Editing

Choosing your editing software 

• Canva is good for video editing, including editing graphics.
• CapCut is a free video editor with a range of tools and features.

Sourcing stock footage

It is important to have the correct permissions before using any footage you have not collected yourself. 

Canto

Canto is Queen Mary's official media library, and included b-roll footage for you to download and use in your own video projects.

External footage

Only use stock footage from an approved media library. This includes - 

iStock

You can contact the Content and Brand team to request stock footage be downloaded from iStock. We have a limited number of downloads per year, so please make sure you need this footage before requesting it.

Editing your video

Organise your footage

Before you start editing, make sure everything is easy to find.

• Copy all video, audio and image files to one folder.
• Rename files clearly if needed. Watch through all footage to understand what you have.
• Choose the best takes before editing.

Set up your editing project

• Create a new project in your chosen software.
• Set the correct video settings (size, orientation and frame rate).
• Import your footage and audio.
• Make sure the settings match where the video will be published (for example, social media or a website).

Build the rough cut

The rough cut focuses on structure, not polish.

• Place clips in the correct order on the timeline.
• Trim the start and end of clips to remove mistakes and long pauses.
• Focus on telling a clear story from beginning to end.
• At this stage, do not worry about colour, music or effects.

 Refine the edit

Once the rough cut is complete, refine the video.

• Tighten edits to improve pacing.
• Remove repeated or unnecessary content.
• Make sure transitions between clips feel natural.
• Ensure audio is consistent between clips.
• Keep the video clear, concise and easy to follow.

 Add audio

Audio quality is just as important as visuals.

• Adjust audio levels so speech is clear.
• Remove background noise if possible.
• If adding music, make sure you have the correct permissions. We can download music via our iStock library.

 Improve visuals

Simple visual adjustments can greatly improve quality.

• Adjust brightness and contrast if needed to align your clips.
• Avoid filters or heavy editing to ensure colours look natural.

 Add text and captions

• Add our branded idents, as well as titles and name captions where needed. Download branded assets from Canto.
• Keep on-screen text short and readable
• Use Queen Mary fonts and brand colours, ensuring a high contrast.
• Add captions or subtitles for accessibility, especially social media content.