About this section
Before we dig into editing video, here are my favorite spots to find stock assets in case you want to source some footage to work with during these lessons.
Videos
Pexels
This is by far my favorite place to find stock footage. Not only is it free (cha-ching 💰), but it has a seemingly endless — and constantly updated — catalog of stock footage that's fresh-feeling and full of diversity.
The only downside is that the compressed video files are not the absolute best quality, but who wants to wait for crazy-big files to download anyway?
Envato Elements
This subscription site lets you download unlimited stock videos from an extensive catalog that's frequently updated. The files are top-notch quality (a.k.a. prepare to wait for downloads), but TBH the shots often look too dated and cheesy for our style.
4K Video Downloader
This free app lets you download YouTube videos in case you want to use an excerpt with permission or under the fair use doctrine. Just don't step on anybody's copyright.
Prelinger Archives
If you're looking for footage from waaay back in the day, this collection of videos is your best bet.
Pond5
This pay-per-clip site will cost you, but with more than 20 million clips in its catalog, it's your best chance for hunting down that specific video you can't find anywhere else.
The good news? You'll save 20% off your first purchase when you use my affiliate link below. (Heads up: I'll earn a small commission, but you won't pay a penny more.)
GIFs
GIPHY
A goldmine of funny clips, animations and transparent overlays that can be added to videos! Check out my guide for downloading GIFs and adding them to your projects.
Browse or view guide
Music
My rundown of the best sites to find free and paid soundtracks.
Sounds
Keep learning