The MP4 file format has become a staple in the digital media space due to its compatibility and efficiency. Creating an MP4 file or converting existing media into this format can often be a necessity for video editors and content creators. This article will explore the process of making and converting MP4 files using VSDC, a free video editing software that supports a whole range of formats and codecs.

What is MP4 Format?

MP4 is a type of digital file used to store video, audio, and other data like subtitles and images. It's popular because it works on many devices, keeps file sizes small without losing too much quality, and is great for streaming videos on the internet.

How to Make MP4 File

Making MP4 Video From Scratch

Creating an MP4 video from scratch in VSDC involves several steps:

1. Launch VSDC and initiate a new project by importing your media files using the Import Content button.
2. Before importing your video for a more precise editing experience, it's advisable to set some parameters such as framerate and resolution. This ensures your video is optimized for editing.
3. Utilize VSDC's editing tools to cut, split, trim, add effects, and arrange your media on the timeline.
4. After fine-tuning your video, navigate to the Export Project tab on the Ribbon, select your media device in the upper left corner and choose MP4 as the output format on the right.
5. When dealing with high-resolution videos, such as 4K, selecting the right codec is crucial. In the Profile field below, you have the option to choose any codec, including the most popular ones like H.264 and H.265, which are especially recommended for 4K video editing.
6. You can also adjust the export settings to suit your needs before finalizing the video. To do this, click the Profile button below to select the desired codec.
7. Click the Edit profile button in the lower right corner to fine-tune your settings. Set the bitrate accordingly—the higher the resolution, the higher the bitrate should be to maintain video quality and the quality in the encoder mode field to achieve better results. Adjusting the encoder mode quality allows for optimized balance between quality and file size.
8. Commence the export process with the red Export project button located just about the preview window, and voilà, your MP4 video is ready!

Converting Video To MP4

To convert videos to MP4 format within VSDC, proceed as follows:

1. Launch VSDC Video Editor, navigate to the Tools tab and select Video converter.
2. Click the Add files section on the ribbon to import the video you want to convert.
3. Select the media device, click on MP4 format on the ribbon and adjust conversion parameters if necessary, considering factors like resolution, codec, and bitrate in the Edit profile section in the lower right corner.
4. Initiate the conversion process by clicking the Export project button on the Ribbon and save the new MP4 file to your preferred location in the object explorer.

MP4 files are known for their balance between quality and file size, making them ideal for use on the web. Unlike formats such as AVI or MOV, MP4 files are universally playable on most devices and platforms. They also allow for streaming online without the need for the entire file to be downloaded first. MP4 files are generally more compressed and smaller than AVI files, which can store data without compression, leading to larger file sizes and potentially higher quality at the cost of compatibility and storage space.

FAQ

Is MP4 a good format?

MP4 is considered a good format for its versatility and widespread acceptance. It delivers high-quality video content and is supported by nearly all video players and editing software. Its efficient compression helps in reducing file sizes without a significant loss in video quality, making it an excellent choice for both professional and casual use.

Is it better to convert or make MP4 from scratch?

The optimal approach hinges on your particular requirements. Crafting an MP4 file from scratch affords you greater creative freedom and the opportunity to fine-tune the end product. Conversely, if your goal is to promptly share or playback a video across different devices, converting to MP4 might be your best bet for speed and convenience. With VSDC, both processes are straightforward, ensuring you get a high-quality MP4 file regardless of the method you choose.

Conclusion

The ability to make and convert videos into MP4 format with VSDC means that your content is ready for anything—from professional presentations to social media sharing, to archiving treasured memories. As digital media continues to evolve, the MP4 format remains a constant, providing a reliable and efficient means of storing and transmitting our visual stories. With the help of VSDC, you're well-equipped to navigate the digital landscape, ensuring your videos are accessible and of high quality, no matter where they're viewed.

Transitions in VSDC have long stood out as a favorite among video editing tools. They masterfully create a seamless flow between scenes, transforming your videos into polished, professional masterpieces. Yet, for many users, especially those just starting out, applying and adjusting transitions seemed to be a challenge.

That’s why we decided to introduce a new method of applying transitions in VSDC 9.1 Our focus: simplicity and intuition. Now, you can apply transition effects to multiple files swiftly with a single click, avoiding unnecessary tabs on the timeline. While the traditional method is still available, this new approach offers an efficient alternative.

Download VSDC Video Editor

Adding Transitions

1. Launch VSDC Video Editor and add two video files to the timeline, positioning them sequentially on the same layer.
2. Then you need to create a transition area by overlaying the files. Navigate to the timeline where you can use one of the three methods:

   Method 1: Create a Transition by Moving Files

   • Move Files: Press and hold the Alt key. Then, click and drag one file over another file on the timeline. You'll see a white line showing where the transition will be.
   • Watch Out for Timing Changes: Moving the file changes when it appears and disappears on the scene, which might mess up its timing with other files. If timing is important, try Method 2 instead.

   Method 2: Keep Files in Place and Extend Edges

   • Adjust File Edges: If you want to maintain the arrangement of files when applying transitions on the timeline without altering the timing of their appearance and disappearance sequence, hold down the Alt key and drag the edge at the end of the left file to the right or the edge at the beginning of the right file to the left, thus stretching its duration and overlaying it onto the adjacent file, defining the transition area.
   • Avoid Frozen Frames: When extending the duration of the file, a freeze frame may occur at the end. To fix this, use the Loop mode options (Method 2: Object Properties).

   Method 3: Handling Trimmed Files

   • For Left Files with End Trims: If you're working with a left file that's trimmed at the end and you want to avoid a frozen frame, you can restore some of the previously trimmed frames to create a transition area. Press the Alt and Shift buttons together, grab the end edge of the left file, and pull it to the right.
   • For Right Files with Beginning Trims: Similarly, if you're working with a right file that's trimmed at the beginning, you can restore the trimmed frames at this spot to create a transition zone and prevent a frozen frame. Press the Alt and Shift buttons together, grab the beginning edge of the right file, and pull it to the left.
   • Be Careful with Untrimmed Files: This method is specifically useful if the files have trims at the beginning or end. If there are no trims to restore, you'll need to resort to extending the file's end as described in Method 2 to achieve your transition without issue.
3. By overlaying files using one of the methods described above, you automatically create a Fade transition (its duration matches the transition area). Then you can change the transition effect. For this, access the Templates window (check our guide if you're unsure how to do this). Here there are two sections of transitions you can choose from:
   • Transition collection: These are double effects that are applied to the end of File 1 (Fade out) and the beginning of File 2 (Fade in);
   • Transitions: These are single effects (Fade in or Fade out respectively).
4. To apply a transition effect, click on it in the Templates window, hold the mouse button and drag it to the appropriate place on the timeline. The place available for a transition effect will be highlighted. To use the same transition on multiple files, select them all on the timeline after creating transitions areas and simply drag and drop the transition onto the scene from the Templates window.

Transition Effects Settings

You can adjust transitions either in the Basic effects window (the effects’ preview) or on the Timeline (advanced settings).

1. Basic effects window

   This window is generally located on the right from the scene and is easily accessible from the View tab on the Ribbon by selecting View/hide window under the Basic effects icon (however, make sure you have selected your file on the timeline to display the applied effects).

   Here there are the following options:

   • Transition properties: There are two square sections displaying the effect previews for the applied transitions. The left one is responsible for Fade in, the right one is for Fade out. To see the effects added to a certain part of the overall file, click on it on the timeline, so it appears in the preview. You can add or change a transition effect by dropping it to the corresponding preview section and remove it by clicking the “X” button right there.

     Another way to remove transition effects is to right-click on the Fade in/out previews to access removing options:

     • Remove fade in/out: This option removes the effect in the corresponding window (for single effects from the Transitions section);
     • Remove transition: This option removes both Fade in and Fade out.

     Please, keep in mind: with these removing options you are only resetting the previously applied transition to the default fade transition. To remove the transition completely, you need to remove the transition area on the timeline.

   • Duration Settings: This feature lets you define a maximum length for your transitions. Once activated and entered desired values, proceed to the timeline, and begin creating a transition zone. The editor will restrict you from setting a transition duration longer than what you've specified. This ensures that the file won't extend beyond the set limit onto the adjacent content.

