Here are some tips for getting started with iMovie.

Getting Started: Open iMovie, then select File < New Project < No Theme < Create.

Upload your video: Create a new event in the event library. Then drag and drop your video into the new event.

Upload any images you want to include: Images can also be dragged and dropped into the event library.

Cut video: Select the section you want to cut, then right click, and choose delete selection.

Split clip: Use this feature to separate out different parts of the project for editing. This can be done by pressing Command + Shift + S.

Insert image: Drag image from Finder window and drop into where you want it in the project. You can extend or decrease the length of the image by

Insert Text: Press Command + 3, choose your type of text, then place where you want it in the project. If you place it over a clip, there will be no additional background. If you place it between clips, then you’ll have options for that text clip’s background.

Insert Transition: Press Command + 4, choose your transition, then add it where you want it to appear.

Insert Audio: Audio can be dragged and dropped into your project.

Adjust Audio: Scroll over the clip to reveal a gear on the bottom left hand of the selected clip. Then click on the gear and select “Audio Adjustments”.

Attribution: If you are using video, music, or images that are not your own, give credit where credit is due. Watch this video to learn more.

Fair use images: Some good sites for finding images include Creative Commons and Wikimedia Commons. Also try Google Images advanced search option which allows for modifying your search by usage rights.

Fair use sound: iMovie contains free use movie clips that can be found by selecting the music note icon. Apple has a great link to free and fair use music sources. Also try Jamendo and dig.ccMixter. You can use up to 30 seconds of any song under fair use laws.

When you are done: Select File < Finalize Project. You will then need to share your video on YouTube so that it can be embedded on the class site.

Embedding on YouTube: Within iMovie, select Share < YouTube. Within YouTube, select Share < Embed < then copy and paste the embed code. In WordPress, enter the Dashboard. Use the Text viewer, then paste the embed code.

Jenny Kijilowski, a Senior ITF at Macaulay, has created some great in depth iMovie tutorials that are worth checking out.