Easily Trimming Video Files With QuickTime Player
Science & Technology
Introduction
QuickTime Player, while primarily known as a video player, also has some useful editing features. If you've recorded videos and want to trim unwanted sections—whether it's removing a portion from the beginning, the end, or even a segment from the middle—QuickTime offers a straightforward way to do so without needing a more complex editing app like iMovie.
Getting Started
By default, QuickTime Player should open when you double-click on a video file on your Mac. When you first launch QuickTime, you may only see playback options, but there are editing features available. To access them, navigate to the “Edit” menu and select “Trim,” or use the keyboard shortcut Command (⌘) + T. This will bring you into a trimming mode.
Trimming Video Clips
In trimming mode, you’ll see a timeline strip at the bottom of the window, surrounded by a yellow box. You can click and drag the edges of this box to define the section of the video you want to keep. Once you're satisfied with the selection, click the "Trim" button to remove the unselected sections.
If you have a long video, you can fine-tune your selection by clicking and holding the edges of the yellow box until the strip expands, providing better control. After hitting "Trim," you'll be left with only the selected portion of the video.
QuickTime saves your trimmed video in the same quality as the original, ensuring a lossless output. If you change your mind, the "Undo" function (Command ⌘ + Z) lets you revert to the original video easily.
Removing Sections from the Middle
To remove a part from the middle of a video, play the video and position the playback head where you want to make the first cut. Use the “Split Clip” option (Command ⌘ + Y) to create a division at that point. After making your first split, adjust the red line to the position where you want to make the second cut and split again.
Once you have three separate sections, you can reorder them or delete the middle section by selecting it and hitting "Delete." After making changes, click "Done" to finalize your edits. However, unlike trimming the beginning or the end, removing a section means you'll need to export the video rather than simply saving it.
Merging Videos
Additionally, QuickTime Player allows you to insert clips from other videos, making it possible to merge different video files easily.
Trimming in Photos App
If you prefer using the Photos app, you can also trim videos there. Simply select a video, click “Edit,” and look for the Settings button where you’ll find the option to trim. The interface functions similarly, allowing you to save the trimmed video in your Photos library and revert to the original if needed.
Keyword
- QuickTime Player
- Trim videos
- Split clips
- Merging videos
- Photos app
- Editing features
- Lossless output
- Undo function
FAQ
Q1: Can I really edit videos with QuickTime Player?
A1: Yes! QuickTime Player has some basic editing features, allowing you to trim video clips and remove sections.
Q2: Is the trimmed video saved in the same quality as the original?
A2: Yes, trimming in QuickTime Player is lossless. The output video retains the original quality and format.
Q3: How can I remove a section from the middle of a video?
A3: You can use the “Split Clip” feature to divide the video at your desired points and then delete the unwanted section.
Q4: What if I change my mind after trimming or removing sections?
A4: You can use the Undo function to revert your changes and return to the original video.
Q5: Is there a way to trim videos in the Photos app?
A5: Yes, the Photos app also offers trimming capabilities, allowing you to trim videos while preserving the original file.