How to Create Smooth Velocity Edits in CapCut
This A-to-Z guide teaches you how to master the viral velocity edit effect. Learn beat-syncing, speed curves, and motion blur for professional results.
What is a Velocity Edit?
A velocity edit is a popular video editing technique that involves dynamically changing the speed of a clip to match the beat of a song. It typically involves quick speed-ups and slow-downs synchronized with the music, creating a rhythmic and visually engaging effect that has become a staple of content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.
Creates Dynamic Rhythm
Adds energy and excitement by matching the video's pace to the music.
Highlights Key Moments
Slow down for emphasis or speed up for action, guiding the viewer's focus.
Looks Professional
Smooth speed ramps are a hallmark of high-quality, professional video editing.
Boosts Engagement
Velocity edits are highly popular on TikTok and Instagram, increasing the chances of your video going viral.
How to Create a Velocity Edit
Follow these four key steps to create a professional-looking velocity edit in CapCut.
Add Music and Find the Beat
Import your video and the song you want to use. Listen to the song and use the 'Beats' tool in the audio timeline to add markers (yellow dots) on every major beat you want to sync to.
Split Your Clip at the Beats
Move the playhead to each beat marker and use the 'Split' tool to cut your video clip into smaller segments. This allows you to control the speed of each segment individually.
Apply Speed Curves
Select an individual segment, go to 'Speed' > 'Curve'. Here you can choose presets like 'Montage' or 'Hero' to create complex speed changes within that small clip. The graph shows speed: up is faster, down is slower.
Add Motion Blur for Smoothness
To make the speed changes look seamless and less jarring, go to 'Effects' > 'Video Effects' and find 'Motion Blur' in the 'Lens' category. Apply it over your edited clips and adjust the intensity for a smooth, professional finish.
Pro Tips for Viral Edits
Use 'Better Quality' Slow-Mo
Combine Curves with Normal Speed
Sync Effects with Speed
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
Audio Sync Guide
Master the art of beat-matching, the foundation of any good velocity edit.
Keyframe Animation Tutorial
Combine velocity edits with keyframes for even more dynamic effects.
Ready to Go Viral?
Download the CapCut Pro APK to unlock the advanced Speed Curve editor, the best quality slow-motion processing, and all premium effects.