Special effects for video editing
Just imagine how dull and stale our videos would be without modern technologies! Luckily, social media nowadays have various filters, and each smartphone can do basic editing, not even mentioning different online video editing tools.
What are the most popular types of effects?
- Transition and overlay effects, like fade in/fade out, wash out, etc.
- Text effects, like animated subtitles or captions.
- 3D elements.
- Color schemes, textures, or filters.
- Speed changes.
- Title effects.
- Nature effects, like rain, snow, fire, etc.
- And many more.
Effects are mostly attributes of the professional video editing software, but you can find some very basic ones even in inbuilt Microsoft applications, such as Paint, or free various online tools. You can change video speed, or make your video look vintage, and so on.
If you need something more complicated (and, unfortunately, expensive), you’d better pay attention to the following services:
- VideoHive
- FootageCrate
- Pond5
- Motion Array
- MotionElements
VideoHive (part of Envato)
This resource offers about 4 mln video effects and stock footage, so even if you are looking for something unique (a dancing hedgehog in late afternoon sunlight), the chances are high you’ll succeed.
Advantages
- Affordable prices, especially if you buy a subscription.
- User-friendly interface and search.
Disadvantages
- Quality might be not the highest.
FootageCrate
Another popular resource with thousands of video effects and stock videos. The system allows searching for recent updates and uploads. So even if you don’t know what you need and want just to surf through “what is on the market”, you have such an option.
Advantages
- Free items and affordable prices for the paid ones.
- User-friendly search and interface with categories.
- Final Cut Pro compatibility.
Disadvantages
- Not so many effects.
Pond5
An online collection of footage, music, SFX, after effects, photos, illustrations, PSD, and 3D models. It is known for its variety of content and affordable prices. On the other hand, prices are set by contributors, so sometimes, they may be unreasonable.
Advantages
- "All-in-one" resource, where you can create a full video from scratch.
- Decent quality for affordable prices.
Disadvantages
- Vague licensing policy.
Motion Array
Another all-in-one platform with numerous resources for creating high-quality and creative videos. Here you can find video effects and other assets not only for personal, but for commercial use as well.
Advantages
- Free and paid subscription plans.
- Growing photo, video, audio, and special effects libraries.
Disadvantages
- The website itself is not very user-friendly.
MotionElements
One of the leading platforms for video creators. MotionElements offers hundreds of thousands of different effects and three pricing plans. Like other collections, this site includes all the elements for creating an artistic video from scratch.
Advantages
- AI search algorithms.
- Free plan and "pay on demand" option.
Disadvantages
- Mostly oriented to the Asian market.
Don’t forget, you don’t always need professional (and costly!) video editing software with special effects. You may just avail of free or affordable video editing services that can help you create a great video even with basic transitions or effects!