How to make a video recap: the ultimate guide for professional video editors

What is a recap video?

A recap video (also called highlight video or event summary) is a short video that captures the essence of a longer moment. Think of it as a kind of "best of": fast-paced, emotional, designed to be seen and shared.

Why recap videos are important

• They boost post-event engagement
• They create reusable marketing content
• They provide a quick overview for those who weren't present at the event.

Step 1: Know your objective and your audience

Before opening your editing software, ask yourself these questions:
Who will watch this video? (Participants? Sponsors? Network audience?)
What emotion should it convey? (Excitement, nostalgia, energy?)
Where will it be broadcast? (Instagram, YouTube, intranet?)

Pro tip: The tone and rhythm of a video intended for LinkedIn will be very different from those designed for TikTok.

Step 2: Organize your rushes like a pro

You know: the wrong sources produce the wrong results.
Start by sorting out your media:

• Label your best B-roll plans
• Spot audience reactions, key moments, backstage
• Synchronize your multi-camera angles and external audio sources

Tools such as Adobe Prelude or Yuzzit can speed up preparation.

Step 3: Build a narrative

Even a recap video needs to tell a story. Here's an effective structure:

• Opening hook (0-10s ): start with a strong shot or a striking quotation
• Build momentum (10-30s): set the mood, show the location or context
• Peak moments (30-60s): highlight key moments - applause, speakers, performances
• Conclusion (final 10s): display the logo, a call-to-action or a striking last shot

Think of it as a 60- to 90-second movie trailer.

Step 4: edit with rhythm and purpose

This is where your editing skills come into their own:

• Cut to the beat of the music: let the sound guide the narrative
• Use dynamic transitions, but always at the service of the content
• Keep effects simple: legible text, fluid animations
• Harmonize colors for a consistent visual signature

Step 5: Add music and sound design

The soundtrack can change everything! 

• Choose royalty-free (or licensed) music that fits the mood.
• Add ambient sounds (applause, laughter, background music) for added realism.
• Use light sound effects (whooshes, hits, transitions) to liven up the montage.

Platforms like Artlist, Musicbed or Epidemic Sound are goldmines for this.

Step 6: Export by platform

Adapt your settings to each channel:

• Instagram/TikTok: vertical format 1080x1920, less than 60 seconds
• YouTube: 1920x1080 or 4K, landscape format
• Internal use: consider making two versions (internal vs. public) if necessary

And above all : integrate subtitles for sound-free viewing and accessibility.

What are the most common video recap mistakes?

The classic mistake is to want to include everything. A recap video isn't a complete replay, it's a selection. Concentrate on the essentials.
Another pitfall: a badly timed video. If the video drags or lacks tension, viewers will tune out.
Also watch out for inconsistent visual identity, over-used transitions, or music that doesn't match the mood.
And above all: don't botch the ending - a logo, a CTA or a strong final shot, that's what stays in the memory.

Create your own video recap with Yuzzit

If you want to save time without sacrificing quality, Yuzzit is an excellent choice. This online platform lets you easily createrecap videos from livestreams, long-form videos or multi-source content.

You can cut, edit, dress and publish your videos in just a few clicks, already optimized for social networks.
Perfect for pros who want to deliver fast, professional, ready-to-use videos.

Create video recap templates

Yuzzit also lets you create and reuse customized video templates to save time on your recurring formats.
You can predefine your intros, outros, titles, logos, fonts, etc., as you wish. 

Result: guaranteed visual consistency throughout your production.
Ideal if you produce regular recaps, whether for customers, internal events or social media campaigns.

Conclusion

Creating a memorable recap video isn't just about lining up beautiful shots.
It's about building a short story, generating emotion, and delivering a clear message, all in under two minutes.

Bonus: checklist for a successful recap video

• Define your audience and your message
• Organize and tag your rushes
• Structuring your narrative
• Ride to the beat of the music + sound design
• Exporting for the right formats
• Add a call-to-action or a memorable ending