FFmpeg Video Filters

Apply and compose FFmpeg video filters for resizing, cropping, overlays, and effects.

4|Updated Feb 22, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/GeneralReasoning/env-skillsbench --skill ffmpeg-video-filters-generalreasoning
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: FFmpeg Video Filters
Source: https://github.com/GeneralReasoning/env-skillsbench/tree/main/multilingual-video-dubbing/environment/skills/ffmpeg-video-filters
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/GeneralReasoning/env-skillsbench --skill ffmpeg-video-filters-generalreasoning

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

FFmpeg video filters enable quick, programmable transformations and effects on video content, replacing manual, time-consuming editing in many workflows.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Scale videos to target resolutions with preserved aspect ratio or exact dimensions.
  • Crop frames, overlay watermarks, and apply visual effects like blur, brightness, and contrast.
  • Build complex filter chains (via -vf and -filter_complex) to automate production-ready edits.

Quick Start

Run an ffmpeg command to apply scaling, cropping, and a watermark to an input video.

Frequently Asked Questions about FFmpeg Video Filters

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I use ffmpeg to scale a video and overlay a watermark at the same time?

To scale a video and overlay a watermark simultaneously, use the ffmpeg -filter_complex flag to build a chained filter graph. This lets you resize the main video and composite the watermark image in a single automated processing step.

What is the difference between -vf and -filter_complex in ffmpeg for video filtering?

The -vf flag applies a single linear chain of video filters to one output, while -filter_complex builds complex graphs for multiple inputs or advanced compositing. Use -filter_complex when overlaying watermarks from separate sources onto a scaled main video.

Can I use ffmpeg video filters for batch processing and automated pipelines?

Yes, ffmpeg video filters support batch processing and automated pipelines by applying programmatic transformations like cropping, scaling, and visual effects across common video formats without manual editing intervention.

How do I crop frames and apply visual effects like blur or brightness in ffmpeg?

Crop frames and apply visual effects in ffmpeg by chaining the crop filter with adjustment filters like brightness or blur using the -vf command. This programmatic approach replaces manual editing for consistent visual transformations.

What is the best way to specify exact overlay positions when compositing video filters in ffmpeg?

To specify exact overlay positions, use the overlay filter within an ffmpeg -filter_complex chain and define the x and y coordinates. This allows precise placement of watermarks or graphics over the base video content.