How to Edit a Vlog: 4 Top Tips
Vlogs are still a popular way for content creators to connect with fans – they’re easy to digest, visually interesting, and engaging. Learn how to edit a vlog and get that professional finish!
Vlogs are still a popular way for content creators to connect with fans – they’re easy to digest, visually interesting, and more engaging than a traditional ‘diary-style’ blog. Learn how to edit a vlog and get that professional finish below!
What is a vlog?
A vlog is a video blog, or video log. Popularized over YouTube in the mid-to-late noughties, the format soon spread over Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and more social media platforms.
The point of a vlog is to ‘follow’ the creator around and get an insight into their day. It’s personal. What’s their routine like? What do they get up to behind the scenes? Are they really that happy all the time?
How do I edit a vlog video?
If you’re a content creator, you’ll likely film a vlog at some point. Even if vlogging isn’t your bread and butter, offering a glimpse behind the curtain will keep viewers engaged; if they’re invested in your personal brand, they’ll want to know what makes you tick.
Here are a few handy tips on how to edit a vlog.
1. Ensure you have the right gear
This goes without saying when it comes to any video content, but having good gear can make the difference between a vlog sinking or swimming – interesting content may never be discovered if it’s got the production values of a small potato.
When vlogging, the aim is to feel as natural as possible. That’s why it’s worth investing in a discrete, hands-free lav mic – you can check out our guide to lavalier microphones here, if you want the lowdown on that. You should also consider a ring light, a decent camera, and a nice background, so you look the part, too!
2. Use text
Titles, little explainers, and captions all help a vlog stand out. Text can be used to hammer a point home, or just to make things that bit clearer. After all, subtitles are a simple, easy way to make your vlogs more accessible for viewers who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.
Editing someone else's vlog and need to delete some text? Don't sweat it. Even if the raw file you're working with came with subtitles built in, you should be able to get rid of them. Read our guide on how to remove text from video here.
3. Get snippy with it
One long, continuous shot of one person talking can get old fast. When you’re learning how to edit a vlog, it’s best to take the time and get acquainted with simple editing techniques. This covers simple principles like cutting from the speaker, to more technical tasks like color grading. If you’re after a quick rundown on how to edit video, click here for 9 tips and tricks you need to know.
4. Brand it!
People who love your content will know your face as soon as they see it. But, if you want to rake in new viewers, you’ve got to get your branding in there. Whether that be your emblem in the intro, outro, or just in the corner of the screen, it’s always good to have it present.
Need vlog background music?
To achieve a professional finish, you’ll need to score yourself some A-grade vlog background music. And it is tough to find the right tune. Between poor-quality ‘free’ music catalogs, complicated licensing deals, and threats of copyright claims, it’s a bit of a minefield.
We’ve got you covered. You can get all the vlog background music you need with an active Epidemic Sound subscription. 40,000 tracks, in fact – all royalty-free, and safe to use in your content as long as you’re with us. Browse the catalog below!
What app can edit a vlog?
It’s super easy to edit a vlog nowadays, especially since platforms like Instagram and TikTok have integrated tools to edit video. In particular, the latter goes to town with the effects you can use – you can add a bunch of effects, transitions, stickers, and more, all in-app.
But if you want to learn the basics of how to edit a vlog, it’s better to use some dedicated editing software. This gives you more freedom and control over the final product, and doesn’t limit you to ‘just’ the vlog format. If your content takes off, you could end up working on bigger projects with different people, and your knowledge of video editing software will be so valuable!
You can get started with iMovie, and even free versions of software like DaVinci Resolve and Lightworks, which they use on actual movies! If you’re interested in learning about the best video editing apps and software, check out our handy guide.
How do I edit a vlog on my phone?
If you need something more robust while you’re on the move, there’s an app for that! PowerDirector for iOS and Android is available in both free and paid-for modes, and packs the whole shebang to rival Desktop and Mac editing software. Take a look on the App Store here, and Google Play here.
Part of learning how to edit a vlog is figuring out what kind of music to use, where. You can filter our catalog via theme, mood, BPM, genre, and vocals so that you can nail the tone for every single vlog. Sign up for a free trial below, and happy vlogging!
Are you a video editor or filmmaker? Whether you’re an absolute master or just a beginner, discover what Epidemic Sound has to offer on our Epidemic Sound for Filmmaking page. Oh, and if you’re looking for some music for video editing, check out our dedicated page.
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