Cyberlink ActionDirector - 3.0 User’s Guide

CyberLink

ActionDirector

User's Guide

To the extent allowed by law, ActionDirector IS PROVIDED “AS IS”, WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY WARRANTY FOR INFORMATION, SERVICES, OR PRODUCTS PROVIDED THROUGH OR IN CONNECTION WITH ActionDirector AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, EXPECTATION OF PRIVACY, OR NON-INFRINGEMENT. BY USING THIS SOFTWARE, YOU AGREE THAT CYBERLINK WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, OR CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS ARISING FROM THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE OR MATERIALS CONTAINED EITHER IN THIS PACKAGE.

The terms and conditions here under shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of Taiwan.

ActionDirector is a registered trademark along with other company and product names mentioned in this publication, used for identification purposes and remain the exclusive property of their respective owners.

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories. Confidential unpublished works. Copyright 1995-2005 Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved.

For DTS patents, see http://patents.dts.com. Manufactured under license from DTS Licensing Limited. DTS, the Symbol, & DTS and the Symbol together are registered trademarks, and DTS 5.1 Producer is a trademark of DTS, Inc. © DTS, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

International Headquarters

Mailing Address CyberLink Corporation

15F., No. 100, Minquan Rd., Xindian Dist. New Taipei City 231, Taiwan (R.O.C.)

Web Site http://www.cyberlink.com Telephone 886-2-8667-1298 Fax 886-2-8667-1385

Introduction

................................................................................................1Welcome

.................................................................................................2DirectorZone

.................................................................................................2ActionDirector Versions

................................................................................................3System Requirements

ActionDirector Projects

................................................................................................4Setting Project Aspect Ratio

................................................................................................5Opening Saved Projects

................................................................................................5Exporting Projects

Storyboard Window

................................................................................................7Rooms

................................................................................................8Library Window

.................................................................................................9Searching the Library

.................................................................................................10Filtering Media in the Library

.................................................................................................12Library Menu

................................................................................................13Preview Window

.................................................................................................13Preview Player Controls

.................................................................................................14Playing 360° Media Files

.................................................................................................15Taking a Screen Snapshot

.................................................................................................15Preview /Display Options

.................................................................................................16Zoom In/Out

.................................................................................................16Undocking the Preview Window

................................................................................................17Expanding the Library/Preview Window

..................................................1

..................................................4

..................................................7

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................................................................................................17Function Buttons

Importing Media

................................................................................................19Importing Media Files

.................................................................................................20Importing 360° Media Files

.................................................................................................21Importing ActionDirector Projects

Downloading Effects and Templates from

................................................................................................21

DirectorZone

Adding Video Clips and Images to the Storyboard Editing Media on the Storyboard

................................................................................................28Splitting a Clip

................................................................................................29Trimming Video Clips

................................................................................................31Cropping Images

................................................................................................32Rotating Media Clips

................................................................................................32Fixing and Enhancing Media Clips

................................................................................................34Fixing Video Clips

................................................................................................36Setting a Media Clip's Duration

................................................................................................37Changing the Shape of Media

Editing 360° Videos

..................................................19

..................................................22

..................................................28

..................................................39

Adding Intro/Outro Effects

.................................................................................................41Adding Text, Images, and Backgrounds

.................................................................................................43Modifying Intro/Outro Effect Position

.................................................................................................43Modifying Title Text Properties

.................................................................................................45Applying Animation Effects to Title Text

..................................................40

................................................................................................40Modifying Titles in the Title Designer

Adding Action Effects in the Action Camera Center

..................................................46

................................................................................................47Creating Action Effects on Video Clips

................................................................................................53Action Camera Center Settings

................................................................................................54Changing the Action Camera Center Content

View Designer

Adding Video Effects

..................................................56

................................................................................................57Customizing Direction of View in 360º Video Clips

................................................................................................61Creating Little Planet Videos

..................................................69

Using Transitions

Adding Background Music Producing Your Project

.................................................................................................75Producing Regular HD Video

.................................................................................................76Producing a 360° Video

.................................................................................................77Uploading Regular HD Video

.................................................................................................83Uploading a 360° Video

Using the Theme Designer

.................................................................................................86What are Theme Templates?

.................................................................................................87Importing Media Files into the Theme Designer

.................................................................................................94Taking Snapshots from Videos

..................................................70

................................................................................................70Adding Transitions to a Single Clip

................................................................................................71Adding Transitions Between Two Clips

..................................................72

..................................................74

................................................................................................74Utilizing Intelligent SVRT

................................................................................................75Producing and Saving to a Video File

................................................................................................77Uploading Video to Online Media Sites

..................................................85

................................................................................................86Overview

................................................................................................89Adding Theme Templates/Sequences

................................................................................................91Adding Media Clips

................................................................................................94Importing More Media Files

................................................................................................95Editing Media Clips

iii

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................................................................................................96Editing Background Music

................................................................................................98Editing Title Text

................................................................................................98Replacing Background Images

................................................................................................99Adding Transitions Between Sequences

................................................................................................99Previewing and Saving

ActionDirector Preferences

ActionDirector Hotkeys

..................................................101

................................................................................................101General Preferences

................................................................................................102DirectorZone Preferences

................................................................................................102Editing Preferences

................................................................................................103File Preferences

................................................................................................103Hardware Acceleration Preferences

................................................................................................104Project Preferences

................................................................................................104Produce Preferences

................................................................................................105Improvement Program Preferences

..................................................106

Appendix

Technical Support

..................................................109

................................................................................................109Intelligent SVRT: When Is Used?

................................................................................................110Licensing and Copyright Information

.................................................................................................111Lice nses and Copyrights

..................................................123

................................................................................................123Before Contacting Technical Support

................................................................................................124Web Support

................................................................................................124Help Resources

Introduction

Note: this document is for reference and informational use only. Its content and the corresponding program are subject to change without notice.

Note: you can also quickly access your saved ActionDirector projects in the Welcome window. See Opening Saved Projects for more information.

Chapter 1:

Introduction

This chapter introduces CyberLink ActionDirector, outlines its key features, and reviews the minimum system requirements for the program.

Welcome

Welcome to the CyberLink family of digital media tools. CyberLink ActionDirector is a digital video editing program designed specifically for action camera

enthusiasts like you, as it helps you quickly create high-impact, pro-looking

videos that showcase the action.

When you launch the program from the start menu, or the CyberLink ActionDirector shortcut on the desktop, you are prompted to choose one of the following editing modes:

Storyboard: select this option to edit your video on the storyboard. Storyboard editing is a flexible and very intuitive way to quickly create your video. See Storyboard Window for an overview of the storyboard and the editing features it includes.

Theme Designer: in the Theme Designer you can use theme templates to create impressive, professional looking videos with style, almost instantly. See

Using the Theme Designer for more information and detailed steps on using

this feature.

360° E ditor: select this option to perform 360° video editing. See Importing

360° Media Files for information on importing these types of media files, or Editing 360° Videos for information on how to edit them.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: you can prevent CyberLink ActionDirector from auto checking for updates/upgrades in General Preferences.

DirectorZone

DirectorZone is a free web service that lets you search for and download theme templates, title templates, and transitions created by CyberLink and other users of CyberLink software.

To access the benefits of DirectorZone, you can sign in by:

clic king the S ign in to DirectorZone link in the top right corner of the CyberLink ActionDirector window.

clic king the button at the top of the window to open the ActionDirector preferences, and then on the DirectorZone tab. See DirectorZone Preferences for more information.

Also, be sure to periodically click the button to check out the latest DirectorZone B ulletin and view the Popular templates on D irectorZone. Just click in either of these sections in the Notifications window to view the bulletin or download these templates. Or go to https://directorzone.cyberlink.com to find out more information on the features and benefits of the DirectorZone web service.

ActionDirector Versions

The features that are available to you within CyberLink ActionDirector are completely dependent on the version you have installed on your computer.

To determine your version of CyberLink ActionDirector, click on the CyberLink ActionDirector logo in the top left corner or select ? > About CyberLink ActionDirector.

Updating ActionDirector

Software upgrades and updates (patches) are periodically available from CyberLink. CyberLink ActionDirector automatically prompts you when either is available.

To update your software, do this:

1. Click the button to open the Notifications window.

Introduction

Note: you must connect to the Internet to use this feature.

System R equirements

Operating System

Microsoft Windows 10, 8/8.1, 7

Processor (CPU)

Intel Core i3 or AMD A6

Graphics Processor (GPU)

ATI/AMD: Radeon HD 7000 series

NVIDIA: GeForce GTX 600 series

Intel: HD Graphics

Memory

2 GB

Screen Resolution

1024 x 768, 16-bit color

Hard Disk S pace

2 GB for installation

Internet Connection

Required for program activation, online services and activation of some import/export formats

Note: please consult the CyberLink web site (https://www.cyberlink.com) for the most recent system requirements information.

