How to EDIT Videos FASTER! (Premiere Pro Tips)

Introduction

This tutorial aims to help you edit videos faster using Adobe Premiere Pro. By following these steps and tips, you'll streamline your editing process and increase your productivity, allowing you to create more content in less time.

Step 1: Organize Your Project

• Create a Project Folder: Start by setting up a dedicated folder for your project. This should include:

  • Raw video files
  • Audio files
  • Graphics and images
  • Any other necessary assets

• Use Bins in Premiere Pro: Organize your assets in Premiere Pro by creating bins. This helps you easily locate files and keeps your workflow efficient.

Step 2: Use Keyboard Shortcuts

• Learn Common Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with Premiere Pro’s keyboard shortcuts to speed up your editing. Some essential shortcuts include:

  • C: Razor tool for cutting clips
  • V: Selection tool for selecting clips
  • Spacebar: Play or pause the video

• Customize Shortcuts: If you have specific preferences, customize your keyboard shortcuts by going to Edit > Keyboard Shortcuts.

Step 3: Utilize the Source Monitor

• Preview Clips: Use the Source Monitor to preview your video clips before adding them to the timeline. This allows you to:

  • Set In and Out points for precise editing
  • Trim clips to the desired length before dragging them to the timeline

• Drag and Drop Efficiently: Once you’ve set your In and Out points, drag the clip directly to your timeline.

Step 4: Create a Rough Cut

• Focus on the Story: Start by laying out your clips in a rough order based on the story you want to tell. Don’t worry about perfection at this stage.

• Use the Ripple Edit Tool: This tool allows you to adjust the timing of clips without leaving gaps in your timeline. Access it by pressing B.

Step 5: Add Transitions and Effects

• Use Presets: Premiere Pro offers built-in transitions and effects. Drag and drop these onto your timeline to enhance your video without spending too much time on manual adjustments.

• Save Custom Effects: If you create a specific effect that you like, save it as a preset for future use to save time on your next project.

Step 6: Optimize Audio

• Separate Audio Tracks: Use separate audio tracks for music, dialogue, and sound effects. This makes it easier to adjust levels and apply effects to individual elements.

• Apply Audio Effects: Use the Essential Sound panel to quickly enhance your audio quality by applying presets for dialogue, music, and sound effects.

Step 7: Export Efficiently

• Use the Media Encoder: Instead of exporting directly from Premiere Pro, send your project to Adobe Media Encoder. This allows you to queue multiple projects and continue working in Premiere while exporting.

• Choose the Right Settings: Ensure you select the appropriate export settings based on your desired platform (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.) to optimize quality and file size.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can significantly speed up your video editing process in Adobe Premiere Pro. Organizing your project, mastering shortcuts, and utilizing the tools available will make your workflow more efficient. Start implementing these tips in your next project to see the difference, and consider exploring additional resources to further enhance your editing skills.