Editing the videos you capture on your drones has never been easier thanks to video editing software.
There are many different programs on the market, how do you choose which to use? If that’s a question you’ve asked yourself in the past, you’re in luck.
This guide will cover five of the best free programs to ensure you can create and show off the best drone content possible.
1. DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is an all-in-one solution for someone looking to get the most out of an editing tool.
Their color correction is incredible, as is the audio mixing and curve editing functionality. Other impressive features include object tracking, stabilization, advanced keying, and rotoscoping.
While there are a ton of features and options here, the editing process itself is quite straightforward as well. It’s outlined at the bottom of your screen, and makes it easy to see and complete things like importing content, adding effects, correcting color, and perfecting sound.
There’s a free version, but it does lack some of the higher-quality features seen in the paid version.
2. Lightworks
Lightworks is a powerful cross-platform option for drone users who want help editing their footage.
While it’s underrated compared to some of the other programs out there, that doesn’t take away from its quality. The software is extremely customizable, and it lets you choose a layout of features that work for your needs.
The software also allows you to access a lot of royalty-free audio and video that takes your drone footage to the next level. Trimming is incredibly easy and intuitive, and there’s real-time ready-to-use FX for both audio and video.
In addition to being great for drone footage and home movies, this software has also been used to edit major Hollywood films. It’s not exactly cheap to buy, but there’s a free version that you can try out before making your final purchase.
3. OpenShot
OpenShot is an award-winning open source video editing software that will be great for your drone footage.
The simple user interface allows you to complete a variety of basic editing tasks including resizing, rotating, cutting, adding effects, animating titles, and trimming. It’s popular thanks to its nice blend of simplicity and power.
The software lets you add as many layers as you need, and getting started with OpenShot is as easy as dragging and dropping your footage. It’s available in 70+ different languages, so it can be used worldwide, and online translations are also a breeze.
The program was first created in 2008 and can now be used on Mac, Linux, and Windows devices. As the software is open source, it’s always being updated.
4. iMovie
iMovie is a free video editing software that comes with macOS and iOS devices, and it’s great for both entry-level and experienced editors.
The software makes it easy to do basic editing on a video variety of different kinds of video footage. It features many tutorials, a hassle-free interface, and the editing process can also be done on your iPhone or iPad.
From choosing clips, to adding titles and effects, iMovie makes it easy to edit your footage exactly how you want it. Filters, smart soundtracks and green screen effects are other useful features.
iMovie can even edit videos in 4k resolution. If you have a PC, using the video editor in Microsoft Photos is similar and it’s free as well.
5. Adobe Premiere Pro
If you’re an advanced user who wants to take advantage of several unique features, Adobe Premiere Pro is a great option, and it has a 14-day free trial.
The premium program allows you to edit footage in any format, can automatically frame and reformat videos, and aims to help you achieve a much faster, more efficient workflow while editing.
This is among the most fully-featured options on the market, and it comes with a laundry list of functions that every editor, from newcomer to professional, will love. That includes live text templates, automatic backups, and the ability to export in different formats.
The software also lets you easily collaborate with others, and can integrate with a number of different apps and services to perfect your video.
Final Words
Drones have become incredibly popular among both professionals and hobby fliers alike. There are many things you can do with unique devices, but one of the most common is to capture videos.
While some of the videos you capture will come out perfectly by default, others may need to be edited to create the visuals you seek. Thankfully, there are many great drone video editing software programs out there that can help.
If you know of some other great pieces of free drone video editing software, don’t hesitate to let us know about them in the comment section below.
