Video Effects Software: How to Add Special Effects to a Video

Video effects, also known as filter or visual effects, are used to create all sorts of crazy visuals with clicks. It's easy to do and the results are stunning. This is why people love video effects.

Different from other video editing software hit on the market that only come with very limited video effects, Wondershare Filmora (originally Wondershare Video Editor) (Filmora for Mac) provides 300+ free effects, including Transitional effects, Picture in Picture, Intro/Credits, Titles, Sound, Jump Cut, Mosaic, and more. All of these make your video going into the next level. In the following, I'll show you how to add special effects to a video.

Step 1 Add video files to the program

Before adding video files to the Timeline for editing, you need to import them first. There are mainly 2 ways: either through "Import" button on the main interface, or simply dragging and dropping files from Windows File Explorer to the User's Album. All popular video/audio/photo formats are supported by this video effect software.

Step 2 Apply video effects to video and photo files

Now it's time to add media files and apply video effects. First, drag the video file from the User's Album to the video Timeline.  And then switch to the Effect tab to right click your favorite template and select apply. You will see a sub-track just above video track, showing an "E" mark. Note that the added effect will only be applied to the overlayed video. If you want to increase the effect duration, just mouse over the "E" mark, and when  the "double arrow" cursor appears, drag it to any length you want.

Step 3 Export video

When you are happy with the video effects applied to a video, click "Create" to save a video with effects. You can save video in all popular formats on the computer by clicking "Format" and specify some necessary settings. If you want to play your video on iPod, iPhone, iPad, click "Device" and select the thumbnail of your devices. It's also a good idea to share your videos on YouTube to share with your friends.

Watch this video tutorial below about how to add effects to videos: