Updated Best Mobile Animation Tools Free 3D Apps for Android and iOS

Updated Best Mobile Animation Tools Free 3D Apps for Android and iOS

Amelia Lv12

Best Mobile Animation Tools: Free 3D Apps for Android and iOS

Best 3D Animation Apps for Android and iPhone (Free Download)

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

You don’t need to use your desktop to create exciting, fun, and thought-provoking 3D animations.

In fact, more and more people are moving from using animation software on desktop and producing outstanding 3D animation videos through their apps.

There are many great reasons for making your photo 3D cartoon videos on your phone or tablet. You don’t need to carry your laptop around with you all the time or use your desktop to get the results that you require.

Read on to learn more about six of the very best 3D animation apps for your phone.

It is true that you can make animation on your phone, but editing 3D animation on the desktop is necessary if you want to have more controls on an animation video. Here we recommend using Filmora.

You can use it to make 3D animation or 2D animation by adding keyframes , so the animation will be smooth and natural. You just need to build a white plane to easily start making animation.

Besides, color correction/grading and audio mixer will raise up your animation video to a new level.

Free download it to have a try!

Note: The light flare effects of Filmora will make 3D animation to a new level.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Below is a comparison table of 3D animation apps. It is a quick introduction of these 6 3D animation software on Android and iPhone. Take a look.

Support OS Features Pros Cons
Bot3D Editor iPhone Make 3D pose as you want; Lip-sync to recorded voices User-friendly interface; You can make all kinds of gestures Impossible to download characters
Toontastic 3D iPhone/Android Liked by Common Sense Media; Mix audio with song You can customize the color of the characters Users want more props
Maya For 3D Animation Android Integrate your work with Maya Upload your work to Maya for future editing Some bugs will appear
Animate It! iPhone/Android Change playback speed as you want Onion skinning is fun to use for us Not all characters are free to use
Animate Me iPhone/Android Easy to use for beginners and higher end users Regular audio update; Share unlimited 3D animation Vague icons may cause misunderstanding
Anim8 iPhone/Android Simple to use with friendly interface Make full-body animation at one time Only two characters are available

Part 1: Best 3D Animation App for iPhone

1. Bot3D Editor

This best 3D animation app promises to give you “everything you need at your fingertips” and is one of the most efficient smartphone and tablet 3D animation editors on the market.

It’s easy to export and share your work when it is finished, and the app is compatible with iPhones and iPads.

You can create poses within moments and animate them immediately. Key features include the Full Body Inverse Kinematics Algorithm, the importing of sound data and a HandEditor, Face Editor and SceneEditor.

You can also import your own photos and create characters that can lip-sync to voices. The app allows you to create vertical and horizontal videos.

Pros:

  • Customization is good to use
  • Easy to use and make your pose
  • Various emotions to use

Cons:

  • You can’t download your own characters
  • Limited combination and they can’t be mixed up

2. Toontastic 3D

This app allows you to draw, animate, and narrate cartoons. Toontastic is the best 3D animation app that can record your voice and animations and store your animations on your device.

Many people are using the app to create photo albums, put together news reports, and create adventures, and much more.

3d animation app

The animation maker has received glowing reviews from many leading media outlets and was even named the Best Kids App of the Year for 2017. Download the app to create pirates, villains, robots, and all sorts of different characters. Built-in songs are available, and there are three Story Arcs to choose from. You can even add yourself to your stories.

Pros:

  • It has a Parents’ Choice Gold Award
  • You can design your own 3D drawing tools
  • Directly upload it to Photos library

Cons:

  • Needs more characters in one scene
  • More props or extra sound effects are required

Part 2: Best 3D Animation App for Android

1. Maya For 3D Animation

Maya is developed by Autodesk, Inc and can be used to produce interactive 3D applications such as visual effects, animated films, video games, and more.

3D assets created in Maya have been seen in various films, TV series, and games. Those seeking a reliable 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and imaging solution should feel well catered-for by Maya.

Pros:

  • This 3D animation maker is easy to make
  • You can import your work to Maya

Cons:

  • Some bugs appear for many times

3d animation app Maya

2. Animate It!

Animate It! It comes with a host of useful features for the ambitious animators of today. The animation app allows you to create sketches and poses on your tablet and smartphone whenever inspiration strikes.

It offers simple, intuitive controls, and you can perform various actions by finger touching, touching and dragging, and more.

The app can even be used by children to create animations, though it is also a favorite with students, game developers, and professional animators.

There are various skins available for your characters, as well as props and land creation facilities.

Pros:

  • You can select your characters easily
  • You can add user skins up to 10 PNG images

Cons:

  • No tutorial or instruction offers
  • Icons are vague

3d animation apps Animate It

3. Animate Me

This 3D animation app is perfect for kids in particular but is ideal for adults too. Kids across the world have been using Animate Me to create exciting 3D animations and upload them to YouTube.

The app comes with in-built cartoon characters that help kids and those new to the world of animation to get to grips with the basics. It’s possible to make characters perform various actions, including walking, running, jumping, and talking with the app.

There are also video tutorials that will help you get more out of the app. The Everyplay feature enables you to share your work across all kinds of online platforms, including not only YouTube but Facebook and Twitter too.

Pros:

  • Make 3D cartoons move quickly and easily
  • Include video tutorials for beginners

Cons:

  • You have to buy other characters

animation apps Animate me

4. Anim8

If you’re looking for a tool that will let you gain a deeper understanding of 3D and character animation, Anim8 may well be the perfect solution.

You can use the app to pose five existing characters in a 3D environment, with the controls being highly intuitive and efficient. Many people are drawn to this app because of its simplicity.

