How To Use Windows Movie Maker Basic Tutorial (Vista) from Techmirrors
How To Use Windows Movie Maker. Windows Movie Maker, developed by Microsoft, was a widely used video editing software that provided users with a straightforward and accessible platform for creating and editing videos. Released initially in 2000 as part of the Windows Essentials software suite, it quickly gained popularity due to its ease of use and intuitive interface. It was particularly popular among beginners and casual users who were looking for a simple yet effective tool to edit their videos without the complexity of professional-grade software.
One of the key features of Windows Movie Maker was its simplicity. The software offered a user-friendly interface that allowed users to import video clips, photos, and audio files effortlessly. With its drag-and-drop functionality, users could arrange their media files on a timeline, trim and split clips, and add transitions and effects with just a few clicks. Additionally, it provided basic tools for adjusting video speed, adding text overlays, and incorporating music or voiceovers into projects.
Another notable aspect of Windows Movie Maker was its integration with other Microsoft products and services. Users could easily import media files from their Windows Photo Gallery or Windows Live Photo Gallery libraries, as well as directly upload finished projects to platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and Facebook. This seamless integration with popular online services made it convenient for users to share their creations with friends, family, and online audiences.
Despite its popularity, it faced criticism for its limited feature set compared to more advanced video editing software. While it was suitable for basic editing tasks, professional users often found its capabilities lacking, especially in terms of advanced editing options, visual effects, and audio processing tools. Additionally, Windows Movie Maker received infrequent updates and support from Microsoft, leading to concerns about its long-term viability.
In January 2017, Microsoft officially discontinued Windows Movie Maker and removed it from the Windows Essentials suite. As a result, users looking for alternatives turned to other video editing software options, such as Adobe Premiere Elements, iMovie, Shotcut, and DaVinci Resolve, among others. Despite its discontinuation, Windows Movie Maker remains a nostalgic favorite for many users who fondly remember its simplicity and ease of use in creating and editing videos.
Features included in the Windows Movie Maker software family include footage importing, drag-and-drop editing, output into various file types and DVD, and the ability to add an assortment of effects and/or transitions. Up to 49 different effects and 63 kinds of transitions are available to use. Windows Movie Maker uses a non-linear editing system: the original file is not modified, a new file is created instead as you work. This both protects your source material, and allows simultaneous production of multiple different clips from the same original file. Footage can be imported either directly from compatible cameras or from pre-existing compatible file types; completed footage can be exported either as one of a number of file types (depending on the version used), or even directly back to a compatible camera device.
The first version was a free pack-in with Windows Me, although it had not been included with Windows 2000, released the same year. However, the Me version (as well as some later versions) can be transferred to Windows 2000 and can be used with that operating system normally. Version 1.1 of the software was included with Windows XP, released in 2001. The original version of Windows Movie was considered functionally limited, a “bare bones” application; version 1.1 added support for DV AVI and WMV file types in addition to the original’s ASF file format. In 2002, version 2.0 was made available as a free download, updating the Windows XP version with some new features. Another update followed in the Windows XP Service Pack. In 2005, Windows XP Media Center Edition was released, which included version 2.5 of the software. Version 2.5 was the first version that enabled the user to burn DVDs.
Windows Vista introduced another update in the form of version 2.6; adding support for Windows Media Center television recording. In the Premium and/or Ultimate editions of Windows Vista (HD versions), HDV camcorder capture can be utilized, creating DVR-MS files from a digital camcorder source. This was the last version of Windows Movie Maker in its “original” form. Windows 7 introduces Windows Live Movie Maker–a new program more in line with Microsoft’s “Live” market strategy. Even as a completely new program, older Movie Maker files from the previous versions can be imported into the new software. Windows Movie Maker version 2.6 can also be used in Windows 7, for those that prefer the older functionality.
Windows Live Movie is available for free download to users running the Windows 7 operating system. It is notable that while Windows Movie is versatile and fairly well-reviewed in the PC community, as a free downloadable its features do pale in comparison to software designed for professional use; serious movie buffs will want to consider purchase of the more comprehensive dedicated software available. However, casual users will likely be more comfortable using WMM simpler interface. Based on its lack of a sticker price and its solid assortment of features, Windows Movie Maker is still a valuable tool for video editing and production on Windows-based systems.
How To Use Windows Movie Maker in Vista
Using Windows Movie Maker in Windows Vista was a straightforward process, as the software was designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Windows Movie Maker in Windows Vista:
- Open Windows Movie Maker: You can access Windows Movie Maker by clicking on the Start menu, navigating to All Programs, and selecting Windows Movie Maker from the list of installed programs.
- Import Media Files: Once Windows Movie Maker is open, you can import media files (videos, photos, and audio) into your project. Click on the “Import Media” button or go to File > Import Media to select the files you want to add to your project. You can also drag and drop media files directly into the Windows Movie Maker interface.
- Arrange Media Clips: Drag and drop the imported media files onto the timeline at the bottom of the window to arrange them in the desired order. You can trim, split, and adjust the duration of clips as needed.
