Video Book Trailers…Part Two.
On Wednesday, we discussed the first step in making a credible video, the script. After the script is roughed-in, you have a couple of choices. You can select pictures and videos to support the script, or, you can gather and practice with the software you’ll need to manipulate and edit the video media you collect. Since I’m a software junkie, I’m going straight for the chocolate, uh, software. Woooo Hoooo! Care to follow along???…
To make a book trailer, you’ll need appropriate software—there’s a surprise. Gosh, that’s the kind of insightful analysis you come here for, isn’t it??
But wait! You don’t wanna pay too much for this software. In fact, you don’t want to pay anything! You want FREE software. Free. Free. Free. This is your lucky day.
A little Googling led me to a site reviewing five free video editing software packages. The review explains their strengths and weaknesses. By way of an intriguing note…if you do have a few bucks to spare, near the bottom of that page, the review also discusses a fairly inexpensive and discounted Corel package. Additionally, at the bottom of the page, there are links to other articles of video-creation interest. So, in all, a pretty valuable link.
Should you not like any of the five packages discussed in the above link, About.com has a longer list of editing software. Between the two sites, you should be able to find a free solution.
I picked the recommended package, Windows Movie Maker.
Why?
Beyond the fact it’s free, it actually does the essentials I need—basic editing. Yes, it lacks some bells and whistles, but on the whole, it does everything you’ll want to do…at least as I understand the task at this juncture.
Also, having fiddled with it just a bit, it seems easy to use and intuitive—even for me.
As a bonus, it’s included with your Windows Operating System. In other words, if you’re a Windows computer person, this software package is currently on your machine! (My grandparents, God love ‘em, called any car, “the machine.”) The program’s file name is MovieMk.exe. So, no downloading, installing, registering, trial periods, none of that, just instant gratification.
Free, meets requirements, easy to use, you already own it. Pretty compelling reasons to select Windows Movie Maker.
For you Mac types, there’s a similar program on your computer. It’s entitled Apple iMovie. Knowing those snotty Apple people, it probably has more bells and whistles and looks slicker than it’s much-disparaged Windows counterpart. We’ll focus on Windows because, like Windows, I’m from the wrong side of the tracks.
So, here’s your tutorial assignment: Find some video editing software. Install it, if needed, then play with it. Get familiar with the basics of how it works. Heck, produce your video if you’re ready for that. But if you’re not…take whatever steps are necessary to get, and become at least vaguely familiar with, the video editing software package you picked.
On Monday, we’re gonna find and discuss one more piece of optional software you’ll need to spruce your video up just a touch. I hope to see you then.
As always, thanks for stopping by, and have a fun-filled, safe, and relaxing weekend!
Best Wishes, Galen.
Themocracy
Well look at that! I didn’t know anything like that existed. There really isn’t an excuse now NOT to do it, is there? Wow…
Thanks Galen!
Elizabeth
Mystery Writing is Murder
Mystery Lovers’ Kitchen
That’s right – no software can be learned in an hour!
Once again, glad I didn’t have to do my own.
Galen, I had a great aunt who used to tell us to watch out for the “machines” when we crossed the street. It took me a few years to figure out she wasn’t talking about bulldozers or backhoes, but about cars!
Very informative and enlightening post. I’ve had a couple of authors who had video trailers to use in their guest posts this week. It does add to the story and helps peak your interest.
I use WMM, do you know if it is different on Windows 7?
Thanks again for the info and pointers. I may just do this. I’ve used onetruemedia in the past but having some actual software downloaded with more options and all would certainly be a step up.
The Old Silly
Elizabeth, you have a great opportunity to do a video with both your series. Wonderful characters in a great setting…you almost can’t miss.
It’s nice to have it behind you, Diane, you also have Steve, what a resource he is!
Machines is a wonderful, old timey word for cars, huh, Alan?
Yes, Mason, done properly a video is a nice promotional tool.
You know, Carolyn, I’m not sure if it is or not, but my guess is yes, it’s there. If it’s not, I think it can be downloaded from the Windows site, or, just pick one of the others.
With prior experience, you’re next video would probably be pretty good, Marvin. Practice and experience is a hard combo to beat.
I dunno. I can’t figure out how to do the video thing on my camera.
Well, good gracious, Galen, I’ve been a Windows’ person since the Apple IIGS and never knew I had MovieMaker. But I looked and I do. How cool. You’re psychic. (No, I did not say psycho.)
Helen
Straight From Hel
Well, Carol, you mostly don’t NEED your camera. You’re gonna use the software we talk about and pictures we get from open source places. No camera required.
Helen, as you know, I love to surprise you. Ha!
How helpful. You have a great weekend.
I’ve played with Windows Media before and thought that’s what I would use when the time comes:) You really do love computer stuff don’t you?? Chocolate is right!
I use WMM too, very easy to use. It only took me like 2 hours to make my first book trailer. But Galen, any tips on where to get free/cheap video footage of romantic nature?
Really Angelic