   • Timeline

     Right-click on a transition area on the timeline to access these options:

     • Transition: Here you can set the last transition effect used, remove it or find it in the Templates or Preview window (for double effects).
     • Fade out: Here you can set the last Fade out transition effect used, remove it or find it in the Templates or Preview window.
     • Fade in: Here you can set the last Fade in transition effect used, remove it or find it in the Templates or Preview window.
     • View window…: This is an additional option to access the Templates and Basic effects windows.

Please, note: using cutting and splitting tools is unavailable within the area where a transition has been applied. Keep it in mind when editing and use these tools beforehands!

Final Take: Practical Approach to Video Editing

VSDC 9.1 has significantly improved video editing with its user-friendly approach to transitions. With its emphasis on simplicity and intuitive design, it addresses the challenges that many beginners face. This new version allows you to apply cinematic transitions efficiently, significantly reducing the complexity of your editing process.

For additional guidance and tips, check out our YouTube channel, Twitter and Facebook. If you encounter any issues or have specific questions, our support team is always ready to assist at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Download the latest version of VSDC now and transform your video editing experience!

What comes to your mind when you hear the word "nostalgia"?

Nostalgia often evokes images of Tamagotchis, iconic 90s video games, and the sweet taste of bubble gum. Yet, there's an unmistakable essence captured in the VHS tapes of yesteryears, holding classics like Titanic or Pulp Fiction.These are not just relics; they are emblems of an era, and now, with VSDC, you have the power to recreate this spirit of nostalgia. This guide is your roadmap to mastering a VHS video effect using VSDC, a versatile video editing software.

What's a VHS Effect?

In the realm of video editing, VHS effect is a creative technique used to replicate the visual characteristics of tape recordings, popular during the 1980s and 1990s. It's distinguished by unique features like grainy texture, slight distortion, and color shifts. This retro aesthetic introduces a layer of nostalgia and charm to modern videos.

Key features of VHS effect may include:

• Grainy Texture: VHS recordings had a noticeable grain or noise, especially in darker areas of the image. This is often recreated to give digital video a less polished, more authentic VHS look.
• Color Distortion: The colors in VHS were not as vibrant and sometimes appeared slightly shifted or washed out. This color distortion is a hallmark of the VHS style.
• Scan Lines: VHS tapes displayed characteristic horizontal lines across the screen, known as scan lines, due to the analog recording and playback process.
• Soft Image Quality: VHS videos had a lower resolution compared to digital standards, resulting in softer, less sharp images.
• Audio Distortion: The audio track in VHS often had a lower fidelity with some background noise and flutter, contributing to the overall retro ambiance.
• On-Screen Text: Adding dated-looking text, often in simple, blocky fonts, can enhance the VHS effect, mimicking the style of titles and credits seen in old VHS tapes.
• Tracking Errors: VHS playback was prone to tracking issues, causing wavy lines, static, or jitter in the video, which can be emulated for an authentic effect.
• Tape Wear: Older VHS tapes often showed signs of wear, like flickering, sudden jumps, or brief distortions, which can be artificially added.

Pros & Cons of the VHS Effect

Pros

• Nostalgic Appeal: VHS effect brings back memories and emotions tied to the era of home videos.
• Creative Flair: It offers a creative way to make your videos stand out in the digital age.
• Versatility: Perfect for various projects, from music videos to social media content.

Cons

• Quality Compromise: Emulating the VHS look often means intentionally reducing video quality.
• Overuse: If overused or applied inappropriately, it can detract from the intended message of your video.

How to Make a VHS Effect

Creating a VHS effect in VSDC is quite straightforward:

1. Add your video to the timeline.
2. Duplicate it by right-clicking and choosing "Duplicate".
3. Set its size to match the parent in the "Properties" window and enter the video object by double-clicking it on the timeline.
4. Add a rectangle shape without an outline and color it red in the "Properties" window under "Brush" - "Color". Again use the option "Set the same size as the parent has".
5. Use "Blend" to apply "Darken" and exit to the scene tab.
6. For the second video, choose "Lighten" under "Blend."
7. Duplicate this video and adjust size settings again.
8. Enter the third video, change the rectangles color to blue, and exit.
9. Reduce the first videos Opacity to 52% and add "Gaussian blur" with a level of 100.
10. Add a "Noise" filter with levels around 100 or less.
11. Shift the second video left and the third video right by 5-8 pixels, adjusting as needed.
12. This technique layers colored shapes and blending modes to mimic the VHS look, with added blur and noise for authenticity.

