Sprite object

Sprite Explanation

In VSDC video editor, a Sprite is a powerful tool that allows you to merge several media objects into one and apply effects to the entire group. By adding text, images, shapes, or videos to a sprite, you can create complex animations and effects that can enhance the visual impact of your video.

The Sprite can be resized, rotated, or moved on the timeline, and all the elements within it will move or transform accordingly. You can also use the sprite properties window to control various aspects of the sprite, such as its opacity, blending mode, and animation settings. By adjusting these properties, you can customize the appearance and behavior of the sprite to achieve your desired effect.

Sprite creation

There are two ways to create a Sprite. The first method is to use the Add Object menu located above the scene area or the vertical toolbar menu on the left side of the scene. Simply click on the Sprite button to add it to the timeline, where you can then drag and drop media files into it.

Alternatively, you can use the second method by selecting the media files you want to include in the sprite on the timeline using the mouse. Then, right-click on those files and select Convert to sprite. Then you are free to choose the option either to Convert within objects resolution or to Convert within scene resolution. This will merge the selected files into a single object, allowing you to make adjustments to the entire group.

After successfully creating a Sprite, it will appear on the timeline, indicating that it is now a part of your project. Regardless of the method used to create the Sprite — whether it was done through the first or second method — the next step is to double-click on the Sprite. This action will enable you to add new objects to it, adjust existing ones, or make any necessary modifications.

It's important to keep in mind that when you add or remove files from a Sprite, the duration of the sprite remains the same. As a result, it's crucial to pay attention to the marker on the timeline to ensure that you are aware of the current duration of the Sprite. Failure to do so may result in unwanted issues such as black frames appearing in your project or the files you added to the sprite not being displayed correctly.

Sprite properties

To access the settings menu, double-click on the sprite layer and head over to the Properties window. There are two groups of settings available: Common settings and Sprite object settings.

The Common settings allow you to accomplish a variety of tasks, including renaming the object on the timeline, setting the precise time that the sprite will appear on the screen, and determining the duration that it will remain in the video. Additionally, you can use this group of settings to adjust the positioning coordinates of the sprite on the screen, which is useful for ensuring that it is in the right place at the right time.

The Sprite object settings offer a range of options to adjust the appearance and behavior of your sprite. These include applying effects to all files contained within the Sprite, and using the echo filter to add motion trails to your videos.

A Sprite is essentially a container that facilitates the movement of objects along the timeline. However, any video effects or motions added to a sprite will not be visible in the project by default. To apply an effect to all objects within a sprite, you need to modify its parameters by changing Use as container to No and Show effect to Yes.

• Use as container determines how the Sprite is used: Yes signifies simple object grouping, while No groups objects and applies effects simultaneously.
• The Show effects option is only available during edit mode and allows you to toggle effects on and off while editing a Sprite. It is only active when Use as container is active as well.
• To fill the background area of a Sprite with color, you can enable the Brush option. Unless transparency is needed within the sprite, it is recommended to turn this option on as it significantly improves video processing speed. The Color parameter specifies the background color.

The final setting available is the Apply echo filter option, which essentially simulates the long exposure effect or creates an artificial impression of fast-moving objects. For a more detailed explanation of this effect and how to apply it, we have provided a separate instruction, which can be accessed through this link.

Some Essential Points to Keep in Mind

• Sprites can be conveniently created using the Wizard tool, streamlining the process of object grouping and effect application;
• Spritesare especially useful when moving media between scenes, which can be easily switched in the Project Explorer window;
• Within Sprites, you can effortlessly save created composition files or effects in the template window, making it more efficient to reuse and apply them to other projects in the future.

This software can be downloaded from the Free Video Editor description page.