Digital Video Decoded
Resources Capture Edit Compress Deliver Glossary
2. Edit
Concept
Editing Software
Compress
 


Editing software often comes with video capture cards that can be used to capture and edit your video. However, there are many excellent tools for editing video in just about any price range. Several of the most popular pieces of software are discussed in the chart below, and all are available for use in the Instructional Development Lab (IDL) in OISD.

Most of these tools allow you to capture video directly into the program, crop out or edit parts of a clip you do not need, string together clips, add voice-over narration and background music, and insert movie titles and transition effects.


Video Editing Software
 Level:
B = Beginner
A = Advanced
*Refers to academic pricing.
Software
Description
Platform
Level
iMovie
Apple Computer
iMovie is Apple's inexpensive, and easy-to-use video editing software geared toward amateur or occasional video producers. iMovie's drag-and-drop interface simplifies capturing, editing, and preparing video footage for delivery, but also allows you to create transitions, titles, and other special effects to enhance your movies. Movie projects can be exported to email, Web, CD-ROM, and DVD. The built-in tutorial consists of a video project and is an excellent resource for people who want to get started quickly.
Mac
B
Final Cut Express
Final Cut Express is a professional-level tool that can be used for more extensive projects than those produced by iMovie. Although, Express can easily be used to enhance iMovie projects as well. Novices beware! While Final Cut Express is much easier to use than the professional version--Final Cut Pro, it does take some time to learn. However, the added features and special effects are ideal for users who do not mind a slight learning curve.
Mac
A
Windows Movie Maker
Windows Movie Maker is the PC answer to iMovie and is mainly geared toward the amateur video editor. You can create, edit, and share your home movies. With a drag-and-drop interface, you can create movies and then share your movie via the Web, e-mail, or CD. You can also save your movie back to the video tape in your camera to play back on a TV or on the camera itself. This program is available for free download from Microsoft.
PC
B
Quicktime Pro
Apple Computer
Good and cheap tool for compressing video for streaming, adding audio tracks to movies, saving still images from movie frames, creating slideshows with audio tracks, adding simple text, effects, and titles to movies. Quicktime Pro has many other advanced features as well, including media skins that allow you to change the look of the Quicktime Player, and many scripting options for adding interactivity to your movies. Files can also be exported into many different formats.
PC & Mac
B