How to Create a Trending Cut-Out Transition Video in VN Editor (Step-by-Step Guide)
Want to create those eye-catching cut-out transition videos that are trending on Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts? In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to make a professional-looking cut-out transition video using the VN Video Editor with just a few simple steps.
Even if you’re a beginner, you can easily follow this guide and create smooth, high-quality edits without using complicated software.
Why Cut-Out Transition Videos Are Trending
Cut-out transitions have become one of the most popular editing styles on social media. They combine animated subject cut-outs, beat-sync editing, and creative effects to make photos look dynamic and engaging.
These transitions are commonly used for:
- Instagram Reels
- TikTok Videos
- YouTube Shorts
- Fashion Edits
- Travel Videos
- Birthday Montages
- Cinematic Photo Slideshows
The best part is that you can create them directly on your smartphone using the VN Video Editor.
Step 1: Install the VN Video Editor
First, download and install the VN Video Editor from the Google Play Store if you haven’t already.
After opening the app:
- Tap the + (Plus) button.
- Select New Project.
- Open the Photos section.
- Choose all the images you want to use in your video.
- Tap Add.
Your selected photos will now appear on the editing timeline.
Step 2: Arrange Your Photos
Now arrange your images in the order you want them to appear.
If you want a different photo to appear first, simply drag it to the beginning of the timeline.
Take your time arranging the sequence because it helps create a smoother final video.
Step 3: Add Background Music
Music is the most important part of this editing style because every transition is synchronized with the beat.
To add music:
- Tap Music
- Select Music Library to import music from your device
Or
- Choose Extract From Video if you want to use music from another video.
Once your audio has been added, you’re ready for beat syncing.
Step 4: Mark the Beats
Tap the Beats option.
Play your music carefully and whenever you hear a beat:
- Tap the Beat Marker
- Continue marking every major beat throughout the song.
These markers will act as your transition points.
Step 5: Match Every Photo to the Beat
Now adjust every image according to the beat markers.
Simply trim or extend each photo so that it ends exactly where the next beat begins.
This creates perfect rhythm between the music and your visuals.
A properly synced timeline makes the final video look much more professional.
Step 6: Duplicate the Second Image
Now it’s time to create the trending cut-out transition.
- Select the second image.
- Tap Duplicate.
- Move the duplicate into the PIP (Picture-in-Picture) layer.
- Position it just above the original image.
- Trim any unnecessary extra duration.
Step 7: Fill the Screen
Resize the duplicated image so it fills the entire screen.
If necessary, use the Fit option to automatically adjust the image.
Step 8: Remove the Background
Scroll through the editing options until you find Cut Out.
Tap it.
VN will automatically detect the subject and remove the background.
Within a few seconds, you’ll have a clean cut-out image ready for animation.
Step 9: Add a Cut-Out Stroke
To make the subject stand out:
- Open Cut-Out Stroke
- Choose your favorite outline style
- Select a color
- Adjust the stroke thickness
Experiment with different colors until you find the one that matches your video theme.
Step 10: Create the Transition Animation
Now it’s time for the animation.
Add:
- One Keyframe at the beginning
- One Keyframe at the end
Move, resize, or reposition the subject in the first keyframe.
For example:
- Start from the bottom
- Make the subject smaller
- Move it to the left or right
When played, the subject smoothly moves into its final position.
Step 11: Apply Motion Curves
To make the movement smoother:
Open the Curve settings.
Choose either:
- Quarter Out
- Back Out
These easing curves create much smoother and more natural animations than the default movement.
Step 12: Add FX Effects
Select your animated image and open the FX section.
VN offers many effects such as:
- Digital
- Glitch
- RGB
- Zoom
- Shake
- Distortion
Choose any effect that matches your editing style.
If needed, reduce the speed slightly for a smoother appearance.
Step 13: Repeat the Process
Repeat exactly the same process for every remaining image:
- Duplicate
- Move to PIP
- Remove background
- Add stroke
- Create keyframes
- Apply easing curve
- Add FX
Once you finish all the images, your slideshow will contain consistent cut-out transitions throughout.
Step 14: Fix Slow Animations
If any transition feels too slow:
- Reduce the image duration.
- Recreate the keyframes after trimming.
- Apply the easing curve again.
This keeps every transition fast and energetic.
Step 15: Add Extra Glitch Effects
Sometimes the image becomes too static after the animation ends.
To keep the motion alive:
- Split the image where the animation finishes.
- Open FX.
- Apply a Glitch, Fuzzy, or RGB effect.
- Apply the effect to the entire clip.
This small trick makes the edit feel much more dynamic.
Step 16: Animate the First Image
Don’t forget the very first image.
Add:
- A simple visual effect
- Zoom In
- Zoom Out animation
Adding motion to the opening image creates a stronger introduction and keeps the entire video visually consistent.
Step 17: Preview the Video
Play your entire project with the music.
Check:
- Beat synchronization
- Animation smoothness
- Background removal quality
- Transition timing
- FX consistency
If something feels off, make small adjustments before exporting.
Step 18: Export in High Quality
When everything looks perfect:
Tap the Export button.
Use these export settings:
- Resolution: 1080p
- Frame Rate: 60 FPS
- Bitrate: Around 50 Mbps
Export the video, and it will be saved to your device in high quality.
Final Thoughts
That’s it! You’ve successfully created a trending cut-out transition video using the VN Video Editor.
Once you understand this workflow, you can easily create stylish Instagram Reels, TikTok videos, and YouTube Shorts that look professional and stand out from the crowd.
Practice with different music tracks, animation styles, and effects to develop your own unique editing style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is VN Video Editor free?
Yes, VN Video Editor is free to download and includes many professional editing tools without requiring a subscription.
Can beginners create this edit?
Absolutely. The entire process is beginner-friendly and only requires basic editing knowledge.
Which export settings are best?
For social media, exporting at 1080p, 60 FPS, and around 50 Mbps bitrate provides excellent video quality.
Can I use this style for YouTube Shorts?
Yes. This editing style works perfectly for YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, and TikTok.
Helpful Resources
To improve your video editing skills, check out these official resources:
- VN Video Editor Official Website: https://www.vlognow.me/
- VN Video Editor on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.frontrow.vlog
- YouTube Creator Academy: https://creatoracademy.youtube.com/
- Google’s Best Practices for YouTube Shorts: https://support.google.com/youtube/
