Top Video Trailer Creation Software for Mac and PC

Best Movie Trailer Makers for Mac and Windows

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Post-production always takes time regardless of how large or small your project is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start promoting your movie before you complete it. In fact, filmmakers have been using movie trailers for years to inform the audience about their upcoming projects.

There is no need to spend money on a movie trailer maker since the video editing software you’re using to edit the footage can also be used to create trailers for videos you are working on. Even so, there are so many different video editing software products for Macs and PCs, that finding the one that is best suited for your video editing needs can be difficult. That is why in this article we are going to take you through the ten best trailer makers for Mac and Windows operating systems.

Best Movie Trailer Software for PC and Mac Computers

Mastering a short video form like a movie trailer takes a lot of practice, as you only have a limited amount of time to tell your story. Each of the video editing software products we featured in this article grants you access to all the tools you’re going to need to tell your stories, but it is up to you which ones you are going to use to make your next movie trailer. So, let’s take a look at what best movie trailer makers for Mac and PC have to offer.

1. iMovie

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, iOS

Mac, iPhone and iPad users have a free and easy solution at their disposal if they want to make movie trailers. Besides offering basic video editing tools that enable you to edit your footage quickly, iMovie also features a collection of trailer templates. So, all you need to do in order to make a movie trailer is to add the video clips and insert the title of the movie, the director’s name and create the end credits.

None of the movie trailer templates you can find in iMovie allow you to add music to them, although you can create the soundtrack for your trailer from iMovie’s Movie mode. Furthermore, the templates can limit the maximum duration of your trailer, which is why you must make sure that the video clips you want to use match the duration of the trailer you selected.

Want to know the details? Check the detailed guide about how to make a movie trailer with iMovie .

2. Filmora

Price: Free, pricing options start at $49.99

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

If you are searching for a video editing software that allows you to perform almost any video editing task with ease, then Filmora may be a good option for you. This video editor for Macs and PCs has everything you are going to need to make a movie trailer, since importing the footage into a project requires you to simply drag and drop a video file you want to use in your trailer from a folder to the editor’s media bin.

In addition, Filmora offers hundreds of transitions, openers and end credits templates, which speeds up the video editing process significantly. The visual effects library contains a broad range of image filters and overlays, and you can export all projects directly from Filmora to your account on Vimeo or YouTube.

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

You won’t need much time to get used to VSDC’s interface even if you don’t have any previous video editing experience. The video editor supports nearly all popular video file formats, and at the moment it is the only free video editing software that allows you to export 4K videos without watermarks. Moreover, making a movie trailer with VSDC is remarkably easy, as you just have to arrange the footage on the timeline, apply visual effects and create an opener and the end credits. The software doesn’t offer templates, which means that you have to go through this process manually. VSDC lets you choose from a variety of export profiles that optimize your movie trailers for playback on Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms. What’s more, the software enables you to upload projects directly to YouTube, which can save you a lot of time on rendering movie trailers.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: $299 - 599

Compatibility: Windows

Film industry professionals don’t need a special introduction to Vegas Pro since this video editing software was and still is one of the best video editors for Windows ever created. That is why it is hardly a surprise that you can use Vegas Pro for much more than just making movie trailers. In fact, it is hard to imagine a video editing task you cannot perform with this video editing software. Vegas Pro lets you edit and export projects in resolutions that go as high as 8K, while it also provides a broad range of advanced video editing options, such as complete HDR support or planar motion tracking. In addition, Vegas Pro is compatible with Boris FX, AutoLooks OFX and numerous other plug-ins that enable you to create professional-looking movie trailers.

5. Adobe Premiere Pro

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Adobe Premiere Pro is arguably the most famous video editing software of all time that is frequently used to create movie trailers or entire full-feature movies. The software supports all video file formats, even those created by professional video cameras like Red Dragon or Arri Alexa. Adding and arranging video clips on the timeline won’t take too much effort, and you can also apply transitions between shots, or perform color correction in the software’s Lumetri panel. Adobe Premiere Pro features an impressive collection of visual effects, and all projects you create with this video editor can be opened in Adobe After Effects where you can create Hollywood-like visual effects for your movie trailers. However, you’re going to need advanced video editing skills in order to create a movie trailer for the project you’re working on in Adobe Premiere Pro.

6. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

No Country for Old Men, Cold Mountain or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button are just a few among countless blockbuster movies edited on Final Cut Pro X. So, it is hardly a surprise that this iconic video editing software is one of the best movie trailer makers for Mac computers on the market. The video editor allows you to have complete control over each step of the movie trailer making process and enables you to make openers, apply a visual effect, create soundtracks and much more. Sadly, Final Cut Pro X doesn’t offer movie trailer templates, although you can save all your projects, which enables you to create your own movie trailer templates. In case you don’t have a lot of video editing experience, it is better to opt for a movie trailer maker that doesn’t require you to have an advanced set of video editing skills.

7. Avid Media Composer

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $23.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Even though Avid Media Composer isn’t the most famous video editing software we included in this article, the features it offers stand shoulder to shoulder with those provided by Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X. Both free and paid versions of Avid Media Composer are aimed at professional video editors, while some of the subscription plans are best suited for large media houses that have large teams working on the same project. Unsurprisingly, this video editing software is compatible with a broad range of audio and video plugins that extend its capabilities even further. Making a movie trailer with Avid Media Composer isn’t a task for an inexperienced video editor, but seasoned film industry professionals are going to have a lot of fun creating movie trailers with this video editing software.

8. HitFilm Pro

Price: Pricing options start at $390.00

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The seemingly never-ending list of video editing features this software offers includes compositing and layering options, 3D camera projection or Behavior effects to mention a few. In addition, Hit Film Pro is also equipped with animation tools you can use to create movie trailers. The Particle Simulator tool can be used to create entire cities, simulate different types weather systems or make 3D objects. HitFilm Pro’s color correction features are no less impressive since they enable you to choose from hundreds of LUTs, use a damage simulator or choose from a variety of cine-style effects. The software grants you access to professional text and titling options which enables you to create unique opening titles or end credits for movie trailers you make with HitFilm Pro. Nonetheless, this video editing software is only suitable for industry professionals with years of experience.

Video Editing Tips to Help you Make Better Movie Trailers

Making a movie trailer is an art, since telling a story of an entire movie in just a few minutes is never easy. Even though most Hollywood trailers look alike, there is no fixed recipe you have to follow while making a movie trailer for your project. However, there a few guidelines that can help you convey the core messages of your movie to the audience.

1. Don’t Reveal Too Much

A movie trailer only needs to suggest what the movie is about, not tell its entire story. That’s why adopting the Less is More rule can be quite helpful during the process of making a movie trailer. Show just enough to spark the audience’s curiosity, because if you reveal too much they might feel as if they have already seen the best parts of your movie.

2. Find Creative Ways to Use Narration and Text

Giving the audience all the information they need solely through images isn’t always possible, which is the reason why nearly all movie trailers have a narrator. Recording a voiceover and using text to convey the information about the movie to the audience will make the trailer more informative and a better promotional tool.

3. Make a Soundtrack

Sound can give rhythm to a movie trailer, but it can also build suspense or suggest that something horrible is about to happen, which is why you shouldn’t hesitate to add audio effects or music to movie trailers you are making. The sound effects and the music must match the video perfectly in order for your trailer to be effective, which is the reason why you should dedicate special attention to the trailer’s soundtrack.

Conclusion

The key concepts of making a movie trailer are always the same, regardless of the video editing software you’re using. Each movie trailer maker we featured in this article offers more than enough video editing tools to make a dynamic and captivating movie trailer, but how you are going to use these tools entirely depends on the demands of your project. Which movie trailer maker are you going to choose? Share your opinions with us in the comments.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Post-production always takes time regardless of how large or small your project is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start promoting your movie before you complete it. In fact, filmmakers have been using movie trailers for years to inform the audience about their upcoming projects.

There is no need to spend money on a movie trailer maker since the video editing software you’re using to edit the footage can also be used to create trailers for videos you are working on. Even so, there are so many different video editing software products for Macs and PCs, that finding the one that is best suited for your video editing needs can be difficult. That is why in this article we are going to take you through the ten best trailer makers for Mac and Windows operating systems.

Best Movie Trailer Software for PC and Mac Computers

Mastering a short video form like a movie trailer takes a lot of practice, as you only have a limited amount of time to tell your story. Each of the video editing software products we featured in this article grants you access to all the tools you’re going to need to tell your stories, but it is up to you which ones you are going to use to make your next movie trailer. So, let’s take a look at what best movie trailer makers for Mac and PC have to offer.

1. iMovie

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, iOS

Mac, iPhone and iPad users have a free and easy solution at their disposal if they want to make movie trailers. Besides offering basic video editing tools that enable you to edit your footage quickly, iMovie also features a collection of trailer templates. So, all you need to do in order to make a movie trailer is to add the video clips and insert the title of the movie, the director’s name and create the end credits.

None of the movie trailer templates you can find in iMovie allow you to add music to them, although you can create the soundtrack for your trailer from iMovie’s Movie mode. Furthermore, the templates can limit the maximum duration of your trailer, which is why you must make sure that the video clips you want to use match the duration of the trailer you selected.

Want to know the details? Check the detailed guide about how to make a movie trailer with iMovie .

2. Filmora

Price: Free, pricing options start at $49.99

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

If you are searching for a video editing software that allows you to perform almost any video editing task with ease, then Filmora may be a good option for you. This video editor for Macs and PCs has everything you are going to need to make a movie trailer, since importing the footage into a project requires you to simply drag and drop a video file you want to use in your trailer from a folder to the editor’s media bin.

