UGC Editing Dos and Don'ts

Hey there, it's Izarbe, your go-to UGC creator. Today, I am ready to help you take your editing skills to the next level!

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We've all been there, struggling with those initial editing challenges. But today, I'm going to share some game-changing tips and tricks that can take your final product from good to absolutely fantastic. And the best part? You won't believe how easy some of these hacks are.

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So, without further ado, let's dive right into the Dos and Don’ts of UGC editing!

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Dos:

1. Illuminate with Light and Saturation (Gently)

We've all been there—those grey, rainy days when your videos feel as gloomy as the weather. Here's a tip I swear by: brighten up your content with a touch of brightness and saturation. 

Just remember to keep it chill – overdoing it can make your content look like a rainbow exploded. A gentle nudge on the color scale can work wonders, transforming those 'meh' shots into eye-catchers.

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2. Use Capcut’s video and audio-enhancing tools 

Okay, let's dive into Capcut's toolbox – because they are truly worth mentioning! The stabilisation function? Total game-changer. It's your go-to for turning shaky, handheld footage into sleek, professional-looking shots. And all it takes is one click! 🎥

And here's another pro tip: background noise can really ruin your UGC. But, no worries, Capcut's got your back once again, this time with its noise reduction feature. It's like having a mute button for all that unwanted sound. This way, you can make sure your message comes across loud and clear. 🔇

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3. Harmonise Your Sound: Edit Clips to the Same Volume

Ever watched a video where the sound suddenly jumps to concert-level loudness or whispers quietly? This will ruin anyone’s mood.

That's why, in my own videos, I'm super careful about keeping the audio levels consistent across all clips. Trust me, having a smooth audio flow is one of those little things that can really polish up your content, making it feel more professional and easy on the ears.

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4. Snip the Silences: Keep It Snappy

Here's another secret I've discovered: snipping out those little pauses and silences can go a long way. We're talking about those teeny moments of nothingness that can sneak in between sentences or even words. In today's world, where everyone's scrolling at the speed of light, you really don't want to lose your audience to a few seconds of dead air. It's all about keeping the rhythm of your content upbeat and snappy. By trimming those silent bits, you keep your viewers hooked from start to finish, ensuring they hang onto every word and every scene. 🎬

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5. Subtitles are your BEST FRIEND

Let's talk about another must: subtitles. They're not just a nice-to-have; they're essential for making your content accessible and engaging. Did you know that 85% of online content is watched on mute? That's right! So, when you're putting together your final video, make sure to include subtitles.

I know, I know, adding subtitles sounds like a bit of a chore. But hold on – with awesome AI tools like CapCut and Veed, it's like snapping your fingers, and boom, subtitles! 

Just a heads up though: always give them a quick check before submitting for any sneaky spelling errors. Even the smartest AI can slip up sometimes, so a double check can save the day.

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Don'ts:

1. Transition Overload: Keep It Engaging, Not Dizzying

Transitions are cool, but it's easy to get carried away. Here's my two cents: keep them smooth and simple. An overkill of transitions can make your viewers feel like they're on a rollercoaster ride—and not in a good way. Aim for engaging, not dizzying. 😵

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2. Be Careful With the Background Music

Background music can be that extra touch of something your video needs, but here's the deal: it should enhance, not overpower your message. Keep the volume in check so your audience stays focused on the message you're delivering, rather than getting lost in the music. 🎶

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3. Subtitle Placement Matters

Subtitles are super important, but where you place them? That's key. You don't want them floating too high or too low in the frame. I've learned that the wrong placement can lead to cut-off text on different social platforms. So aim for that sweet spot where your subtitles are easy to read and won't get snipped. 📜👀

Besides, it's likely that the brand will ask you for a rework... and let's face it, who wants the hassle of extra work, right?

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4. Resist the Urge to Over-Edit

Now, here's a tip that may seem contradictory to our earlier advice, but it's equally crucial: resist the urge to go overboard with editing. Too many edits can actually erode the authenticity of your content and leave your audience feeling like nothing.

As we well know, UGC videos’ primary goal is to showcase a product. If your video is a jumble of clips or too fast-paced, your audience won't grasp the message. It's essential to let your content breathe and prioritise clarity. 

Always remember, your viewers want a clear, unobstructed view of your product, not to be caught in a mess of rapid cuts!

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