Best Video Editing Software for Podcasters: A Guide
A podcaster sitting at his home-office desk engrossed in editing his latest podcast video.
Podcasting has changed a lot in recent years as the emphasis shifted from pure audio to video, a far more powerful medium for content creators. Podcasters are now expected to deliver video alongside their audio content, making it essential to find the right tools to edit videos effectively.
However, this has created a new problem: finding the right video editing software for podcasting. Whether you’re a solo podcaster recording from home or managing a professional studio setup, the quality of your video editing can make or break your show. Knowing the tools and what they can do is key to creating professional looking content that works across multiple platforms.
In this article we’ll discuss what you need to present the best version of your podcasts. We’ll suggest appropriate tools for the entry-level, midrange and high-end professional podcaster. And we’ll consider that all-important return on investment (ROI) issue. Let’s jump in.
What to Look for in Podcast Video Editing
When choosing video editing software for podcasting, there are several key editing features that can make or break your workflow. Multi-camera support is a must-have, allowing you to switch between different angles and perspectives during interviews or panel discussions. The software should be great at audio sync, so your video and audio tracks remain synchronised, especially when dealing with separately recorded audio tracks or multiple microphone inputs.
Live streaming has become more important of late as many podcasters stream their podcasts live and record them for editing and subsequent publishing of the edited version. You’ll need software that can connect with popular streaming platforms while recording high quality video and audio for post production. Screen recording is another must-have feature for podcasts that include tutorials, gameplay or software demos.
Export options and quality settings are also important. Your software should support multiple output formats and resolutions so you can optimise for different platforms – from YouTube’s 4K to Instagram’s vertical format. Codec and compression options can affect both quality and file size.
The learning curve and user interface can make a big difference to your productivity. While professional grade software has many features, it shouldn’t take months to learn before you can produce basic content. Look for software with simple layouts, tutorials and active user communities you can tap for support.
Entry Level
For podcasters just starting out or on a tight budget there are several entry-level solutions that offer great functionality without the cost. DaVinci Resolve’s free version is a standout, it’s a professional grade colour correction, audio editing and multi-camera support. It has a steeper learning curve than some others but is a great choice for growing channels. DaVinci Resolve’s free version is robust enough for growing channels and offers a range of features that are highly beneficial for free users.
OpenShot is more straightforward, with a simple interface that’s perfect for uncomplicated editing. It lacks some advanced features but the basic cutting, transitions and text overlay tools cover most podcast editing needs. It’s stable and regularly updated so it’s a good choice for beginners.
OBS Studio is primarily streaming software but has basic recording and editing capabilities that many podcasters find sufficient. Its strength is in its live streaming and screen recording features, which makes it perfect for gaming or tech podcasts.
These entry level solutions have common advantages: they’re free or very low cost, have active community support and are regularly updated. But they may lack features like motion tracking, advanced audio processing or project management tools.
Mid-Range
The mid range offers a big jump in features while remaining relatively affordable. Adobe Premiere Pro leads the way with its full feature set and integration with other Creative Cloud apps. Its multi-camera editing, advanced audio tools and huge plugin ecosystem makes it a favourite among professional podcasters. The subscription model may be expensive but it does get you regular updates and new features. Adobe Premiere Pro offers all the features necessary for professional podcast production, making it a favorite among serious content creators.
Final Cut Pro is only for Mac users and offers great performance and a user-friendly interface that bridges the gap between consumer and professional software. Its magnetic timeline and organisational tools can speed up the editing process for podcast episodes. The one time purchase model may appeal to those who don’t want to pay subscription fees.
Vegas Pro is a good alternative with its simple interface and powerful features. It’s strong on audio editing so great for podcast production. It has multiple pricing tiers including perpetual licenses and subscription options so there’s something for every budget.
Each of these options has professional grade features like advanced colour correction, motion graphics and comprehensive audio mixing tools. They also have workflows for recurring tasks, which is essential for regular podcast production schedules.
Advanced Professional Solutions with Advanced Features
Professional grade editing solutions have the most features and integration but at a premium price. The Adobe Creative Suite combination of Premiere Pro and After Effects is unbeatable for high end video production. After Effects integration means sophisticated motion graphics, custom intros and visual effects that can make your podcast seem like it was created in Hollywood. While Adobe Creative Suite is a premium option, DaVinci Resolve is often considered the best free video editor for those looking for professional-grade tools without the cost.
DaVinci Resolve Studio, the paid version of Resolve, has additional features like neural engine effects, advanced noise reduction and collaborative workflows. Its node-based effects system and colour correction tools let you deliver broadcast-quality results. The Fusion page has motion graphics and visual effects capabilities that rival those of After Effects.
These advanced solutions are designed for complex projects with multiple team members. They have features like project locking, version control and real time collaboration. They also have better rendering performance, support for high end hardware and format support for professional cameras and codecs.
The big advantage of these tools is their scalability and integration. As your podcast grows these platforms can handle more advanced production without having to switch to different software.
Top Free Video Editing Apps for Podcasters
As a podcaster, creating engaging video content is crucial for reaching a wider audience. However, you don’t need to break the bank to edit your podcast videos. Here are some top free video editing apps that can help you create professional-looking videos without spending a dime:
DaVinci Resolve: Known for its powerful and feature-rich capabilities, DaVinci Resolve is a free video editor that offers professional-grade tools. Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, it includes advanced color correction, audio editing, and multi-camera support. While it has a steeper learning curve, the free version is robust enough for growing channels.