In addition, Filmora offers hundreds of transitions, openers and end credits templates, which speeds up the video editing process significantly. The visual effects library contains a broad range of image filters and overlays, and you can export all projects directly from Filmora to your account on Vimeo or YouTube.

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

You won’t need much time to get used to VSDC’s interface even if you don’t have any previous video editing experience. The video editor supports nearly all popular video file formats, and at the moment it is the only free video editing software that allows you to export 4K videos without watermarks. Moreover, making a movie trailer with VSDC is remarkably easy, as you just have to arrange the footage on the timeline, apply visual effects and create an opener and the end credits. The software doesn’t offer templates, which means that you have to go through this process manually. VSDC lets you choose from a variety of export profiles that optimize your movie trailers for playback on Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms. What’s more, the software enables you to upload projects directly to YouTube, which can save you a lot of time on rendering movie trailers.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: $299 - 599

Compatibility: Windows

Film industry professionals don’t need a special introduction to Vegas Pro since this video editing software was and still is one of the best video editors for Windows ever created. That is why it is hardly a surprise that you can use Vegas Pro for much more than just making movie trailers. In fact, it is hard to imagine a video editing task you cannot perform with this video editing software. Vegas Pro lets you edit and export projects in resolutions that go as high as 8K, while it also provides a broad range of advanced video editing options, such as complete HDR support or planar motion tracking. In addition, Vegas Pro is compatible with Boris FX, AutoLooks OFX and numerous other plug-ins that enable you to create professional-looking movie trailers.

5. Adobe Premiere Pro

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Adobe Premiere Pro is arguably the most famous video editing software of all time that is frequently used to create movie trailers or entire full-feature movies. The software supports all video file formats, even those created by professional video cameras like Red Dragon or Arri Alexa. Adding and arranging video clips on the timeline won’t take too much effort, and you can also apply transitions between shots, or perform color correction in the software’s Lumetri panel. Adobe Premiere Pro features an impressive collection of visual effects, and all projects you create with this video editor can be opened in Adobe After Effects where you can create Hollywood-like visual effects for your movie trailers. However, you’re going to need advanced video editing skills in order to create a movie trailer for the project you’re working on in Adobe Premiere Pro.

6. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

No Country for Old Men, Cold Mountain or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button are just a few among countless blockbuster movies edited on Final Cut Pro X. So, it is hardly a surprise that this iconic video editing software is one of the best movie trailer makers for Mac computers on the market. The video editor allows you to have complete control over each step of the movie trailer making process and enables you to make openers, apply a visual effect, create soundtracks and much more. Sadly, Final Cut Pro X doesn’t offer movie trailer templates, although you can save all your projects, which enables you to create your own movie trailer templates. In case you don’t have a lot of video editing experience, it is better to opt for a movie trailer maker that doesn’t require you to have an advanced set of video editing skills.

7. Avid Media Composer

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $23.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Even though Avid Media Composer isn’t the most famous video editing software we included in this article, the features it offers stand shoulder to shoulder with those provided by Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X. Both free and paid versions of Avid Media Composer are aimed at professional video editors, while some of the subscription plans are best suited for large media houses that have large teams working on the same project. Unsurprisingly, this video editing software is compatible with a broad range of audio and video plugins that extend its capabilities even further. Making a movie trailer with Avid Media Composer isn’t a task for an inexperienced video editor, but seasoned film industry professionals are going to have a lot of fun creating movie trailers with this video editing software.

8. HitFilm Pro

Price: Pricing options start at $390.00

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The seemingly never-ending list of video editing features this software offers includes compositing and layering options, 3D camera projection or Behavior effects to mention a few. In addition, Hit Film Pro is also equipped with animation tools you can use to create movie trailers. The Particle Simulator tool can be used to create entire cities, simulate different types weather systems or make 3D objects. HitFilm Pro’s color correction features are no less impressive since they enable you to choose from hundreds of LUTs, use a damage simulator or choose from a variety of cine-style effects. The software grants you access to professional text and titling options which enables you to create unique opening titles or end credits for movie trailers you make with HitFilm Pro. Nonetheless, this video editing software is only suitable for industry professionals with years of experience.

Video Editing Tips to Help you Make Better Movie Trailers

Making a movie trailer is an art, since telling a story of an entire movie in just a few minutes is never easy. Even though most Hollywood trailers look alike, there is no fixed recipe you have to follow while making a movie trailer for your project. However, there a few guidelines that can help you convey the core messages of your movie to the audience.

1. Don’t Reveal Too Much

A movie trailer only needs to suggest what the movie is about, not tell its entire story. That’s why adopting the Less is More rule can be quite helpful during the process of making a movie trailer. Show just enough to spark the audience’s curiosity, because if you reveal too much they might feel as if they have already seen the best parts of your movie.

2. Find Creative Ways to Use Narration and Text

Giving the audience all the information they need solely through images isn’t always possible, which is the reason why nearly all movie trailers have a narrator. Recording a voiceover and using text to convey the information about the movie to the audience will make the trailer more informative and a better promotional tool.

3. Make a Soundtrack

Sound can give rhythm to a movie trailer, but it can also build suspense or suggest that something horrible is about to happen, which is why you shouldn’t hesitate to add audio effects or music to movie trailers you are making. The sound effects and the music must match the video perfectly in order for your trailer to be effective, which is the reason why you should dedicate special attention to the trailer’s soundtrack.

Conclusion

The key concepts of making a movie trailer are always the same, regardless of the video editing software you’re using. Each movie trailer maker we featured in this article offers more than enough video editing tools to make a dynamic and captivating movie trailer, but how you are going to use these tools entirely depends on the demands of your project. Which movie trailer maker are you going to choose? Share your opinions with us in the comments.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Post-production always takes time regardless of how large or small your project is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start promoting your movie before you complete it. In fact, filmmakers have been using movie trailers for years to inform the audience about their upcoming projects.

There is no need to spend money on a movie trailer maker since the video editing software you’re using to edit the footage can also be used to create trailers for videos you are working on. Even so, there are so many different video editing software products for Macs and PCs, that finding the one that is best suited for your video editing needs can be difficult. That is why in this article we are going to take you through the ten best trailer makers for Mac and Windows operating systems.

Best Movie Trailer Software for PC and Mac Computers

Mastering a short video form like a movie trailer takes a lot of practice, as you only have a limited amount of time to tell your story. Each of the video editing software products we featured in this article grants you access to all the tools you’re going to need to tell your stories, but it is up to you which ones you are going to use to make your next movie trailer. So, let’s take a look at what best movie trailer makers for Mac and PC have to offer.

1. iMovie

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, iOS

Mac, iPhone and iPad users have a free and easy solution at their disposal if they want to make movie trailers. Besides offering basic video editing tools that enable you to edit your footage quickly, iMovie also features a collection of trailer templates. So, all you need to do in order to make a movie trailer is to add the video clips and insert the title of the movie, the director’s name and create the end credits.

None of the movie trailer templates you can find in iMovie allow you to add music to them, although you can create the soundtrack for your trailer from iMovie’s Movie mode. Furthermore, the templates can limit the maximum duration of your trailer, which is why you must make sure that the video clips you want to use match the duration of the trailer you selected.

Want to know the details? Check the detailed guide about how to make a movie trailer with iMovie .

2. Filmora

Price: Free, pricing options start at $49.99

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

If you are searching for a video editing software that allows you to perform almost any video editing task with ease, then Filmora may be a good option for you. This video editor for Macs and PCs has everything you are going to need to make a movie trailer, since importing the footage into a project requires you to simply drag and drop a video file you want to use in your trailer from a folder to the editor’s media bin.

In addition, Filmora offers hundreds of transitions, openers and end credits templates, which speeds up the video editing process significantly. The visual effects library contains a broad range of image filters and overlays, and you can export all projects directly from Filmora to your account on Vimeo or YouTube.

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

You won’t need much time to get used to VSDC’s interface even if you don’t have any previous video editing experience. The video editor supports nearly all popular video file formats, and at the moment it is the only free video editing software that allows you to export 4K videos without watermarks. Moreover, making a movie trailer with VSDC is remarkably easy, as you just have to arrange the footage on the timeline, apply visual effects and create an opener and the end credits. The software doesn’t offer templates, which means that you have to go through this process manually. VSDC lets you choose from a variety of export profiles that optimize your movie trailers for playback on Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms. What’s more, the software enables you to upload projects directly to YouTube, which can save you a lot of time on rendering movie trailers.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: $299 - 599

Compatibility: Windows

Film industry professionals don’t need a special introduction to Vegas Pro since this video editing software was and still is one of the best video editors for Windows ever created. That is why it is hardly a surprise that you can use Vegas Pro for much more than just making movie trailers. In fact, it is hard to imagine a video editing task you cannot perform with this video editing software. Vegas Pro lets you edit and export projects in resolutions that go as high as 8K, while it also provides a broad range of advanced video editing options, such as complete HDR support or planar motion tracking. In addition, Vegas Pro is compatible with Boris FX, AutoLooks OFX and numerous other plug-ins that enable you to create professional-looking movie trailers.