The app has been designed by leading character animators, and you can start animating within just a few minutes once you have downloaded it. Full body animation is possible thanks to the advanced articulation on offer, and you can sketch out key poses with the drawing tool.

The onion skin feature will help you plan out poses and time in a precise manner, and you can easily upload your work to a plethora of online platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. There are more than 30 points of articulation, and you can also import audio with ease.

Pros:

  • Easy to use interface in Anim8
  • You can sketch your key poses every time

Cons:

  • Sometimes you can share your 3D animation
  • Not all characters are free to use

3d animation apps Anim8

Part 3: FAQ about 3D Animation Apps

1. What is the best app for animation?

For the 3D animation app, we suggest using the Bot3D Editor. It is an easy-to-use anime editor that only needs dragging to complete your editing. If you know how to use keyframes, it will give you more control over animation. For example, you can make poses in many ways by keyframes.

2. How do you animate a 3D object?

The best way to animate a 3D object is by using keyframes and built-in templates. As a beginner, you may not know how to make a 3D object, but with templates, you just need to choose one and start customizing it.

3. Where can I animate for free?

There are so many free-to-use animation software to use. Pencil2D is a reliable tool to make animation easy. You just need to download it on the desktop to animate objects. However, it’d be best if you have a basic understanding of how to make animation. Otherwise, you may need some time to learn it first.

Conclusion

3D animation apps are ideal for those wishing to learn new skills and heighten their creativity. No matter what you’re looking for, we’re confident that you’ll find an app that meets your needs above. You can also use leading tools such as Filmora to edit your video and add extra effects to add an extra touch of magic to your work. Why not get started right now?

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

You don’t need to use your desktop to create exciting, fun, and thought-provoking 3D animations.

In fact, more and more people are moving from using animation software on desktop and producing outstanding 3D animation videos through their apps.

There are many great reasons for making your photo 3D cartoon videos on your phone or tablet. You don’t need to carry your laptop around with you all the time or use your desktop to get the results that you require.

Read on to learn more about six of the very best 3D animation apps for your phone.

It is true that you can make animation on your phone, but editing 3D animation on the desktop is necessary if you want to have more controls on an animation video. Here we recommend using Filmora.

You can use it to make 3D animation or 2D animation by adding keyframes , so the animation will be smooth and natural. You just need to build a white plane to easily start making animation.

Besides, color correction/grading and audio mixer will raise up your animation video to a new level.

Free download it to have a try!

Note: The light flare effects of Filmora will make 3D animation to a new level.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Below is a comparison table of 3D animation apps. It is a quick introduction of these 6 3D animation software on Android and iPhone. Take a look.

Support OS Features Pros Cons
Bot3D Editor iPhone Make 3D pose as you want; Lip-sync to recorded voices User-friendly interface; You can make all kinds of gestures Impossible to download characters
Toontastic 3D iPhone/Android Liked by Common Sense Media; Mix audio with song You can customize the color of the characters Users want more props
Maya For 3D Animation Android Integrate your work with Maya Upload your work to Maya for future editing Some bugs will appear
Animate It! iPhone/Android Change playback speed as you want Onion skinning is fun to use for us Not all characters are free to use
Animate Me iPhone/Android Easy to use for beginners and higher end users Regular audio update; Share unlimited 3D animation Vague icons may cause misunderstanding
Anim8 iPhone/Android Simple to use with friendly interface Make full-body animation at one time Only two characters are available

Part 1: Best 3D Animation App for iPhone

1. Bot3D Editor

This best 3D animation app promises to give you “everything you need at your fingertips” and is one of the most efficient smartphone and tablet 3D animation editors on the market.

It’s easy to export and share your work when it is finished, and the app is compatible with iPhones and iPads.

You can create poses within moments and animate them immediately. Key features include the Full Body Inverse Kinematics Algorithm, the importing of sound data and a HandEditor, Face Editor and SceneEditor.

You can also import your own photos and create characters that can lip-sync to voices. The app allows you to create vertical and horizontal videos.

Pros:

  • Customization is good to use
  • Easy to use and make your pose
  • Various emotions to use

Cons:

  • You can’t download your own characters
  • Limited combination and they can’t be mixed up

2. Toontastic 3D

This app allows you to draw, animate, and narrate cartoons. Toontastic is the best 3D animation app that can record your voice and animations and store your animations on your device.

Many people are using the app to create photo albums, put together news reports, and create adventures, and much more.

3d animation app

The animation maker has received glowing reviews from many leading media outlets and was even named the Best Kids App of the Year for 2017. Download the app to create pirates, villains, robots, and all sorts of different characters. Built-in songs are available, and there are three Story Arcs to choose from. You can even add yourself to your stories.

Pros:

  • It has a Parents’ Choice Gold Award
  • You can design your own 3D drawing tools
  • Directly upload it to Photos library

Cons:

  • Needs more characters in one scene
  • More props or extra sound effects are required

Part 2: Best 3D Animation App for Android

1. Maya For 3D Animation

Maya is developed by Autodesk, Inc and can be used to produce interactive 3D applications such as visual effects, animated films, video games, and more.

3D assets created in Maya have been seen in various films, TV series, and games. Those seeking a reliable 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and imaging solution should feel well catered-for by Maya.

Pros:

  • This 3D animation maker is easy to make
  • You can import your work to Maya

Cons:

  • Some bugs appear for many times

3d animation app Maya

2. Animate It!

Animate It! It comes with a host of useful features for the ambitious animators of today. The animation app allows you to create sketches and poses on your tablet and smartphone whenever inspiration strikes.

It offers simple, intuitive controls, and you can perform various actions by finger touching, touching and dragging, and more.

The app can even be used by children to create animations, though it is also a favorite with students, game developers, and professional animators.

There are various skins available for your characters, as well as props and land creation facilities.

Pros:

  • You can select your characters easily
  • You can add user skins up to 10 PNG images

Cons:

  • No tutorial or instruction offers
  • Icons are vague

3d animation apps Animate It

3. Animate Me

This 3D animation app is perfect for kids in particular but is ideal for adults too. Kids across the world have been using Animate Me to create exciting 3D animations and upload them to YouTube.

The app comes with in-built cartoon characters that help kids and those new to the world of animation to get to grips with the basics. It’s possible to make characters perform various actions, including walking, running, jumping, and talking with the app.

There are also video tutorials that will help you get more out of the app. The Everyplay feature enables you to share your work across all kinds of online platforms, including not only YouTube but Facebook and Twitter too.

Pros:

  • Make 3D cartoons move quickly and easily
  • Include video tutorials for beginners

Cons:

  • You have to buy other characters

animation apps Animate me

4. Anim8

If you’re looking for a tool that will let you gain a deeper understanding of 3D and character animation, Anim8 may well be the perfect solution.

You can use the app to pose five existing characters in a 3D environment, with the controls being highly intuitive and efficient. Many people are drawn to this app because of its simplicity.

The app has been designed by leading character animators, and you can start animating within just a few minutes once you have downloaded it. Full body animation is possible thanks to the advanced articulation on offer, and you can sketch out key poses with the drawing tool.

The onion skin feature will help you plan out poses and time in a precise manner, and you can easily upload your work to a plethora of online platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. There are more than 30 points of articulation, and you can also import audio with ease.

Pros:

  • Easy to use interface in Anim8
  • You can sketch your key poses every time

Cons:

  • Sometimes you can share your 3D animation
  • Not all characters are free to use

3d animation apps Anim8

Part 3: FAQ about 3D Animation Apps

1. What is the best app for animation?

For the 3D animation app, we suggest using the Bot3D Editor. It is an easy-to-use anime editor that only needs dragging to complete your editing. If you know how to use keyframes, it will give you more control over animation. For example, you can make poses in many ways by keyframes.

2. How do you animate a 3D object?

The best way to animate a 3D object is by using keyframes and built-in templates. As a beginner, you may not know how to make a 3D object, but with templates, you just need to choose one and start customizing it.

3. Where can I animate for free?

There are so many free-to-use animation software to use. Pencil2D is a reliable tool to make animation easy. You just need to download it on the desktop to animate objects. However, it’d be best if you have a basic understanding of how to make animation. Otherwise, you may need some time to learn it first.

Conclusion

3D animation apps are ideal for those wishing to learn new skills and heighten their creativity. No matter what you’re looking for, we’re confident that you’ll find an app that meets your needs above. You can also use leading tools such as Filmora to edit your video and add extra effects to add an extra touch of magic to your work. Why not get started right now?

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

You don’t need to use your desktop to create exciting, fun, and thought-provoking 3D animations.

In fact, more and more people are moving from using animation software on desktop and producing outstanding 3D animation videos through their apps.

There are many great reasons for making your photo 3D cartoon videos on your phone or tablet. You don’t need to carry your laptop around with you all the time or use your desktop to get the results that you require.

Read on to learn more about six of the very best 3D animation apps for your phone.

It is true that you can make animation on your phone, but editing 3D animation on the desktop is necessary if you want to have more controls on an animation video. Here we recommend using Filmora.

You can use it to make 3D animation or 2D animation by adding keyframes , so the animation will be smooth and natural. You just need to build a white plane to easily start making animation.

Besides, color correction/grading and audio mixer will raise up your animation video to a new level.

Free download it to have a try!

Note: The light flare effects of Filmora will make 3D animation to a new level.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Below is a comparison table of 3D animation apps. It is a quick introduction of these 6 3D animation software on Android and iPhone. Take a look.

Support OS Features Pros Cons
Bot3D Editor iPhone Make 3D pose as you want; Lip-sync to recorded voices User-friendly interface; You can make all kinds of gestures Impossible to download characters
Toontastic 3D iPhone/Android Liked by Common Sense Media; Mix audio with song You can customize the color of the characters Users want more props
Maya For 3D Animation Android Integrate your work with Maya Upload your work to Maya for future editing Some bugs will appear
Animate It! iPhone/Android Change playback speed as you want Onion skinning is fun to use for us Not all characters are free to use
Animate Me iPhone/Android Easy to use for beginners and higher end users Regular audio update; Share unlimited 3D animation Vague icons may cause misunderstanding
Anim8 iPhone/Android Simple to use with friendly interface Make full-body animation at one time Only two characters are available

Part 1: Best 3D Animation App for iPhone

1. Bot3D Editor

This best 3D animation app promises to give you “everything you need at your fingertips” and is one of the most efficient smartphone and tablet 3D animation editors on the market.

It’s easy to export and share your work when it is finished, and the app is compatible with iPhones and iPads.

You can create poses within moments and animate them immediately. Key features include the Full Body Inverse Kinematics Algorithm, the importing of sound data and a HandEditor, Face Editor and SceneEditor.

You can also import your own photos and create characters that can lip-sync to voices. The app allows you to create vertical and horizontal videos.

Pros:

  • Customization is good to use
  • Easy to use and make your pose
  • Various emotions to use

Cons:

  • You can’t download your own characters
  • Limited combination and they can’t be mixed up

2. Toontastic 3D

This app allows you to draw, animate, and narrate cartoons. Toontastic is the best 3D animation app that can record your voice and animations and store your animations on your device.