2. Check the New U pdates and U pgrade Info sections.

3. Select an item in these sections to open your web browser, where you can purchase product upgrades or download the latest patch update.

System Requirements

The system requirements listed below are recommended as minimums for general digital video production work.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: a CyberLink ActionDirector project (.acs) file essentially contains a list of the media clips and effects used in your project, and a log of all the edits you want to make to your media. Project files do not include the media clips in them. If you want to save all your video production files in one place, use the Pack Project Materials function. To do this select, File > Pack Project M aterials from the menu.

Chapter 2:

ActionDirector Projects

When working on a new video production, click the button to save it as a .acs file, a project file format that is used exclusively by CyberLink ActionDirector. These project files can be imported directly into the storyboard, if required. See Importing

ActionDirector Projects for more information.

Use the options in the File menu to save, create new, or open existing projects in CyberLink ActionDirector. When you create a new project, CyberLink ActionDirector resets your media library. If you want to create a new video production using the same media that's currently in your library, select F ile > New Workspace.

The changes you make to your media in CyberLink ActionDirector do not affect the original media you imported into the program. Since your edits are all saved in the project file, you can trim, edit, or remove clips, but still keep your original files on your hard drive, untouched. So let yourself get creative. If you end up changing things too drastically, you can always start over.

Setting Project Aspect Ratio

To set the aspect ratio for your project, and your outputted video, select 4:3 or 16:9 from the aspect ratio drop-down at the top of the window. The preview window changes according to the aspect ratio you select.

When you select 360, your project will actually have an aspect ratio of 2:1 and is for users wanting to create and produce 360 virtual reality videos. See Editing 360°

ActionDirecto r Projects

Videos for information on how to edit 360 projects, and Playing 360° Media Files for

more information on the extra preview window controls available in these types of projects.

Opening Saved Projects

You can open previously saved projects at any time when in the storyboard window by selecting Open Project f rom the File menu. You can also open projects directly on the ActionDirector launch window.

The most recent projects you were working on display at the bottom of launch window. Just click the project thumbnail to open it, or click See m ore to find another saved project.

Exporting Projects

You can export your CyberLink ActionDirector projects by packing all the materials in a folder on your computer's hard drive. Exported projects can then be imported into another computer running CyberLink ActionDirector.

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To export your project to a folder select File > Pack Proj ect Materials.

Storyb oard Win dow

Chapter 3:

Storyboard Window

In the storyboard window is where you edit together your video production. The storyboard is a large graphical display of all the video clips and images in your video production. When you select Storyboard on the CyberLink ActionDirector launch window, the program displays as follows.

A - Imp ort Med ia, B - Me dia R oom, C - Li brary Window , D - Intro/Outro Effects Roo m, E - Transitions Rooms, F - ActionDirector Preferences, G - P review Wind ow, H - Un dock P review Window , I - Zoom In/ Out, J - Add Background Musi c, K - P roduc e Video , L - Preview Quali ty/Disp lay Optio ns, M - Take Snapshot, N - Preview Pl ayer Controls, O - Storyboard Workspac e, P - Func tion Bu ttons

Rooms

There are three rooms in the storyboard window of CyberLink ActionDirector:

Media room: this room contains all the video files and images that you import into CyberLink ActionDirector. See Importing Media for information on importing media into this window, or Adding Video Clips and Images to the

Storyboard to learn how to add media files to the storyboard workspace.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Title room: this room contains a library of title effects that when applied to your project, add credits or comments to your production. For more inform ation, see Adding Title Effects.

Transition room : this room contains transitions that you can use on or between clips in your project. Transitions let you control how media appears and disappears in your project, and changes from one clip to the next. For more information, see Using Transitions.

Library Window

The library window contains all of the media you in CyberLink ActionDirector, including your video files and images. When you are in other rooms (Title Room, Transition Room, etc.) it contains the effects, titles, and transitions you apply to your media.

Storyb oard Win dow

Note: if you cannot see all of the media or content in a specific room, you can resize the library window to display it. See Expanding the Library/Preview Window for more information.

The media content and available buttons that display in the library window depend on the room you are currently in.

Searching the Library

If you are looking for specific media files, effects, or templates in a library window, use the search function to find them.

To search in the library, do this:

1. Enter in a keyword in the search field located on top of the library window.

2. CyberLink ActionDirector filters the content in the library window based on the keywords entered.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: click on to clear the search results.

Filtering Media in the Library

You can filter the media files that are in the library by file type, using the two buttons above the library window. Click these buttons to hide media so you can more easily find what you are looking for.

Storyb oard Win dow

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Library Menu

Click on to access the library menu. In the library menu you can sort the content in a room by name, date created, file size, and more. You can also select all the content in the room or change the media/effect thumbnail display size. Other

Storyb oard Win dow

Note: you can resize the preview window to fit your personal preference. See Expanding the Library/Preview Window for more information.

options that are available in the library menu, but are dependent on the specific room you are in.

Preview Window

While creating your video production, you can preview it in the preview window using the available player controls.

Preview Player Controls

With the player controls you can preview your production as you edit, including playing your project from the current storyboard position, or pausing and stopping playback.

Use the button to select a seek by method (frame, second, minute, segment) and then use the buttons on either side of it for a more precise step through of your

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: you can also click and drag your mouse in the preview window to explore the 360° environment.

current video production. You can also click and drag the playback slider, or enter in a specific timecode in the time field, and then press the enter key on your keyboard to quickly find a specific scene.

Playing 360° Media Files

After 360° video and image files are imported into the media library, they can be played back. To play back a 360° media file, do this:

1. First, ensure your project's aspect ratio is set to 360. See Setting Project Aspect

Ratio for more information.

2. Select the 360° media file in the media library or on the project timeline.

3. Click to enable the 360° viewer mode.

4. If it is a video file, click the play button to start playing it back.

5. Use the 360 controls to view and explore the 360° environment.

360 Controls

When you play 360° media files, there are extra 360 controls available in the preview window.

Storyb oard Win dow

Note: you can also use your mouse's scroll wheel to zoom in and out within the 360° view.

When viewing or playing a 360° media file, you can click and drag on the preview

window to pan around the 360° environment or use the controls to pan left, right, up, or down. Note that you can click the in the middle of the controls at

any time to reset to the default viewing position.

Taking a Screen Snapshot

While previewing your project, you can take a still screen snapshot and save it as a

JPG image file. To do this click the button on the player controls.

Preview/Display Options

CyberLink ActionDirector includes some preview and display options that help

make your editing experience easier. Click on to set the preview quality or display grid lines on the preview window.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: Full HD and HD preview resolution are only available when CyberLink ActionDirector is installed on a 64-bit operating system.

Preview Quality

Click , select Preview Quality, and then a preview quality from the list (Full HD*, HD*, high, normal, low) to set the resolution/quality of the video used when previewing your video in the preview window. The higher the quality you select, the more resources that are required to preview your video project.

Grid Lines

When you place media on the storyboard, use the grid lines to help with the precise placement on your video project's image. Click the button, select Grid Lines,

and then select the number of lines you want to display in a grid over the video image. Use this grid to more precisely place the title text or PiP media on the video image.

Once enabled, media and title effects will snap to the grid lines on the preview window.

Zoom In/Out

When you place media on the storyboard, use the Fit drop-down underneath the preview window to zoom in or out on the video. Zooming in is useful for precise placement of media on the preview window.

Undocking the Preview Window

Click the button to undock the preview window. Once undocked, you can preview your production at full screen or move it to an extended desktop. You can also resize the timeline and library window to your liking.

Once undocked, you can:

click to view your production at full screen, or to maximize the preview window.

Storyb oard Win dow

click to minimize the preview window, and hide it so you can edit more

freely. Click on next to the button to show the minimized preview window.

clic k on to re-dock the preview window.

Expanding the Library/Preview Window

You can expand the size of the library and the preview window to fit your personal preference.

Simply drag the border between the library window and the preview window to resize them to your liking. This allows you to get the most out of your display device space by customizing the size of the preview window, or increasing the amount of content you can view in the media, title, or transition room.

Function Buttons

When you select media that is on the storyboard, whether it's a video clip, image, effect, title effect, etc., several function buttons display above the storyboard. These buttons let you perform a variety of tasks or gain access to some important features of CyberLink ActionDirector.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

The function buttons that are available depend on the type of media content you

select. However, whenever you select media, the is always displayed. Click

to remove the selected media content from the storyboard.

Impo rting Media

Note: media you import is saved in the current CyberLink ActionDirector project you are working on. You can also select Fi le > New Work space to create a new project, while maintaining the current media in the library.

Note: if you import media files that are on a removable device into the media library, they will be removed if the removable device is disconnected. For best results, it is recommended that you copy the media to your computer's hard drive before importing.

Note: ** to enable, you must download the DivX codec online. Available on Windows 32bit only.

Chapter 4:

Importing Media

The first step when using CyberLink ActionDirector is to import your video clips and photos into the media room library. You can import videos and images one by one, or import the entire contents of a folder into the program.