5. Adobe Premiere Pro

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Adobe Premiere Pro is arguably the most famous video editing software of all time that is frequently used to create movie trailers or entire full-feature movies. The software supports all video file formats, even those created by professional video cameras like Red Dragon or Arri Alexa. Adding and arranging video clips on the timeline won’t take too much effort, and you can also apply transitions between shots, or perform color correction in the software’s Lumetri panel. Adobe Premiere Pro features an impressive collection of visual effects, and all projects you create with this video editor can be opened in Adobe After Effects where you can create Hollywood-like visual effects for your movie trailers. However, you’re going to need advanced video editing skills in order to create a movie trailer for the project you’re working on in Adobe Premiere Pro.

6. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

No Country for Old Men, Cold Mountain or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button are just a few among countless blockbuster movies edited on Final Cut Pro X. So, it is hardly a surprise that this iconic video editing software is one of the best movie trailer makers for Mac computers on the market. The video editor allows you to have complete control over each step of the movie trailer making process and enables you to make openers, apply a visual effect, create soundtracks and much more. Sadly, Final Cut Pro X doesn’t offer movie trailer templates, although you can save all your projects, which enables you to create your own movie trailer templates. In case you don’t have a lot of video editing experience, it is better to opt for a movie trailer maker that doesn’t require you to have an advanced set of video editing skills.

7. Avid Media Composer

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $23.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Even though Avid Media Composer isn’t the most famous video editing software we included in this article, the features it offers stand shoulder to shoulder with those provided by Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X. Both free and paid versions of Avid Media Composer are aimed at professional video editors, while some of the subscription plans are best suited for large media houses that have large teams working on the same project. Unsurprisingly, this video editing software is compatible with a broad range of audio and video plugins that extend its capabilities even further. Making a movie trailer with Avid Media Composer isn’t a task for an inexperienced video editor, but seasoned film industry professionals are going to have a lot of fun creating movie trailers with this video editing software.

8. HitFilm Pro

Price: Pricing options start at $390.00

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The seemingly never-ending list of video editing features this software offers includes compositing and layering options, 3D camera projection or Behavior effects to mention a few. In addition, Hit Film Pro is also equipped with animation tools you can use to create movie trailers. The Particle Simulator tool can be used to create entire cities, simulate different types weather systems or make 3D objects. HitFilm Pro’s color correction features are no less impressive since they enable you to choose from hundreds of LUTs, use a damage simulator or choose from a variety of cine-style effects. The software grants you access to professional text and titling options which enables you to create unique opening titles or end credits for movie trailers you make with HitFilm Pro. Nonetheless, this video editing software is only suitable for industry professionals with years of experience.

Video Editing Tips to Help you Make Better Movie Trailers

Making a movie trailer is an art, since telling a story of an entire movie in just a few minutes is never easy. Even though most Hollywood trailers look alike, there is no fixed recipe you have to follow while making a movie trailer for your project. However, there a few guidelines that can help you convey the core messages of your movie to the audience.

1. Don’t Reveal Too Much

A movie trailer only needs to suggest what the movie is about, not tell its entire story. That’s why adopting the Less is More rule can be quite helpful during the process of making a movie trailer. Show just enough to spark the audience’s curiosity, because if you reveal too much they might feel as if they have already seen the best parts of your movie.

2. Find Creative Ways to Use Narration and Text

Giving the audience all the information they need solely through images isn’t always possible, which is the reason why nearly all movie trailers have a narrator. Recording a voiceover and using text to convey the information about the movie to the audience will make the trailer more informative and a better promotional tool.

3. Make a Soundtrack

Sound can give rhythm to a movie trailer, but it can also build suspense or suggest that something horrible is about to happen, which is why you shouldn’t hesitate to add audio effects or music to movie trailers you are making. The sound effects and the music must match the video perfectly in order for your trailer to be effective, which is the reason why you should dedicate special attention to the trailer’s soundtrack.

Conclusion

The key concepts of making a movie trailer are always the same, regardless of the video editing software you’re using. Each movie trailer maker we featured in this article offers more than enough video editing tools to make a dynamic and captivating movie trailer, but how you are going to use these tools entirely depends on the demands of your project. Which movie trailer maker are you going to choose? Share your opinions with us in the comments.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Post-production always takes time regardless of how large or small your project is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start promoting your movie before you complete it. In fact, filmmakers have been using movie trailers for years to inform the audience about their upcoming projects.

There is no need to spend money on a movie trailer maker since the video editing software you’re using to edit the footage can also be used to create trailers for videos you are working on. Even so, there are so many different video editing software products for Macs and PCs, that finding the one that is best suited for your video editing needs can be difficult. That is why in this article we are going to take you through the ten best trailer makers for Mac and Windows operating systems.

Best Movie Trailer Software for PC and Mac Computers

Mastering a short video form like a movie trailer takes a lot of practice, as you only have a limited amount of time to tell your story. Each of the video editing software products we featured in this article grants you access to all the tools you’re going to need to tell your stories, but it is up to you which ones you are going to use to make your next movie trailer. So, let’s take a look at what best movie trailer makers for Mac and PC have to offer.

1. iMovie

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, iOS

Mac, iPhone and iPad users have a free and easy solution at their disposal if they want to make movie trailers. Besides offering basic video editing tools that enable you to edit your footage quickly, iMovie also features a collection of trailer templates. So, all you need to do in order to make a movie trailer is to add the video clips and insert the title of the movie, the director’s name and create the end credits.

None of the movie trailer templates you can find in iMovie allow you to add music to them, although you can create the soundtrack for your trailer from iMovie’s Movie mode. Furthermore, the templates can limit the maximum duration of your trailer, which is why you must make sure that the video clips you want to use match the duration of the trailer you selected.

Want to know the details? Check the detailed guide about how to make a movie trailer with iMovie .

2. Filmora

Price: Free, pricing options start at $49.99

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

If you are searching for a video editing software that allows you to perform almost any video editing task with ease, then Filmora may be a good option for you. This video editor for Macs and PCs has everything you are going to need to make a movie trailer, since importing the footage into a project requires you to simply drag and drop a video file you want to use in your trailer from a folder to the editor’s media bin.

In addition, Filmora offers hundreds of transitions, openers and end credits templates, which speeds up the video editing process significantly. The visual effects library contains a broad range of image filters and overlays, and you can export all projects directly from Filmora to your account on Vimeo or YouTube.

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

You won’t need much time to get used to VSDC’s interface even if you don’t have any previous video editing experience. The video editor supports nearly all popular video file formats, and at the moment it is the only free video editing software that allows you to export 4K videos without watermarks. Moreover, making a movie trailer with VSDC is remarkably easy, as you just have to arrange the footage on the timeline, apply visual effects and create an opener and the end credits. The software doesn’t offer templates, which means that you have to go through this process manually. VSDC lets you choose from a variety of export profiles that optimize your movie trailers for playback on Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms. What’s more, the software enables you to upload projects directly to YouTube, which can save you a lot of time on rendering movie trailers.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: $299 - 599

Compatibility: Windows

Film industry professionals don’t need a special introduction to Vegas Pro since this video editing software was and still is one of the best video editors for Windows ever created. That is why it is hardly a surprise that you can use Vegas Pro for much more than just making movie trailers. In fact, it is hard to imagine a video editing task you cannot perform with this video editing software. Vegas Pro lets you edit and export projects in resolutions that go as high as 8K, while it also provides a broad range of advanced video editing options, such as complete HDR support or planar motion tracking. In addition, Vegas Pro is compatible with Boris FX, AutoLooks OFX and numerous other plug-ins that enable you to create professional-looking movie trailers.

5. Adobe Premiere Pro

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Adobe Premiere Pro is arguably the most famous video editing software of all time that is frequently used to create movie trailers or entire full-feature movies. The software supports all video file formats, even those created by professional video cameras like Red Dragon or Arri Alexa. Adding and arranging video clips on the timeline won’t take too much effort, and you can also apply transitions between shots, or perform color correction in the software’s Lumetri panel. Adobe Premiere Pro features an impressive collection of visual effects, and all projects you create with this video editor can be opened in Adobe After Effects where you can create Hollywood-like visual effects for your movie trailers. However, you’re going to need advanced video editing skills in order to create a movie trailer for the project you’re working on in Adobe Premiere Pro.

6. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

No Country for Old Men, Cold Mountain or The Curious Case of Benjamin Button are just a few among countless blockbuster movies edited on Final Cut Pro X. So, it is hardly a surprise that this iconic video editing software is one of the best movie trailer makers for Mac computers on the market. The video editor allows you to have complete control over each step of the movie trailer making process and enables you to make openers, apply a visual effect, create soundtracks and much more. Sadly, Final Cut Pro X doesn’t offer movie trailer templates, although you can save all your projects, which enables you to create your own movie trailer templates. In case you don’t have a lot of video editing experience, it is better to opt for a movie trailer maker that doesn’t require you to have an advanced set of video editing skills.

7. Avid Media Composer

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $23.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Even though Avid Media Composer isn’t the most famous video editing software we included in this article, the features it offers stand shoulder to shoulder with those provided by Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X. Both free and paid versions of Avid Media Composer are aimed at professional video editors, while some of the subscription plans are best suited for large media houses that have large teams working on the same project. Unsurprisingly, this video editing software is compatible with a broad range of audio and video plugins that extend its capabilities even further. Making a movie trailer with Avid Media Composer isn’t a task for an inexperienced video editor, but seasoned film industry professionals are going to have a lot of fun creating movie trailers with this video editing software.

