips that they edit themselves. Others want a finished video. Check in advance what's expected.
- Keep it natural. Avoid heavy effects, flashy transitions and lots of stickers. UGC works best when it feels authentic.
- Start strong. The first few seconds determine whether someone keeps watching, so open with your strongest shot or a clear hook.
- Export in the highest quality. Choose the highest resolution and the same frame rate you filmed in.
Note
Features and prices of apps change regularly. Check the app's current terms before you start, especially regarding watermarks and paid features.
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