- Add Transitions: To add transitions between clips, click on the “Animations” tab and choose from a variety of transition effects. Drag the selected transition between two clips on the timeline to apply it.
- Add Titles and Credits: Click on the “Titles and Credits” tab to add text overlays to your video. Choose the type of title or credit you want to add (e.g., title at the beginning, credits at the end) and enter the text accordingly.
- Add Effects: To apply visual effects to your video clips, click on the “Visual Effects” tab and choose from a range of effects available. Drag the selected effect onto the clip on the timeline to apply it.
- Add Music or Narration: Click on the “Music or Narration” tab to add background music or record a narration for your video. Select the option you prefer and follow the on-screen instructions to add audio to your project.
- Preview and Save: Once you’ve finished editing your video, click on the “Play” button to preview your project. If you’re satisfied with the result, go to File > Save Movie File to save your video in the desired format and quality.
- Export and Share: After saving your video, you can export it to various formats (e.g., WMV, AVI) and share it with others by uploading it to social media platforms or burning it to a DVD.
That’s a basic overview of how to use Windows Movie Maker in Windows Vista. Experiment with different features and settings to create customized and polished videos according to your preferences.
Is Windows Movie Maker 2020 free?
It is free.
Windows Movie Maker is a free video editing software. Although you can find some Windows Movie Maker alternatives on the internet, most of them require payment.
Does Windows 10 have a movie maker?
Windows 10 has a hidden video editor that works a bit like Windows Movie Maker or Apple iMovie. You can use it to trim videos or create your own home movies and slideshows. You can even have it create videos automatically. This feature is part of the Photos app
Is Windows Movie Maker safe to download?
It is 100% absolutely safe. Windows Movie Maker is a very good app, and is registered by Windows. I’ve never heard of anyone having issues with safety while downloading it.
What replaced Windows Movie Maker?
Microsoft Story RemixMovie Maker was officially discontinued on January 10, 2017, and it is replaced by Video Editor (formerly Microsoft Story Remix) which is built in with Microsoft Photos on Windows 10.
What is an alternative to Windows Movie Maker?
The best alternatives to Windows Movie Maker at a glance
| Free? | Ideal for | |
|---|---|---|
| VirtualDub | Yes | Beginners |
| VSDC Free Video Editor | Yes | Enthusiats |
| Lightworks | Yes | Professionals |
| Adobe Premiere Elements | No | Advanced enthusiats to professionals |
Is Windows Movie Maker good?
It is good enough. Strive for better software but movie maker is definitely good enough for starting out. The split tool is awesome and it can teach you the basics of editing really really. I would recommend Adobe Premiere Pro, it’s fairly easy to use, have a lot more features than Movie Maker.
Where is Windows 10 movie maker?
Windows 8 and 10 launched without a video editing app, but following the Fall Creator’s Update, there’s now one included in the Microsoft Photos app – if you know where to look.
Does Windows 10 have a free video editor?
Movie Maker 10
Movie Maker 10 comes with a free version that includes its suite of video and picture editing tools as well as the ability to add captions with customizable fonts and colors. Features include: Auto-preview tool for edits and effects. Auto-movie options for creating customizable cuts of your video clips.
What is the best free movie maker?
Best Free Video Editing Software for Mobile
- Quik. Available on iOS and Android. …
- Adobe Premiere Rush. Available on iOS and Android. …
- Horizon. Available on iOS and Android. …
- Promo.com. Available on iOS and Android. …
- GoPro. Available on iOS and Android. …
- Vizmato. Available on iOS and Android.
Is MiniTool Movie Maker safe?
This download link is offered by MiniTool® Software Ltd. This professional software development company offers a free download of Movie Maker, and this download is completely safe. 100% Virus-Free and Spyware-Free Guaranteed!
How do I install Windows Movie Maker?
How do I download and install Windows Movie Maker on Windows 10?
- Download Windows Live Essentials and start the setup.
- Make sure to select Choose the programs you want to install option.
- Make sure to select only Photo Gallery and Movie Maker and click the Install button.
- Wait for the installation to finish.
What is the easiest video editing software for Windows?
7 free and easy to use video editing software
- Openshot.
- Lightworks.
- iMovie.
- Windows Movie Maker.
- VSDC Video Editor.
- Avidemux.
- VideoPad.
What is a good movie maker?
Windows Movie Maker – Download the 7 best free alternatives
- Video Editor (Windows 10 only) Windows 10 has a less known video editing tool that is one of the best replacements for Windows Movie Maker. …
- Shotcut. Shotcut is one of the best alternatives we could find for Windows Movie Maker. …
- VideoLAN Movie Creator. …
- Ezvid. …
- Avidemux. …
- VSDC Free Video Editor. …
- VideoPad Video Editor.
Which movie maker is best?
So, let’s get started.
- Photos App –Best Easy to Use Movie Maker for Windows 10.
- iMovie –Best Lightweight Movie Maker for macOS.
- Kdenlive –Best Open Source and Easy to Use Movie Maker for Linux OS.
- Clipchamp – Best Online Easy to Use Movie Maker.
- FilmoraGO.
- KineMaster.
- Quik.
- Magisto.
