Get Your Editing
Software Ready
You need an NLE (Non-Linear Editor) before you can do anything. Choose one of these three options. All are free to start.
Step 1 — Choose Your NLE
DaVinci Resolve
The professional's choice — free, forever.
The most powerful free professional editor in the world. Used by Hollywood films and TV series. The free version has everything you need for this entire programme — colour grading, audio mixing, VFX, and delivery.
Adobe Premiere Pro
The most widely used editor in broadcast and agency work.
The industry standard for film, TV, and online video. Requires a Creative Cloud subscription after the free trial. Start with the trial — you can switch to DaVinci Resolve later. The editing principles are identical.
CapCut PC
Zero friction. Start editing in minutes.
The fastest NLE to learn. No subscription, no complexity. Perfect if you want to start editing today without a learning curve. Widely used for social and short-form content. You can always switch to DaVinci Resolve later.
If you want to work professionally in film or TV, learn DaVinci Resolve — it's free and industry-grade. If you're already in the Adobe ecosystem, use Premiere Pro. If you just want to start cutting today with zero friction, start with CapCut and switch later. The editing principles you learn here work in all three.
Step 2 — Set Up Your Project Structure
Before you import a single clip, set up your folder structure. Professional editors are organised editors.
Create this structure on your desktop or in Documents before Week 1.
Step 3 — Get Your First Footage
Here are three places to get free footage right now: