Welcome back to the third tutorial in our series! In this guide, we’ll show you how to add transitions in Premiere Pro.
We’ve already learned how to import and edit footage. Now, let’s look at how to add some of those cool effects you’ll find in the bottom left corner of your workspace.
After you’ve laid out and trimmed your footage on the timeline, it’s time to think about how each clip flows together. That’s where transitions come in.
What Are Transitions?
Video transitions are post-production techniques used in editing. They’re essential tools for video editors, helping move the story forward, set the mood, and guide the viewer smoothly from one shot to the next.
In short, transitions aren’t just for connecting clips — they also help create rhythm and visual flow in your edit.
Adding Video Transitions
At the bottom left of your Editing workspace (in the Project panel area), click the two arrows pointing to the right.
This opens a drop-down menu where you can select the Effects tab.
Search
Inside, you’ll see several folders with options for both video and audio effects.
First, open the Video Transitions folder to browse all available options.
Some transitions can look a bit over-the-top. Try to use them sparingly — too many can make your edit feel less professional.
Apply
Once you’ve chosen a transition, click and drag it between two clips on your timeline.
The overlay area will highlight where the transition is applied. In this example, we’ve used Film Dissolve to move smoothly from the exterior of an ancient church in Istanbul to the interior.
Play back your sequence to preview the transition. If it’s too fast, hover over one edge and drag outward to lengthen it — or drag inward to shorten it.
Customize
You can also make adjustments in the Effect Controls panel, found in the top-left corner of your workspace.
Here, you can change the transition duration, adjust its position, or even play it in reverse for creative effects.
If dragging transitions feels repetitive, you can save time by setting a default transition.
To do this, right-click the transition you want and choose Set Selected as Default Transition.
Then, select a cut (it’ll highlight in red), and press Ctrl + D on Windows or Command + D on Mac to apply the default transition instantly.
Adding Audio Transitions
Without audio transitions, your cuts can sound harsh or abrupt.
For example, cutting straight from outdoor city sounds to quiet indoor ambience can feel jarring.
Use the Constant Power audio transition to smooth this out and make your edits sound more natural.
Just like video transitions, you’ll find them under the Audio Transitions folder. Drag and drop one between your audio clips to blend sounds seamlessly.
Great job — you’ve just learned how to add transitions in Premiere Pro! Up next, check out our tutorials on color grading and exporting your videos.
