Introduction
In this exhaustive guide, we unravel the simple and straightforward procedure of using the VLC media player to rotate videos. The VLC media player, known for its suite of rich features, is one of the most popular media players globally, thanks to its capability to play different media formats and perform basic video editing tasks like video rotation. This article will delve into what VLC is, its video rotating feature, and how to easily use it to transform your viewing experience.
What Is VLC?
Most known simply as VLC, VideoLAN Client is a versatile media player that supports a wide variety of multimedia formats, from typical video and audio formats to obscure ones. Unlike other media players that may require separate codec packages, VLC comes with numerous codecs integrated into it, reducing the hassle of having to install additional files.
Born out of a student project at the French Ecole Centrale Paris in 1996, VLC has become a widely-used media player across the globe over the years. Its open-source nature, which allows anyone to access and modify its code, has facilitated its growth and presence in many platforms, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Understanding VLC’s Video Rotating Feature
VLC’s video rotating feature comes in handy in changing the orientation of your videos. This feature allows you to rotate a video by 90, 180, or 270 degrees and even flip it horizontally or vertically.
The need to rotate a video becomes necessary when footage is shot with the incorrect orientation. For instance, you may have filmed a beautiful sunset with your camera sideways, which would make your footage appear sideways when viewed on a normal screen. In such scenarios, the video rotation feature of VLC comes to the rescue.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Rotate Videos in VLC
Rotating videos using VLC is a straightforward process. Let me guide you through it step-by-step.
Opening VLC and Loading the Video
First, open the VLC media player on your device. Select ‘Media’ in the menu, then choose ‘Open File’ and scroll through your files to find the video you want to rotate.
Accessing the Video Rotation Settings
Once the video is playing, go to the ‘Tools’ menu and click on ‘Effects and Filters’. A new window will open showing a tab for ‘Video Effects’. Select this and then proceed to the ‘Geometry’ tab.
Choosing the Rotating Angle and Applying It
Under the ‘Geometry’ tab, check the ‘Transform’ box and from the dropdown menu, choose the angle you wish to rotate your video to.
Saving the Rotated Video
Finally, you need to save the changes. Close the ‘Video Effects’ window, go back to the ‘Media’ tab, click on ‘Convert/Save’, and complete the necessary steps.
Common Errors When Rotating Videos in VLC
Despite VLC’s ease of use, you may occasionally encounter some issues. A common problem is finding that the rotated video doesn’t save correctly or fails to open after being saved. These issues can often be fixed by checking if you have the latest VLC version or if the output settings are correct when saving the video.
Alternatives to VLC for Video Rotation
While VLC is a robust tool, there are also other software and online tools to rotate videos. Options like Windows Movie Maker, iMovie, and online platforms like rotatevideo.org offer simple interfaces for rotating videos. However, VLC stands out for its additional features and the ability to handle various file formats.
Tips for Better Usage of VLC’s Video Rotating Feature
To make the best of VLC’s video rotating feature, ensure that you have the latest update. Also, double-check the output settings, especially the chosen output directory and filename before saving the changes. Meanwhile, try to avoid overloading VLC with too many tasks simultaneously as it may cause the program to freeze or crash.
Conclusion
Our deep dive into the VLC media player’s video rotating feature shows a world of potential for anyone struggling with incorrect video orientation. The comprehensive guide above addresses all the steps for rotating videos in VLC and deals with common challenges encountered in the process. All things considered, the simplicity and functionality of VLC’s video rotating feature make it a handy tool for any video enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does rotating a video reduce its quality?
No, rotating a video does not reduce its quality. However, if the video is not saved correctly, there may be a loss in quality.
Can you undo a rotation in VLC?
Yes, you can undo a rotation by simply re-opening the ‘Geometry’ window under ‘Video Effects’ and unchecking the ‘Transform’ box.
What other types of video edits can be made using VLC?
Apart from rotating, you can use VLC to create video clips, adjust contrast, brightness, saturation, and also add effects or watermarks to your videos.
Is VLC completely free or are there in-app purchases?
VLC is completely free of charge with no hidden charges or in-app purchases.
What platforms can VLC be used on?
VLC is compatible with multiple platforms, including Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
How to troubleshoot if video can’t be saved after rotation?
Ensure that you have the latest version of VLC and double check your output settings. Also, try to run VLC as an administrator.
What are some common VLC alternatives for rotating videos?
Several other video editing tools like Windows Movie Maker, iMovie, or online tools like rotatevideo.org can also be used to rotate videos. However, they may not have the same extended functionality as VLC.