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This article will provide you tips
on selecting the best desktop video equipment. We'll break down the article into
the various categories, namely, digital camcorders, computers, video capture
devices, video editing software and VCD/DVD authoring programs. Buying a Digital CamcorderTo shoot a desktop video, you'll definitely need a camcorder. There are both analogue and digital camcorders out there, but digital camcorders are all the rage now. To select a quality camcorders, you'll need to focus mainly on your budget and the camera's intended usage. A low to mid-range digital camcorder is more than sufficient if you want to shoot only home videos. Don't waste money on higher-end models which are more suitable for professional videographers. You should also consider other factors like Firewire support, lens quality and still image capability. For more on this topic, you can read my detailed guide on buying a digital camcorder. For those interested in a scoop of the best camcorder models out there, you can read the following articles:
Buying a Computer for Video EditingA computer will be needed if you intend to
capture, edit or produce your own movie creations on VCD or DVD. Desktop and
laptop computers pack a lot of power these days and you should have no problems
selecting a decent model for your video editing needs. Again, consider your
budget and intended usage. Other factors like future expandibility, size, and
even customer support are also important. I've written
a
short guide on selecting a good video editing computer which will be useful
to you.
Want More Tips On Selecting Digital Video Equipment?
I can understand how frustrating it is starting out in digital video. How do you select the correct camcorder, video editing software and DVD authoring programs? That's why I created my newsletter called Desktop Video News. This weekly publication will provide you with useful tips on digital video equipment and how you can make the most out of this hobby. But don't take my word for it ...
And find out for yourself. In fact, subscribe now and you'll even get a FREE report entitled "6 Steps To A Professional-Looking Home Video". Now how's that for a bargain?
Buying a Video Capture DeviceWhen I speak of a video capture device, I refer
to two things - Firewire video capture cards and analog-to-digital converters.
Firewire cards are needed to transfer video from your digital camcorder to the
computer (you cannot use the USB port). It is an absolute must-buy if you have a
digital camcorder. If you own an analog camcorder, or if you want to convert
analog video footage into digital format, then analog-to-digital convertors come
into play. These devices take the analog video and convert them into digital
format so that you can preserve those precious videos forever. Here's a
guide to choosing Firewire cards for video capture. You can also read my
review of USB Instant DVD from ADS Technologies which is an excellent
analog-to-digital conversion device. Buying Video Editing SoftwareThere are so many video editing software
packages out there. Traditionally, Adobe Premiere Pro Buying VCD or DVD Authoring SoftwareVCD and DVD authoring packages are very popular these days. Typically, these simplify the process of burning a VCD or DVD with with point-and-click user interfaces. They are also quite cheap and affordable. Traditionally, Ulead Systems has been the industry leader for these products and I would recommend buying such packages from them. You may also want to read my
guide to buying VCD and DVD authoring programs for more information. ConclusionWhew! Considering the huge array of digital video equipment out there, it is most confusing to the beginner digital video enthusiast. I hope this article sums up the types of video equipment you need to buy and gives you some idea of what you will and will not need. The most important thing, as I always emphasize, is to consider your budget and intended usage of a particular digital video product. If you follow that simple rule, you will, in general, make a good selection and purchase.
Pinnacle Studio Plus Related ArticlesYou may also wish to read the following related articles:
How to buy your first digital camcorder © 2007 Desktop-Video-Guide.com
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