Video Editing Software Question

[golferguy]

Good day all! I have a couple of family videos on my computer and would like to edit out the areas where nothing is really happening.

What is a good program to do this with and are there any shareware programs that can handle the task?

Thanks, Golferguy

 

[Squashman]

If you have Windows XP, it has Movie Maker builtin to it.

Another free application would AVID FreeDV.
http://www.avid.com/freedv/index.asp

 

[golferguy]

My XP decided it didn't want to work correctly and is in the shop. Using an antiquated 450AMD with 98 running.

Golferguy

 

[dmneoblade]

http://www.virtualdub.org/
Get this. Read the guides on the site. This is very powerful for basic video editing, and is totally free. Can't beat that with a stick.

 

[golferguy]

Outstanding! I'll give it a go. Thanks.

Golferguy

 

[videohead]

Hi Golferguy,
You might find Virtualdub a little TOO techie for family videos - I find it most useful for batch operations. Also, it's a bit tricky to use with OHCI firewire - definitely written for the *nix set. Good app, tho!
I'm not sure whether you are using generic firewire or a specialized capture card for your project. These cards run $10 - 120 and usually come with a bundled application. Usually they come bundled with Pinnacle Studio or Ulead SE. Both are good solid, easy vacation video editors which will be intutive and straightforward. Ulead has a free 30 day trial. Google 'em for more info - I can't post the links here.
If you are using a slower machine, make sure you have LOTS of RAM and a big hard drive. You will need 10-15 gigs for one hour of footage.
Personally, I stick with the big guys : Avid Xpres Pro and Adobe Premiere, but that's cause I do this for a living.
Best,
Matthew
Active Matrix Networks, Inc.
Affordable Computer Support