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iMovie Complete Tutorial
1. iMovie Basic Editing Tips +
2. iMovie Advanced Editing Tips +
3. iMovie Creative Editing Tips +
4. iMovie Alternatives +
5. iMovie Troubleshooting +
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Beginner Tutorial: How to Save iMovie Projects on Mac?

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Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

iMovie is one of the popular editing tools used by millions of people every day. The software was developed by Apple Inc. and can be used on Apple devices only. The Mac version of this software allows you to work on multiple projects at a single time.

It provides basic editing tools that can be used to compile a movie using a set of multiple video clips. You can also add special visual and audio effects to your projects. After you have created your perfect project, it can easily be saved on your Mac computer. Your projects can either be saved directly on your desktop or in a specific file.

Part 1. Two Methods to Save iMovie Projects on Mac

There are two ways to save your iMovie projects on your Mac. You can either click on the "Files" that you will find after clicking the "Share Project" button in the “Projects” tab. Another way is to click on "File" in the dropdown menu to save your project. Both methods of saving iMovie projects on Mac are explained briefly here.

Method 1: Use the “Share Project” Option

To save iMovie projects with the "Share Project" option, you can follow these steps.

Step #1. Open a project in iMovie on your Mac. You can either select an ongoing project or you can start afresh one by clicking on the (+) option. When starting a new project, iMovie gives you two options: to either select a Trailer Template or start a FreeForm movie.

Step #2. When your project is complete, and you want to save your work, click on the three dots that you will see on the right side of the project’s name. A pop-up menu will appear. Click on the “Share Project” option listed in the menu.

Step #3. Click on the “File” option in the list, and a copy of your iMovie project will be saved on your Mac.

You can also share your projects through other means listed in the menu, like Email or Social Media. By clicking on the “Theater” option, you can save your project in iMovie, but it will not be accessible from anywhere else on the computer.

Step #4. After you click on “File”, a pop-up will open containing options of customization to help you adjust your video settings before saving. You can alter the video’s resolution and quality. Or add descriptions and tags.

If you also want your movie in the “theater” tab, check the “Add to Theater” box.

Step #5. After you are satisfied with the customization process, click on “Next” to proceed further.

Step #6. iMovie will now ask you to name your file and add a location. You can type in the name of your file next to “Save As” and the location (a specific folder or your desktop) next to “Where”.

Step #7. Click on “Save” and your iMovie project will be saved on your computer.

Method 2. Use the File Menu

You can also save your project in iMovie with the File menu, do like this.

Step #1. Open a project in iMovie or create a new one by clicking the (+) option.

Step #2. After completing the project, drag your pointer to the “File” menu on the toolbar that you’ll see next to the “iMovie” settings. A drop-down menu will open.

Step #3. Select the “Share” option from the dropdown menu.

Step #4. Finally, select “File” and the pop-up to save your project to your PC will appear.

Step #5. After customization, assign a name and a location to your project and click on the “Save” option.

Part 2. Why Can’t I Save My iMovie on Mac and How to Fix It?

Many people encounter the problem of not being able to save their unfinished or completed iMovie projects on Mac. Several factors may be responsible for this problem. Some of the most common reasons that can stop your iMovie projects from saving are listed here, along with their solutions.

  • Lack of Space in Your Computer

This is one of the most common causes that make you fail to save your iMovie files on your computer. You can remedy this problem by deleting stuff that is not in use.

  • Corrupted Project File

A corrupted file will also pose problems in saving. You can fix this by copying all the video files in the same folder, removing rejected files, or by removing the thumbnails file.

  • No Save Option in the Menu

Sometimes you may notice that there is no Save option in the iMovie menu. This usually happens when your work is being automatically saved to your computer’s hard drive. After completion, your iMovie project can be exported to multiple locations.

Part 3. The Best Alternative to iMovie on Mac

No doubt that iMovie is a great tool for editing videos for Mac users, but there are other excellent alternatives available as well. Out of many great editing software, Wondershare Filmora has to be the best alternative to iMovie for Mac users.

Download Filmora Win Version Download Filmora Mac Version

It offers a variety of features that help elevate your movies and videos and make them stand out from the rest. It makes the gruesome process of editing feel like a breeze. Some features offered by Wondershare Filmora are listed here:

  • Screen Recording

It allows you to record your screen. You can also edit and save your screen recording using Filmora. This feature is usually used to record and edit screencast videos.

  • Noise Removal

Easily remove unwanted background noise.

  • Picture-in-Picture

Overlay one video or an image on another video.

  • AI Portrait

Enhance your videos and make them more vibrant with AI-portrait.

  • Audio Ducking

Fade one track in another by using Filmora’s audio ducking feature.

  • Cool Texts

Filmora also offers multitudes of text and titles to choose from.

  • Multiple Transitions and Effects

Add cool transitions, video and, audio effects to personalize your videos.

  • Speed Control

Slow down and speed up your videos to your liking. You can also use this feature to create a time-lapse or for slow-motion effects.

  • Music Library

Access to thousands of soundtracks via Filmora’s music library.

With Wondershare Filmora you’ll have access to the most cutting-edge editing tools. With access to a variety of themes, soundtracks, sound effects and, titles, you can make your creation special.

Final Word

There are times when you find it challenging to save iMovie projects on your Mac. It can be a frustrating and time-consuming experience to figure out how to save iMovie on Mac.

Filmora offers an exceptional solution to your worries, allowing you to save iMovie projects to desktops. Apart from that, it also brings a diverse variety of editing features that can help you make your movies more engaging for your audience.

author avatar
Marion Dubois
Marion Dubois is a writer and a lover of all things video.
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Marion Dubois

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