Video overlays are the best. We love this trick so much because it unlocks unlimited creativity in video editing.

Now you can discover this magic yourself. With this technique, you have the power to:

• overlay videos, pictures, texts or other elements on another video and vice versa;
• mix two or more pieces of footage into one composition;
• create an overlay for a selected area in a video.

And that's just scratching the surface! In this tutorial you’ll find out everything you need to master this fantastic feature and learn how to create beautiful video overlays in VSDC Video Editor.

What is an Overlay

Overlays are some elements that you add on top of your original footage, often referred to as picture-in-picture effect. However, the options are unlimited: these elements can be shapes, images, texts or other videos. In other words, these are elements incorporated on top of existing footage so that they play simultaneously to produce an original effect. You can layer videos and images in different configurations: position them one over another, place side by side or even diagonally on the same scene. You can also adjust the opacity level for each file, which means an image can serve as a half-transparent layer placed over a video – or vice versa.

Overlay’s Importance

Overlays can serve any purpose depending on what effect you need to achieve. They can be used as filters over a video to create a stunning effect, create a specific atmosphere in your footage or set some particular mood by adding romantic, creepy or mysterious elements.

Mastering overlays is one of the basic techniques, a must-know skill for every aspiring video creator that opens up unlimited video editing possibilities, ensuring every video project is polished and sophisticated.

Different Types of Video Overlay Effects

There are so many techniques that you can use to create overlays, from blurring backgrounds for a soft focus effect to incorporating gradients, natural elements, or tinted overlays, the right technique can transform the visual appeal of your footage.

Here are some popular ones:

• Enriching your footage with atmospheric effects like snowfall, rain, or lens flares to create a special atmosphere;
• Embedding text into your video to convey messages or emphasize points, making them stand out;
• Overlaying just some parts of a video to draw attention or create contrast;
• Introducing overlays of light or color effects to enhance the visual mood;
• Securing your content with a watermark;
• …and much more!

Each of these methods falls under the broad category of overlays, expanding the horizon of what you can achieve in video editing.

How to Add an Overlay

Now, when it comes to the technical side of the process, overlaying videos is incredibly straightforward. First, ensure you’ve downloaded VSDC Video Editor – a free video editing software for Windows. Then, follow these simple steps depending on what effect you want to achieve:

Method 1: Basic overlaying

1. Start with creating a new project using the Blank project button on the start screen. Adjust project settings in the appeared window (if necessary) and click Finish.
2. Add your video files by dragging and dropping them onto the scene from the file explorer.
3. Position your videos on the timeline, placing them on separate layers, one above the other. This setup serves as the foundation for overlaying, allowing you to experiment with various effects, such as:

   Applying transitions

   When you arrange the files on the timeline such that the beginning of one video overlaps the end of another, you create a place for a transition. Learn how we achieve the crossfade effect, and for detailed instructions on creating transitions, refer to our video guide.

   Creating a side-by-side effect

   If videos are layered one atop another on the timeline, they naturally overlap. However, by resizing one video on the scene and then the other, ensuring they do not overlap, you can view two videos simultaneously, creating a side by side effect.

   Making a picture-in-picture effect

   Using a similar approach, you can create a picture-in-picture effect. The key difference is that you leave one of the files at the size of the entire scene while positioning the second one atop, making it appear smaller.

   Overlaying text on a video

   Overlays can be created not only with media files, but also with objects and texts. Watch our video guides to discover how to add text to your video and place it on top or insert subtitles.

Method 2: Blending Mode

This method of creating overlays is also to be considered. Unlike the first one, this technique doesn't rely on layering files directly on the timeline but instead utilizes additional options to achieve the desired effect. For this, follow these steps:

1. Add your video file to the scene, just as described in the previous method. Double-click on it on the timeline and add your overlay video to the scene by dragging and dropping it from the file explorer.
2. Move to the left side of the timeline and open the Blend menu. Select Screen and watch how two files get blended.
3. Navigate to the Tools section on the Ribbon on the Editor tab and click on the wrench icon. Now your overlay is ready for editing: adjust the opacity level if you want to make it more transparent.
4. At this point, you can set your creative spirit free and start playing with the settings. For example, you may want to layer the effect partially or make the overlay gradually disappear. You may also use other blending modes to edit your overlay or follow some of our creative ideas presented below.

