How can you stabilize a shaky video: Top 4 ways

Looking forward to saving your jolting footage? Stabilizing videos may become one of the most challenging parts of video editing unless you use the right editor. There are numerous software programs available on the market. To make your choice easier, in this post, we’ll introduce you to four video editors and give you step-by-step guides on how to stabilize a video using each program. Read ahead.

Way 1: Fix shaky footage in OpenShot

OpenShot is a free, open-source video editor that is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. This powerful software has lots of useful features and a simple, drag-and-drop interface that even novices can handle. It’s packed with advanced features such as unlimited layers, video transitions with real-time previews, as well as video effects and animation. Though it may lag and crash sometimes.

1. Launch the software after installing it on your PC. Drag and drop the video you want to stabilize into the program.
2. Add your uploaded video to the timeline.
3. Switch to the Effects tab and choose Stabilizer. Drag this over your video and hit the Process Effect button. Wait a bit while the program removes the wobble.
4. Right-click on the little S icon on your video and zoom in on the clip a little to remove the borders that appeared after stabilization.
5. Hit the red circle above to download your video. Choose an export format from more than 20 options, as well as adjust the quality and video dimensions.

Way 2: Try stabilizing videos in Final Cut Pro

Final Cut Pro is a professional video editing app that is only available on macOS. It comes with all the tools needed to create, edit, and produce high-quality videos. Quickly and easily make minor edits or use advanced features such as Chroma Key and built-in 3D animation for pro-level movie production. Despite its popularity, it has some drawbacks: a steep learning curve, the absence of a Windows version, and a high price without a free trial.

1. Launch the program after purchasing and installing it on your Mac.
2. Create a new project. Import your wobbly footage into the program and add it to the timeline.
3. Click the Inspector button on the right side of the toolbar, and then hit the Video icon.
4. Scroll down and select the Stabilization checkbox. The program automatically analyzes the best video stabilization method. Play the video in the timeline to see the fix.
5. To export your clip, click the Share button in the toolbar and choose Export File. Adjust the settings, pick the output location, and hit Save.

Way 3: Remove shake from a video with Clipify

Clipify is a user-friendly video editor, compatible only with Windows PCs. It combines an intuitive workflow for beginners with nifty features like Curves and Chroma Key for seasoned photographers. With this program, you can do full video editing – from adding text, music, and transitions to enhancing footage, recording voiceovers & webcams, and exporting your creations in various file formats. However, it has limited layering, and cloud storage is unavailable.

1. Run the program after installing it on your computer. Start a new blank project.
2. Click Add Videos and Photos and select your shaky footage to add it to the timeline.
3. Now, click the Edit button. Go to the Enhancement tab and choose Image Stabilization. Don’t forget to hit Apply and you’re done!
4. Save your clip by clicking Create Video. Export your movie in Full HD, optimize it for TV and smartphones, burn it to DVD, or upload it to YouTube and Facebook.

Way 4: Stabilize videos with DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve is pro-level video editing software for Windows, macOS, and Linux. This program comes with a range of advanced tools and features for video enhancement – from color correction and visual effects to audio editing. However, its workflow is quite cumbersome, so it’s worth considering this program only if you’re confident in your editing skills.

1. Open the software after its installation on your device.
2. Upload your jolting clip into the program and drag & drop it into the timeline.
3. Highlight your video, go to the Inspector tab, and open the Stabilization submenu.
4. To remove the shake, select the stabilization mode and click the Stabilize button.
5. Click the Deliver icon below the timeline. In Custom Export, choose your video resolution and format and adjust its quality.  Hit the Add to Render Queue button to start exporting.

Conclusion

Video stabilization is a handy feature that not every video editor can offer. Check out the link for more ways on how to stabilize a video. Choose a program based on your needs, skill level, and budget, and follow one of the above ways to speed up your video editing process.