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.