Importing Media Files

If you already have video and image files that you want to use in your production on your computer's hard drive, you can import the files directly into CyberLink Action Director's media library in the Media Room. You can also import media files that are on a removable device.

CyberLink ActionDirector supports the following file formats: Image: Animated-GIF, BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG, TIFF

CyberLink ActionDirector also supports the import of the following camera RAW image formats, which are then converted to JPEG once imported: ARW (SONY), CR2 (Canon), DNG (Ricoh), ERF (Epson), KDC (Kodak), MRW (Konica Minolta), NEF (Nikon), NRW (Nikon), ORF (OLYMPUS), PEF (Pentax), RAF (Fujifilm), RW2 (Panasonic), SR2 (SONY), SRF (SONY)

Video: 3GPP2, AVCHD (M2T, MTS), AVI, DAT, DivX**, DV-AVI, DVR-MS, DSLR video clip in H.264 format with LPCM/AAC, FLV (H.264), MKV, MP4 (XAVC S), MOD, MOV , MOV (H.264), MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4 AVC (H.264), MVC (MTS), TOD, VOB, VRO, WMV, WMV-HD, WTV in H.264/MPEG2 (multiple video and audio streams).

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: you can also drag and drop media onto the CyberLink ActionDirector window to import it into the program.

Note: if an imported 360° media file is not displaying correctly (no 360° logo), it usually means the file is not using the 360 equirectangular projection video format required for editing. See the documentation for your 360 camera manufacturer for information on producing the video file in this format.

PowerPoint files: CyberLink ActionDirector supports the import of PowerPoint files in the PPT and PPTX formats. During import, each of the PowerPoint slides are converted to PNG image files, which are then added to the media library.

To import media into CyberLink ActionDirector, click and then select one of the following options:

Im port Media F iles: import media files individually.

Im port a Media F older: import the entire contents of a folder that contains the media files you want to use in your current project.

Importing 360° Media Files

You can import and edit video and image files that were captured with a 360 camera. Once imported, the 360° media files are automatically detected and indicated by a 360° logo in the top right of the thumbnail. For 360° images, CyberLink ActionDirector will auto level out the horizon if the image is tilted/not level.

See Playing 360° Media Files for information on the additional preview controls available in the preview window for these types of media files.

Setting 360 Projection Format

If CyberLink ActionDirector did not detect your 360° media file and you are sure it has been produced for playback and editing, you can manually set the 360 projection format. You can also disable 360° mode for a file that was mistakenly detected as a 360° media file.

To set the 360 projection format, do this:

1. Right-click on a 360° media file in the media library and then select Set 360 Projection Format.

Impo rting Media

2. Select the 360 projection format by selecting one of the following:

Equirectangular (360°): equirectangular video is the standard projection used in 360° media files. Equirectangular projection displays the 360° environment, which is a sphere, onto a rectangular video screen.

2D Format (Not 360 °): select this option if the selected media file is actually 2D content.

Importing ActionDirector Projects

CyberLink ActionDirector projects (.acs files) you worked on and saved previously can be imported and then directly inserted into your video production's storyboard.

To do this, select File > Insert Project from the menu. All of the media in the original project will be imported into the current project's media library, and also inserted at the current position of the storyboard slider.

Downloading Effects and Templates from DirectorZone

If you are looking for additional title effects or transitions for your library, you can click D ownload Templates to download them directly from the DirectorZone web site in to the Title Room or Transition Room.

Visit the DirectorZone web site for more information: www.directorzone.com.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Chapter 5:

Adding Video Clips and Images to the Storyboard

To start creating your video production, begin adding video clips and images to the storyboard. To add a media clip to the storyboard, just select it in the media room and then drag and drop it on the storyboard.

Addin g V ideo Clips and Images to the Story board

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Addin g V ideo Clips and Images to the Story board

Repeat this process to continue adding your media clips to the storyboard. You add the media clips in the order that tells the story you want to tell.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

You do not have to add the media clips after the last clip on the storyboard. They can also be dragged and dropped between two existing clips.

If the media clips are not in the correct sequence on the storyboard, you can click and drag them to different positions.

Addin g V ideo Clips and Images to the Story board

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Chapter 6:

Editing Media on the Storyboard

Once you have your video clips and images on the storyboard you can start editing them. Editing is a broad term that encompasses a number of different functions, including splitting, trimming, applying fixes, and much more.

This section describes all of the editing processes you can perform on your media clips.

Splitting a Clip

You can quickly split a media clip that is on the storyboard into two separate clips. To do this, move the playback slider (or use the player controls) to the position in

the clip where you want to split it. Next, click the button above the storyboard to separate it into two clips.

Editin g M edia o n th e Sto ryboard

Note: when you trim video clips, the program does not delete any of the original source media's content. It just marks the requested edits on the clips and then applies the edits when it renders the final video during production.

You can also use it to quickly remove unwanted portions of a media clip, or if you want to insert other media between the two portions.

Trimming Video Clips

Use the trim functions to remove unwanted portions from the beginning and/or ends of a video clip.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

To trim a video clip, select it on the storyboard and then click the button above the storyboard.

A - Preview Area, B - Marked P ositions i n Cli p, C - Ma rk Out Po sition Sl ider, D - Selec ted Con tent, E Mark I n Posi tion Sli der, F - Pla yer Controls

To trim a video clip, do this.

1. Select the video clip on the storyboard you want to trim, and then click on the

button above the storyboard.

2. Use the player controls to find where you want the trimmed clip to begin, and

then click to set the mark in position or drag the mark in position slider to this position.

Editin g M edia o n th e Sto ryboard

Note: you can reenter the trim window to refine the trimmed clip at any time.

3. Use the player controls to find where you want the trimmed clip to end, and

then click to set the mark out position or drag the mark out position slider to this position.

4. If required, you can preview what the trimmed clip will look like by clicking Output and then clicking the play button on the player controls. Click Original if you want to play the original video.

5. Click OK to set your changes and trim the clip.

Cropping Images

You can completely customize the aspect ratio of the images in your video production or crop out unwanted portions of a photo, using the crop image function.

To crop an image, do this:

1. Select the image on the storyboard and then click the button above the storyboard. You can also right-click on the image and then select Crop Image.

2. Set the aspect ratio or size of the crop area by selecting one of the following:

4:3: gives the crop area, and the resulting cropped image, a 4:3 aspect ratio.

16:9: gives the crop area, and the resulting cropped image, a 16:9 aspect ratio.

Freeform: select if you want to manually resize the crop area on the image and give the resulting cropped image a custom aspect ratio.

Custom: select if you want to set a custom aspect ratio for the cropped image using the Width and Height fields.

Crop size: similar to custom, you can manually enter the image size you want in the Width and Height fields.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: enable the Compare adjustments in split preview option for a before and after comparison in the preview window.

3. If required, drag the crop area to the position on the photo you want to keep. All areas outside the crop area will be removed from the image.

4. Click OK to set your changes and crop the image.

Rotating Media Clips

If the orientation of a media clip is incorrect, you can quickly rotate it in the storyboard. To rotate a media clip, select it on the storyboard and then click to rotate it 90 degrees counterclockwise. Click to rotate it 90 degrees clockwise.

Fixing and Enhancing Media Clips

Select a video clip or image on the storyboard and then click the button to apply fixes and make enhancements to these clips.

Video Denoise

This tool removes video noise from a video clip, including High-ISO and TV signal noise. Once enabled, drag the slider to increase or decrease the level of denoise on the video.

Audio Denoise

Use audio denoise on video clips that were recorded outdoors, in a room with poor acoustics, in a car, or other noisy locations. The audio denoise tool uses CLNR (CyberLink Noise Reduction) technology to improve your video's audio quality and reduce background noise. Select the N oise type from the drop-down menu and then use the Degree slider to adjust the amount of denoise applied.

Editin g M edia o n th e Sto ryboard

Color Adjustment

Lets you manually adjust the color attributes (exposure, brightness, contrast, hue, etc.) of the video image or a photo. Once enabled, you cannot use other fixes or enhancements. Use the sliders to adjust the attributes as follows:

Exposure: use on media clips that are over or underexposed. A lower value darkens all the colors in the clip, while a higher value lightens them.

Brightness: use to increase or decrease the brightness of the media clip's image.

Contrast: use to adjust contrast, or the difference between light and dark areas of the media clip.

Hue: use to fine tune the shade or purity of the colors in the media clip.

Saturation: use to adjust the saturation of the colors in a media clip. A smaller value moves the colors towards black and white, while a higher value increases the overall intensity of color in the clip.

Vibrancy: use to make the colors in a media clip brighter and more vivid, by enhancing the duller colors.

Highlight healing: is applied to areas of media clips that are overexposed to recover detail in the highlights and brighter areas.

Shadow: use to enhance detail in dark sections of the media clip by lightening shadows and underexposed areas.

Sharpness: use the slider to adjust the amount of sharpness applied to the media clip.