Creative Ideas for Using Overlays in VSDC

For your inspiration, here’s a list of what you can do in VSDC, when it comes to overlaying:

• Replace green screen in a video;
• Overlay to video a watermark;
• Make a double exposure effect;
• Place text behind an object;
• Add a pop-up tag;
• Create a light leak transition;
• Insert a custom ‘Subscribe’ button;
• Make a diagonal split screen effect;
• Apply masking;
• Add ready-made templates to your video.

What Makes Overlay Video so Popular?

Video overlays have gained so much popularity since they are able to transform ordinary footage into captivating, professional-looking content. They offer creative freedom and flexibility, allowing to merge different elements — text, images, and special effects — seamlessly with the main video. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal and engagement of the video but also makes the storytelling more immersive. Overlays are easy to apply and are available in the majority of video editing programs, enabling creators of all skill levels to experiment and innovate, further propelling their popularity in video production.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a standout yet simple technique to enhance your video projects and make them captivating, overlaying is the best. Ready to put it into practice? Then go ahead – download VSDC, a few overlay videos to experiment with, and let your creativity take over.

Enjoy!

FAQ

Why would I use video overlays?

Use text overlays to highlight key points and convey some additional information efficiently or create a stunning effect and make a unique atmosphere in your footage.

What types of overlays can I create in VSDC?

VSDC offers a wide set of basic and advanced tools to effortlessly create good quality overlays of any complexity. Whether you're looking to incorporate text, images, or special effects, VSDC has you covered. Just check out our YouTube channel to find inspiration and tutorials that meet your needs.

How do I control the timing and placement of my overlays?

Controlling the timing and placement of your overlays in VSDC is intuitive and flexible. When working with the timeline in VSDC, you can easily scale it, customize and use various buttons for quick and precise navigation. To learn more about all the timeline features, check out our comprehensive guide.

MP4, or MPEG-4, is a digital multimedia container format utilized for storing audio, video, subtitles, and images. Unlike other formats such as AVI, MOV, FLV, WEBM, and others, MP4 provides efficient compression and broad compatibility, making it a preferred choice for content creators who want to ensure their files are playable on virtually any device or website. For beginners in content creation looking to ensure their files display across various platforms, MP4 is a perfect choice for sharing and streaming. For advanced users, this format can be particularly beneficial as it is compatible with most codecs, including H.264 and H.265.

In this article, we explore the complexities of creating MP4 files, examining the process of making MP4s from the ground up with VSDC Free Video Editor and VSDC Video Converter.

Download Mp4 Free video Editor

How to Make a MP4 File In a Video Editor

For an easy video conversion, VSDC Free Video Editor is at your disposal. This process of is rather simple:

1. Variant 1: Making MP4 From a Ready-Made Video

   In case you have a ready-made video and simply need to convert it to MP4 format while retaining all the original video parameters such as frame rate, resolution, etc. start VSDC Free Video Editor and select the Import Content option. Navigate through the file explorer to choose your video. Upon selection, the editor automatically generates a project template based on the video's parameters. Verify these parameters and confirm by clicking Finish and proceed to Step 2.

   

   Variant 2: Making MP4 Video From Scratch

   In case you need to create a MP4 file from scratch aiming to craft an elaborate video with multiple media files featuring cinematic effects, transitions, animations, or you need to merge files, reduce video size, or adjust resolution, start with the following:

   • Open VSDC and choose Blank Project from the startup window. You'll see the Project’s settings window for your new project. Focus on the Resolution and Frame rate settings, as these will significantly impact your video's quality. If your media files have varying resolutions and frame rates, aim for an average value to maintain consistency. Note: mismatching resolutions may lead to black borders in your final video. Alternatively, set these parameters based on your target platform's requirements. Fill in any additional details required for your project and click Finish. Remember, you can modify these settings later if needed.

   

   • Drag and drop your files onto the timeline to start editing. You can edit your video as you see fit, for instance:
     • Crop unnecessary borders;
     • Split or cut files;
     • Apply side-by-side or picture-in-picture effects;
     • Correct colors;
     • Add voiceovers or animations;
     • Insert titles and more.
     For more creative ideas and techniques, visit our "How to" section or explore our YouTube channel.
   • Preview the result. If you experience lag during video preview, use a proxy for smoother playback.



