So you’ve just finished editing your masterpiece in iMovie. You’ve trimmed, sliced, and added that perfect background music. Now you’re ready to share it with the world—but how exactly do you get that shiny film out of iMovie and into the real world? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
TL;DR:
Exporting your iMovie project is easy! Just click the Share button, pick your desired format, and save it where you like. You can export for YouTube, email, or straight as a file. Follow the steps below, and you’ll be exporting like a pro in no time!
Step 1: Final Checks
Before you hit that export button, pause. Make sure your video is exactly the way you want it.
- Is the music lined up?
- Any spelling errors in the titles?
- Do all your clips fade in and out nicely?
Once it looks great, let’s move on!
Step 2: Click the Magic “Share” Button
At the top-right corner of your iMovie screen, you’ll see a little icon that looks like a square with an arrow coming out of it. That’s the Share button. Click it.
You’ll now see a bunch of options pop up. But don’t worry—it’s not scary! Each one is just a different way to export your video.
Step 3: Choose How You Want to Export
Option 1: Export As a File
This is the most flexible option. You’ll get a simple video file saved to your computer.
- Click File in the export options.
- Fill in your video’s details. You can name it, and choose the resolution (720p, 1080p, or even 4K!).
- Make sure “Quality” is set to High if you want it to look nice, but remember—higher quality means a bigger file size.
- Leave compress set to Faster unless you’re not in hurry.
Then? Click Next… and choose where you want to save it. Done!
Option 2: Share to YouTube & Facebook
Want to impress your YouTube subscribers or Facebook friends? You can upload directly from iMovie.
- Click YouTube & Facebook from the share options.
- Sign in with your account.
- Add your title, description, and tags.
- Set the resolution and privacy (Public, Unlisted, or Private).
Click Next, and iMovie will handle the rest! It will even alert you when it’s fully uploaded.
Option 3: Email or AirDrop It
If your video is short and sweet, you can email it directly to someone or send it via AirDrop.
- For Email: iMovie will compress your video to a smaller size so it can fit into an email.
- For AirDrop: Your devices need to be close by and have AirDrop turned on.
This is perfect for quick sharing with friends or coworkers.
Step 4: Wait a Bit
Once you hit Next, iMovie will start exporting. You’ll see a little circle clock in the top-right corner that shows the progress.
Depending on how big your video is, this could take a few seconds or several minutes. So maybe grab a snack. 🍿
Step 5: Find Your Video
After iMovie lets you know it’s done, head to the folder you saved it in.
Do a little happy dance—your video is ready to go! 🎉
Tips to Make Exporting Easier
- Name your files clearly so you don’t lose them later.
- Always preview the exported file before you send it out into the world—just in case.
- If you’re exporting a school or work project, stick to standard settings like 1080p resolution and High quality.
What File Formats Does iMovie Offer?
When you export as a file, iMovie saves it as a .mp4 (which is actually .mov in disguise, but super compatible).
You can watch it on:
- Mac
- Windows
- Smart TVs
- Phones and tablets
No extra software needed. Easy-peasy.
Can You Go Back and Make Changes?
Absolutely! Your exported video is separate from your iMovie project. That means your original project is still safe inside iMovie. Feel free to go back, tweak something, and export again anytime.
Common Problems (And Fixes!)
1. It’s Stuck on “Sharing…”
Be patient—but if it takes more than 10 minutes, try quitting iMovie and restarting your Mac. It usually helps.
2. Exported Video Has No Sound
Check your iMovie project and make sure none of the audio is muted. Then export again.
3. File Size is Too Big
Choose a lower resolution or set the export quality to “Medium” or “Low.” That will shrink the file size for easier uploading or emailing.
Bonus: Export iMovie Projects on iPhone or iPad
Yes, you can export right from your iOS device too! Here’s how:
- Finish editing your movie in the iMovie app.
- Tap the Share button at the bottom of the screen (the little square with the arrow).
- Choose Save Video.
- Select the resolution and wait for it to export.
The video will be saved to your Photos app—ready to upload or share however you like!
Conclusion
Exporting your iMovie project isn’t just the final step—it’s the celebration moment. It means your editing journey is complete, and now the world gets to see your creativity in action.
So whether you’re uploading to YouTube, sending it to Grandma, or saving it for your portfolio—now you know exactly how to do it. 🎬👏
Now go out there and make more movies!