Digital Video Fun

Listen Print

by Derrick Story
Network Newsletter for 07/01/2003

Dear Readers,

Digital photography is wildly popular in our circles, and it appears that digital video isn't far behind. Two reasons for this surge of interest are affordable video input devices combined with improved software for editing and managing the content.

On the hardware side of this equation, the latest batch of DV camcorders from Sony, Canon, Panasonic, and others include at least one model priced below $600 US. These camcorders produce amazing footage and are just as capable as their more expensive siblings, minus a few advanced features.

Apple just introduced a tempting device last week called the iSight. Even though it's designed primarily as a webcam, it has a FireWire connector, fast f-2.8 autofocus lens, and a CCD chip about the same size as the one in most consumer DV cams -- and it sells for $149 US. I just published a tutorial on how to use the iSight to make full-fledged digital movies that you can publish on the Web or burn to optical media.

On the software side, Microsoft has recently improved its bundled Movie Maker application and Apple has introduced iMovie 3. Meanwhile, other software companies such as Adobe and Ulead continue to enhance their video editors while keeping the costs reasonable.

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And don't forget about QuickTime. For only $30 US you can purchase the Pro version (for either Windows or the Mac) that unlocks a wealth of digital media functionality. If you're curious about this often-overlooked set of tools, check out my tutorials on Mac DevCenter. Most of the techniques apply equally to Mac or Windows versions.

If you want to learn pro secrets for capturing great audio and video, check out the new O'Reilly "Digital Video Pocket Guide." This handy full-color companion will have you quickly uploading great content into your computer. Then it's only a matter of a little editing, and out pops a beautiful movie.

Hope you have a chance soon to explore this rewarding medium.

Until next time,
Derrick

Derrick Story
O'Reilly Network Technical Editor
derrick@oreilly.com

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