Color Enhancement

Color Enhancement dynamically adjusts the color saturation ratio in video. Use the available slider to make the colors in the video more vivid, without affecting skin tones.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: lens correction is not available in 360 projects.

Note: if none of the lens profiles match your camera, you can download more

from DirectorZone or manually fix the distorted video using the controls in this window. See more details below.

Fixing Video Clips

Select a video clip on the storyboard and then click the Fix function button to open the Action Camera Center to stabilize shaky video, adjust video white balance, or add color presets. You can also use lens correction to remove fisheye distortions and vignettes.

Lens Correction

Select the Lens Correction option to import lens profiles to auto correct distorted videos, or use the controls to manually correct them if they have a fisheye distortion or vignette effect.

When you enter the Action Camera Center, manually select the lens profile, using the Maker and Model drop-downs, that matches the camera your video was shot with. Once selected, CyberLink ActionDirector will auto correct the video.

Editin g M edia o n th e Sto ryboard

Note: video stabilizer is not available in 360 projects.

Downloading Lens Profiles from DirectorZone

If your video camera's lens and profile are not available in CyberLink ActionDirector

you can click the button to download more lens profiles from DirectorZone.

Once downloaded, click the button to import it. CyberLink ActionDirector should auto detect the imported profile and then correct the selected video.

Fisheye Distortion

The fisheye distortion section helps correct videos that appear distorted. Dragging the slider to the right straightens lines that bend away from the center, correcting barrel distortions. Dragging it to the left straightens lines that bend towards the center, fixing pincushion distortions in videos.

Vignette Removal

Use the following sliders to remove an unwanted vignette effect on videos that was caused by a camera lens or the lighting environment:

Vignette amount: use this slider to adjust the level of vignette removal on the video.

Vignette midpoint: drag the midpoint slider to the left to increase the size of the area (towards the center of the video) where the vignette removal is applied. Drag it right to decrease the size, towards the corners.

Video Stabilizer

Select the Video S tabilizer option to employ motion compensation technology to correct shaking videos. This tool is ideal for use with videos taken without a tripod or recorded while moving.

Once enabled, drag the Strength slider to increase or decrease the level of correction.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: to set the duration of a video, see Trimming Video Clips.

Select the F ix rotational camera shake option if the clip has segments where the camera rotates from side to side. Select the Use enhanced stabilizer option to improve the output quality of some video clips. Using this feature requires more computing power, so it is recommended that you switch to non-real time preview or render a preview for the applied range.

White Balance

Select the White B alance option and then Color temperature to adjust the video's color temperature or create a specific atmosphere. Once enabled, use the slider to adjust the color of the video image. A lower value applies a colder temperature, while a higher value creates an atmosphere that is warmer. Use the Tint slider to adjust the color level of the clip.

Select the White calibration option and then click to color correct the video image. By indicating which portion of the video image should be white, CyberLink ActionDirector automatically adjusts the other colors accordingly to be more vivid and true.

Color Presets

Select the Color Presets option to instantly transform the color and look of your video clips. To apply a color preset, just select it.

Setting a Media Clip's Duration

When you add images and title effect templates to the storyboard, you can set how long they are displayed in your video production. Unlike video clips which have a maximum length, these media clips can have any duration you want.

To set a media clip's duration, do this:

1. Select the clip on the storyboard.

2. Click the the button above the storyboard (or right-click on the clip, select Set Clip Attributes, and then select S et Duration).

Editin g M edia o n th e Sto ryboard

3. In the Duration Settings window, enter in the how long you want it to display in your video production. You can set the duration down to the number of frames.

4. Click on OK.

Changing the Shape of Media

CyberLink ActionDirector lets you change the shape of the media in your video production. Both videos and images added to the storyboard have freeform properties, so you can easily change their shape to create media that is different from the usual rectangle or square shape.

To change the shape of a media clip, do this:

1. Select a media clip on the storyboard. The media crosshairs will be displayed.

2. Use your mouse to click and drag the blue nodes in the corners of the media clip, changing it to the desired freeform shape.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Editin g 360° Vid eos

Chapter 7:

Editing 360° Videos

If you want to render (produce) or upload your imported 360° media files, you first need to add them to the storyboard. See Adding Video Clips and Images to the

Storyboard for detailed information.

Once added to the storyboard you can produce it right away, or make some edits to the media file. When editing 360° videos, please note the following:

you can add more than one 360° media file on the storyboard. In the produced 360° video, the media files will play in the order they are arranged on the storyboard. You can use transitions between the media files if required, add stylish video effects, or include title effects created in the Title Designer.

the adding of non-360° media files or effects is not recommended, as the content will appear distorted in the produced 360° video file.

see the Editing Your Media on the Storyboard section for information on some of the editing you can perform on your 360° media files. You can split,

trim, o r make color adjustments on 360° video clips that are on the

storyboard, and more.

in the Action Camera Center you can speed up portions of the 360° video and more.

you can add background music to your 360° video.

Once you are done editing your 360° video, click the Produce button to produce it, which renders it as a 360° video file. See Producing a 360° Video for more information. You can also upload it directly to YouTube or Facebook. See

Uploading a 360° Video for more information.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: the text in the intro/outro effect template cannot be added or modified in the storyboard or in the preview window. Click the Ti tl e Design er button to edit the text in the template.

Chapter 8:

Adding Intro/Outro Effects

Intro/Outro effects let you add text to your video production, such as open and closing credits. You add intro/outro effect templates to the storyboard the same way you add media clips, and they can be customized in the Title Designer.

To add a intro/outro effect template to the storyboard, do this:

1. Click on the button above the storyboard, or click the Intro/Outro tab to open the Title room.

2. Browse through the available intro/outro effect templates. You can click one to view a preview in the preview window.

3. When you find the intro/outro effect template you like, drag and drop it on the storyboard. See Adding Video Clips and Images to the Storyboard for more detailed instructions, since the process is the same.

Once added to the storyboard, select the intro/outro effect template and then click the Title Designer button to edit it in the Title Designer. See Modifying Titles in the

Title Designer for more information. For information on setting the amount of time

the intro/outro effect appears in your video production, see Setting a Media Clip's

Duration.

Modifying Titles in the Title Designer

In the Title Designer you can customize the intro/outro effects in your project. Intro/Outro effects contain character presets, animation, and background options that you can modify to fit your video project.

To open the Title Designer, select a intro/outro effect on the storyboard and then clic k the Title Designer button.

Addin g In tro/Outro Effects

Note: if you'd like to perform additional editing after closing the Title Designer, just select the title again in the storyboard and then click the Ti tl e Design er button.

A - Text Properties Tab, B - Title Properties, C - Ti tle Animation Effect Tab, D - Insert Text/Background s, E - Title Text, F - TV Sa fe Zone/G rid Lines, G - Pl ayer Controls

Once you are done modifying the intro/outro effect in the Title Designer, click the OK button to close the window and set your changes in your video production.

Adding Text, Images, and Backgrounds

Each intro/outro effect template can contain one or more title text boxes. It can also contain images and a background that the text displays over.

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Note: to remove the imported background image, just click the button.

Adding Title Text

By default there is one title text box in the Title Designer when it's opened. To edit the text in the title text, just click in the box, ensure the default text is selected, and then type in your text.

You can also add additional title text boxes. To add new title text, click on the button and then click in the preview window to add the title text box to the desired position. Type in the required text in the new title text box.

See Modifying Title Text Properties for more information on customizing the default title text properties to fit the intro/outro effect you are trying to create.

Inserting Backgrounds

Your intro/outro effect can consist of a background that the title text displays over.

To set a background, do this:

1. Click on the button.

2. Browse to and then select the image on your computer you want to use as the background, and then click Open.

3. When prompted, select the adjustment setting for the background that best fits your requirements.

Adding Images

You can insert your own images into your intro/outro effect template.

To add a image, do this:

1. Click on the button.

Addin g In tro/Outro Effects

Note: click on to use the TV safe zone and grid lines to help with the precise placement of the intro/outro effect on the master video. Select Snap to Referen ce Lines to have the intro/outro effect snap to the grid lines, TV safe zone, and boundary of the video area.

2. Browse to and then select the image on your computer you want to add, and then click Open.

3. Once added, resize and reposition the image in the Title Designer as required, just like a title.

Modifying Intro/Outro Effect Position

You can change the position and orientation of the title text in a intro/outro effect, quickly and easily.

To modify title text or orientation:

click on the title text, and then drag it to a new position.

clic k on above the title text or image, and drag it right or left to change its orientation.

click and drag a corner or side to resize the title text.

Modifying Title Text Properties

Click on the Text tab to change the properties of the selected title text.

Modifying Text Properties

Click on the Text properties tab to modify everything from the text size, style, color, as well as adding borders, and much more.

Applying Character Presets to Title Text

Select the Character Presets option to apply a defined character preset to title text. After you have applied a defined character preset you can refine it using the other properties on the tab, if required.