Many people are using the app to create photo albums, put together news reports, and create adventures, and much more.

3d animation app

The animation maker has received glowing reviews from many leading media outlets and was even named the Best Kids App of the Year for 2017. Download the app to create pirates, villains, robots, and all sorts of different characters. Built-in songs are available, and there are three Story Arcs to choose from. You can even add yourself to your stories.

Pros:

  • It has a Parents’ Choice Gold Award
  • You can design your own 3D drawing tools
  • Directly upload it to Photos library

Cons:

  • Needs more characters in one scene
  • More props or extra sound effects are required

Part 2: Best 3D Animation App for Android

1. Maya For 3D Animation

Maya is developed by Autodesk, Inc and can be used to produce interactive 3D applications such as visual effects, animated films, video games, and more.

3D assets created in Maya have been seen in various films, TV series, and games. Those seeking a reliable 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and imaging solution should feel well catered-for by Maya.

Pros:

  • This 3D animation maker is easy to make
  • You can import your work to Maya

Cons:

  • Some bugs appear for many times

3d animation app Maya

2. Animate It!

Animate It! It comes with a host of useful features for the ambitious animators of today. The animation app allows you to create sketches and poses on your tablet and smartphone whenever inspiration strikes.

It offers simple, intuitive controls, and you can perform various actions by finger touching, touching and dragging, and more.

The app can even be used by children to create animations, though it is also a favorite with students, game developers, and professional animators.

There are various skins available for your characters, as well as props and land creation facilities.

Pros:

  • You can select your characters easily
  • You can add user skins up to 10 PNG images

Cons:

  • No tutorial or instruction offers
  • Icons are vague

3d animation apps Animate It

3. Animate Me

This 3D animation app is perfect for kids in particular but is ideal for adults too. Kids across the world have been using Animate Me to create exciting 3D animations and upload them to YouTube.

The app comes with in-built cartoon characters that help kids and those new to the world of animation to get to grips with the basics. It’s possible to make characters perform various actions, including walking, running, jumping, and talking with the app.

There are also video tutorials that will help you get more out of the app. The Everyplay feature enables you to share your work across all kinds of online platforms, including not only YouTube but Facebook and Twitter too.

Pros:

  • Make 3D cartoons move quickly and easily
  • Include video tutorials for beginners

Cons:

  • You have to buy other characters

animation apps Animate me

4. Anim8

If you’re looking for a tool that will let you gain a deeper understanding of 3D and character animation, Anim8 may well be the perfect solution.

You can use the app to pose five existing characters in a 3D environment, with the controls being highly intuitive and efficient. Many people are drawn to this app because of its simplicity.

The app has been designed by leading character animators, and you can start animating within just a few minutes once you have downloaded it. Full body animation is possible thanks to the advanced articulation on offer, and you can sketch out key poses with the drawing tool.

The onion skin feature will help you plan out poses and time in a precise manner, and you can easily upload your work to a plethora of online platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. There are more than 30 points of articulation, and you can also import audio with ease.

Pros:

  • Easy to use interface in Anim8
  • You can sketch your key poses every time

Cons:

  • Sometimes you can share your 3D animation
  • Not all characters are free to use

3d animation apps Anim8

Part 3: FAQ about 3D Animation Apps

1. What is the best app for animation?

For the 3D animation app, we suggest using the Bot3D Editor. It is an easy-to-use anime editor that only needs dragging to complete your editing. If you know how to use keyframes, it will give you more control over animation. For example, you can make poses in many ways by keyframes.

2. How do you animate a 3D object?

The best way to animate a 3D object is by using keyframes and built-in templates. As a beginner, you may not know how to make a 3D object, but with templates, you just need to choose one and start customizing it.

3. Where can I animate for free?

There are so many free-to-use animation software to use. Pencil2D is a reliable tool to make animation easy. You just need to download it on the desktop to animate objects. However, it’d be best if you have a basic understanding of how to make animation. Otherwise, you may need some time to learn it first.

Conclusion

3D animation apps are ideal for those wishing to learn new skills and heighten their creativity. No matter what you’re looking for, we’re confident that you’ll find an app that meets your needs above. You can also use leading tools such as Filmora to edit your video and add extra effects to add an extra touch of magic to your work. Why not get started right now?

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

You don’t need to use your desktop to create exciting, fun, and thought-provoking 3D animations.

In fact, more and more people are moving from using animation software on desktop and producing outstanding 3D animation videos through their apps.

There are many great reasons for making your photo 3D cartoon videos on your phone or tablet. You don’t need to carry your laptop around with you all the time or use your desktop to get the results that you require.

Read on to learn more about six of the very best 3D animation apps for your phone.

It is true that you can make animation on your phone, but editing 3D animation on the desktop is necessary if you want to have more controls on an animation video. Here we recommend using Filmora.

You can use it to make 3D animation or 2D animation by adding keyframes , so the animation will be smooth and natural. You just need to build a white plane to easily start making animation.

Besides, color correction/grading and audio mixer will raise up your animation video to a new level.

Free download it to have a try!

Note: The light flare effects of Filmora will make 3D animation to a new level.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Below is a comparison table of 3D animation apps. It is a quick introduction of these 6 3D animation software on Android and iPhone. Take a look.

