Article last updated on:
September 08, 2024
Initially published on:
September 17, 2024

You’re likely in this position:

  • You shot a few nice videos
  • And you want to post them on Reels & TikTok
  • But you’re not sure how to edit them

This guide is your new best friend → we’re teaching you how to edit them professionally with AI, without having to pay anything!


How to Edit Videos for Instagram & TikTok

Answer: The best way to edit your videos for Instagram and TikTok is to use an online free editor like SendShort. Upload the video and AI takes care of it!

  • But that’s the lazy answer.
  • Let’s see how to edit shorts like the top 1% creators on TikTok and IG.

Step 1: Choose Your Video Editor

First, select a video editing tool that fits your needs. For quick and efficient edits, SendShort is a great choice.

Turn long videos into shorts, or just add captions
This is how SendShort’s AI works

It’s specifically designed for short videos and offers an intuitive interface that makes editing a breeze.

  • Easy to use: Perfect for quick edits.
  • Designed for short videos: Tailored for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Step 2: Import Your Footage

Upload your video clips to your chosen editor. This step helps you organize and prepare your content for editing.

Creating a new video in SendShort
Video-Editing Selection
  • Drag and drop functionality: Streamlines the upload process.
  • Organize clips: Keep your project tidy and efficient.

Step 3: Trim and Cut

Edit your footage by trimming out unnecessary parts and cutting your clips to the desired length. In SendShort, use the trim tool to quickly cut out the dull moments and focus on the highlights.

How to trim a video using SendShort.ai
Trimming a video
  • Trim tool: Quickly remove unwanted sections.
  • Focus on highlights: Make your video engaging.

Step 4: Add Music and Sound Effects

Enhance your video with music and sound effects to make it more engaging. SendShort offers a range of royalty-free music and sound effects that can easily be added to your clips, ensuring your video stands out.

Adding sound effects to videos in SendShort
SFX (Music & Effects)
  • Royalty-free options: Avoid copyright issues.
  • Customizable audio: Tailor sound to match your video’s mood.

Step 5: Text and Captions

Text and captions are crucial for catching viewers’ attention and conveying your message. Use SendShort’s text tools to add eye-catching titles, subtitles, and captions to your video.

Highlighting the menu where you edit subtitles in SendShort
Styles for your subtitles
  • Eye-catching titles: Grab attention immediately.
  • Subtitles and captions: Improve accessibility and engagement.

Step 6: Export

Once you’re satisfied with your edits, export your video in the format best suited for Instagram or TikTok. SendShort simplifies this process with preset export options tailored for different platforms.

Go live!
  • Preset export options: Optimize for Instagram and TikTok.
  • Quick export: Save time and effort.

Best Practices for Editing TikToks/Reels

The best advice: To create engaging Reels and TikToks, start by hooking viewers early. The first few seconds are crucial for capturing attention, so begin with something visually striking or intriguing. This could be a bold statement, an eye-catching visual, or an unusual premise. If you don’t grab their interest right away, they might scroll past your video.

Best PracticeDescription
Strong HookGrab attention quickly.
Keep It ShortFocus on a single message.
Trending AudioUse popular sounds and music.
Text & CaptionsHighlight key points and ensure accessibility.
Effects & TransitionsAdd dynamism with effects and smooth transitions.
Mobile OptimizationEnsure content looks good on small screens.
Follow TrendsParticipate in current trends and challenges.
Calls-to-ActionPrompt viewers to like, share, or follow.
High QualityMaintain good lighting and sound.
Review PerformanceAnalyze metrics to improve content.

And then there’s this: Keeping your content concise is key. Both TikToks and Reels thrive on brevity, so aim for short, impactful clips. Typically, videos between 15 to 60 seconds work best.

Make sure every second of your video adds value or contributes to the overall message to maintain viewer engagement.


FAQ: Editing for Reels/TikTok

1. Where to edit videos for Instagram and TikTok?

Answer: You can edit videos for Instagram and TikTok directly within their apps when uploading. Alternatively, use SendShort for advanced editing features.

2. Can you use the same video for Reels and TikTok?

Answer: Yes, you can use the same video for both Reels and TikTok, but make sure to optimize it for each platform’s specific format and audience. Adjust aspects like text placement and music to fit each platform’s style.

3. Should I post the same content on TikTok and Instagram Reels?

Answer: Yes, but with slight adjustments like different captions.

Posting the same content on both TikTok and Instagram Reels can be effective, but tailor your approach for each platform. Customize captions, hashtags, and even editing styles to fit the unique audience and trends of each app for better engagement.


Conclusion

With SendShort, editing videos for Instagram and TikTok becomes a streamlined process, allowing you to create high-quality, engaging content quickly.

Happy editing!


Thanks a lot for reading this,
David Ch
Head of the Editing Team at SendShort

About the author

David leads the editing team at SendShort. With this help, the team delivers the latest guides on using your favorite social media apps and creating short-form content.