Adding effects in Windows Movie Maker is fast and easy, and effects can totally change the look and feel of your creation. Whether you want to make your video looks like it’s vintage with a black-and-white effect or you want to adjust the contrast and brightness of your video, you can do it in Windows Movie Maker. Below are some tips for getting the most out of special effects:
1. Don’t Overdo It
Although Windows Movie Maker provides you the ability to add effects, one of the easiest ways to mess up your movie is to overdo it. Effects need to be used sparingly and only when they are truly necessary and actually add value to your movie. You might think that your movie could gain a boost by putting in all kinds of effects, but you might actually ruin it by overloading it with effects.
2. Use Transitions to Smooth Out Changes
Although most scene changes are fine with a jump cut, many benefit from the use of transition effects. A jump cut is where a scene changes by simply switching from one shot to another. A transition effect, on the other hand, is where a scene might change by fading into a new scene. Transition effects in Windows Movie Maker can help the viewer to stay more engaged with the video, but once again, don’t go overboard.
3. Overlay Effects Can Change the Look and Feel
One way to change the entire look and feel of a scene in Windows Movie Maker is to use overlay effects. An overlay is basically what its name implies: it’s an effect that lays over the film. Overlays may be various colors, allowing you to brighten up a scene or make it darker. Overlays might also use special filters for specific colors. Keep in mind that you can download overlay effects for Windows Movie Maker from various sites across the web for free.
4. Use Title Effects to Spell Everything Out
A title effect is one that allows you to place text on the screen. While title effects are obviously good for titles, you can also use them to provide the viewer with information throughout a video. Additionally, you could provide captions or subtitles in your video for viewers who have difficulty with hearing or who speak a different language.
For even more fun with effects, click here to learn how to Make Videos From Your Photos!