8. HitFilm Pro

Price: Pricing options start at $390.00

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The seemingly never-ending list of video editing features this software offers includes compositing and layering options, 3D camera projection or Behavior effects to mention a few. In addition, Hit Film Pro is also equipped with animation tools you can use to create movie trailers. The Particle Simulator tool can be used to create entire cities, simulate different types weather systems or make 3D objects. HitFilm Pro’s color correction features are no less impressive since they enable you to choose from hundreds of LUTs, use a damage simulator or choose from a variety of cine-style effects. The software grants you access to professional text and titling options which enables you to create unique opening titles or end credits for movie trailers you make with HitFilm Pro. Nonetheless, this video editing software is only suitable for industry professionals with years of experience.

Video Editing Tips to Help you Make Better Movie Trailers

Making a movie trailer is an art, since telling a story of an entire movie in just a few minutes is never easy. Even though most Hollywood trailers look alike, there is no fixed recipe you have to follow while making a movie trailer for your project. However, there a few guidelines that can help you convey the core messages of your movie to the audience.

1. Don’t Reveal Too Much

A movie trailer only needs to suggest what the movie is about, not tell its entire story. That’s why adopting the Less is More rule can be quite helpful during the process of making a movie trailer. Show just enough to spark the audience’s curiosity, because if you reveal too much they might feel as if they have already seen the best parts of your movie.

2. Find Creative Ways to Use Narration and Text

Giving the audience all the information they need solely through images isn’t always possible, which is the reason why nearly all movie trailers have a narrator. Recording a voiceover and using text to convey the information about the movie to the audience will make the trailer more informative and a better promotional tool.

3. Make a Soundtrack

Sound can give rhythm to a movie trailer, but it can also build suspense or suggest that something horrible is about to happen, which is why you shouldn’t hesitate to add audio effects or music to movie trailers you are making. The sound effects and the music must match the video perfectly in order for your trailer to be effective, which is the reason why you should dedicate special attention to the trailer’s soundtrack.

Conclusion

The key concepts of making a movie trailer are always the same, regardless of the video editing software you’re using. Each movie trailer maker we featured in this article offers more than enough video editing tools to make a dynamic and captivating movie trailer, but how you are going to use these tools entirely depends on the demands of your project. Which movie trailer maker are you going to choose? Share your opinions with us in the comments.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Online Video Editing Made Easy: A Practical Guide for Beginners and Pros

Movie Editor: Complete Guide on How to Edit Movies or Video

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

At present, video editing is becoming more popular as most people find it more interesting and enjoyable as time pass by. Fortunately, this task doesn’t have to be complicated and difficult. It does only require the right tool to use. Get started with movie editing tools downloaded online with this complete guide to movie editing.

You may also like: Best Free Video Editing Software for Windows in 2021

Recommended Movie Editor for All Creators [Windows & Mac]: Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare Filmora has an intuitive and simplified interface which is easy to use for beginners. With the creative built in video effects, you can add title & text, transitions, overlays, filters and elements to the video by dragging and dropping to the timeline and customizing per your need. However, one of the most exciting part is that Filmora now features the PC & Mac Cross compatibility, which mean that you can edit the projects on Windows and Mac both.

Part1: How to Edit Movies Downloaded Online

There are quite a lot of online video sites for you to download classic movie clips or upload your home-made movie for online sharing. Having such sites will help you get the attention of many people around the world.

• DailyMotion. This is one of the largest online video sites around the world. This site enables you to find video free clips easy with an impressive and nicely organized video home page. Most of the free video clips here are less than 4 minutes. DailyMotion is just very easy to navigate, and you are one of their registered users you can upload video clips up to an hour in high definition and length.
• Metacafe. Just like with other online video sites, this site also specializes in more popular videos and short free video clips. Fewer videos here are easy and well organized. In this way, you can find video clips in different genres like TV, sports and music. Metacafe have a section that collects and curates the internet most trending viral video clips of the day. It is one great site for you to quickly find a specific trending video you have heard about.
• Vimeo. This online video site specializes in Hd. It is one of the most amateur online video site, where in the results are anything but for amateur. Most of the free video clips here are user-submitted. This is also an online site that you can use to upload your videos clip.

Often times we will need to do some editing work on the film clips downloaded online before we can insert them to our projects, or share with family and friends. A top recommended software programs to use Wondershare Filmora . It can be used to extract music or sound effects from movie clips, or cut/merge/trim videos clips etc. Being compatible with almost all video formats and audio formats, it’s undoubtedly the perfect tool to edit almost any movies. A free trial version can be downloaded below:

If however you are in a tight budget and don’t want to spend more on movie editing tools. Here is a list of Free Basic Video Editing Program that you can use to Trim, split, cut, merge movie clips:

• VirtualDub. It is a video capture and processing utility for sixty four and thirty bit windows platforms. It has a batch of powerful processing capabilities for processing great numbers of video files and cab be extended with 3rd video filters.
• Windows Movie Maker . This software runs on both Windows seven and windows vista. More advanced video users are using this program because of its full features and excellent options for more average users. It is considered as one of the best free basic video editing software today.
• Light Works It is power film editing program, which have the potential of making a real movie. This program has been used for making large movie today.

Part2: How to Edit Video Clips Captured by Ourselves

Three Main steps to Consider on How to Edit movie Clips

Step1: Prepare the materials: raw video clips, photos, background music.

Before you start to edit your video clips, make sure that all of these mention materials are ready to avoid any problem. If you want to become successful in editing your video, you need to consider this first step that it can help you make your video standout and catching to everyone.

Step2: Make a Movie: Choose a proper video theme, trim down unwanted parts, add background music, merge several clips, add logo, and add intro and outro.

Having an interesting theme for your movie can help easily catch your many viewers. Make sure that it is properly trim down with the different parts of the movie, and also put a background music that will make your movie interesting to watch.

Step3: Optimize/Polish the movie: Add some video effects such as filters, transition effects, sound effects, animated titles.

Adding these elements on your movie can help you get the interest of people. Such effects are the life of your movie, which it will bring the emotions; interest of people to continue watches it even how many times.

If you are just a beginner in editing your own movie, you can use the information above to help you do it successfully.

Now it’s you turn to download Filmora and use it to start editing your video footage.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

At present, video editing is becoming more popular as most people find it more interesting and enjoyable as time pass by. Fortunately, this task doesn’t have to be complicated and difficult. It does only require the right tool to use. Get started with movie editing tools downloaded online with this complete guide to movie editing.

You may also like: Best Free Video Editing Software for Windows in 2021

Recommended Movie Editor for All Creators [Windows & Mac]: Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare Filmora has an intuitive and simplified interface which is easy to use for beginners. With the creative built in video effects, you can add title & text, transitions, overlays, filters and elements to the video by dragging and dropping to the timeline and customizing per your need. However, one of the most exciting part is that Filmora now features the PC & Mac Cross compatibility, which mean that you can edit the projects on Windows and Mac both.

Part1: How to Edit Movies Downloaded Online

There are quite a lot of online video sites for you to download classic movie clips or upload your home-made movie for online sharing. Having such sites will help you get the attention of many people around the world.

• DailyMotion. This is one of the largest online video sites around the world. This site enables you to find video free clips easy with an impressive and nicely organized video home page. Most of the free video clips here are less than 4 minutes. DailyMotion is just very easy to navigate, and you are one of their registered users you can upload video clips up to an hour in high definition and length.
• Metacafe. Just like with other online video sites, this site also specializes in more popular videos and short free video clips. Fewer videos here are easy and well organized. In this way, you can find video clips in different genres like TV, sports and music. Metacafe have a section that collects and curates the internet most trending viral video clips of the day. It is one great site for you to quickly find a specific trending video you have heard about.
• Vimeo. This online video site specializes in Hd. It is one of the most amateur online video site, where in the results are anything but for amateur. Most of the free video clips here are user-submitted. This is also an online site that you can use to upload your videos clip.

Often times we will need to do some editing work on the film clips downloaded online before we can insert them to our projects, or share with family and friends. A top recommended software programs to use Wondershare Filmora . It can be used to extract music or sound effects from movie clips, or cut/merge/trim videos clips etc. Being compatible with almost all video formats and audio formats, it’s undoubtedly the perfect tool to edit almost any movies. A free trial version can be downloaded below:

If however you are in a tight budget and don’t want to spend more on movie editing tools. Here is a list of Free Basic Video Editing Program that you can use to Trim, split, cut, merge movie clips:

• VirtualDub. It is a video capture and processing utility for sixty four and thirty bit windows platforms. It has a batch of powerful processing capabilities for processing great numbers of video files and cab be extended with 3rd video filters.
• Windows Movie Maker . This software runs on both Windows seven and windows vista. More advanced video users are using this program because of its full features and excellent options for more average users. It is considered as one of the best free basic video editing software today.
• Light Works It is power film editing program, which have the potential of making a real movie. This program has been used for making large movie today.

Part2: How to Edit Video Clips Captured by Ourselves

Three Main steps to Consider on How to Edit movie Clips

Step1: Prepare the materials: raw video clips, photos, background music.

Before you start to edit your video clips, make sure that all of these mention materials are ready to avoid any problem. If you want to become successful in editing your video, you need to consider this first step that it can help you make your video standout and catching to everyone.

Step2: Make a Movie: Choose a proper video theme, trim down unwanted parts, add background music, merge several clips, add logo, and add intro and outro.

Having an interesting theme for your movie can help easily catch your many viewers. Make sure that it is properly trim down with the different parts of the movie, and also put a background music that will make your movie interesting to watch.