The basic method for achieving a VHS effect in VSDC is just the starting point. For those eager to explore additional creative ideas, VSDC offers a suite of artistic options:

• Create a VHS effect: Variant 2;
• Create a VHS effect: Variant 3;
• Create a VHS rewind effect;
• Create a glitch VHS rewind effect.

Moreover, VSDC's LUT editor is an excellent tool for those aiming to master color grading. It allows for the creation of custom LUTs, giving you professional-level control over the color palette of your footage.

Why You Should Use VHS Section

The VHS effect isn"t just a throwback; it's a creative tool. It adds depth to storytelling, invokes emotions, and offers a distinct alternative in a digital era oversaturated with high-definition and 4K content.

FAQ

Can I create a VHS effect on my smartphone?

Yes, there are smartphone apps available that can simulate the VHS effect, though for more professional results, software like VSDC is recommended.

Do I need professional software to make a VHS effect?

While professional software like VSDC offers more control and options, there are simpler tools available for beginners.

What are the key elements to include when creating a VHS effect?

Key elements include grainy texture, color shifts, scan lines, slight blurring, and audio distortion to mimic the old VHS tapes.

Conclusion

Mastering the VHS effect in your videos is a journey back in time, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and creativity. With VSDC you can effortlessly transform your modern footage into a retro masterpiece. Remember, the key to a successful VHS effect lies in balancing the vintage aesthetic with your video's narrative. Embrace this timeless style to evoke emotions, tell stories in a novel way, and stand out in today's digital landscape.

ASMR videos are a trending form of immersive content that rack up millions of views on YouTube. This step-by-step guide will show you how to create your own ASMR video, from equipment selection to triggering responses. Whether you're new to ASMR or an experienced creator, join us to unlock the secrets of ASMR content.

What are ASMR videos?

Millions of people subscribe to ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) channels and enjoy videos that help them relax or fall asleep. Over the last decade, ASMR has gained huge popularity, leading to more than 500,000 YouTube channels dedicated to it. ASMRtists (the term now used for bloggers of this genre) have together created about 25 million ASMR videos for these channels.

So what's the secret behind ASMR's success?

According to Cambridge Dictionary, ASMR is a pleasant tingling feeling that some people experience on their skin, especially on the head and neck, especially when they hear certain soft sounds such as whispering or brushing.

The term ASMR itself appeared in 2010 thanks to Jennifer Allen, although this phenomenon is known to us much earlier. Do you remember the Coca-Cola sound logo from the 1970s, the one with the fizz and pop after opening the bottle? This was an early example of an ASMR-like commercial, even though the term ASMR wasn't known back then.

Now prominent industrial corporations include ASMR into their advertising campaigns, while small businesses harness it to swiftly establish a viral presence.

So, what makes these videos so appealing to people? It's all about certain triggers that affect the viewer. These triggers not only activate the brain part related to social behavior, but also make the brain's reward system light up. In simpler terms, these videos make viewers feel more connected, happy and relaxed.

So what are the enigmatic triggers in ASMR that captivate audiences and accumulate millions of views? Here're the most popular ones:

1. Whispering: Soft, gentle whispering close to the microphone.
2. Tapping: Light tapping on various surfaces, such as wood, glass, or plastic.
3. Scratching: Gentle scratching sounds on textured surfaces.
4. Page Turning: The sound of flipping through the pages of a book.
5. Eating Sounds: The sound of chewing, typically with crunchy or sticky foods.
6. Brushing Sounds: Using makeup or paintbrushes on different materials.
7. Crisp Sounds: Manipulating paper, plastic, or foil for sharp, crackling sounds.
8. Water Sounds: Dripping or pouring water, or sounds of waves or rain.
9. Keyboard Typing: The clacking of computer keys.
10. Finger Fluttering: Rapid movement of fingers close to the microphone.
11. Personal Attention Roleplays: Pretending to give the viewer a haircut, makeup session, or doctor's checkup.

These triggers are often mixed and matched to create varied and engaging ASMR experiences for the audience.

Best Editing Software for ASMR Videos

ASMR video editor should have several key features to enhance the unique qualities of ASMR content:

Download Video Editor

High-Quality Audio Editing Capabilities: ASMR videos rely heavily on sound quality, so the ability to edit and enhance audio is crucial.

