If you want to create VCDs and DVDs from your captured camcorder footage, you
can use an integrated video editing suite or you can use dedicated VCD and DVD
authoring software.
Many of these are sold off the
shelves for under $50 and are very useful if you create VCD and DVD movies on a
regular basis.
What are the factors to consider before
purchasing such a product? Well, one of the key things to think about is how
much video editing you want to do. If you just want to cut a disc without
much editing, these programs are great. If you want full video editing
power, then look elsewhere.
And if you do decide to buy a VCD and DVD authoring package, then do keep
things like ease of use and bundled hardware in mind.
1. Easy of Use
Usability ranks very highly on my list of
factors to consider when selecting a VCD or DVD authoring package. Some packages
like Corel DVD MovieFactory are a pleasure to use due to their excellent user interface design. Others like
Nero Of course, once you get used to the software, it becomes easy to use, no
matter how cluttered the interface may be.
2. Integration
with Video Editing Programs
Many video editing programs in the market today
come complete with VCD and DVD authoring features. This will save you money
since you need not buy a separate VCD and DVD authoring package.
3. Bundled
with Hardware
Some of the VCD and DVD authoring packages come
bundled with video hardware. For example, I know that some CD and DVD writers come with Ulead
software, which is a big money saver. Do consider
this when purchasing your next piece of video hardware.
4. Recommended
VCD and DVD Authoring Packages
Let's now take a look at some of the VCD and
DVD authoring packages I personally recommend.
Corel DVD MovieFactory
Very high on my recommendation list. I've personally used DVD MovieFactory for
ages and it has never let me down. Think of a clean, crisp and excellent wizard
driven approach to cutting VCDs and DVDs. A must for video enthusiasts of all
levels.
Nero Multimedia Suite
Nero is a very versatile and powerful software to create your own CDs, VCDs and
DVDs. I use this to cut my own MP3 music CDs and occasionally to create VCDs.
The user interface is a little awkward - but its not a problem once you get used
to it.
AVS DVD Authoring
AVS DVD Authoring is a new product that offers an all-in-one complete
suite of CD and DVD authoring tools. Create your own MP3 and digital scrapbooks
onto video CDs and DVDs easily and with a minimum of hassle.
AVS DVD Authoring
Conclusion
To choose a good VCD or DVD authoring package,
you should always consider the above factors. My feel is that if you only want
to burn movies on VCDs and DVDs, go for a package like DVD MovieFactory. If you want to burn data, music or other files into CDs, get a more general
purpose package like Nero.
If you've been looking for a good video editing program, you may want to check out
Corel VideoStudio Pro. This software allows you to quickly create and share a movie using built-in templates,
special effects, titles and transitions. You can apply unique effects such as stop-motion animation, time-lapse and chroma
key to create brilliant digital videos.
Related Articles
You may also wish to read the following related articles:
Edit
Digital Videos With Ease