How to Buy Digital Video Equipment
Do you have trouble selecting and buying digital video equipment? Can't decide which digital camcorder to buy? Or what factors to consider when selecting a video editing program?
Take buying camcorders as an example.
You certainly don't want to end up spending thousands of dollars on a digital camcorder if you only intend to shoot simple home videos. On the other hand, if you'll need a high-end model to shoot broadcast quality video.
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 Camcorder
To 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.
Buying a Computer for Video Editing
A 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.
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.
Buying a Video Capture Device
When 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.
Buying Video Editing Software
There are so many video editing software packages out there. Traditionally, Adobe Premiere Pro has been recognized as the industry standard in editing video. It is an excellent package which has all the possible video editing features and special effects you'll want. However, if you intend to edit home videos, you will want to consider the more budget Pinnacle Studio Plus and Roxio products. I've got a great guide on selecting which video editing package to use you will be interested in. You can also check out my very own scoop of the top 7 video editing programs which are suitable for beginners.
There are so many video editing software packages out there. Traditionally, Adobe Premiere Pro has been recognized as the industry standard in editing video. It is an excellent package which has all the possible video editing features and special effects you'll want. However, if you intend to edit home videos, you will want to consider the more budget Pinnacle Studio Plus and Roxio products. I've got a great guide on selecting which video editing package to use you will be interested in. You can also check out my very own scoop of the top 7 video editing programs which are suitable for beginners.
Buying VCD or DVD Authoring Software
VCD 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.
Conclusion
Whew! 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.
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