How do I export only part of a video?
You do not have to export your entire project. Smooth Operator lets you export a custom range — any section of the timeline — as a standalone video. This is useful for testing, creating clips, or exporting multiple versions.
Why export only part of a video?
- Test your settings. Export a 10-second section to check quality and camera moves before rendering the entire video.
- Create clips. Pull out the best moments for social media, trailers, or highlights.
- Iterate faster. A 30-second test export renders much faster than a 20-minute full export.
- Export multiple versions. Export different sections at different resolutions or aspect ratios.
How to set a custom export range
- Open the Export sheet (tap the Export button or press Cmd+E).
- In the Export Range section, switch from "Full Video" to "Custom."
- Two sliders appear:
- Start slider — Set where the export begins.
- End slider — Set where the export ends.
- Drag the sliders to define your range. The timeline shows the selected region highlighted.
- Configure the rest of your export settings (mode, resolution, codec, etc.).
- Tap "Export."
The app exports only the section between the start and end points, with all camera movements within that range applied.
Tips
- Use custom range for testing. Before exporting a 4K Enhanced video of an hour-long project, test a 30-second section at your chosen settings. If it looks good, switch back to Full Video for the final export.
- The minimum range is very short — you can export just a few seconds.
- Export multiple clips from one project. Change the range for each export to create different clips without creating separate projects.
- Camera movements are preserved. Any anchors and move blocks within your custom range are included exactly as they appear in the full project.
- Switch back to "Full Video" when you are ready for the final export.