Support OS Features Pros Cons
Bot3D Editor iPhone Make 3D pose as you want; Lip-sync to recorded voices User-friendly interface; You can make all kinds of gestures Impossible to download characters
Toontastic 3D iPhone/Android Liked by Common Sense Media; Mix audio with song You can customize the color of the characters Users want more props
Maya For 3D Animation Android Integrate your work with Maya Upload your work to Maya for future editing Some bugs will appear
Animate It! iPhone/Android Change playback speed as you want Onion skinning is fun to use for us Not all characters are free to use
Animate Me iPhone/Android Easy to use for beginners and higher end users Regular audio update; Share unlimited 3D animation Vague icons may cause misunderstanding
Anim8 iPhone/Android Simple to use with friendly interface Make full-body animation at one time Only two characters are available

Part 1: Best 3D Animation App for iPhone

1. Bot3D Editor

This best 3D animation app promises to give you “everything you need at your fingertips” and is one of the most efficient smartphone and tablet 3D animation editors on the market.

It’s easy to export and share your work when it is finished, and the app is compatible with iPhones and iPads.

You can create poses within moments and animate them immediately. Key features include the Full Body Inverse Kinematics Algorithm, the importing of sound data and a HandEditor, Face Editor and SceneEditor.

You can also import your own photos and create characters that can lip-sync to voices. The app allows you to create vertical and horizontal videos.

Pros:

  • Customization is good to use
  • Easy to use and make your pose
  • Various emotions to use

Cons:

  • You can’t download your own characters
  • Limited combination and they can’t be mixed up

2. Toontastic 3D

This app allows you to draw, animate, and narrate cartoons. Toontastic is the best 3D animation app that can record your voice and animations and store your animations on your device.

Many people are using the app to create photo albums, put together news reports, and create adventures, and much more.

3d animation app

The animation maker has received glowing reviews from many leading media outlets and was even named the Best Kids App of the Year for 2017. Download the app to create pirates, villains, robots, and all sorts of different characters. Built-in songs are available, and there are three Story Arcs to choose from. You can even add yourself to your stories.

Pros:

  • It has a Parents’ Choice Gold Award
  • You can design your own 3D drawing tools
  • Directly upload it to Photos library

Cons:

  • Needs more characters in one scene
  • More props or extra sound effects are required

Part 2: Best 3D Animation App for Android

1. Maya For 3D Animation

Maya is developed by Autodesk, Inc and can be used to produce interactive 3D applications such as visual effects, animated films, video games, and more.

3D assets created in Maya have been seen in various films, TV series, and games. Those seeking a reliable 3D modeling, animation, rendering, and imaging solution should feel well catered-for by Maya.

Pros:

  • This 3D animation maker is easy to make
  • You can import your work to Maya

Cons:

  • Some bugs appear for many times

3d animation app Maya

2. Animate It!

Animate It! It comes with a host of useful features for the ambitious animators of today. The animation app allows you to create sketches and poses on your tablet and smartphone whenever inspiration strikes.

It offers simple, intuitive controls, and you can perform various actions by finger touching, touching and dragging, and more.

The app can even be used by children to create animations, though it is also a favorite with students, game developers, and professional animators.

There are various skins available for your characters, as well as props and land creation facilities.

Pros:

  • You can select your characters easily
  • You can add user skins up to 10 PNG images

Cons:

  • No tutorial or instruction offers
  • Icons are vague

3d animation apps Animate It

3. Animate Me

This 3D animation app is perfect for kids in particular but is ideal for adults too. Kids across the world have been using Animate Me to create exciting 3D animations and upload them to YouTube.

The app comes with in-built cartoon characters that help kids and those new to the world of animation to get to grips with the basics. It’s possible to make characters perform various actions, including walking, running, jumping, and talking with the app.

There are also video tutorials that will help you get more out of the app. The Everyplay feature enables you to share your work across all kinds of online platforms, including not only YouTube but Facebook and Twitter too.

Pros:

  • Make 3D cartoons move quickly and easily
  • Include video tutorials for beginners

Cons:

  • You have to buy other characters

animation apps Animate me

4. Anim8

If you’re looking for a tool that will let you gain a deeper understanding of 3D and character animation, Anim8 may well be the perfect solution.

You can use the app to pose five existing characters in a 3D environment, with the controls being highly intuitive and efficient. Many people are drawn to this app because of its simplicity.

The app has been designed by leading character animators, and you can start animating within just a few minutes once you have downloaded it. Full body animation is possible thanks to the advanced articulation on offer, and you can sketch out key poses with the drawing tool.

The onion skin feature will help you plan out poses and time in a precise manner, and you can easily upload your work to a plethora of online platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. There are more than 30 points of articulation, and you can also import audio with ease.

Pros:

  • Easy to use interface in Anim8
  • You can sketch your key poses every time

Cons:

  • Sometimes you can share your 3D animation
  • Not all characters are free to use

3d animation apps Anim8

Part 3: FAQ about 3D Animation Apps

1. What is the best app for animation?

For the 3D animation app, we suggest using the Bot3D Editor. It is an easy-to-use anime editor that only needs dragging to complete your editing. If you know how to use keyframes, it will give you more control over animation. For example, you can make poses in many ways by keyframes.

2. How do you animate a 3D object?

The best way to animate a 3D object is by using keyframes and built-in templates. As a beginner, you may not know how to make a 3D object, but with templates, you just need to choose one and start customizing it.

3. Where can I animate for free?

There are so many free-to-use animation software to use. Pencil2D is a reliable tool to make animation easy. You just need to download it on the desktop to animate objects. However, it’d be best if you have a basic understanding of how to make animation. Otherwise, you may need some time to learn it first.

Conclusion

3D animation apps are ideal for those wishing to learn new skills and heighten their creativity. No matter what you’re looking for, we’re confident that you’ll find an app that meets your needs above. You can also use leading tools such as Filmora to edit your video and add extra effects to add an extra touch of magic to your work. Why not get started right now?