To apply a character preset to title text, ensure the text box is selected in the preview window and then click on a character preset in the list.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: once you are done customizing all of the text properties on the tab,

cl ick on to save the character preset to your favorites. To find and use saved character presets, select M y F avor i tes in the Character types drop-down.

Customizing Font Type

Select the F ont Type option to set the font type and size of the selected title text. You can also select the font face color, bold or italicize text, change the line and text spacing, and set the text alignment in the text box.

If the font type you are using supports it, you can select the Kerning check box to reduce the space between the letters in the title text.

Applying a Border

Select the Border option to add a border around the title text. Available options allow you to change the border's size, and add an opacity or blur effect.

You can customize the border color using the following options in the Fill type drop-down:

Uniform color: select this option if you want the border to be one solid color. Click the colored square to open the color palette and select the desired border color.

2 c olor gradient: select this option if you want the border color to change from one color to another using a gradient. Click the colored squares to set the beginning and ending colors, and then drag the Gradient direction control to set which way the color flows.

4 c olor gradient: select this option if you want the border to consist of four colors. Click the colored squares to set the colors in each of the four corners of the border.

Opacity

Select this option to use the Opacity slider to set the level of transparency of the selected title text.

Addin g In tro/Outro Effects

Applying Animation Effects to Title Text

Click on the Effect tab to apply animations to title text, such as text fades, text motion, or wipes.

To apply animation to text, do this:

1. Select the title text you wish to animate in the preview window.

2. Select the S tarting Effect option and then select an animation from the available list.

3. Select the E nding Effect option and then select an animation from the available list.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Chapter 9:

Adding Action Effects in the Action Camera Center

In the Action Camera Center you can add effects that highlight the action sequences in the video.

To open the Action Camera Center, select a video clip on the storyboard and then click the Ac tion Effect button.

A - Fix Video Clips, B - Add Actio n Effects, C - Preview Window, D - Action Cam era Center Settings, E Zoom on Tim eline, F - Actio n Camera Center Timeli ne

Once in the Action Camera Center, you can:

Fix Video Clips

Addin g Actio n Ef fects in the Action Camera Cente r

Note: to edit content created with the Action Camera Center, click on it on the storyboard and then click on the Action Effect function button above the storyboard.

Note: before you finish creating your action effects, configure the Action Camera Center Settings to ensure the best output results.

Note: use the zoom controls above the Action Camera Center timeline to zoom in on the video clip's timeline to more precisely add the time shift.

Create Action Effects

When you are done editing the video clip, click the OK button to save your changes. Your changes are applied to the video clip and updated on the storyboard.

Creating Action Effects on Video Clips

Click on the Effect tab in the Action Camera Center to highlight action sequences in your videos clips with time shifts and freeze frames. Time shifts let you replay, reverse, or alter the speed of key moments in your videos, while freeze frames pause and zoom in on the action.

Creating Time Shifts

Time shifts let you highlight action in video clips by adding slow motion or replays on key moments. To create a time shift, do this:

1. On the Effect tab, use the player controls or drag the Action Camera Center timeline slider to the position in your video clip where you want the time shift to start.

2. Click on the Create time shift button. CyberLink ActionDirector will create the time shift, which is indicated in orange on the timeline.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: the length of the original time shift is dependent on how much you have zoomed in on the Action Camera Center timeline.

Note: you can create more than one time shift on a video clip. Just repeat the above steps to add another.

3. If required, drag each end of the time shift so that it covers the segment of the video you want to add the effect to.

4. Apply the effect as required (see below) to the time shift

segment.

Replay

In the Replay section, select the Apply replay and reverse option if you want to loop the selected segment of video in the time shift. Once selected, indicate how many times you want the segment to play by setting it in the Play times field. Select the Add reverse effect option if you want the video to reverse forward and backward as it loops playback.

Speed

In the Speed section, select the Apply speed effect option to speed up or slow down just the selected segment of video in the time shift. Once selected, you can enter a new Duration for the segment in the field provided, or use the Speed multiplier slider. Drag it left to slow down the segment, or right to speed it up.

When you apply a speed effect to a segment of video, by default the change in the speed in the video is instantaneous once the timeline slider enters the time shift. If you want it to be more gradual and look smoother, you can use the Ease in/out options. Select Ease in if you want the change of speed at the beginning of the time

Addin g Actio n Ef fects in the Action Camera Cente r

Note: if you also selected the Apply repl ay and reverse option, in the Apply effect to drop down select whether to apply the speed effect to the

first or last play of the time shift segment.

shift to gradually speed up/slow down to the specified speed. Select Ease out if you want the video to gradually return to the original video speed at the end of the time shift.

Stop Motion

Select the S top Motion tab and then the Apply stop motion option to add a stop motion effect on the selected segment of video in the time shift. This effect pauses on a frame of video for a specified number of frames, before jumping to the current frame of video. Drag the slider right to increase the number of frames the video will pause for, or drag it left to reduce the number of frames.

Zoom and Pan

In the Zoom and Pan section you can add zooms and pans on the selected segment of video in the time shift.

To add a zoom and pan in a time shift segment:

1. Drag the timeline slider to the moment in the segment where you want to be zoomed in/out on a portion of the video frame, and then click to add a

keyframe marker.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

2. Resize and move the focus area box as required. Make it smaller to zoom in on a portion of the video, or make it larger to zoom out. Moving the focus area box will add a pan as the camera moves to the location of the box by the time the timeline slider reaches the keyframe.

Addin g Actio n Ef fects in the Action Camera Cente r

Note: in the above example, the zoom in will begin at the beginning of the time shift. Once the keyframe is reached, the camera will start zooming back out.

3. If required, you can add more keyframes to customize the effect. For example, you can add another keyframe to hold the zoom, which is done by keeping the focus area box the same size and following the subject (moving the focus area box).

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: use the zoom controls above the Action Camera Center timeline to zoom in on the video clip's timeline to more precisely find the frame.

Adding Freeze Frames

Add a freeze frame to pause a frame of video for a specified duration. To add a freeze frame, do this:

1. On the Effect tab, use the player controls or drag the Action Camera Center timeline slider to the position in your video clip where you want the freeze frame.

2. Click on the Add freeze frame button. CyberLink ActionDirector will add a freeze frame, which is indicated by the blue indicator.

Addin g Actio n Ef fects in the Action Camera Cente r

Note: you can add more than one freeze frame to a video clip. Just repeat the above steps to add another.

Note: if you also selected the Apply repl ay and reverse option, in the Apply effect to drop down select whether to apply the freeze frame to the

first or last play of the time shift segment.

Note: * optional feature in CyberLink ActionDirector. Check the version table on our web site for detailed versioning information.

3. In the Duration field, enter how long you want the video to pause on this frame of video.

Applying Zoom Effect

Select the Apply zoom effect option if you want to zoom in and out on the paused

frame of video. Once selected, resize and align the focus box to the part of the video frame where you want the zoom to occur.

Action Camera Center Settings

Click the button in the Action Camera Center window to open the settings window. The available options are as follows:

Audio setting:

Remov e audio: select this option if you want to mute the audio in the entire video clip.

Keep audio: select this option if you want to keep the audio in the edited video clip. Select the K eep audio pitch (0.5X to 2X only) if you are changing the speed of the video. Selecting this will stretch the audio to match the new video's length, minimizing the warping of the sound as the video speed changes.

Interpolation setting:

Apply interpolated technology for smoother result (w hen available): select this option when reducing the speed of the video. CyberLink ActionDirector uses frame interpolated technology* to create a more advanced and smooth slow motion effect.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: if you would like to view the individual clips created by the Action Camera Center so you can edit them directly on the storyboard, just rightclick on the file and then select Show Individual Clips.

Changing the Action Camera Center Content

Once you have created your action effects in the Action Camera Center and imported the resulting video clip into the storyboard, you can edit it like any other video clip on the storyboard. However, if you find that you want to edit or refine the effects more, you can do this by re-entering the Action Camera Center.

To edit content created with the Action Camera Center, click on it on the storyboard and then click on the Action Camera Center function button above the storyboard.

Editing Content

When you re-enter in the Action Camera Center, you can refine any of the fixes you made on the Fix tab. Click on the Effect tab to edit any action effects you created, or add new ones. To edit a created time shift, just select it on the video timeline,

and then adjust its parameters as required.

For freeze frames, select the freeze frame indicator,

Addin g Actio n Ef fects in the Action Camera Cente r

Note: if you want to remove a time shift or freeze frame from a video clip,

just select it on the Action Camera Center timeline and then click the button.

and then adjust the freeze frame settings as required.

When you are done, click OK to save your changes and import the updated content into the storyboard.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Chapter 10:

View Designer

In non 360 projects, the View Designer lets you customize the direction of view in 360º video clips for use in conventional/standard 2D video productions. You can also use it to create new unique videos with your 360º video clips that look like little planets.

To do this, select a 360° video clip on the storyboard and then select View D esigner.