Shotcut: This open-source video editor is highly customizable and available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. Shotcut offers a wide range of features, including multi-track editing, color correction, and visual effects. Its user-friendly interface makes it a great choice for podcasters who want to create high-quality videos without a steep learning curve.
Lightworks: A professional-level video editor that’s free to use, Lightworks is available for Windows. It offers a range of advanced features, including multi-camera editing, real-time effects, and a powerful timeline. The free version is quite capable, with optional paid upgrades for additional features.
VSDC Free Video Editor: This non-linear video editor is packed with advanced features and is available for Windows. VSDC supports a wide range of formats and offers tools for color correction, visual effects, and audio editing. Its intuitive interface makes it accessible for beginners while providing enough depth for more experienced users.
OpenShot: An open-source video editor that’s easy to use, OpenShot is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It offers basic editing tools, including cutting, transitions, and text overlays, making it perfect for podcasters who need straightforward editing capabilities.
These free video editing apps offer a range of features that can help you create high-quality video content without spending a fortune. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your podcast videos, these tools provide a solid foundation for your editing needs.
Advanced Features and Techniques for Podcast Video Editing
Once you’ve chosen a free video editing app, it’s time to take your podcast video editing to the next level. Here are some advanced features and techniques to try:
Color Grading: Use color grading tools to create a consistent look and feel for your podcast videos. This can help establish your brand and make your videos more visually appealing. Adjusting the color balance, contrast, and saturation can significantly enhance the overall quality of your videos.
Audio Ducking: Audio ducking automatically adjusts the volume of background music or sound effects when you’re speaking. This technique ensures that your voice remains clear and audible, creating a more professional-sounding podcast. Most free video editors include audio ducking features that are easy to use.
Green Screen: Incorporating a green screen can add visual interest to your podcast videos. By replacing the green screen with different background images or videos, you can create a dynamic and engaging visual experience. This technique is particularly useful for creating custom backgrounds or adding special effects.
Motion Graphics: Adding motion graphics, such as animated text, logos, or other elements, can make your podcast videos more engaging and dynamic. These graphics can highlight key points, introduce segments, or add a professional touch to your videos. Many free video editing apps offer built-in motion graphics templates or support for third-party plugins.
Multi-Camera Editing: Multi-camera editing involves editing together footage from multiple cameras, creating a more dynamic and immersive viewing experience. This technique is especially useful for interviews or panel discussions, allowing you to switch between different angles and perspectives seamlessly.
By experimenting with these advanced features and techniques, you can elevate your podcast video editing and create high-quality videos that captivate and inform your audience. Whether you’re using a free video editor or a more advanced tool, these techniques can help you produce professional-looking content that stands out.
Podcast-Specific Features
Podcasting presents its own unique challenges, each of them requiring specific software features. For example, remote recording integration is now crucial with many podcasters. If you need to include video calls from platforms like Zoom or Skype, you’ll need software that can handle multiple video and audio inputs while maintaining quality and synchronisation.
Batch processing functionality is a lifesaver for regular episode releases. Being able to apply consistent colour grading, intro sequence and export settings across multiple episodes can save hours of production time. Batch processing functionality is also beneficial for creating educational videos, allowing you to apply consistent settings across multiple clips. Some of the software includes templating systems that makes this type of thing a lot easier.
There’s also a variety of podcast-specific plugins and tools that can also boost workflow efficiency. These might be audio normalisation tools, caption generators or social media clip extractors. Look for software that supports third party plugins to extend the functionality as you may need it.
Format varies by platform. YouTube may be your main platform but you may also want to create vertical clips for TikTok or Instagram. Your editing software should be able to handle these different format requirements without compromising quality or requiring workarounds.
Cost and ROI
Understanding the cost of different video editing solutions is key to making a decision. Subscription based software like Adobe Premiere Pro requires ongoing cost but gets you regular updates and cloud storage. For example, Creative Cloud subscriptions cost $20-50 per month depending on the plan.
One time purchase options like Final Cut Pro ($299) or DaVinci Resolve Studio ($295) require a bigger upfront cost, but may be more cost effective in the long run. Think about your usage and growth plans when evaluating these options.
Free options can be great for beginners but may require plugins or additional tools to get professional results. Factor in upgrade costs and time to learn new software when calculating ROI. For those on a tight budget, free video editing software like DaVinci Resolve can offer professional results without the ongoing costs.
Value proposition varies by usage. Professional podcasters producing multiple episodes a week may justify more expensive tools that increase efficiency and quality. Hobby podcasters may find free or low cost options more suited to their needs.
Making the Choice
Choosing the right video editing software for podcasting is all about balancing features, cost and technical requirements. For beginners DaVinci Resolve free version is a great starting point with room to grow. Mid level podcasters may find Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro worth the investment, especially if they’re planning to expand their content creation activities.
Professional podcasters should look at full suite solutions like the Adobe Creative Suite or DaVinci Resolve Studio, which have all the tools they will need for high-end production. For those who prefer a more accessible option, an online video editor can provide a user-friendly interface and essential features without the need for complex software. Remember the best choice is based on your specific needs, technical skill and budget.
Of course, there is another alternative: You could just focus on the creative elements of presenting your podcast and outsource all the technical stuff to professionals. For example, The Wave will do it all for you. We’ll capture your podcast, optimise it for various platforms, maintain your visual brand identity across all content and use state-of-the-art equipment and editing. You can focus on what you do best and let take care of the technical stuff.