Lightworks 2023.1

Lightworks is a professional video editing tool created by EditShare that allows users to enhance their videos with a polished and professional look. With its free version, Lightworks offers a wide range of features that cater to the needs of many users, while also providing a premium upgrade for those seeking additional capabilities. If you have previous experience with video editing software, you will find Lightworks to be familiar and easy to navigate.

Lightworks is designed to be versatile and can be used for various types of projects. Whether you need to trim a video, adjust video levels, or add basic effects, Lightworks provides the necessary tools. It is particularly suitable for smaller YouTubers who want to create montages or engaging vlogs for their audience. The timeline in Lightworks is well-presented and user-friendly, allowing for efficient editing.

If you are looking for quick fixes or effects, Lightworks comes with preinstalled effect presets that can be easily applied to your videos. However, if you prefer to create your own effects, Lightworks offers multiple options, including the ability to save and reuse presets for future projects. You can also add text overlays, import images, adjust video orientation and placement, and utilize keyframing for precise control over your designs and effects.

While Lightworks is generally intuitive to use, there are a few quirks that may take some getting used to. For example, when moving a video track on the timeline, you will need to move the audio track simultaneously, even if they are linked organically. Additionally, the free trial version of Lightworks has limited exporting options, particularly for files over 720p resolution, which may be a drawback for users working with higher quality files.

Lightworks offers extensive format support, reducing the need for transcoding. It supports formats such as Quicktime, AVC-Intra, H.254, AVCHD, XDCAM EX, and AVI, among others. Furthermore, Lightworks is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac, making it a cross-platform solution.

The premium version of Lightworks offers additional features, including 4K quality export options, advanced project sharing, 3D output, Blackmagic support, timeline rendering, and Lightworks console compatibility. However, the decision to invest in the premium version depends on your specific needs and preferences.

In conclusion, Lightworks is a highly capable free video editing software that is definitely worth trying out. Its functionality, especially for videos up to 720p quality, is more than sufficient for many users. However, if you require more advanced features, you may need to explore alternative software options.

After a short learning curve, you will become proficient in utilizing Lightworks' timeline and effects, enabling you to create engaging and professional videos to share online. Lightworks has a rich history of being used in the editing of renowned films such as LA Confidential, Pulp Fiction, Heat, and The King's Speech, which speaks to its credibility and reliability as a professional editing software.