Step3: Optimize/Polish the movie: Add some video effects such as filters, transition effects, sound effects, animated titles.

Adding these elements on your movie can help you get the interest of people. Such effects are the life of your movie, which it will bring the emotions; interest of people to continue watches it even how many times.

If you are just a beginner in editing your own movie, you can use the information above to help you do it successfully.

Now it’s you turn to download Filmora and use it to start editing your video footage.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

At present, video editing is becoming more popular as most people find it more interesting and enjoyable as time pass by. Fortunately, this task doesn’t have to be complicated and difficult. It does only require the right tool to use. Get started with movie editing tools downloaded online with this complete guide to movie editing.

You may also like: Best Free Video Editing Software for Windows in 2021

Recommended Movie Editor for All Creators [Windows & Mac]: Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare Filmora has an intuitive and simplified interface which is easy to use for beginners. With the creative built in video effects, you can add title & text, transitions, overlays, filters and elements to the video by dragging and dropping to the timeline and customizing per your need. However, one of the most exciting part is that Filmora now features the PC & Mac Cross compatibility, which mean that you can edit the projects on Windows and Mac both.

Part1: How to Edit Movies Downloaded Online

There are quite a lot of online video sites for you to download classic movie clips or upload your home-made movie for online sharing. Having such sites will help you get the attention of many people around the world.

• DailyMotion. This is one of the largest online video sites around the world. This site enables you to find video free clips easy with an impressive and nicely organized video home page. Most of the free video clips here are less than 4 minutes. DailyMotion is just very easy to navigate, and you are one of their registered users you can upload video clips up to an hour in high definition and length.
• Metacafe. Just like with other online video sites, this site also specializes in more popular videos and short free video clips. Fewer videos here are easy and well organized. In this way, you can find video clips in different genres like TV, sports and music. Metacafe have a section that collects and curates the internet most trending viral video clips of the day. It is one great site for you to quickly find a specific trending video you have heard about.
• Vimeo. This online video site specializes in Hd. It is one of the most amateur online video site, where in the results are anything but for amateur. Most of the free video clips here are user-submitted. This is also an online site that you can use to upload your videos clip.

Often times we will need to do some editing work on the film clips downloaded online before we can insert them to our projects, or share with family and friends. A top recommended software programs to use Wondershare Filmora . It can be used to extract music or sound effects from movie clips, or cut/merge/trim videos clips etc. Being compatible with almost all video formats and audio formats, it’s undoubtedly the perfect tool to edit almost any movies. A free trial version can be downloaded below:

If however you are in a tight budget and don’t want to spend more on movie editing tools. Here is a list of Free Basic Video Editing Program that you can use to Trim, split, cut, merge movie clips:

• VirtualDub. It is a video capture and processing utility for sixty four and thirty bit windows platforms. It has a batch of powerful processing capabilities for processing great numbers of video files and cab be extended with 3rd video filters.
• Windows Movie Maker . This software runs on both Windows seven and windows vista. More advanced video users are using this program because of its full features and excellent options for more average users. It is considered as one of the best free basic video editing software today.
• Light Works It is power film editing program, which have the potential of making a real movie. This program has been used for making large movie today.

Part2: How to Edit Video Clips Captured by Ourselves

Three Main steps to Consider on How to Edit movie Clips

Step1: Prepare the materials: raw video clips, photos, background music.

Before you start to edit your video clips, make sure that all of these mention materials are ready to avoid any problem. If you want to become successful in editing your video, you need to consider this first step that it can help you make your video standout and catching to everyone.

Step2: Make a Movie: Choose a proper video theme, trim down unwanted parts, add background music, merge several clips, add logo, and add intro and outro.

Having an interesting theme for your movie can help easily catch your many viewers. Make sure that it is properly trim down with the different parts of the movie, and also put a background music that will make your movie interesting to watch.

Step3: Optimize/Polish the movie: Add some video effects such as filters, transition effects, sound effects, animated titles.

Adding these elements on your movie can help you get the interest of people. Such effects are the life of your movie, which it will bring the emotions; interest of people to continue watches it even how many times.

If you are just a beginner in editing your own movie, you can use the information above to help you do it successfully.

Now it’s you turn to download Filmora and use it to start editing your video footage.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

At present, video editing is becoming more popular as most people find it more interesting and enjoyable as time pass by. Fortunately, this task doesn’t have to be complicated and difficult. It does only require the right tool to use. Get started with movie editing tools downloaded online with this complete guide to movie editing.

You may also like: Best Free Video Editing Software for Windows in 2021

Recommended Movie Editor for All Creators [Windows & Mac]: Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare Filmora has an intuitive and simplified interface which is easy to use for beginners. With the creative built in video effects, you can add title & text, transitions, overlays, filters and elements to the video by dragging and dropping to the timeline and customizing per your need. However, one of the most exciting part is that Filmora now features the PC & Mac Cross compatibility, which mean that you can edit the projects on Windows and Mac both.

Part1: How to Edit Movies Downloaded Online

There are quite a lot of online video sites for you to download classic movie clips or upload your home-made movie for online sharing. Having such sites will help you get the attention of many people around the world.

• DailyMotion. This is one of the largest online video sites around the world. This site enables you to find video free clips easy with an impressive and nicely organized video home page. Most of the free video clips here are less than 4 minutes. DailyMotion is just very easy to navigate, and you are one of their registered users you can upload video clips up to an hour in high definition and length.
• Metacafe. Just like with other online video sites, this site also specializes in more popular videos and short free video clips. Fewer videos here are easy and well organized. In this way, you can find video clips in different genres like TV, sports and music. Metacafe have a section that collects and curates the internet most trending viral video clips of the day. It is one great site for you to quickly find a specific trending video you have heard about.
• Vimeo. This online video site specializes in Hd. It is one of the most amateur online video site, where in the results are anything but for amateur. Most of the free video clips here are user-submitted. This is also an online site that you can use to upload your videos clip.

Often times we will need to do some editing work on the film clips downloaded online before we can insert them to our projects, or share with family and friends. A top recommended software programs to use Wondershare Filmora . It can be used to extract music or sound effects from movie clips, or cut/merge/trim videos clips etc. Being compatible with almost all video formats and audio formats, it’s undoubtedly the perfect tool to edit almost any movies. A free trial version can be downloaded below:

If however you are in a tight budget and don’t want to spend more on movie editing tools. Here is a list of Free Basic Video Editing Program that you can use to Trim, split, cut, merge movie clips:

• VirtualDub. It is a video capture and processing utility for sixty four and thirty bit windows platforms. It has a batch of powerful processing capabilities for processing great numbers of video files and cab be extended with 3rd video filters.
• Windows Movie Maker . This software runs on both Windows seven and windows vista. More advanced video users are using this program because of its full features and excellent options for more average users. It is considered as one of the best free basic video editing software today.
• Light Works It is power film editing program, which have the potential of making a real movie. This program has been used for making large movie today.

Part2: How to Edit Video Clips Captured by Ourselves

Three Main steps to Consider on How to Edit movie Clips

Step1: Prepare the materials: raw video clips, photos, background music.

Before you start to edit your video clips, make sure that all of these mention materials are ready to avoid any problem. If you want to become successful in editing your video, you need to consider this first step that it can help you make your video standout and catching to everyone.

Step2: Make a Movie: Choose a proper video theme, trim down unwanted parts, add background music, merge several clips, add logo, and add intro and outro.

Having an interesting theme for your movie can help easily catch your many viewers. Make sure that it is properly trim down with the different parts of the movie, and also put a background music that will make your movie interesting to watch.

Step3: Optimize/Polish the movie: Add some video effects such as filters, transition effects, sound effects, animated titles.

Adding these elements on your movie can help you get the interest of people. Such effects are the life of your movie, which it will bring the emotions; interest of people to continue watches it even how many times.

If you are just a beginner in editing your own movie, you can use the information above to help you do it successfully.

Now it’s you turn to download Filmora and use it to start editing your video footage.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Professional Animation Software: 8 Best Creator for Mac/Windows

Professional Animation Software: 8 Best Creator for Mac and Windows

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

• Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
• Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

• The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
• You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
• You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

• Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
• Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
• Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Maya is one of the top options for 3D animation, modeling, rendering, and simulation. It works with all modern Mac computers and will allow you to create animations, terrains, backgrounds, motion graphics, and VR content.

Features:

• The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
• It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
• Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

• Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
• Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
• Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
• Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

• Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
• Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
• The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
• HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

• SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
• The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
• The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

• Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
• The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
• Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
• Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Touted as the fastest 3D-animation software available, iClone will let you produce animations that have a professional quality, but you can do it in a quick time. When you have a deadline, or you need to render many images, this program is so useful.

Features:

• Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
• Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
• Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
• On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

• Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
• Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

• The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
• You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
• You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

• Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
• Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
• Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Maya is one of the top options for 3D animation, modeling, rendering, and simulation. It works with all modern Mac computers and will allow you to create animations, terrains, backgrounds, motion graphics, and VR content.

Features:

• The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
• It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
• Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

• Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
• Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
• Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
• Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

• Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
• Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
• The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
• HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

• SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
• The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
• The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

• Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
• The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
• Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
• Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Touted as the fastest 3D-animation software available, iClone will let you produce animations that have a professional quality, but you can do it in a quick time. When you have a deadline, or you need to render many images, this program is so useful.

Features:

• Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
• Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
• Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
• On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

• Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
• Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

• The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
• You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
• You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

• Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
• Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
• Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Maya is one of the top options for 3D animation, modeling, rendering, and simulation. It works with all modern Mac computers and will allow you to create animations, terrains, backgrounds, motion graphics, and VR content.