A - Direction of Vi ew/Little P lanet P roperties, B - Sel ect Projection M ode, C - P review Window , D Displ ay/Hid e Keyframe Ti meline, E - Key frame Ti meline

See Customizing Direction of View in 360º Video Clips and Creating Little Planet

Videos for more information about these View Designer features.

View Design er

When you are done customizing the video, click the OK button to save your changes and create the conventional video. Your changes are applied to the video clip and updated on the storyboard.

Customizing Direction of View in 360º Video Clips

360° videos allow the viewer to choose where they look during playback. When creating a standard 2D/conventional video (non 360 project) using 360° footage, you can customize this direction of view in 360° video clips using keyframes.

To customize the direction of view in a 360° video clip, do this:

1. Select a 360° video clip on the storyboard and then select View Designer.

2. In the Projection mode drop-down, ensure that Standard 2D is selected.

3. Click to add a keyframe at the beginning of the video.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

4. If required, set the direction you want the camera (audience's view) to be pointing at the beginning of the video. You can do this by clicking and dragging your mouse in the preview window, or using the navigation controls in the top left corner of the preview window.

5. Use the playback controls, or drag the timeline slider to a point in the video where you want the camera to have a different direction of view, and then pause the video.

6. Once again, set the direction of view by clicking and dragging on the preview window, using the navigation controls, and/or the Zoom in/out slider. This will add another keyframe to the Direction of view keyframe timeline, and the audience will have this view at this point in the video's playback.

View Design er

Note: if required, you can also use the X, Y, Z rotation and Zoom (or use your mouse's scroll wheel) sliders to customize the view at the first or any keyframe.

7. Repeat steps 5 and 6, changing the direction of view as many times as required (or setting all the points (keyframes) where you want the camera to be facing at specific times in the video clip).

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: if you want to edit the video after closing the View Designer, just select it again on the storyboard and then View Designer to reenter the window.

8. When you are done, use the playback controls to preview the video. Click OK to save your changes and add the updated video to the storyboard.

Ease In/Out

Adjusting the direction of view and X, Y, and Z rotation sliders lets you manually create camera movements in your video. To change the direction of view/camera movement, you indicate when in the video you want the camera to be facing a specific direction by adding keyframes. To create the camera movement, CyberLink ActionDirector will ensure the camera is facing in the selected direction at the specified time in the video. However, this may cause the camera movements to appear jerky. To make the sudden camera movements look smoother, be sure to enable the E ase in/out option.

View Design er

Note: if you cannot find the keyframe timeline in the View Designer, just cl ick the button under the preview window to display it.

Modifying Direction of View Keyframes

At any time you can modify the keyframes added, by selecting them and changing the direction of view/zoom, or by dragging the keyframe to another position on the keyframe timeline.

To remove a keyframe, select it on the keyframe timeline and then click .

Creating Little Planet Videos

In the View Designer you can use 360º video clips to create little planet videos. To create a little planet video, do this:

1. Select a 360° video clip on the storyboard and then select View Designer.

2. In the Projection mode drop-down, select the Little Planet option to transform the video.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Customizing the Look of Your Little Planet Video

When creating a little planet video, use the direction of view sliders, fly in/out, and keyframes to customize the look of your final video.

Direction of View

Use the X, Y, Z rotation sliders and keyframes to customize the look of your little planet video. See Customizing Direction of View in 360º Video Clips for more details on how to use these to customize the direction of view to your liking.

Fly Out

Select the F ly out option if you want the video to begin as a regular video, and then fly out to reveal the little planet.

View Design er

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

You can modify the look and timing of the fly out by adjusting the added keyframes.

View Design er

Fly In

Select the F ly in option if you want the video to end as a regular video, by flying in on the little planet.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

View Design er

You can modify the look and timing of the fly out by adjusting the added keyframes.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Ease In/Out

Adjusting the direction of view, and adding a fly out and in, may cause movements in your video to appear jerky. To make them look smoother, be sure to enable the Ease in/out option.

Addin g V ideo Effects

Note: the effect is applied for the entire duration of the selected clip. If you only want it applied to a portion of it, you can split the clip and then apply the effect to the portion you want. See Splitting a Clip for more information.

Note: media clips on the storyboard that have an effect applied have an i icon in the bottom left corner of its storyboard thumbnail.

Note: only one video effect at can be applied to each media clip on the storyboard.

Note: to remove an applied effect from a media clip, reenter the Effects panel, make sure the clip is selected, and then click on No Effect in the top left.

Chapter 11:

Adding Video Effects

You can add stylish video effects to your video production to make it unique. Video effects can be applied to both video clips and images on the storyboard, even when editing 360° video projects.

To add a video effect on a media clip in the storyboard, do this:

1. Select a video file or image on the storyboard.

2. Click the button above the storyboard to open the Effects panel.

3. Find a video effect you like and then click it to instantly apply it to the selected clip.

4. Once applied, you can preview it in the preview window.

5. To apply a different effect to this clip, ensure it is still selected and then click on the new effect.

6. When you are done adding the video effect, click to close the Effects panel.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: if you only want a transition to be at the beginning of a clip, this can only be done by adding it to the first clip on the storyboard. Once added, you can then move the clip to another position on the storyboard.

Chapter 12:

Using Transitions

Click the Transition tab to open the Transition Room and access a library of transitions that you can use on or between image and video clips in your video production. Transitions let you control how media appears and disappears in your project, and changes, or transitions, from one clip to the next.

Adding Transitions to a Single Clip

By adding a transition to a single clip, you can control how the clip appears and/or disappears in your production.

To add a transition to a single clip, do this:

1. Click on Transitions tab to open the Transition Room.

2. Select a transition effect and then drag it to the beginning (prefix transition) of the first clip on the storyboard.

3. Select a transition effect and then drag it to the end (postfix transition) of the last clip on the storyboard.

Usin g Transitio ns

Note: if you only want a transition at the end of a clip, this can only be done by adding it to the last clip on the storyboard. Once added, you can then add more clips after it on the storyboard.

To change the duration of the transition, click on the Duration button above the storyboard. If you want to remove the transition from the clip, just click on it in the thumbnail and then press the Delete key on your keyboard.

Adding Transitions Between Two Clips

You can also add a transition between two image and video clips on the storyboard.

To add a transition between two clips, do this:

1. Click on Transitions tab to open the Transition Room.

2. Select a transition effect and then drag it between the two clips on the storyboard.

To change the duration of the transition, click on the Duration button above the storyboard. If you want to remove the transition from between the clips, just click on it in the first thumbnail and then press the Delete key on your keyboard.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Chapter 13:

Adding Background Music

You can easily add background music to your video production. To add background music, do this

1. Click on the Music button to the right of the storyboard. The Add Background Music window opens.

2. Click on the button.

3. Browse to the music you want to add, select it, and then click Open. You can repeat this step multiple times, or select more than one music file to add more music.

4. In the Trim audio section you can trim the length of the music files you added as background music as follows:

use the player controls to find the desired start point for the music, and then click .

use the player controls to find the desired end point for the music, and then click .

drag the markers on the music timeline to set the desired start and end times manually.

5. In the mix audio section:

drag the slider left (towards B ackground music) to increase the volume of the music in your video. Doing this will also reduce the volume of the audio in the video clip's on the storyboard.

drag the slider right (towards Video's audio) to increase the volume of the audio in the video clip's on the storyboard. Doing this will reduce the volume of the background music you added.

6. Select the Loop playback option if you want the music to play continuously during the entire duration of the video. When the music ends, it will loop back to the beginning.

Addin g B ackgroun d M usic

Note: if you'd like to edit the background music after closing the Add Background Music window, just click on the Music button again.

7. Select the Auto fade in/out option to have the background music gradually fade in and out during the production.

8. Click OK to save your changes and add the background music to the video.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: before you produce your project, you can also click Go to Theme Designer to use theme templates to add style to your video production.

CyberLink ActionDirector will create a render preview of your finished video production and then import it into the Theme Designer. See Using the Theme Designer for more detailed information.

Chapter 14:

Producing Your Project

When you are done creating your video production, and you are satisfied with the results after viewing it in the preview window, it's time to produce it. Producing simply means compiling (or rendering) the separate elements your project contains into a playable video file.

To begin producing your project, click the Produce button in the bottom right corner. In the Produce dialog you have two options:

Produce & Save: select this option if you want to create a video file on your computer's hard drive. See Producing and Saving to a Video File for detailed information.

Produce & Share: select this option if you want to render your video production and then have it uploaded to a social media web site such as Facebook, YouTube, or Vimeo. See Producing and Sharing to Online Media

Sites for detailed information.

Utilizing Intelligent SVRT

Intelligent SVRT (Smart Video Rendering Technology) is a proprietary rendering technology from CyberLink that assists in the output of your video productions by suggesting which video profile you should use.

Based on the format of original video clips in your project, what portions of the clips were modified (and therefore require rendering during production), and which portions of them were not changed (and thus can be skipped over during the rendering process), Intelligent SVRT suggests the video profile that will result in the best output quality possible, and save you the most time during production.