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

This Article Shows You How to Do Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

Final Cut Pro X: Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Sony Vegas for Windows: Find Your Perfect Replacement

Find the Best Sony Vegas Alternative for Windows

author avatar

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Vegas Pro is the popular video editing program in Windows. It provides decent video editing features including audio editing, video editing, transition, and titles, and more. But wait a minute, Sony Vegas Pro has not the feature you want? Can’t import your video source files? Any other problems? Drop it and find a ?Vegas alternative for Windows in this article.

In this article, we selected the top 4 alternatives of Vegas for Windows.


Vegas alternative for Windows

1. Adobe Premiere Elements - A Program like Sony Vegas

When a product is branded with Adobe, it means high quality, better performance, and consistency with another program by Adobe. Adobe Premiere Elements is a good Vegas alternative for Windows (Mac version also available). Just as what’s said on its homepage “the #1 consumer video editing software”, Adobe is a popular video editor for home users.

sony vegas alternative adobe premiere

For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is the better Sony Vegas alternative for Windows. It’s the higher version of Premiere Element with differences in capturing, timeline editing, multiple sequence editing, DVD menu, surround sound mixing, etc.

2. ZS4 Video Editor - Free Alternative to Sony Vegas in Windows

ZS4 Video Editor is a free Sony Vegas alternative for Windows, Mac and Linux. It is the new incarnation of the free Zwei-Stein Video Editor. It comes with simple video editing tools and 150 video effects, but the interface is not so user-friendly. Compared to Wondershare Video Editor and Adobe Premiere , ZS4 Video Editor is not the common video editing software, but free is the most important factor for this Sony Vegas alternative.

sony vegas alternative for windows

3. Filmora - Get things done easily, no more fussing

Wondershare Filmora provides you with all the necessary video editing tools you need. It enables you to create Hollywood-like home movies with transitions, titles, effects from any videos, audio, and photos. Advanced features like timeline editing, Picture-in-Picture, fast/slow motion, voice change, video/audio recording are made easy to use. The most important thing is that sharing possibilities are endless. You can share instantly with family and friends with easy upload to YouTube, Facebook, etc. Or save videos to play on portable devices like iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy Note, Kindle Fire, etc., or burn DVD for better preserving and sharing.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version


Conclusion

If I were someone looking for a cheap video editor to get jobs done and really can’t be bothered to learn everything about a new video editor, I’ll go for Filmora. This software fits the appetite of beginners and intermediate users. You definitely can find better software for a higher price on the market, but before buying, ask yourself this question ‘Can I spend hours focusing on learning a new hard software?Do I really need that many high-end functions to get things done?’

Click the buttons below to try it for free.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Vegas Pro is the popular video editing program in Windows. It provides decent video editing features including audio editing, video editing, transition, and titles, and more. But wait a minute, Sony Vegas Pro has not the feature you want? Can’t import your video source files? Any other problems? Drop it and find a ?Vegas alternative for Windows in this article.

In this article, we selected the top 4 alternatives of Vegas for Windows.


Vegas alternative for Windows

1. Adobe Premiere Elements - A Program like Sony Vegas

When a product is branded with Adobe, it means high quality, better performance, and consistency with another program by Adobe. Adobe Premiere Elements is a good Vegas alternative for Windows (Mac version also available). Just as what’s said on its homepage “the #1 consumer video editing software”, Adobe is a popular video editor for home users.

sony vegas alternative adobe premiere

For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is the better Sony Vegas alternative for Windows. It’s the higher version of Premiere Element with differences in capturing, timeline editing, multiple sequence editing, DVD menu, surround sound mixing, etc.

2. ZS4 Video Editor - Free Alternative to Sony Vegas in Windows

ZS4 Video Editor is a free Sony Vegas alternative for Windows, Mac and Linux. It is the new incarnation of the free Zwei-Stein Video Editor. It comes with simple video editing tools and 150 video effects, but the interface is not so user-friendly. Compared to Wondershare Video Editor and Adobe Premiere , ZS4 Video Editor is not the common video editing software, but free is the most important factor for this Sony Vegas alternative.

sony vegas alternative for windows

3. Filmora - Get things done easily, no more fussing

Wondershare Filmora provides you with all the necessary video editing tools you need. It enables you to create Hollywood-like home movies with transitions, titles, effects from any videos, audio, and photos. Advanced features like timeline editing, Picture-in-Picture, fast/slow motion, voice change, video/audio recording are made easy to use. The most important thing is that sharing possibilities are endless. You can share instantly with family and friends with easy upload to YouTube, Facebook, etc. Or save videos to play on portable devices like iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy Note, Kindle Fire, etc., or burn DVD for better preserving and sharing.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version


Conclusion

If I were someone looking for a cheap video editor to get jobs done and really can’t be bothered to learn everything about a new video editor, I’ll go for Filmora. This software fits the appetite of beginners and intermediate users. You definitely can find better software for a higher price on the market, but before buying, ask yourself this question ‘Can I spend hours focusing on learning a new hard software?Do I really need that many high-end functions to get things done?’

Click the buttons below to try it for free.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Vegas Pro is the popular video editing program in Windows. It provides decent video editing features including audio editing, video editing, transition, and titles, and more. But wait a minute, Sony Vegas Pro has not the feature you want? Can’t import your video source files? Any other problems? Drop it and find a ?Vegas alternative for Windows in this article.

In this article, we selected the top 4 alternatives of Vegas for Windows.