Features:

• The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
• It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
• Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

• Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
• Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
• Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
• Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

• Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
• Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
• The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
• HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

• SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
• The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
• The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

• Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
• The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
• Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
• Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Touted as the fastest 3D-animation software available, iClone will let you produce animations that have a professional quality, but you can do it in a quick time. When you have a deadline, or you need to render many images, this program is so useful.

Features:

• Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
• Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
• Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
• On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

If you are not satisfied with some free animation options available on Windows and Mac, you may need to invest some money in a great program.

Those who want their animations to have a professional quality will need to find professional animation software. It will let you make a professional animated video to your heart’s content.

While these programs do come with an upfront cost, you are paying for the best features, troubleshooting, support, and graphical quality.

Those who create animation for business reasons will have much use for such software. Here are 8 of the best professional animation software options for Windows and Mac.

• Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac
• Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

Part1: Professional Animation Software for Mac

1. Blender

The beauty of blender is that it is a free program that still gives you all the features you would expect from a professional package.

It is a free, open-source and one of the best options for 3D animating. Whether you want to model, rig, animate, simulate, map, render or motion tracking, you can do it with Blender

Features:

• The rendering, modeling, and animation features are top of the line. They are comparable with expensive software.
• You have the ability to create VFX, simulations, and integrate pipeline tools.
• You can create games, edit videos, and create scripts all within the program.

2. ZBrush

Hoping to create high-class 3D objects that are going to wow your audience? If you need to create 3D objects for a business video or to promote your personal brand, ZBrush is a terrific option.

It has some of the best features for digital sculpting that you will find in any program.

Features:

• Unlike other programs, you are not restricted by polygon distribution. Sculpt all you want!
• Options for single user or volume licenses - useful for businesses!
• Rated as one of the best programs for sculpting in 2018.

3. Maya

Maya is one of the top options for 3D animation, modeling, rendering, and simulation. It works with all modern Mac computers and will allow you to create animations, terrains, backgrounds, motion graphics, and VR content.

Features:

• The UV editor interface is very intuitive and easy to use. It also gives you so many options through the UV Toolkit. Editing your animations has never been easier.
• It comes with a clump modifier that lets you interactively groom your animations.
• Features a link to Adobe After Effects so you can make adjustments on the fly.

4. Harmony

Harmony is a professional 2D subscription-based software that will allow you to create animations and backgrounds with ease.

Whether you want to animate, render, or simulate different graphics and backgrounds, you can get it all done with Harmony. It is fully compatible with Macs.

Features:

• Three subscription options: Premium, Advanced, and Essentials.
• Essential feature vector drawing, while the other two also include Bitmap.
• Render quality can go from HD to 8K depending on your subscription.
• Includes recoloring, rotoscoping, advanced vector pencil lines, multiplayer, and 3D environment support.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part2: Professional Animation Software for Windows

1. Adobe Animate CC

Want to design interactive vector animations? Whether you are hoping to use them for games, apps, or your website, you can create them using Adobe Animate CC.

With the might of Adobe, you know that you are getting a quality product that will get frequent updates and enhancements.

Features:

• Some newer enhancements include the ability to layer depth and add camera enhancements.
• Advanced code wizard allows you to add actions to events using the HTML5 canvas.
• The Animation Timeline is more powerful than ever. You can also use presets for managing the speed of your animations.
• HiDPI support.

2. Poser Pro

The best tool for a digital artist who wants to create 3D character animations and illustrations, the Poser Pro 11.1 is available for a one-time purchase.

It may not be necessary for beginners to spend big money on animation software.

But professionals who want the best quality characters and background will be delighted with the features on offer.

Features:

• SuperFly delivers the power of physically based rendering to Poser. You can render light in the way that it is meant to look.
• The Realtime Comic Book preview feature is even better on this version of the program. Now you can get full access to your animations, while you can edit them using the convenient toolbars.
• The actor selection feature makes it so easy to go back and forth between the different characters you create.

3. DigiCel FlipBook

Beginners who are struggling to understand some features of other programs will love FlipBook.

It is the simplest 2D animation software you will find online. But the best part is that despite its simplicity, it gives you the power and flexibility of other programs.

Features:

• Drawing, scanning, importing, and painting is very easy with this program.
• The intuitive interface means that if you want to make changes to your animations, you can do it within minutes.
• Using it with a tablet is very helpful, as you can draw straight onto the program.
• Add music and sync it with your animations.

4. iClone

Touted as the fastest 3D-animation software available, iClone will let you produce animations that have a professional quality, but you can do it in a quick time. When you have a deadline, or you need to render many images, this program is so useful.

Features:

• Advanced tools that allow you to curve edit, incorporate PhysX simulating, and create organic morphs.
• Delivers artistic real-time 3D visuals.
• Unlimited plugin expansion and support.
• On-demand community content and accessories.

Conclusion

With the above eight programs, you may many options when you make professional animated videos. You can create high-quality 3D background, terrain, objects, and characters.

And when you are finished with your animations, you may be thinking about editing the files or creating a larger story out of them.

Using Filmora will help you a lot with the editing process. It is an all-in-one video and animation file editor for both Windows and Mac computers.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Adding Titles in FCPX: A Beginner’s Guide to Professional Results

How to Add Titles in Final Cut Pro X

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

We add text titles to our projects to tell the audience something they can’t figure out on their own, such as the title of our program, the name of the person speaking, or technical details about a subject.

---

This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

---

Final Cut Pro X has almost 200 different text effects that we can add, but the process of adding titles is essentially the same. Adding titles is what this article is about.

DEFINITIONS

Just to keep us all on the same page, here are my definitions of key terms related to text:

• Text or titles. Words placed on the screen. I use these terms interchangeably.
• Superimpose. Text displayed on the the screen with other video below it. These are also called “supers” or “keys.”
• Full-screen. Text which occupies the entire screen.
• Lower-third. Text which fits below a person talking; in the “lower-third” of the screen.
• Info-graphics. Full-screen text which is superimposed on a graphic, generally used to convey technical information. Typical uses are sports statistics or other information which is easier to convey using text than having someone read the words.

JUST THE BASICS

I’d like to introduce “Yertle,” he’s a sea turtle and the star of this article. (Footage courtesy of Jim Walker and Lobsters Gone Wild Productions.)

At its simplest, we use titles to display his (its?) name.

In the Timeline, put the playhead where you want a title to appear and type Shift+Control+T. This inserts the default lower-third title at the position of the playhead. The title, like almost all titles, has a default duration of 10:00 seconds.

Look at the Browser and see the results of your work. A lower-third title is superimposed over the video in the lower left corner. (I’ll talk about formatting the text in a few paragraphs.)

NOTE: The big limitation of this lower-third title is that it can only be positioned in the left corner. Moving it to the center or right corner requires manual adjustment.

You position or trim a title the same as any video clip: drag the clip to a different location, or drag an edge to change its duration.

Select that title and delete it by pressing the Delete key.

This time, type Control+T and the default full-screen title appears in the center of the screen. Again, this has a default duration of 10 seconds.

If you look right in the center of the screen, you’ll see the word “Title.” Yes, its darn near invisible. And, yes, it looks, um, ugly. However, we have a TON of formatting control to make this look however we want.

Select and delete that full-screen title.

There’s one more way to apply a title: dragging from the Titles Browser.

Click the Title icon in the Toolbar. This displays the contents of the Title Browser. The column on the left displays title categories, the icons on the right indicate individual titles, the search box at the bottom allows you to search for specific titles by name, while the number in the lower right indicates the number of titles currently displayed. (Your number may not match mine because I’ve added a few custom titles to my system.)

Let’s add a totally ridiculous title to our turtle - drag Clouds from the Title Browser and place it above the clip at the point where you want a title to appear.

NOTE: I’m using a marker in the Timeline to help me find the same place in a clip so my screen shots are consistent. Markers are not needed in any way for titles.

Um, yeah. So, some titles look more professional than others… You can delete this title now.

So, we:

• Add titles using keyboard shortcuts
• Drag titles from the Title Browser
• Change position by dragging the title
• Change duration by dragging the edge of the clip
• Delete a title by selecting it and pressing the Delete key

CHANGING TEXT

Add a new full-screen title (type Control+T) to the Timeline. To change the text in a title, double-click it in the Viewer. Here, I’ve changed my title to “An Undersea Adventure.”

NOTE: We can also change the text using the Inspector. I’ll show you how in a few paragraphs. Pick whichever method is easiest for you.

All text, in any title, can be changed by double-clicking it in the Viewer to select it, then typing the new text you want to use.

FORMATTING TEXT

You can format any text that you can select. This means that you can format entire phrases, words, or individual letters differently. For this article, I will format everything the same, because once you know how this works, you can experiment on your own.

Here, I selected my entire title and opened the Inspector (shortcut Cmd+4). Click the Text tab at the top. This section of the Inspector allows you to format the text.

NOTE: The text box near the top of the panel is the second place you can select text for formatting.

If you want a fast way to format text, click the word “Normal” at the top. This displays a menu filled with different text formats. Some of these formats look pretty dreadful; the rest look worse.

NOTE: You can create your own text styles. Refer to the Help for information on how.

The Basic section of the Inspector allows you to change fonts, size, alignment… all the standard font settings we see in other programs. Here, I’ve changed the font to Hobo Std, at 167 points.

