Top 5 Video Editing Software Programs For Video Hobbyists

If you're new to the digital video hobby, one of the things you'll very quickly realize is the need for a good video editing program. A video editing program allows you to add special effects to your otherwise boring video.

You can add in things like titles, transactions, time lapse, audio and even use advanced techniques like chroma key to enhance your video production.

Here are my top 5 recommendations for video editing programs that are suitable for video enthusiasts. Pick one of these programs and learn it well. Once you master the basics, upgrade to more professional level suites and you can really begin editing broadcast quality video.

	Corel VideoStudio Corel VideoStudio is a real gem of a program. You get professional level editing capabilities for a very reasonable price. Some of the special effects I like in the VideoStudio suite include time lapse and stop motion animation. Of course, you can access a huge variety of ready-built templates for titles, transitions, DVD menus and more. Top-of-the-line software and it sits high on my recommendation list.
	Movavi Movavi is a nice little video editing tool for beginners. This video editing and disc authoring application features an intuitive interface and seamless workflow so that you can easily create professional looking videos. Don't be deceived by the brand. While it is not as well known as Adobe, Corel or Pinnacle, Movavi has been getting a lot of rave reviews on the Internet. Find out more about Movavi here.
	Adobe Premiere Elements Adobe Premiere Elements is considered by many as a 'lite' version of its more commercial cousin Adobe Premiere Pro. Premiere Elements offers the perfect combination of creative control and reliability for home video editing. Whether you just quickly edit your footage, add fun effects, and create custom DVDs, or experiment with more complex effects, this software package will allow you to do it. Very nice option for those intending to upgrade to Adobe Premiere Pro at some point.
	Nero Software I used to love Nero for its DVD burning software. Nero has now moved on into video editing and the outcome is no pushover. You get solid capabilities like basic editing tools, transitions, effects also also a nice variety of output formats for your video production. Again, not as well known as your Adobe, Corel or Pinnacle video editing suites, but a solid option if you just want a small, neat video editor.
	Pinnacle Studio Pinnacle Studio is a full fledged editing tool which competes directly alongside Corel VideoStudio. In my view, Pinnacle Studio can let you do everything you want with your digital video at the beginner and intermediate levels. Whether you want simple transitions and titles, or complex options like chroma key, Pinnacle Studio has it all. One of the better video editors and also high on my recommendation list.

Conclusion

Which of these video editing programs would you pick? Well it's a close fight between Corel VideoStudio and Pinnacle Studio. Both of these products are simple enough for beginners yet have sophisticated features for intermediate level users. I also like Movavi for its amazing and fun approach to editing videos.
These programs will satisfy your video editing needs for a long time to come. Once you get comfortable with these programs, you can then venture into professional video editing with suites like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.