2. Navigate to the Export Project tab located at the top of the interface. Here, you'll choose your desired format from the Ribbon.
3. MP4 format options are available under PC and Web media devices, with specific presets for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Vimeo, as well as iPhone/iPad and Android devices.
4. Сheck the Input and Output parameters at the bottom to ensure they align with your project's needs. Choose where to save your video in the Output file(s) field. If you wish to change this location, opt for the Change Name… function. When your video is ready and doesn't require further adjustments, hit the Export Project button on the Ribbon.

Advanced Settings (Optional): If you need to make more detailed adjustments regarding size, codec, or video quality, refer to the How to Change MP4 Export Settings section below in this article.

Making a MP4 Video in a Video Converter

Alternatively, using VSDC Free Video Converter offers the advantage of converting multiple files to MP4 simultaneously. Here's how to do it:

1. Launch VSDC Video Converter.
2. Drag your media file to the Source files area or use the Open files and Add files functions to select it.
3. On the Ribbon select the preferred media device (PC or Web) and choose the MP4 format.
4. Open the Show Information menu in the bottom right corner to review and adjust the Input and Output settings. If modifications are needed, click Edit Profile… for further options.
5. Check the Output file(s) field to see where your video will be saved. To alter this, use the Change Name… function to manually select a destination. Finally, click Export Project on the Ribbon to complete the process.

This method is particularly efficient if you're not planning to alter video settings beyond the format. For those needing to modify video size, resolution, or quality, refer to the How to Change MP4 Export Settings section. This part will delve into the nuances of adjusting settings via the Edit Profile feature, ensuring your video meets your exact specifications.

How to Change MP4 Export Settings

Adjusting the MP4 export settings in VSDC to match your specific needs for video size, resolution, frame rate, and codec is straightforward. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to ensure your video looks exactly how you envisioned it, whether you're aiming for a specific quality, size, or compatibility with various devices and platforms.

1. Step 1: Navigate to Export Settings
   • After finalizing your video, click on the Export Project tab.
   • Go down to the Profile section at the bottom of the window.
2. Step 2: Select Your Codec and Quality
   • Different presets will appear in the drop-down menu depending on the device you select and the MP4 format for different platforms.
   • Choose from available codecs (e.g., MPEG4, H.264, H.265) and quality settings (from 360p to 4K).
   • Pro users with compatible graphics cards can enable hardware acceleration here to speed up the video export.
3. Step 3: Fine-Tune Your Export Profile
   • Then explore the drop-down menu on the right for detailed profile settings.
   • Adjust according to your preferences. Changes will reflect in the Output file settings below.
4. Step 4: Confirm Output File Settings
   • Check the Output file(s) field for where the video will be saved. Change it if needed by using the Change name option.
   • When you are satisfied with the result, click Export project on the Ribbon.

For Advanced Customization: Edit Profile

1. If the preset options don’t fit your needs, select Edit profile for more detailed settings.
2. At the top of the pop-up window, you'll see the name of the profile you are about to export your video to. Below that, in the Profile field, you'll find pre-set configurations for various codecs and video qualities from which you can choose. If these do not meet your needs, proceed to the Video settings field for custom profile options.
   • In the Video settings field, select a codec for the output video depending on its playback destination. For more experienced users, detailed codec customization is available via the Configure… option.
   • The Preset field impacts compression efficiency, affecting encoding speed.
   • The Resolution, Width and Height parameters allow you to set the desired project resolution upon export. Be aware that setting different values from the original project creation might result in black borders or reduced quality due to video resizing. To prevent black edges, use the Aspect correction >> Reaspect image option, although this may stretch the image if the resolution difference is substantial.
   • The Encoder mode adjusts how video compression occurs during export. The parameters Constant rate factor (CRF) and Constant quantizer (QP) influence quality, which is indicated next to the Quality field. Higher quality settings will reduce the encoder's compression, preserving more of the original video quality at the cost of larger file sizes, a principle known as "lossless" compression.
   • Another parameter, Average bitrate (ABR), governs the output video's bitrate. The export process typically increases the bitrate compared to the input file, but you can limit it in the Bitrate field. Higher bitrates maintain good quality but result in larger file sizes.
   • The Target file size encoder mode allows specifying the desired output file size, which may impact quality if it is too small.
   • The final parameter to consider in Video settings is Framerate. You can set a specific value, but if it significantly differs from the project's original setting, video and audio may become desynchronized.
3. Move to the Audio settings section to adjust the Audio codec, its bitrate, frequency, and audio channels. Use the Configure option for more detailed codec settings.
4. Once adjustments are complete, click Apply profile.
5. To save the video to your PC, go to the Ribbon and select the Export project.

