Edit MP4 Videos on Windows 10 Like a Pro (kinda)
Editing videos on Windows 10 is almost too easy now, thanks to that Photos app just sitting there waiting to be used. It’s got the basics covered, allowing for trimming, splitting, and even throwing in some effects without needing to download anything extra. You just open up the app, pick your video, do your thing, and save it. Simple, right?
First Things First: Where’s That Photos App?
So, before jumping into editing, fire up the Photos app. Just type “Photos” in the Start menu search. It pops right up since it’s pre-installed on Windows 10. Once it’s up and running, you’re greeted with a pretty straightforward layout. If you’re lucky (or maybe unlucky), you won’t need a PhD in tech to figure it out.
Pro tip: If you’re feeling fancy, you can also open it via PowerShell. Just run start ms-photos: and it takes you there!
Bringing Your MP4 into the Spotlight
Now that Photos is open, look for the ‘Import’ button—it’s your gateway to getting that MP4 video in there. Just click on Import in the top corner or go the long route via Menu > Import > From a file. You’ll be digging through your folders, but don’t forget your C:\Users\ directory. A little reminder: the app isn’t picky, so it’ll handle formats like MOV and AVI just fine, too.
Time to Edit!
With that video imported, click on it, and then hit the “Edit & Create” button. This opens up all the toys to play with. Whether you need to chop off awkward openings or split the video like a pro, the app’s got your back. You can also speed things up a bit with Windows key + E to go find that video in File Explorer, right-click it, and choose Edit or Edit with Photos. Pretty handy for when you forget which tab you left open.
Personalizing Your Video
Here’s where you can really have fun. Use the available tools like trim, split, add text, and effects to spice things up. For trimming, just select Trim, grab those sliders, and let it flow. Don’t forget to click Save a copy to keep those changes. You’d be surprised how just a little tweaking can make your video go from blah to “oh wow!”.
Sometimes this app throws a tantrum, especially on older machines, but a quick restart tends to fix that.
Saving Your Masterpiece
When you’re happy with your edited video, hit that Save a copy button. It’ll create a new file with all your edits, keeping the original safe and sound. You can pick where to stash it too, maybe make a neat little folder like C:\Users\. Just be patient; sometimes these changes take a minute to process (because why wouldn’t they?).
Handy Tips for Windows 10 Video Editing
Always back up your original clips before messing around; you never know when disaster might strike. Experimenting with effects is key—it’s the fun part! Shorter clips? Yes, please—way easier to manage. And crucially, keep hitting that Preview button to see if your changes are going in the right direction. Oh, and don’t forget to save your work often, like with Ctrl + S, to avoid any last-minute freakouts.
FAQs on Editing MP4 Videos
Where’s that Photos app hiding?
Just search for “Photos” in your Start menu. It’s usually the first thing that pops up. Or, be cool and start it with: start ms-photos:.
Can this app handle long videos?
Sure, it can handle videos longer than 10 minutes, but keep in mind that larger files might slow things down a bit. For huge projects, you might want to look into more complex software, but for quick edits, it’s decent.
What’s the catch? Is there a fee for this app?
Nope, it’s completely free! No hidden fees or subscriptions. Just your good ol’ Windows 10 toolbox.
What video formats can I even use?
Besides MP4, it’s good with MOV and AVI too. This flexibility is great since it saves time on conversions.
Can I add text to my videos?
Yes, indeed! Just use the Add Text feature under Edit & Create > Add Text. You can make your text pop however you like through this.
Wrapping It Up
In the end, editing videos on Windows 10 with the Photos app is a breeze. It’s not the fanciest tool out there, but it gets the job done for everyday needs. Whether you’re trimming family videos or just getting your feet wet with effects, this app has got you covered. Once comfortable, check out other free software options like DaVinci Resolve or Shotcut to enhance those skills. Just have fun and let your creativity flow!
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Find the Photos app via the Start menu.
- Import your video file.
- Edit using the available tools.
- Save your edited masterpiece.
- Back things up regularly.
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone!