How to Easily Shorten Videos on Windows 10 Using the Built-in Photos App
Believe it or not, Windows 10 allows you to trim videos without needing heavy editing software. The trusty Photos app, which most people think is just for viewing pictures, also comes with a handy video editing feature. It’s great for quickly chopping off those awkward beginnings or ends of your clips. Just open your video in the app and hit the “Trim” tool to keep only what you need. Piece of cake, right?
Edit Videos Like a Pro (Well, Almost)
Many Windows 10 users overlook the fact that Photos can do more than just store your selfies. This guide will walk you through how to cut videos in a way that even newcomers can follow without pulling their hair out.
Getting Started with the Photos App
First up, search for “Photos” in the Start menu and open it. Chances are you already have it installed, so no need to download anything extra. Once it’s up and running, you can start importing your videos for quick edits.
If you’re in a hurry, jump straight to the Video Editor by clicking on Video Editor through Start Menu > Photos.
Adding Your Video
Click the “Import” button and browse through your files to find the video you want to trim.
This is under Import > From a folder. Alternatively, you can drag and drop your video straight into the app—that’s the easiest way. Once you’ve located it, select it and import. Think of this as beefing up your ingredients before cooking.
Locating Your Video
After importing, find your video in the app (likely in the gallery or media library). Double-click it to enter editing mode. Make sure you’ve got the right clip before you start trimming away.
Using the Project Library or your folders can make this easier.
Trimming the Video
Once you’re sure you’ve selected the right video, click on “Edit & Create” at the top, then choose “Trim.”
In some versions, this option is directly in the Video Editor, so no hunting around! You’ll see the timeline of your video, and you can slide the handles to select the part you want to keep. Hit play to preview and fine-tune your cuts.
If you make a mistake, don’t worry! Just press Ctrl + Z to undo.
Saving Your Edited Video
When you’re happy with the start and end points, save your trimmed video by clicking “Save a copy.”
This option is under File > Save a copy. You can also choose the resolution you prefer. This way, your original file stays untouched, and you get a clean, trimmed version. Name it whatever you like, or leave it as the default—your call.
The new file will usually appear in your Videos folder unless you specify otherwise.
Top Tips for Smoother Trimming
Here are a few quick tips to keep your trimming process hassle-free:
Always back up your original video before editing: xcopy "C:\Videos\original.mp4" "D:\Backup\original_backup.mp4"
Familiarise yourself with the app’s layout—knowing where everything is saves heaps of time. Don’t forget to play through the video before you finish, just to double-check your cuts.
And use Spacebar to play while trimming for real-time preview. If your video isn’t behaving right, it might be corrupted, which can throw a spanner in the works.
Frequently Asked Questions About Video Trimming in Windows 10
Can I trim long videos with the Photos app?
Yes, you can, but keep in mind that very large files might run a bit slow on older machines. If that’s the case, a more powerful editor might be worth considering.
Will trimming affect the video quality?
Nope! Trimming simply cuts out parts without changing the original quality. The final clip should look just as sharp as the original.
How many videos can I work on at the same time?
There’s no strict limit, but be mindful of your storage space and system resources. Opening too many videos at once can cause a lag.
Can I undo my edits after saving?
Once you save your trimmed video, you can’t undo the changes unless you keep a backup of the original file.
Always good to keep a copy handy before editing: xcopy "C:\MyVideos\video.mp4" "D:\Backup\video_backup.mp4"
What if I need more advanced features?
The Photos app covers the basics, but if you’re after effects, transitions, or more complex editing tools, consider a dedicated video editor like Windows Movie Maker, DaVinci Resolve, or others.
Quick Checklist for Trimming Your Videos
- Open the Photos app.
- Import your video.
- Load it and select your clip.
- Click Edit & Create > Trim.
- Save the trimmed version as a new file with File > Save a copy.
Editing videos on Windows 10 is simpler than many think! The built-in Photos app is quite handy for quick trims without fussing with complicated software. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be editing your clips in no time. If this saves you a few minutes on your project, that’s a win all round.