While many of these settings you already know there are a few you may not:

• Line spacing. Adjusts the vertical distance between lines within the same paragraph.
• Tracking. Adjusts the horizontal spacing between letters.
• Baseline. Adjusts the vertical spacing of text compared to the horizontal line running thru the center of the white circle in the Viewer.

The Face section allows us to change font color, opacity and blue. Outline and Glow allows us to add, not surprisingly, outlines and glows. You can adjust these as you see fit - I tend not to add outlines or glows.

However, I STRONGLY recommend adding drop shadows to all text that you want viewers to read. Video, even HD video, is low resolution compared to print. Drop shadows make your text much easier to read. These are the settings I recommend for drop shadows.

After making a few changes in the Inspector, here’s the final result. Very cool - and very different from where we started!

ACTION SAFE/TITLE SAFE ZONES

Since television was first invented, we needed to compensate for the differences in TV sets by designing graphics to stay within Action Safe and Title Safe boundaries.

While much of today’s video is designed for the web, your titles will look the best if you follow the same guidelines.

Titles015

Go to the Switch in the Viewer and select “Show Action Safe/Title Safe Zones.”

This displays two pale rectangles in the frame. The outer rectangle is called “Action Safe,” the inner one is called “Title Safe.” Action Safe is 5% in from all edges; Title Safe is 10% in from all edges.

When designing text and graphics for the web, keep all essential elements inside the outer rectangle. When designing graphics and text for broadcast or cable, keep all essential elements inside the inner rectangle.

Here, for example, notice that my title is fully contained within Action Safe.

SUMMARY

Titles give our programs character and personality, plus they explain what’s going on to the audience. Final Cut Pro X provides a wealth of formatting options to make our text look great.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

We add text titles to our projects to tell the audience something they can’t figure out on their own, such as the title of our program, the name of the person speaking, or technical details about a subject.

---

This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

---

Final Cut Pro X has almost 200 different text effects that we can add, but the process of adding titles is essentially the same. Adding titles is what this article is about.

DEFINITIONS

Just to keep us all on the same page, here are my definitions of key terms related to text:

• Text or titles. Words placed on the screen. I use these terms interchangeably.
• Superimpose. Text displayed on the the screen with other video below it. These are also called “supers” or “keys.”
• Full-screen. Text which occupies the entire screen.
• Lower-third. Text which fits below a person talking; in the “lower-third” of the screen.
• Info-graphics. Full-screen text which is superimposed on a graphic, generally used to convey technical information. Typical uses are sports statistics or other information which is easier to convey using text than having someone read the words.

JUST THE BASICS

I’d like to introduce “Yertle,” he’s a sea turtle and the star of this article. (Footage courtesy of Jim Walker and Lobsters Gone Wild Productions.)

At its simplest, we use titles to display his (its?) name.

In the Timeline, put the playhead where you want a title to appear and type Shift+Control+T. This inserts the default lower-third title at the position of the playhead. The title, like almost all titles, has a default duration of 10:00 seconds.

Look at the Browser and see the results of your work. A lower-third title is superimposed over the video in the lower left corner. (I’ll talk about formatting the text in a few paragraphs.)

NOTE: The big limitation of this lower-third title is that it can only be positioned in the left corner. Moving it to the center or right corner requires manual adjustment.

You position or trim a title the same as any video clip: drag the clip to a different location, or drag an edge to change its duration.

Select that title and delete it by pressing the Delete key.

This time, type Control+T and the default full-screen title appears in the center of the screen. Again, this has a default duration of 10 seconds.

If you look right in the center of the screen, you’ll see the word “Title.” Yes, its darn near invisible. And, yes, it looks, um, ugly. However, we have a TON of formatting control to make this look however we want.

Select and delete that full-screen title.

There’s one more way to apply a title: dragging from the Titles Browser.

Click the Title icon in the Toolbar. This displays the contents of the Title Browser. The column on the left displays title categories, the icons on the right indicate individual titles, the search box at the bottom allows you to search for specific titles by name, while the number in the lower right indicates the number of titles currently displayed. (Your number may not match mine because I’ve added a few custom titles to my system.)

Let’s add a totally ridiculous title to our turtle - drag Clouds from the Title Browser and place it above the clip at the point where you want a title to appear.

NOTE: I’m using a marker in the Timeline to help me find the same place in a clip so my screen shots are consistent. Markers are not needed in any way for titles.

Um, yeah. So, some titles look more professional than others… You can delete this title now.

So, we:

• Add titles using keyboard shortcuts
• Drag titles from the Title Browser
• Change position by dragging the title
• Change duration by dragging the edge of the clip
• Delete a title by selecting it and pressing the Delete key

CHANGING TEXT

Add a new full-screen title (type Control+T) to the Timeline. To change the text in a title, double-click it in the Viewer. Here, I’ve changed my title to “An Undersea Adventure.”

NOTE: We can also change the text using the Inspector. I’ll show you how in a few paragraphs. Pick whichever method is easiest for you.

All text, in any title, can be changed by double-clicking it in the Viewer to select it, then typing the new text you want to use.

FORMATTING TEXT

You can format any text that you can select. This means that you can format entire phrases, words, or individual letters differently. For this article, I will format everything the same, because once you know how this works, you can experiment on your own.

Here, I selected my entire title and opened the Inspector (shortcut Cmd+4). Click the Text tab at the top. This section of the Inspector allows you to format the text.

NOTE: The text box near the top of the panel is the second place you can select text for formatting.

If you want a fast way to format text, click the word “Normal” at the top. This displays a menu filled with different text formats. Some of these formats look pretty dreadful; the rest look worse.

NOTE: You can create your own text styles. Refer to the Help for information on how.

The Basic section of the Inspector allows you to change fonts, size, alignment… all the standard font settings we see in other programs. Here, I’ve changed the font to Hobo Std, at 167 points.

While many of these settings you already know there are a few you may not:

• Line spacing. Adjusts the vertical distance between lines within the same paragraph.
• Tracking. Adjusts the horizontal spacing between letters.
• Baseline. Adjusts the vertical spacing of text compared to the horizontal line running thru the center of the white circle in the Viewer.

The Face section allows us to change font color, opacity and blue. Outline and Glow allows us to add, not surprisingly, outlines and glows. You can adjust these as you see fit - I tend not to add outlines or glows.

However, I STRONGLY recommend adding drop shadows to all text that you want viewers to read. Video, even HD video, is low resolution compared to print. Drop shadows make your text much easier to read. These are the settings I recommend for drop shadows.

After making a few changes in the Inspector, here’s the final result. Very cool - and very different from where we started!

ACTION SAFE/TITLE SAFE ZONES

Since television was first invented, we needed to compensate for the differences in TV sets by designing graphics to stay within Action Safe and Title Safe boundaries.

While much of today’s video is designed for the web, your titles will look the best if you follow the same guidelines.

Titles015

Go to the Switch in the Viewer and select “Show Action Safe/Title Safe Zones.”

This displays two pale rectangles in the frame. The outer rectangle is called “Action Safe,” the inner one is called “Title Safe.” Action Safe is 5% in from all edges; Title Safe is 10% in from all edges.

When designing text and graphics for the web, keep all essential elements inside the outer rectangle. When designing graphics and text for broadcast or cable, keep all essential elements inside the inner rectangle.

Here, for example, notice that my title is fully contained within Action Safe.

SUMMARY

Titles give our programs character and personality, plus they explain what’s going on to the audience. Final Cut Pro X provides a wealth of formatting options to make our text look great.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

We add text titles to our projects to tell the audience something they can’t figure out on their own, such as the title of our program, the name of the person speaking, or technical details about a subject.

---

This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

---

Final Cut Pro X has almost 200 different text effects that we can add, but the process of adding titles is essentially the same. Adding titles is what this article is about.

DEFINITIONS

Just to keep us all on the same page, here are my definitions of key terms related to text:

• Text or titles. Words placed on the screen. I use these terms interchangeably.
• Superimpose. Text displayed on the the screen with other video below it. These are also called “supers” or “keys.”
• Full-screen. Text which occupies the entire screen.
• Lower-third. Text which fits below a person talking; in the “lower-third” of the screen.
• Info-graphics. Full-screen text which is superimposed on a graphic, generally used to convey technical information. Typical uses are sports statistics or other information which is easier to convey using text than having someone read the words.

JUST THE BASICS

I’d like to introduce “Yertle,” he’s a sea turtle and the star of this article. (Footage courtesy of Jim Walker and Lobsters Gone Wild Productions.)

At its simplest, we use titles to display his (its?) name.

In the Timeline, put the playhead where you want a title to appear and type Shift+Control+T. This inserts the default lower-third title at the position of the playhead. The title, like almost all titles, has a default duration of 10:00 seconds.

Look at the Browser and see the results of your work. A lower-third title is superimposed over the video in the lower left corner. (I’ll talk about formatting the text in a few paragraphs.)

NOTE: The big limitation of this lower-third title is that it can only be positioned in the left corner. Moving it to the center or right corner requires manual adjustment.

You position or trim a title the same as any video clip: drag the clip to a different location, or drag an edge to change its duration.

Select that title and delete it by pressing the Delete key.

This time, type Control+T and the default full-screen title appears in the center of the screen. Again, this has a default duration of 10 seconds.

If you look right in the center of the screen, you’ll see the word “Title.” Yes, its darn near invisible. And, yes, it looks, um, ugly. However, we have a TON of formatting control to make this look however we want.

Select and delete that full-screen title.

There’s one more way to apply a title: dragging from the Titles Browser.