A quick tip: If you manually adjust the codec settings, you can save them for use in future projects during export.

Conclusion

This guide simplifies the process of adjusting your MP4 export settings in VSDC, ensuring your video meets your exact specifications for quality, size, and platform compatibility. Whether you're creating a video from scratch with complex effects or simply need a conversion, either in a video editor or in a video converter, we hope we've helped you navigate the settings. If you still have questions, please write to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or reach us through our social media profiles on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.

Video editing is a fantastic way to boost creativity and create a masterpiece that will receive thousands of likes on social networks. When starting exploring video editing, one of the basic tasks you need to deal with is to learn how to stretch videos to fit different sizes or create cool effects.

If you're looking to do this, VSDC Video Editor is here to help. It's a super user-friendly tool that makes stretching videos super easy, and it's packed with lots of other features too. From basic edits like cutting and splitting clips, to more advanced stuff like adding text, applying filters, and fixing colors, VSDC has got you covered.

So, why not give VSDC a try? Download it for free and follow some simple steps to stretch your videos in no time.

Download video Editor for stretch

Why Should You Stretch Video?

Stretching a video can serve several purposes. It can help in filling the screen when the original footage doesn't match the desired aspect ratio, preventing black bars on the sides or top and bottom of the video. Additionally, stretching can be used creatively to alter the appearance of the video content, giving a unique look and feel to your project.

How to Stretch Video

How to Stretch Video Horizontally

1. Start VSDC Free Video Editor and select the Import Content option. Navigate through the file explorer to choose your video. Upon selection, the editor automatically generates a project template based on the video's parameters. Verify these parameters and confirm by clicking Finish.
2. Select the video file you want to stretch on the timeline or click on it on the main scene.
3. Navigate to the Properties window on the right side of the screen.
4. Look for the Width parameter and adjust it according to how much you want to stretch your video horizontally. Increasing the width will stretch the video outwards from the center.

How to Stretch Video Vertically

1. Follow the same steps to open your project and select your video file.
2. In the Properties window locate the "Height" parameter this time.
3. Adjust the height to stretch your video vertically. Increasing the height value will extend the video upwards and downwards from the center.

How to Stretch Video Freely

1. Follow the same steps to open your project and select your video file.
2. Once selected, you will see several handles (also known as anchor points) appear around the video frame in the scene preview.
3. To stretch the video freely, click and hold one of the handles on the side or corner of the video.
4. Drag the handle outwards or inwards to stretch or compress the video. You can do this horizontally or vertically depending on which handle you choose to drag.
5. Release the mouse button to set the video at the desired stretched size.

Where Can You Use Stretched VIdeos?

Stretched videos are versatile and can be used in various settings:

• For Background Videos: They’re great for creating background videos for websites or presentations, especially when you need the content to cover the entire screen.
• Adjusting Aspect Ratios: If you have videos taken in a different aspect ratio than what your display supports, stretching them can make them fit perfectly without having to crop out any details.
• Artistic Projects: Stretching can add a creative twist to your projects, altering the aspect ratio for artistic effect or to convey a certain message.

Conclusion

Stretching videos in VSDC is a straightforward process that can significantly impact your video projects. Whether adjusting for aspect ratios or exploring creative visual effects, VSDC provides the tools necessary to achieve your vision. Remember to use the stretch function judiciously to maintain the quality and integrity of your original footage.

FAQ

Are there any downsides to stretching a video?

Yes, stretching a video can lead to distortion, where subjects appear wider or taller than they naturally are. This can sometimes result in a less professional look if not done carefully.

How can I avoid these downsides?

To reduce distortion, you can:

1. Use uniform stretching to keep the aspect ratio consistent.
2. Combine stretching with cropping to maintain a balanced composition.
3. Experiment with different stretching values and preview your changes to find the perfect balance that enhances your video without sacrificing quality.

We've all been there: needing to take a screenshot, make it better, and share it smoothly, only to find the basic Windows Snipping Tool falling short. While it's okay for simple tasks, it lacks the features and efficiency we often need. It's time to ditch the old ways and explore better options.

