Mastering ProPresenter 7: A Beginner's Guide
Chapter 1: Introduction to ProPresenter 7
What is ProPresenter?
ProPresenter is a powerful presentation software designed for live events, including church services,
conferences, concerts, and other performances. Unlike traditional presentation tools, ProPresenter
offers seamless multi-screen control, advanced media management, and real-time editing, making it
ideal for dynamic and engaging presentations.
Why ProPresenter 7?
ProPresenter 7 is the latest version, offering groundbreaking features such as unlimited screen outputs,
robust video playback capabilities, and advanced audio controls. Its streamlined interface and enhanced
performance make it a leading choice for professionals and beginners alike.
Installing ProPresenter 7
1. System Requirements:
o Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.14 and later.
o Minimum 8GB RAM and a dedicated graphics card for optimal performance.
2. Download and Installation:
o Visit the official Renewed Vision website.
o Download the installer and follow the prompts.
3. Initial Setup:
o Launch ProPresenter and create a user account.
o Configure basic settings such as display outputs and library folders.
o Familiarize yourself with the default workspace and initial tips provided by the software.
Chapter 2: Navigating the Interface
Understanding the Workspace
The ProPresenter interface is designed to provide easy access to all the tools and features needed for
creating and running presentations. It consists of the following main sections:
1. Library:
o Stores all your presentations and media assets.
o Organized into folders for easy retrieval.
o Use the search bar to quickly locate specific presentations or files.
2. Playlist:
o Helps you organize presentations for specific events.
o Drag and drop presentations into a playlist for quick access during live events.
o Reorder items within the playlist to match your event flow.
3. Viewer:
o Displays the currently selected slide in real-time.
o Shows what your audience sees on the output screens.
o Includes "Output Preview" and "Stage Display Preview" for multi-screen setups.
4. Editor:
o A workspace for creating and customizing slides.
o Includes tools for adding text, media, and other slide elements.
5. Media Bin:
o Stores imported media such as images, videos, and audio files.
o Drag items directly from the Media Bin to your slides.
6. Slide Area:
o Displays a grid view of your slides.
o Allows you to rearrange slides by dragging and dropping.
The Toolbar and Menu
The toolbar is your quick access panel for essential tools and features. Key functions include:
New Presentation: Create a new presentation from scratch or using a template.
Import Media: Quickly add images, videos, and audio files to your library.
Live Mode: Switch to live mode to control your presentation in real-time.
Search: Locate specific slides, presentations, or media files in your library.
Customizing the Toolbar
1. Right-click on the toolbar and select "Customize Toolbar."
2. Drag and drop icons to add or remove tools.
3. Save your layout for future use.
Basic Navigation
ProPresenter offers multiple viewing modes to suit different tasks:
1. Grid View:
o Displays slides in a visual grid format.
o Ideal for quickly identifying slides based on their layout or content.
2. Timeline View:
o Shows a time-based view of slides and media.
o Useful for syncing audio and video with slides.
3. List View:
o Presents slides in a text-based list format.
o Best for editing text-heavy presentations, such as lyrics or sermon notes.
Keyboard Shortcuts for Navigation
Cmd+1 (Ctrl+1): Switch to Grid View.
Cmd+2 (Ctrl+2): Switch to Timeline View.
Cmd+3 (Ctrl+3): Switch to List View.
Cmd+F (Ctrl+F): Open the search bar to find slides or media quickly.
Customizing the Workspace
ProPresenter allows you to tailor the interface to your workflow:
1. Resizing Panels:
o Drag the edges of panels to adjust their size.
o Maximize key sections like the Editor or Viewer for detailed work.
2. Rearranging Panels:
o Drag panels to rearrange their positions.
o Save your layout by selecting "Save Workspace" from the Window menu.
3. Switching Between Workspaces:
o ProPresenter includes default workspaces for different tasks (e.g., Editing, Live Mode).
o Access these presets from the Window menu.