Click the Title icon in the Toolbar. This displays the contents of the Title Browser. The column on the left displays title categories, the icons on the right indicate individual titles, the search box at the bottom allows you to search for specific titles by name, while the number in the lower right indicates the number of titles currently displayed. (Your number may not match mine because I’ve added a few custom titles to my system.)

Let’s add a totally ridiculous title to our turtle - drag Clouds from the Title Browser and place it above the clip at the point where you want a title to appear.

NOTE: I’m using a marker in the Timeline to help me find the same place in a clip so my screen shots are consistent. Markers are not needed in any way for titles.

Um, yeah. So, some titles look more professional than others… You can delete this title now.

So, we:

• Add titles using keyboard shortcuts
• Drag titles from the Title Browser
• Change position by dragging the title
• Change duration by dragging the edge of the clip
• Delete a title by selecting it and pressing the Delete key

CHANGING TEXT

Add a new full-screen title (type Control+T) to the Timeline. To change the text in a title, double-click it in the Viewer. Here, I’ve changed my title to “An Undersea Adventure.”

NOTE: We can also change the text using the Inspector. I’ll show you how in a few paragraphs. Pick whichever method is easiest for you.

All text, in any title, can be changed by double-clicking it in the Viewer to select it, then typing the new text you want to use.

FORMATTING TEXT

You can format any text that you can select. This means that you can format entire phrases, words, or individual letters differently. For this article, I will format everything the same, because once you know how this works, you can experiment on your own.

Here, I selected my entire title and opened the Inspector (shortcut Cmd+4). Click the Text tab at the top. This section of the Inspector allows you to format the text.

NOTE: The text box near the top of the panel is the second place you can select text for formatting.

If you want a fast way to format text, click the word “Normal” at the top. This displays a menu filled with different text formats. Some of these formats look pretty dreadful; the rest look worse.

NOTE: You can create your own text styles. Refer to the Help for information on how.

The Basic section of the Inspector allows you to change fonts, size, alignment… all the standard font settings we see in other programs. Here, I’ve changed the font to Hobo Std, at 167 points.

While many of these settings you already know there are a few you may not:

• Line spacing. Adjusts the vertical distance between lines within the same paragraph.
• Tracking. Adjusts the horizontal spacing between letters.
• Baseline. Adjusts the vertical spacing of text compared to the horizontal line running thru the center of the white circle in the Viewer.

The Face section allows us to change font color, opacity and blue. Outline and Glow allows us to add, not surprisingly, outlines and glows. You can adjust these as you see fit - I tend not to add outlines or glows.

However, I STRONGLY recommend adding drop shadows to all text that you want viewers to read. Video, even HD video, is low resolution compared to print. Drop shadows make your text much easier to read. These are the settings I recommend for drop shadows.

After making a few changes in the Inspector, here’s the final result. Very cool - and very different from where we started!

ACTION SAFE/TITLE SAFE ZONES

Since television was first invented, we needed to compensate for the differences in TV sets by designing graphics to stay within Action Safe and Title Safe boundaries.

While much of today’s video is designed for the web, your titles will look the best if you follow the same guidelines.

Titles015

Go to the Switch in the Viewer and select “Show Action Safe/Title Safe Zones.”

This displays two pale rectangles in the frame. The outer rectangle is called “Action Safe,” the inner one is called “Title Safe.” Action Safe is 5% in from all edges; Title Safe is 10% in from all edges.

When designing text and graphics for the web, keep all essential elements inside the outer rectangle. When designing graphics and text for broadcast or cable, keep all essential elements inside the inner rectangle.

Here, for example, notice that my title is fully contained within Action Safe.

SUMMARY

Titles give our programs character and personality, plus they explain what’s going on to the audience. Final Cut Pro X provides a wealth of formatting options to make our text look great.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

We add text titles to our projects to tell the audience something they can’t figure out on their own, such as the title of our program, the name of the person speaking, or technical details about a subject.

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This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

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Final Cut Pro X has almost 200 different text effects that we can add, but the process of adding titles is essentially the same. Adding titles is what this article is about.

DEFINITIONS

Just to keep us all on the same page, here are my definitions of key terms related to text:

• Text or titles. Words placed on the screen. I use these terms interchangeably.
• Superimpose. Text displayed on the the screen with other video below it. These are also called “supers” or “keys.”
• Full-screen. Text which occupies the entire screen.
• Lower-third. Text which fits below a person talking; in the “lower-third” of the screen.
• Info-graphics. Full-screen text which is superimposed on a graphic, generally used to convey technical information. Typical uses are sports statistics or other information which is easier to convey using text than having someone read the words.

JUST THE BASICS

I’d like to introduce “Yertle,” he’s a sea turtle and the star of this article. (Footage courtesy of Jim Walker and Lobsters Gone Wild Productions.)

At its simplest, we use titles to display his (its?) name.

In the Timeline, put the playhead where you want a title to appear and type Shift+Control+T. This inserts the default lower-third title at the position of the playhead. The title, like almost all titles, has a default duration of 10:00 seconds.

Look at the Browser and see the results of your work. A lower-third title is superimposed over the video in the lower left corner. (I’ll talk about formatting the text in a few paragraphs.)

NOTE: The big limitation of this lower-third title is that it can only be positioned in the left corner. Moving it to the center or right corner requires manual adjustment.

You position or trim a title the same as any video clip: drag the clip to a different location, or drag an edge to change its duration.

Select that title and delete it by pressing the Delete key.

This time, type Control+T and the default full-screen title appears in the center of the screen. Again, this has a default duration of 10 seconds.

If you look right in the center of the screen, you’ll see the word “Title.” Yes, its darn near invisible. And, yes, it looks, um, ugly. However, we have a TON of formatting control to make this look however we want.

Select and delete that full-screen title.

There’s one more way to apply a title: dragging from the Titles Browser.

Click the Title icon in the Toolbar. This displays the contents of the Title Browser. The column on the left displays title categories, the icons on the right indicate individual titles, the search box at the bottom allows you to search for specific titles by name, while the number in the lower right indicates the number of titles currently displayed. (Your number may not match mine because I’ve added a few custom titles to my system.)

Let’s add a totally ridiculous title to our turtle - drag Clouds from the Title Browser and place it above the clip at the point where you want a title to appear.

NOTE: I’m using a marker in the Timeline to help me find the same place in a clip so my screen shots are consistent. Markers are not needed in any way for titles.

Um, yeah. So, some titles look more professional than others… You can delete this title now.

So, we:

• Add titles using keyboard shortcuts
• Drag titles from the Title Browser
• Change position by dragging the title
• Change duration by dragging the edge of the clip
• Delete a title by selecting it and pressing the Delete key

CHANGING TEXT

Add a new full-screen title (type Control+T) to the Timeline. To change the text in a title, double-click it in the Viewer. Here, I’ve changed my title to “An Undersea Adventure.”

NOTE: We can also change the text using the Inspector. I’ll show you how in a few paragraphs. Pick whichever method is easiest for you.

All text, in any title, can be changed by double-clicking it in the Viewer to select it, then typing the new text you want to use.

FORMATTING TEXT

You can format any text that you can select. This means that you can format entire phrases, words, or individual letters differently. For this article, I will format everything the same, because once you know how this works, you can experiment on your own.

Here, I selected my entire title and opened the Inspector (shortcut Cmd+4). Click the Text tab at the top. This section of the Inspector allows you to format the text.

NOTE: The text box near the top of the panel is the second place you can select text for formatting.

If you want a fast way to format text, click the word “Normal” at the top. This displays a menu filled with different text formats. Some of these formats look pretty dreadful; the rest look worse.

NOTE: You can create your own text styles. Refer to the Help for information on how.

The Basic section of the Inspector allows you to change fonts, size, alignment… all the standard font settings we see in other programs. Here, I’ve changed the font to Hobo Std, at 167 points.

While many of these settings you already know there are a few you may not:

• Line spacing. Adjusts the vertical distance between lines within the same paragraph.
• Tracking. Adjusts the horizontal spacing between letters.
• Baseline. Adjusts the vertical spacing of text compared to the horizontal line running thru the center of the white circle in the Viewer.

The Face section allows us to change font color, opacity and blue. Outline and Glow allows us to add, not surprisingly, outlines and glows. You can adjust these as you see fit - I tend not to add outlines or glows.

However, I STRONGLY recommend adding drop shadows to all text that you want viewers to read. Video, even HD video, is low resolution compared to print. Drop shadows make your text much easier to read. These are the settings I recommend for drop shadows.

After making a few changes in the Inspector, here’s the final result. Very cool - and very different from where we started!

ACTION SAFE/TITLE SAFE ZONES

Since television was first invented, we needed to compensate for the differences in TV sets by designing graphics to stay within Action Safe and Title Safe boundaries.

While much of today’s video is designed for the web, your titles will look the best if you follow the same guidelines.

Titles015

Go to the Switch in the Viewer and select “Show Action Safe/Title Safe Zones.”

This displays two pale rectangles in the frame. The outer rectangle is called “Action Safe,” the inner one is called “Title Safe.” Action Safe is 5% in from all edges; Title Safe is 10% in from all edges.

When designing text and graphics for the web, keep all essential elements inside the outer rectangle. When designing graphics and text for broadcast or cable, keep all essential elements inside the inner rectangle.

Here, for example, notice that my title is fully contained within Action Safe.

SUMMARY

Titles give our programs character and personality, plus they explain what’s going on to the audience. Final Cut Pro X provides a wealth of formatting options to make our text look great.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

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