ERMAL ALIBALI

Have you ever scrolled through TikTok or Instagram and been amazed by the cool edits in some videos? Wondering how they achieve those fancy transitions and effects? The answer might surprise you — it’s often done with a free and easy-to-use app called CapCut!

CapCut is an all-in-one video editing tool that’s perfect for beginners and pros alike. It lets you trim clips, add transitions, filters, text, music, and even special effects like slow motion and green screen.

CapCut’s Origin

CapCut has its roots in China, where it was originally called Jianying and launched in 2019. Developed by Shenzhen Lianmeng Technology, a startup, it was designed for both mobile and PC users, offering a user-friendly interface for editing short-form videos. ByteDance, the company behind the hugely popular TikTok, acquired Lianmeng Technology in 2018, seeing the potential for Jianying to complement their video-focused empire.

In April 2020, ByteDance released Jianying internationally under the new name CapCut. This strategic rebranding aimed to make the app more accessible to a global audience. The focus remained on mobile editing, but CapCut later expanded to include web and desktop versions, catering to creators who preferred a larger screen. This move towards broader compatibility reflects CapCut’s ambition to be a one-stop shop for video editing, regardless of device.

CapCut’s success can be attributed to its user-friendly approach and features specifically tailored for short-form video creation, perfectly aligned with the rise of TikTok and other social media platforms. With over 200 million monthly active users as of March 2023, CapCut has become a major player in the video editing world, even surpassing TikTok’s download numbers in certain regions.

Here’s a quick rundown on how to get started:

1. Import your clips: Start by adding your videos and photos to your project. You can film directly in CapCut or import from your phone’s camera roll.
2. Trim and Split: Cut out any unwanted parts of your clips using the editing tools. You can even split clips into sections for rearranging later.
3. Spice it Up! This is where the fun begins! Add text overlays, and stickers, and choose from a huge library of trendy filters and effects.
4. Pro-Level Moves (Optional): Feeling fancy? CapCut offers advanced features like keyframe animation for smooth motion changes and a green screen to transport yourself to another world!
5. Music & Sound Effects: The perfect soundtrack can elevate your video. Add your own music or choose from CapCut’s extensive sound effects library.
6. Export and Share: Once you’re happy with your masterpiece, simply choose your export resolution (go for HD quality!) and share it directly to your favorite social media platform.