Video editing · Beginner tutorial 2026
How to Use Prequel
Prequel is a video editing tool built for Instagram creators and TikTok creators. This step-by-step tutorial walks you through setup and your first project — no prior editing experience required. You can follow along free (Free plan with limited effects).
Prequel tutorial: step by step
Upload clip
Head to the Prequel site and start with the free option (Free plan with limited effects). Once you are in, upload clip — this is where most of your creative decisions begin, so take a moment to explore the interface before diving in.
Apply filter or effect
Next, apply filter or effect. Lean on Vintage film effects to speed this up. Small adjustments here have the biggest impact on how professional your final video looks.
Export and share
Finally, export and share. Prequel handles the heavy lifting here, but always preview the result before you publish so the pacing, captions, and audio line up. This is the stage where Prequel shines for instagram creators.
Tips to get more out of Prequel
- • Use AI beauty filters to work faster — it's one of the reasons Prequel is rated 4.4/5.
- • Use Vintage film effects to work faster — it's one of the reasons Prequel is rated 4.4/5.
- • Use Glitch and VHS styles to work faster — it's one of the reasons Prequel is rated 4.4/5.
- • Use Smooth transitions to work faster — it's one of the reasons Prequel is rated 4.4/5.
Common mistakes to avoid
- • Mobile-only
- • Watermark on free tier
Works with your stack
Prequel integrates with Instagram, TikTok, Camera Roll — handy when you are stitching it into an existing faceless YouTube or short-form pipeline.
Ready to try Prequel?
Prequel is perfect for creators who want cinematic, aesthetic looks fast.
Start Prequel Free →Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Prequel tutorial FAQ
Is Prequel hard to learn?
No. Most people create their first video editing project within an hour. Prequel is best for Instagram creators and TikTok creators, and the 3-step workflow above covers everything you need to get started.
Do I need editing experience to use Prequel?
Not really. The go-to app for aesthetic video filters popular on Instagram and TikTok. The interface is built so beginners can produce a finished video without prior editing skills, though features like AI beauty filters reward a little practice.
Is there a free way to try Prequel?
Yes — Free plan with limited effects. That's more than enough to follow this tutorial end-to-end before deciding whether to upgrade. See the full Prequel pricing for paid tier details.
What can I make with Prequel?
Prequel is designed for Instagram creators, TikTok creators, Social media influencers. It integrates with Instagram, TikTok, Camera Roll, so it slots neatly into most faceless YouTube and short-form workflows.