1. Noise reduction
2. Compression
3. De-reverbing
4. Equalizer
5. Sound effects can greatly improve the ASMR experience.

Our choice. DaVinci Resolve has come a long way from a color correction and grading tool to a decent audio editor. Its Fairlight tool offers essential audio enhancement tools, such as a compressor to minimize volume disparities between the loudest and quietest sounds, an equalizer to address certain audio issues, de-reverb plug-in to remove echo effects, and various audio filters.

Fine-Tuned Video Editing Tools: Though ASMR videos are also called “ear-to-ear sounds”, the visual aspect is equally crucial. ASMRtists often play mini-dramas, applying wide shots and close-ups with macro lens to obtain a more immersive picture. Here, accuracy is essential. Your editor should possess advanced cutting, trimming, and merging tools to ensure seamless transitions and keep the ASMR atmosphere throughout the video.

Our Choice. VSDC Video Editor is great for handling multi-track projects. It’s not a secret that ASMR artists don’t use camera audio, preferring the rich sound quality from a mic. With VSDC, you can easily separate the original video into video and audio tracks, then add the mic-recorded audio and make a super precise synchronization.

If you're adding roleplay to your ASMR video and capturing your story from various angles, VSDC provides plenty of crossfades to seamlessly blend wide shots and close-ups for engaging storytelling. And if the standard transitions don't match your vision, VSDC gives you the tools to create your own.

Visual Effects and Filters: Adding subtle visual effects & filters can enhance the visual appeal of ASMR videos without distracting from the audio experience.

Our Choice. Good lighting and a top-notch camera can make filming easier and reduce the time needed for post-production. However, videographers often aim to do more than just improve the overall image; they might want to highlight specific elements like hair color, makeup, tools, or add darker tones to create a more intimate atmosphere in the video. This is where VSDC Video Editor comes in handy. Its Lift, Gamma and Gain control wheels help you change the entire color tone composition of the video in a couple of clicks. Adjusting the brightness and contrast levels with VSDC’s RGB curves can significantly improve the overall appearance of the video.

You may also elevate ASMR videos in VSDC by incorporating visual effects onto the waveform or even visualizing your audio with VSDC's audio spectrum.

What to you need to make an ASMR video

A Room

It might seem unusual, but many ASMR creators prefer to film their videos at night to capture the quietest environment possible. Indeed, a small, quiet room at night is the ideal setting for an ASMR blogger.

But why a small room? The answer lies in audio post-production: larger spaces tend to cause echoes. While audio editing software offers automatic echo removal, this can sometimes interfere with the subtle nuances of ASMR audio, where every detail of the voice is crucial. On the other hand, manually removing echo is a detailed and intricate process.

Equipment

Microphones for ASMR: The core of ASMR recording is the microphone. You can use a single microphone, a dual-mic arrangement on a specialized stand for stereo sound, or even opt for a binaural microphone, which can capture 3D sound. The latter is particularly popular among ASMR artists because it replicates the way human ears perceive sound, thus creating a more immersive experience.

Audio Interface: While you can plug some microphones straight into a computer, utilizing an audio box offers a notable boost in sound quality. It fine-tunes the left and right channel volumes, ensuring a clear stereo sound is established before you start recording.

Camera: In the realm of ASMR content creation, choosing the right camera can be the key to unlocking a world of sensory enchantment. A top-tier ASMR camera should feature ultra-high-definition video recording, low-light performance, and a high frame rate option, ensuring crisp, clear visuals that capture every detail.

Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for creating the right visual atmosphere in ASMR videos. Soft, diffused lighting helps to create a calming and inviting space. Ring lights or softbox lights can provide even lighting that enhances the visual quality without being too harsh or creating unwanted shadows.

Accessories and Props: ASMR often involves various props to create specific sounds, such as brushes, tapping surfaces, or crinkly materials.

High-quality headphones are also a must-have for ASMR artists to monitor audio in real-time, ensuring the sounds are triggering the intended response.

Editing Software or App

If you're new to making ASMR videos, you don't need to spend a lot on editing software right away. A good option to try is VSDC, DaVinci Resolve, Lightworks or HitFilm. Not all of them are easy to use for beginners (VSDC and HitFilm go well), but all of them have basic tools you need to edit your ASMR content.