To utilize Intelligent SVRT, click the I ntelligent SVR T button on the File tab.

Producin g Y our Project

Note: if you're not sure which video file format you should output your production in, click the Intelligent SVRT button for assistance. See Utilizing Intelligent SVRT for more information on using this feature.

Note: H.264 AVC and WMV video file formats support up to 4K resolution (Ultra HD). Before production, be sure to select the desired video resolution in the P rof il e na me/Qua l ity drop-down.

In the Intelligent SVRT dialog that displays, CyberLink ActionDirector auto selects the video profile it suggests you use to output your video production, and some other video profiles you can utilize.

To select a video profile, just select it in the Intelligent SVRT dialog and then click Apply. The selected video profile is auto highlighted and selected as you proceed to produce. The video profile you used is also saved in the dialog, and will always be available when utilizing Intelligent SVRT.

Producing and Saving to a Video File

You can produce your video and save it as a video file that you can watch on a computer, mobile device, and more.

Producing Regular HD Video

You can output your video production as a video file, which you can watch on a computer, burn to disc, or output to a portable device.

You can output your project to one of the following formats:

H.264 AVC (.MP4)

Windows Media

To output your video production, do this:

1. Select a video file format by clicking it (H.26 4 AVC (.MP4) or Windows Media).

2. Select the Pr ofile name/Quality you want to use to create the file. This selection determines the video resolution, file size, and overall quality of the outputted file.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: H.264 AVC video file format supports up to 4K resolution (Ultra HD). Before production, be sure to select the desired video resolution in the

Pr ofi l e nam e/Qua li ty drop-down.

Note: a 360 video preview is not available during production.

3. Check the production details and that the file will be outputted to the folder

on your computer where you want it. Click to set another output folder.

4. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce your file.

5. Click the Start button to begin producing your file.

Producing a 360° Video

You can output your 360° video file in either of the following formats:

H.264 AVC (.MP4)

To output your video production, do this:

1. Select a video file format by clicking it (H.26 4 AVC (.MP4)).

2. Select the Pr ofile name/Quality you want to use to create the file. This selection determines the video resolution, file size, and overall quality of the outputted file.

3. Check the production details and that the file will be outputted to the folder

on your computer where you want it. Click to set another output folder.

4. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce your file.

5. Click the Start button to begin producing your file.

Producin g Y our Project

Note: in some versions of ActionDirector, you can produce and upload up to 4K resolution (Ultra HD) video to social web sites. Before production, be sure to select the desired video resolution in the Profile name/Qua lity drop-down.

Playing Your 360° Video

Once the production is complete, the 360° video file is automatically imported into your media library. To play it back, just select it in the media library and then use the playback and 360 controls. See Playing 360° Media Files for more information.

360° video files can also be played on your compatible Samsung device, or you can upload and then play it on YouTube and Facebook. See Uploading a 360° Video for more information.

Uploading Video to Online Media Sites

On the Online tab you can upload your video production to online media web sites.

Uploading Regular HD Video

On the Online tab you can upload your video production to one of the following online media web sites:

Facebook

YouTube

Dailymotion

Vimeo

Niconico Douga

Youku

Uploading Video to Facebook

To upload your video to Facebook®, do this:

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: if the size/length of the your video exceeds the maximum allowed, ActionDirector will separate the video into smaller/shorter videos, upload these videos, and then create a playlist for you on YouTube.

Note: the quality option available on YouTube is also dependent on the original captured video quality and the bandwidth of the user who is watching the video.

1. Click the Facebook button.

2. Select the desired quality of your video from the Profile type drop-down list.

3. Enter a Title and Description for your video in the fields provided. The text you enter is included on Facebook once uploaded.

4. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

5. Click Start to begin.

6. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your Facebook account by following the steps in the Facebook Authorization windows.

7. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Uploading Video to YouTube

To upload your video to YouTube, do this:

1. Click the YouTube Videos button.

2. Select the desired quality of your video from the Profile type drop-down. The quality you select will result in the corresponding quality option being available after the video is fully processed on YouTube.

3. Enter a Title and Description for your video in the fields provided. The text you enter is included on YouTube once uploaded. Also select one of the Video categories and enter in some keyword Tags that users can search for to find your video.

4. Set whether you want the video to be Public or Private once it is uploaded to YouTube.

Producin g Y our Project

Note: sign in to DirectorZone and then select Share video on DirectorZone if you want to show others how you adjusted the clips in your

video production. When selected, your uploaded video also displays on DirectorZone.

Note: the quality option available on Dailymotion is also dependent on the original captured video quality and the bandwidth of the user who is watching the video.

5. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

6. Click Start to begin.

7. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your YouTube account by following the steps in the YouTube Authorization windows.

8. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Uploading Video to Dailymotion

To upload your video to Dailymotion, do this:

1. Click the Dailymotion button.

3. Enter a Title and Description for your video in the fields provided. The text you enter is included on Dailymotion once uploaded. Also select one of the Video categories and enter in some keyword Tags that users can search for to find your video.

4. Set whether you want the video to be Public or Private once it is uploaded to Dailymotion.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: sign in to DirectorZone and then select Share video on DirectorZone if you want to show others how you adjusted the clips in your

video production. When selected, your uploaded video also displays on DirectorZone.

Note: the quality option available on Vimeo is also dependent on the original captured video quality and the bandwidth of the user who is watching the video.

Note: sign in to DirectorZone you can select Share vi deo on DirectorZone if you want to show others how you adjusted the clips in your

video production. When selected, your uploaded video also displays on DirectorZone.

5. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

6. Click Start to begin.

7. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your Dailymotion account by following the steps in the Dailymotion Authorization windows.

8. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Uploading Video to Vimeo

To upload your video to Vimeo, do this:

1. Click the Vimeo button.

3. Enter a Title and Description for your video in the fields provided. The text you enter is included on Vimeo once uploaded. Also enter in some keyword Tags that users can search for to find your video.

4. Set whether you want the video to be Public or Private once it is uploaded to Vimeo.

Producin g Y our Project

Note: the quality option available on Niconico Douga is also dependent on the original captured video quality and the bandwidth of the user who is watching the video.

Note: sign in to DirectorZone you can select Share vi deo on DirectorZone if you want to show others how you adjusted the clips in your

video production. When selected, your uploaded video also displays on DirectorZone.

5. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

6. Click Start to begin.

7. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your Vimeo account by following the steps in the Vimeo Authorization windows.

8. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Uploading Video to Niconico Douga

To upload your video to Niconico Douga, do this:

1. Click the Niconico Douga button.

2. Enter your Niconico Douga Username and Password. If you don't have an account, click the S ign Up to N iconico link to get one.

3. Select the desired quality of your video from the Profile type drop-down. The quality you select will result in the corresponding quality option being available after the video is fully processed on Niconico Douga.

4. Enter a Title and Description for your video in the fields provided. The text you enter is included on Niconico Douga once uploaded. Also enter in some keyword Tags that users can search for to find your video.

5. Set whether you want the video to be Public or Private once it is uploaded to Niconico Douga.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: the quality option available on Youku is also dependent on the original captured video quality and the bandwidth of the user who is watching the video.

Note: sign in to DirectorZone you can select Share vi deo on DirectorZone if you want to show others how you adjusted the clips in your

video production. When selected, your uploaded video also displays on DirectorZone.

6. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

7. Use the player controls in the preview window to find the frame of video in your production you want to use as the video's thumbnail on the Niconico Douga web site, and then clic k the S et Thumbnail button.

8. Click Start to begin.

9. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your Niconico Douga account by following the steps in the Niconico Douga Authorization windows.

10. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Uploading Video to Youku

To upload your video to Youku, do this:

1. Click the Youku button.

3. Enter a Title and Description for your video in the fields provided. The text you enter is included on Youku once uploaded. Also select one of the Video categories and enter in some keyword Tags that users can search for to find your video.

4. Set whether you want the video to be Public or Private once it is uploaded to Dailymotion.

Producin g Y our Project

5. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

6. Click Start to begin.

7. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your Youku account by following the steps in the Youku Authorization windows.

8. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Uploading a 360° Video

On the Online tab you can upload your 360° video to either Facebook or YouTube. Once uploaded, you can click and drag on the Facebook/YouTube player window, or use any available 360 controls, to rotate and view the entire 360° video.

Uploading 360° Video to Facebook

To upload your 360° video to Facebook®, do this:

1. Click the Facebook button.

2. Select the desired quality of your video from the Profile type drop-down list.

3. Enter a Title and Description for your video in the fields provided. The text you enter is included on Facebook once uploaded.

4. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

5. Click Start to begin.

6. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your Facebook account by following the steps in the Facebook Authorization windows.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: the quality option available on YouTube is also dependent on the original captured video quality and the bandwidth of the user who is watching the video.