Vegas alternative for Windows

1. Adobe Premiere Elements - A Program like Sony Vegas

When a product is branded with Adobe, it means high quality, better performance, and consistency with another program by Adobe. Adobe Premiere Elements is a good Vegas alternative for Windows (Mac version also available). Just as what’s said on its homepage “the #1 consumer video editing software”, Adobe is a popular video editor for home users.

sony vegas alternative adobe premiere

For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is the better Sony Vegas alternative for Windows. It’s the higher version of Premiere Element with differences in capturing, timeline editing, multiple sequence editing, DVD menu, surround sound mixing, etc.

2. ZS4 Video Editor - Free Alternative to Sony Vegas in Windows

ZS4 Video Editor is a free Sony Vegas alternative for Windows, Mac and Linux. It is the new incarnation of the free Zwei-Stein Video Editor. It comes with simple video editing tools and 150 video effects, but the interface is not so user-friendly. Compared to Wondershare Video Editor and Adobe Premiere , ZS4 Video Editor is not the common video editing software, but free is the most important factor for this Sony Vegas alternative.

sony vegas alternative for windows

3. Filmora - Get things done easily, no more fussing

Wondershare Filmora provides you with all the necessary video editing tools you need. It enables you to create Hollywood-like home movies with transitions, titles, effects from any videos, audio, and photos. Advanced features like timeline editing, Picture-in-Picture, fast/slow motion, voice change, video/audio recording are made easy to use. The most important thing is that sharing possibilities are endless. You can share instantly with family and friends with easy upload to YouTube, Facebook, etc. Or save videos to play on portable devices like iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy Note, Kindle Fire, etc., or burn DVD for better preserving and sharing.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version


Conclusion

If I were someone looking for a cheap video editor to get jobs done and really can’t be bothered to learn everything about a new video editor, I’ll go for Filmora. This software fits the appetite of beginners and intermediate users. You definitely can find better software for a higher price on the market, but before buying, ask yourself this question ‘Can I spend hours focusing on learning a new hard software?Do I really need that many high-end functions to get things done?’

Click the buttons below to try it for free.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Vegas Pro is the popular video editing program in Windows. It provides decent video editing features including audio editing, video editing, transition, and titles, and more. But wait a minute, Sony Vegas Pro has not the feature you want? Can’t import your video source files? Any other problems? Drop it and find a ?Vegas alternative for Windows in this article.

In this article, we selected the top 4 alternatives of Vegas for Windows.


Vegas alternative for Windows

1. Adobe Premiere Elements - A Program like Sony Vegas

When a product is branded with Adobe, it means high quality, better performance, and consistency with another program by Adobe. Adobe Premiere Elements is a good Vegas alternative for Windows (Mac version also available). Just as what’s said on its homepage “the #1 consumer video editing software”, Adobe is a popular video editor for home users.

sony vegas alternative adobe premiere

For professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro is the better Sony Vegas alternative for Windows. It’s the higher version of Premiere Element with differences in capturing, timeline editing, multiple sequence editing, DVD menu, surround sound mixing, etc.

2. ZS4 Video Editor - Free Alternative to Sony Vegas in Windows

ZS4 Video Editor is a free Sony Vegas alternative for Windows, Mac and Linux. It is the new incarnation of the free Zwei-Stein Video Editor. It comes with simple video editing tools and 150 video effects, but the interface is not so user-friendly. Compared to Wondershare Video Editor and Adobe Premiere , ZS4 Video Editor is not the common video editing software, but free is the most important factor for this Sony Vegas alternative.

sony vegas alternative for windows

3. Filmora - Get things done easily, no more fussing

Wondershare Filmora provides you with all the necessary video editing tools you need. It enables you to create Hollywood-like home movies with transitions, titles, effects from any videos, audio, and photos. Advanced features like timeline editing, Picture-in-Picture, fast/slow motion, voice change, video/audio recording are made easy to use. The most important thing is that sharing possibilities are endless. You can share instantly with family and friends with easy upload to YouTube, Facebook, etc. Or save videos to play on portable devices like iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy Note, Kindle Fire, etc., or burn DVD for better preserving and sharing.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version


Conclusion

If I were someone looking for a cheap video editor to get jobs done and really can’t be bothered to learn everything about a new video editor, I’ll go for Filmora. This software fits the appetite of beginners and intermediate users. You definitely can find better software for a higher price on the market, but before buying, ask yourself this question ‘Can I spend hours focusing on learning a new hard software?Do I really need that many high-end functions to get things done?’

Click the buttons below to try it for free.

Download Filmora9 Win Version Download Filmora9 Mac Version

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

From Green to Glamour: Enhancing Your Footage with FCP X Chroma Key

FCP X: Create a Chroma-Key (Green-screen) Effect

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

fx chroma 01

The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

fx chroma 02

Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

fx chroma 03

Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

fx chroma 04

In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

fx chroma 06

Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

fx chroma 07

Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

fx chroma 05

If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

fx chroma 09

Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

fx chroma 09a

Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

fx chroma 10

Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

fx chroma 11

When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

fx chroma 12

Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

fx chroma 13

Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

fx chroma 14

Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

fx chroma 01

The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

fx chroma 02

Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

fx chroma 03

Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

fx chroma 04

In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

fx chroma 06

Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

fx chroma 07

Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

fx chroma 05

If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

fx chroma 09

Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

fx chroma 09a

Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

fx chroma 10

Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

fx chroma 11

When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

fx chroma 12

Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

fx chroma 13

Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

fx chroma 14

Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

fx chroma 01

The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

fx chroma 02

Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

fx chroma 03

Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

fx chroma 04

In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

fx chroma 06

Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

fx chroma 07

Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

fx chroma 05

If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

fx chroma 09

Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

fx chroma 09a

Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

fx chroma 10

Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

fx chroma 11

When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

fx chroma 12

Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

fx chroma 13

Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

fx chroma 14

Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chroma-key (also called “green screen”) effects are a staple in video production. What FCP X effect does is allow you to make the background behind an actor transparent so you can place the actor into a different environment than a studio.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


