Now, if you're a full-time videographer, filmmaker, or video editor, working exclusively (or close to) in video production – and particularly if you get good incomes – it makes sense to invest in a paid, professional video editing software.

Particularly when you're using stock footage (and if you're not using it, you're missing out in great ways to boost up your production), even if you get a clip that matches your own footage in every technical and visual aspect, you'll still have to make tweaks and adjustments to fully integrate it to your production. Even if there's not a lot of correction needed, all your different shots still need to be assembled together in a sleek, smooth manner, with clear focus and story-telling coherence. No matter how beautifully and professionally shot a piece of footage is, it will always need editing to look perfect and ready for viewing. Avidemux – The Small but Functional Option.Lightworks – The Most Complete Feature Set.Da Vinci Resolve – The Best Color Editing.BONUS: Canva Video Editor – The User-Friendly Solution.

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