Finding the right snipping tool is crucial. You want something that captures fast, lets you edit, add stickers, crop, and share easily. Plus, in today's collaborative world, it should make teamwork seamless, especially when you need to explain complex ideas through screenshots. A good screenshot can boost productivity, whether you're in customer service or managing projects.

But with so many choices out there, it's hard to know which one to pick. That's why we've put together a list of the top 10 Windows Snipping Tool alternatives. Let's find the perfect one for you!

Best Choices

When it comes to free snipping tools, several options are available, each with its own features and capabilities. Among these choices, VSDC features a free Screen Recorder that also stands out as a versatile and powerful tool for capturing and editing screen content.

What is Snippet

A snippet refers to a small piece or fragment of something larger, typically a portion of text, code, or image extracted for reference or sharing purposes.

What's the Purpose of Snippet

In the realm of digital tools, snippets refer to segments of your screen that you capture using snipping tools or screenshot applications. These tools are designed to quickly and efficiently capture a portion of your display—be it an error message, a graph, a chat conversation, or any other on-screen element—so you can easily share it with others. For instance, a snippet could be used by a customer service representative to capture and illustrate a step in a troubleshooting guide, or by a project manager to grab a chart from a business dashboard to include in a report. The main advantage of snippets is their ability to communicate a visual point clearly and without ambiguity, making them essential in professional communication and problem-solving.

Best Snippet Tools

• VSDC Free Screen Recorder

  

  VSDC Free Screen Recorder offers a comprehensive set of features for capturing and editing screen content. With its intuitive interface and powerful editing tools, VSDC allows users to capture screenshots, record video, and annotate content with ease and then continue working on it in VSDC Video Editor. Whether creating tutorials, capturing gameplay, or simply sharing screenshots, VSDC Free Screen Recorder is a top choice for both beginners and advanced users alike.

  With VSDC Free Screen Recorder you can:

  1. Record the entire screen;
  2. Record a part of your desktop screen;
  3. Record the area around your cursor;
  4. Use the highlighter while recording your computer screen.

  To learn how to use this tool in detail, reach out to our comprehensive tutorial.

• Screen-capture.com

  Screen-capture.com is a straightforward yet effective snipping tool that allows users to capture screenshots and annotate them with text, shapes, and arrows. With its simple interface and easy-to-use features, Screen-capture.com is an excellent option for those seeking a basic snipping tool without unnecessary frills.

• Screenpresso

  Screenpresso is a feature-rich snipping tool that offers advanced features such as scrolling capture, video recording, and a built-in image editor. With its sleek interface and robust set of tools, Screenpresso is ideal for users requiring more advanced snipping capabilities.

• ScreenRec

  ScreenRec is a lightweight and user-friendly snipping tool that allows users to capture screenshots and record videos with just a few clicks. With its cloud storage integration and sharing capabilities, ScreenRec is perfect for collaboration and remote work scenarios.

• Lightshot

  Lightshot is a popular snipping tool known for its simplicity and speed. With its lightweight and intuitive interface, Lightshot enables users to capture screenshots, annotate them, and share them online effortlessly.

• Greenshot

  Greenshot is a powerful snipping tool offering a wide range of features, including screenshot capture, annotation, and sharing. With its customizable settings and extensive plugin support, Greenshot is a favorite among power users and professionals.

• Aiseesoft Screen Recorder

  Aiseesoft Screen Recorder is a versatile snipping tool that allows users to capture screenshots, record video, and audio with ease. With its user-friendly interface and customizable settings, Aiseesoft Screen Recorder is suitable for a wide range of use cases.

• Action!

  Action! is a premium snipping tool offering advanced features such as live streaming, gameplay recording, and GPU acceleration. While not free, Action! is worth considering for users requiring professional-grade snipping capabilities

Conclusion

Finding the best free snipping tool can be a daunting task, but with options like VSDC Free Screen Recorder, users can capture and edit screen content with ease. Whether you're a casual user or a professional, having the right snipping tool can streamline your workflow and enhance productivity.

FAQ

What is a snipping tool and why do I need one?

A snipping tool is a software application that allows users to capture and annotate screenshots or snippets of content from their computer screens. Whether you need to share information, illustrate a point, or create tutorials, a snipping tool can help you capture and convey information quickly and efficiently.

How do I choose the right free snipping tool?

When choosing a free snipping tool, consider factors such as ease of use, features, and compatibility with your operating system. Additionally, read reviews and try out different tools to find the one that best suits your needs and workflow.