Getting Started

First, the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your keys is to improve how you shoot them. Here are seven basic production rules:

  • Actors should be at least 10 feet in front of the green screen. This avoids light from the background “spilling” around their body or shoulders.
  • In general, don’t cast shadows on the green screen. Be very careful shooting feet.
  • The green background should be as smooth as possible. Paint is always better than fabric; avoid wrinkles and folds.
  • The green background should be lit smoothly, both from side to side and top to bottom. I try to have the green background display between 40-50% level on the waveform monitor.
  • There is NO relationship between how the background is lit and how your actors are lit. This article will illustrate that.
  • Light your background for smoothness. Light your actors for drama.
  • Don’t worry about having the green background fill the frame. It only needs to completely surround the edges of your actors. Garbage mattes are used to get rid of junk around the edges.

Setting up the Key

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The green screen image is always placed above the background. You can place either the green screen or background image into the Primary Storyline. I find it easier to put the background in the Primary Storyline, because it makes editing the green screen image easier. But this is purely personal choice.

Step 1: Select the green screen clip

From the Effects Browser > Keying category, double-click the Keyer effect, which applies it to the selected clip. (You can also drag the effect on top of the clip, if you forgot to select the green-screen clip first.)

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Don’t panic if your image looks weird – we will fix it.

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Click the Sample Color icon. This allows fine-tuning the selection of the background color.

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In the green-screen image, drag to select a representative section of the background. I try to get close to the face, but not so close that I accidentally select loose hair or skin.

Your key should look better immediately. Most of the time, you can probably stop here. But there are three other adjustments that can make your key look even better:

  • Cleaning up the matte
  • Edge adjustments
  • Light wrap

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Click the Matte button to display your key as a white foreground on a black background.

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Your goal is the make the foreground solid white, which means opaque, and the background solid black, which means transparent. Adjust the Fill Holes and Edge Distance sliders until your key looks solid. (For REALLY bad keys, you’ll need to also adjust Color Selection, mentioned below.)

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If an edge is too pronounced, or needs help, click the Edges icon.

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Step 2: Tweaks Video

Then, click and drag a line from the foreground to the background in the Canvas. Drag the midpoint slider (where my cursor is) until the edge looks the best it can. Different video formats make this easy (ProRes), while others (HDV, avchd) make this much harder. Perfection is impossible – do the best you can.

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Final Cut provides four additional tweaks at the bottom of the keyer filter:

  • Color Selection
  • Matte Tools
  • Spill Suppression
  • Light Wrap

The first three are designed to clean up poorly shot keys – read the FCP X Help files to learn how these work. (I used the Color Selection tools to clean up the very dark key I use an example later in this article.)

Light wrap, though, is aesthetic. What it does is blend colors from the background into the edges of the foreground, to make the entire key look more “organic,” as if the foreground and background were actually in the same space.

This is a subtle effect, but very cool.

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Twirl down Light Wrap and adjust the Amount slider and watch what happens. Drag the other sliders around and see what happens. The nice thing about this setting is that when it looks good to you, it is good. The amount of the effect is totally up to you. Remember, Light Wrap only affects the edges of the foreground and should be used subtly.

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When you are done, you have a great looking key!

Clean up the Image with a Garbage Mask

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Sometimes, however, you don’t have, ah, perhaps, the best green-screen image to work with. Here, for example, there are lighting instruments in the foreground, with a very inadequately lit green screen in the background. (Sigh… this is just pitiful.)

Once you pull the key – which is film-speak for creating a green-screen shot, as I described above – and get it looking as good as possible, there’s one more step: adding a garbage matte to get rid of all the garbage surrounding your actors.

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Once you get your key looking as good as you can – which in this case isn’t all that good – drag the Mask effect (Effects > Keying > Mask) on top of the green-screen clip.

NOTE: The Mask effect should always be added after the Keying effect, so that the Mask is below the Keyer in the Inspector.

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Then, drag each of the four circles to create a shape such that your foreground image is contained inside it, and everything you want to exclude is outside. Here, for instance, we removed the light stand, the edge of the green background and the tearing at the top of the image. I’ve found this Mask effect works best when applied to a connected clip.

However, the big limitation of the Mask effect is that you only have four points to work with. That’s where a free effect comes in, which allows you to create far more flexible shapes with it. It’s written by Alex Gollner and is available on his website – alex4d.wordpress.com/fcpx/ – I recommend his effects highly.

How to Create a Chroma-Key in easier ways?

Chroma-key, or green screen, is an essential part of every editor to make all kinds of effects. Is there any way to make this sophisticated procedure easier way? Yes, try Filmora.

In version 10.5 for Mac, Filmora added a new feature: AI portrait. It allows you to do a green screen effect with just one click.

By adopting AI portrait, you can add those stunning effects in simple steps: How to Remove or Change Video Background in One Step?

Or: How to Add a Shake Effect to your Videos?

Conclusion

The chroma-key filter in FCP X allows us to create some amazing effects. If you want to use green screen effects more easily, here is Filmora for you. You can appaly Chroma-Key effects with just a few click. Have fun playing with it.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

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Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

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Also read:

  • Title: Updated Best Mobile Animation Tools Free 3D Apps for Android and iOS
  • Author: Amelia
  • Created at : 2024-05-19 11:47:11
  • Updated at : 2024-05-20 11:47:11
  • Link: https://ai-driven-video-production.techidaily.com/updated-best-mobile-animation-tools-free-3d-apps-for-android-and-ios/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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Updated Best Mobile Animation Tools Free 3D Apps for Android and iOS