I am trying to compile/edit hunting videos filmed on both my gopro hero7 and nikon DSLR. The video editing program I use currently (hitfilm express 4) doesn't allow me to directly upload gopro videos (doesnt support that file type for some reason). There are ways to convert the gopro videos to a compatible file type, but i'm not technically inclined enough to figure that out. Are there any free editing programs out there that are capable of uploading these file types (H.264 codec, .mp4) without jumping hoops? TIA
I have no experience with GoPro video. But, I've been playing around with OpenShot https://www.openshot.org/
Davinci Resolve. It is free and as powerful (if not more so) than anything else out there. I ran Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects for 10+ years and Davinci Resolve does everything and more for free.
Here is a article of free & Paid video editors ( https://www.xp-pen.com/forum-1595.html ) for Windows and Mac OS. From what you've described, VSDC, Davinci Resolve, and ShotCut may be right for you. Of course, if you're willing to pay, nothing beats Adobe Premiere. I recommend ShortCut. Most important it is free and supports a wide range of video formats ( including FFmpeg, ProRes, and DNxHD ) .