By mastering the interface and customizing it to fit your needs, you'll be able to navigate ProPresenter
efficiently and focus on creating engaging presentations.
Chapter 3: Building Your First Presentation
Creating a New Presentation
1. Click "New Presentation" in the toolbar.
2. Choose a template or start with a blank canvas.
3. Set the aspect ratio based on your screen output (16:9 is standard).
Adding and Arranging Slides
Add new slides using the "+" button in the slide editor.
Rearrange slides by dragging them within the slide sorter.
Slide Elements
Text: Add titles, bullet points, or scripture.
o Use placeholders to standardize text alignment and appearance.
o Adjust text scaling to fit longer passages without truncation.
Media: Drag images, videos, or shapes into your slide.
o Optimize image resolution for better clarity on large screens.
o Use video trimming to highlight specific segments.
Backgrounds: Use solid colors or media files for dynamic backdrops.
o Apply subtle animations to create visual interest.
Saving and Organizing Your Presentation
1. Save your presentation regularly to avoid losing progress.
2. Use descriptive names for presentations for easy identification.
3. Organize presentations into folders based on events, themes, or dates.
Chapter 4: Managing Media and Content
Adding Media to Your Library
Import media by dragging files directly into the library.
Organize media using folders and tags for efficient retrieval.
o Use tags like "Worship," "Announcements," or "Special Events" to categorize media.
Preview media files before importing to ensure compatibility and quality.
Working with Playlists
Create playlists to sequence your presentations.
o Use playlists for recurring events, such as weekly services or rehearsals.
Drag presentations into the playlist for a seamless workflow.
Reorder playlists to reflect changes in event flow or priorities.
Content Organization Tips
Use descriptive file names and consistent folder structures.
Regularly clean up unused media to save space.
Archive completed projects to keep your library uncluttered.
Chapter 5: Mastering Text and Formatting
Text Basics
Use the text editor to add titles, body text, or scripture.
o Align text to fit screen dimensions and audience viewing angles.
Customize font size, style, and color for readability.
o Stick to high-contrast color combinations for better visibility.
Advanced Formatting
Apply shadows, outlines, and gradients for emphasis.
Save time by creating reusable text styles and themes.
o Export themes for consistency across multiple presentations.
Working with Multi-Screen Text
Use the "Stage Display" feature to send customized text to presenters.
Format text differently for audience and stage views.
Implement real-time updates to stage display content during live events.
Chapter 6: Audio, Video, and Visual Effects
Integrating Audio
Add background music by dragging audio files onto slides.
Sync audio with specific slides using the timeline feature.
Use crossfade effects to create smooth transitions between audio clips.
Video Integration
Import video files and assign them to slides.
Use cropping, resizing, and playback controls to fit your needs.
Loop videos seamlessly for background visuals.
Visual Effects
Apply transitions like fade, zoom, or dissolve.
Use overlays and masks for creative effects.
Experiment with motion graphics for dynamic presentations.
Chapter 7: Using ProPresenter for Live Events
Controlling a Live Presentation
Enter "Live Mode" to display slides on output screens.
Use the "Go to Next" feature for smooth transitions.
Monitor audience feedback to adjust pacing and content delivery.
Cues and Triggers
Add cues to automate slide changes, media playback, or lighting controls.
Use triggers to start actions based on time or user input.
Sync cues with external devices like lighting systems or video switchers.
Interacting with Audiences
Display timers, countdowns, or announcement slides during live events.
Integrate social media feeds for real-time interaction.
Use audience polling tools to enhance engagement.
Chapter 8: Multi-Screen and Advanced Outputs
Multi-Screen Setup
Configure outputs for different screens (e.g., main display, stage monitor).
Use the "Screen Configuration" tool to map displays.
Advanced Outputs
Create unique content for each output screen.
Troubleshoot connection issues with the "Output Preview" tool.
Use