How to Shoot and Record an ASMR Video?

Ready to make your first ASMR video? Here's a quick guide to get started:

Choose Your Trigger: Start with a trigger strategy: whispering, tapping, eating sounds, role-playing, skincare/makeup - what would you prefer? Pick what feels natural to you; your unique vibes will resonate with the viewers, enhancing their ASMR experience.

Prepare Your Space: Soundproof your room to prevent echoes. Use sheets, furniture, or acoustic foam to absorb sound. Choose an interior room or film at night to minimize noise. Make sure the room looks tidy and has soft lighting.

Test Audio and Video: Practice with your microphone and props to ensure clear sound without harsh noises. Check how you appear on camera and adjust lighting and angles as needed.

Record: Use a soft, soothing voice and maintain a neat appearance. Ensure your recording equipment has enough power for the session, which could last up to 4 hours.

How to Edit an ASMR Video?

Congrats, your first ASMR video is ready. What’s next?

Import Files: Make sure you have enough storage for your video, especially if it's long. For camera footage, connect your camera or insert the SD card into your computer. If using a phone, transfer files to your computer or edit on your device.

Organize Timeline: Drag your video and audio files to the editing timeline. Arrange them in the desired order - you can adjust their position anytime. VSDC Video Editor excels in this regard: it allows you to seamlessly drag various file types into the application, where they are automatically converted and placed on the timeline. Thanks to VSDC’s non-linear editing capabilities, the app enables you to rearrange these elements following your post-production idea.

Edit Video: Apply basic editing (you don’t need much!), add filters and any extra effects. Include an intro and outro with your branding to attract viewers.

Add Transitions and Effects: Smooth transitions between clips are essential in ASMR videos to maintain a calming effect. Explore transitions and special effects like green screen to enhance visual appeal.

Adjust Audio: Remove background noise, apply de-reverbing to correct any audio issues, add any extra sound effects. You may add background music or sound effects as needed.

Export and Share: Once editing is complete, select the optimal output format and click “Export Project”.

This streamlined approach focuses on essential editing steps to ensure your ASMR video is engaging and high quality.

Tips

Mic positioning

The nuances of voice play a pivotal role for ASMR artists, as they significantly impact the sensory responses of the listener. It's a good idea to use two microphones instead of just one. This way, you get a richer stereo sound that seems to wrap around you, coming from both the left and right sides. You can also try moving the microphones closer or farther from each other to change the sound.

Pop filter for mic proximity effect

ASMR artists like to use the proximity effect to give their voice a warmer, richer, and more intimate quality. This technique involves speaking closely to the microphone, making the listening experience much more personal and engaging.

To avoid the explosive sound caused by plosives (like "p" or "b" sounds) hitting the microphone, a "pop filter" or "pop shield" is used. This device is placed between the speaker's mouth and the microphone. It acts as a barrier that disperses the air pressure from these sounds, thereby reducing the popping sound that can distort audio recordings. Pop filters are essential for creating clear, professional-sounding audio for voice recordings, singing, broadcasting, and ASMR content.

Manual (or very moderate) de-noise and de-reverb effects

De-noise and de-reverbing features aren't really meant for extremely quiet sounds. These tools might affect the voice or sound you're aiming to capture. Using about 5% de-noise is okay. Going beyond 10% almost certainly leads to clipping, especially with background noises.

No hard cuts, only crossfades

Soothing transitions are crucial in ASMR videos to maintain the immersive and relaxing experience. Abrupt cuts can jar the listener out of the state of relaxation, disrupting the flow and effectiveness of the ASMR triggers. Instead, using crossfades between scenes ensures a seamless and gentle transition, helping to preserve the tranquil atmosphere.

Mix ASMR triggers

We've compiled a list of the top ASMR triggers above. Mix and match them to achieve the ultimate experience.

Instead of conclusion

ASMR content can be a fulfilling and accessible way to promote relaxation and better sleep for both content creators and their audiences. And it actually is - millions of views and remarkable popularity of this genre serve as evidence of its appeal.

One of the remarkable aspects of ASMR content creation is that you don't necessarily need an expensive editor to get started. With just basic audio and video editing software, you can produce high-quality ASMR content that can have a profound impact on viewers.