Editing Your Course Video Footage

Editing your course video footage is an easy task when you’re equipped with the right tools and tips! What’s more? Most computers have built-in editing softwares that are really easy to use. Find a few of our favourite editing softwares below, along with resources and tutorials to help you get started.

Easy-To-Use Video Editing Software for Mac include: iMovie, Quicktime and ScreenFlow and for PC: VSDC, Filmora, Lightworks and Camtasia. Editing Basics - Check out these videos for some quick editing 101.

Four Easy Steps

1. Transfer Your Footage - Transfer your footage from your recording device using a USB cable or memory card reader.
2. Import Your Footage - Once your footage is transferred to your computer, open your editing software and import all your raw video footage.
3. Cut + Edit Your Video Footage - Drag footage to your timeline and cut out “ums” and any bad takes. Don’t forget to save frequently!
4. Export and Publish - BuiltIntelligence’s video player requires HD videos. Find the export menu in your editing software and select HD 1080 or 720. See your recommended settings below.

Technical Specifications: Exporting and Uploading

To ensure a smooth uploading process, refer to these basic video specifications before diving into filming. 

Video Specifications

• Videos should be recorded at a resolution of 1280x720 or 1920x1080
• Videos must include an audio track
• 16:9 Aspect Ratio for slides + video format 

Once you’ve wrapped up with filming, follow these quick exporting specifications to make uploading your course videos a breeze!  

Exporting Specifications

• Video bit rate of at least 300 kbits/second (3000-5000 kbits/second is ideal)
• Videos should not be greater than 2GB in size
• Use .mp4, .mov, .avi, or .flv when exporting your video files
• Video compression format: H.264

Video - Course Production Checklist

Follow this checklist to prepare for your film day and successfully record your lessons:

• Choose your video format - screencasts, physical demonstrations, or a combination of both.
• Schedule a film date into your calendar; most contributors film their courses in one day, or even in just a few hours.
• Choose your location - a quiet space free of distractions and with natural light if you’re shooting a physical demonstration.
• Gather your filming equipment and install any necessary software to your computer or device.
• Prepare any additional materials you’ll need for filming, such as a slide presentation, example images or objects, materials for a physical demonstration, etc.
• Do an out-loud run-through of your lessons using your course outline (some contributors choose to write out a script; others simply use their talking points).
• Film your lessons! Refer back to Recording a Screencast and Recording a Physical Demonstration for plenty of tips and resources.
• Edit, export and upload your video lessons to your course draft.