Note: sign in to DirectorZone and then select Share video on DirectorZone if you want to show others how you adjusted the clips in your

video production. When selected, your uploaded video also displays on DirectorZone.

7. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Uploading 360° Video to YouTube

To upload your 360° video to YouTube, do this:

1. Click the YouTube Videos button.

4. Set whether you want the video to be Public or Private once it is uploaded to YouTube.

5. If required, select E nable preview during production to preview your video during production. Selecting this option will increase the time required to produce the file before upload.

6. Click Start to begin.

7. Click Authorize and then grant ActionDirector permission to upload videos to your YouTube account by following the steps in the YouTube Authorization windows.

8. ActionDirector proceeds to produce and upload the video file. Click Close when done to return to the program.

Usin g th e The me De signe r

Note: this feature is not available when editing a 360º video project.

Chapter 15:

Using the Theme Designer

The Theme Designer lets you add style and a professional video look to your video production, with fully customizable theme templates. A theme may consist of one or more theme templates, or individual sequences from different theme templates.

As you customize the theme template, you can also fully customize how your media is displayed, giving you more creative control over your outputted movie.

To open the Theme Designer click Theme Designer on the ActionDirector launch window, or Go to Theme Designer in the Produce dialog.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

A - Med ia Tab, B - Effects Tab, C - Seq uence Content Area, D - Added Sequences Area, E - Sel ected Sequence, F - Title Settings, G - Theme Background Music , H - Sequenc e Bac kground Im age, I Transition Settings, J - P review Window , K - Preview Controls, L - Take Snapshot from Vi deo, M - Auto Fill Medi a Slo ts

Overview

Themes that you edit in the Theme Designer consist of theme templates and your media files. Your media files may consist of:

images and video clips you import into the Theme Designer.

a render preview of the video production created in the storyboard window.

all the images and video clips you had in the media room in the storyboard window.

snapshot images you create in the Theme Designer. See Taking Snapshots

from Videos for more information.

What are Theme Templates?

Theme templates are used to create a video production, with a specific type of theme or style, and can be downloaded from DirectorZone. Theme templates consist of a number of sequences. Each of these sequences contain elements, some of which are customizable and some of which are not.

The customizable elements include the text and media (images, videos, and background music) you add to each sequence. You can add effects on this media and set how and when it is displayed. You can also set the background image on some sequences, and select the transition between each sequence in templates named "with transitions". Non-customizable elements include any animation included in the sequences.

When selecting a theme template to use in the Theme Designer, you can choose to add one or more theme templates, creating a more original production. You can even just select some of the sequences in a theme template, or mix and match the sequences used.

There are three types of sequences: opening, middle, and closing sequences. Opening and closing sequences usually contain text, while the elements in middle sequences are much more random.

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Note: once the render preview and media files are imported into the Theme Designer, the Add Theme Templates/Sequences window displays. See Adding Theme Templates/Sequences for more information on the next steps.

Note: if you want to import additional media files into the Theme Designer after you have entered it, see Importing More Media Files.

Importing Media Files into the Theme Designer

There are two ways you can enter the Theme Designer in CyberLink ActionDirector, so the process for the initial import of media files depends on the path you take. If you entered the Theme Designer from the storyboard window, CyberLink ActionDirector will:

create a render preview of your video production and then import it into the Theme Designer.

import all of the video files and images you have in the media room, whether they were used in your production or not, into the Theme Designer.

If you enter the Theme Designer from the launch window, you will see an import window that helps you import your media files.

Importing Media Files

When you select Theme Designer on the ActionDirector launch window, you import your media files as below.

1. After selecting Theme Designer, the import media window displays.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: you can also click on the Import icon if you just want to import media files individually.

2. Click on and then select one of the following options:

Im port Media F iles: import media files individually.

Im port a Media F older: import the entire contents of a folder that contains the media files you want to use.

3. Browse to and select the media files you want to import and the n click Open.

4. Click on Next to import the media files into the Theme Designer and display the Add Theme Templates/Sequences window. See

Adding Theme Templates/Sequences for more information on the

next steps.

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Adding Theme Templates/Sequences

In the Theme Designer you can use one or more theme templates, or just certain selected sequences, to create your video.

When you first enter the Theme Designer, you are prompted to select a theme template.

To add a theme template, just select it in the window and all of its sequences will be added.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: you can preview a theme template in the preview window by selecting it and then using the available playback controls.

If you don't want to use all the theme template's sequences, just deselect the ones you don't want to use.

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Note: the number of media files you can add to a sequence is dependent on its design.

You can also select sequences from other theme templates and include them in your video. The Theme Designer will remember the order of your selections.

Click OK once you have selected all the sequences. They will be loaded into the added sequences area of the Theme Designer.

If you'd like to add more sequences, just click the button. You can drag and drop the sequences to reorder them, or right click to remove the selected one.

Adding Media Clips

Once you have selected the theme templates (and their sequences) that you want to use, you can start adding your images and video files to them.

To add media into the selected sequences, do this:

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: some of the media slots in sequences allow you to add both images and videos into them, while others only allow one type of media.

Note: the media that is available on the Media tab are the videos and images you imported into the Media Room library. Click Impor t M edi a to import media from your computer's hard drive.

1. In the added sequences area, select the individual sequence you want to add media to. Note the number of media slots that are available in the sequence content area. The number of available slots varies from sequence to sequence.

2. Click on the Media tab and then drag and drop the media that you want in the sequence to the desired slot.

3. Continue this process until all the media slots have been used.

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4. Select the next sequence, and then repeat steps 2 and 3 until all the media slots have been filled.

Cyb erLink ActionDirector

Note: if you want a media file to continue playing from one sequence to the next, ensure the Continue from last clip in the previous sequence is selected. The first media slot will be auto populated with the content from the last media slot on the previous sequence. Deselect this option if you want new media displayed in the next sequence.

Note: when adding media you can also click the button to auto fill all the empty media slots in the sequences. Select Auto Fill by Library Order to fill by the created date, as displayed in the Media Room li brary. Select Auto Fill Using Videos Fi rst if you want to add the video clips first.

5. Continue selecting all the sequences in your video until all of the media slots and sequences contain media.

Importing More Media Files

Once you are in the Theme Designer, there are two ways you can import more media files into the window.

To import more video files and images located on your hard drive, click the Im port Media button.

To take still snapshots from videos in the Theme Designer, click the Snapshot button. See Taking Snapshots from Videos for more information.

Taking Snapshots from Videos

You can take a snapshot from a paused video and then import the image into the Theme Designer to use in your video production.

To take a snapshot, do this:

1. In the main Theme Designer window, select the video file you want to use and then click the Snapshot button.

2. In the Snapshot window, use the playback controls to find the video frame you want to take a snapshot of. Pause the video and use the and

buttons to find the precise frame you want to capture.

3. Click the . The snapshot image is captured.

4. Repeat the steps to take as many snapshots from the video as you wish.

Cyberlink ActionDirector - 3.0 User’s Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Introduction

Welcome

DirectorZone

ActionDirector Versions

System R equirements

ActionDirector Projects

Setting Project Aspect Ratio

Opening Saved Projects

Exporting Projects

Storyb oard Win dow

Rooms

Library Window

Searching the Library

Filtering Media in the Library

Library Menu

Preview Window

Preview Player Controls

Playing 360° Media Files

Taking a Screen Snapshot

Preview/Display Options

Zoom In/Out

Undocking the Preview Window

Expanding the Library/Preview Window

Function Buttons

Impo rting Media

Importing Media Files

Importing 360° Media Files

Importing ActionDirector Projects

Downloading Effects and Templates from DirectorZone

Adding Video Clips and Images to the Storyboard

Editing Media on the Storyboard

Splitting a Clip

Trimming Video Clips

Cropping Images

Rotating Media Clips

Fixing and Enhancing Media Clips

Fixing Video Clips

Setting a Media Clip's Duration

Changing the Shape of Media

Editin g 360° Vid eos

Adding Intro/Outro Effects

Modifying Titles in the Title Designer

Adding Text, Images, and Backgrounds

Modifying Intro/Outro Effect Position

Modifying Title Text Properties

Applying Animation Effects to Title Text

Adding Action Effects in the Action Camera Center

Creating Action Effects on Video Clips

Action Camera Center Settings

Changing the Action Camera Center Content

View Designer

Customizing Direction of View in 360º Video Clips

Creating Little Planet Videos

Addin g V ideo Effects

Using Transitions

Adding Transitions to a Single Clip

Adding Transitions Between Two Clips

Adding Background Music

Producing Your Project

Utilizing Intelligent SVRT

Producing and Saving to a Video File

Producing Regular HD Video

Producing a 360° Video

Uploading Video to Online Media Sites

Uploading Regular HD Video

Uploading a 360° Video

Usin g th e The me De signe r

Overview

What are Theme Templates?

Importing Media Files into the Theme Designer

Adding Theme Templates/Sequences

Adding Media Clips

Importing More Media Files

Taking Snapshots from Videos