When adding lyrics to a WMM (Windows Movie Maker) video project, it's sometimes better to insert the text overlay (in this case lyrics) using your own visual and audio instincts rather than the ‘numeric’ timing method.
Numeric Timing is ‘offset’ by transitions placed into the project – however, the actual offset timing of transitions is not visible in the time-line. Offsets such as this will result in ‘misplaced’ Title Overlays.
The best way to add Lyrics to the time-line is by manually inserting it using visual/audio instincts:
> Find the spot on the time-line where you want the lyrics to appear
> Pause the video
> Open Titles and Credits
> Choose: Title on the selected clip
> Type lyric text into the space provided
> Click Add Title
The overlay will appear in the Title Overlay track in the time-line view. Drag it to the spot the project was paused. Click Play in the preview pane. Listen to the audio and make adjustments by dragging the overlay along the track beneath the audio until it fits adequately.
This method will take a bit of fine-tuning and will be more time-consuming but will prove a more reliable method than Numeric Timing calculation alone.
Showing posts with label Windows Movie Maker. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Windows Movie Maker. Show all posts
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Can't download WMM v 2.1?
For those who are not able to download Windows Movie Maker v2.1, please read the following article:
Windows Movie Maker v2.1. version of Movie Maker is included in Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), which is available via Automatic Updates (Windows Update) on your computer.
However, if you are unable to update to Windows XP Service Pack 2 through Windows Update, click on the link below:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=049c9dbe-3b8e-4f30-8245-9e368d3cdb5a&displaylang=en
Although this download page was originally created for IT Network Professionals, those running Windows XP Home and Professional versions can securely access the download as well.
Windows Movie Maker v2.1. version of Movie Maker is included in Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), which is available via Automatic Updates (Windows Update) on your computer.
However, if you are unable to update to Windows XP Service Pack 2 through Windows Update, click on the link below:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=049c9dbe-3b8e-4f30-8245-9e368d3cdb5a&displaylang=en
Although this download page was originally created for IT Network Professionals, those running Windows XP Home and Professional versions can securely access the download as well.
Windows Live Movie Maker
Below you will find the URL for Windows Live Movie Maker.
Please remember, you can only download Windows Live Movie Maker if you are running the Windows Vista operating system. Windows Live Movie Maker ONLY SUPPORTS WINDOWS VISTA
http://download.live.com/moviemaker
It's pretty cool and easy to use. Even though it doesn't have the "Take picture from preview" like the 2.6 version of the program, this Live Movie Maker seems to be easier to work with.
Another thing I don’t much care for in the Live version is that the Time-line is connected to the Storyboard (no separate views).
Other than that, the Windows Live Movie Maker is probably a good download to keep on hand if you are currently using the movie maker that came with your Vista OS. That way, if something gets if your Vista Movie Maker gets messed up (with glitches, stops responding, or is unable to complete tasks for one reason or another) then you can always fall back on Windows Live Movie Maker.
Just remember, Windows Live Movie Maker only supports Vista operating systems. You can’t download this version if you are running Windows Xp.
Please remember, you can only download Windows Live Movie Maker if you are running the Windows Vista operating system. Windows Live Movie Maker ONLY SUPPORTS WINDOWS VISTA
http://download.live.com/moviemaker
It's pretty cool and easy to use. Even though it doesn't have the "Take picture from preview" like the 2.6 version of the program, this Live Movie Maker seems to be easier to work with.
Another thing I don’t much care for in the Live version is that the Time-line is connected to the Storyboard (no separate views).
Other than that, the Windows Live Movie Maker is probably a good download to keep on hand if you are currently using the movie maker that came with your Vista OS. That way, if something gets if your Vista Movie Maker gets messed up (with glitches, stops responding, or is unable to complete tasks for one reason or another) then you can always fall back on Windows Live Movie Maker.
Just remember, Windows Live Movie Maker only supports Vista operating systems. You can’t download this version if you are running Windows Xp.
iTunes in Windows Movie Maker
Because iTunes purchased music and video has DRM copyright protection, you have to remove the DRM at first, before you can convert/edit the audio or import it into Windows Movie Maker.
In order to play it on non-apple mp3/mp4 players, you need to remove the DRM and convert the protected music to other audio /video format. The easiest way is to burn an audio CD in iTunes and rip it back as mp3 format.
Or you can get DRM Removal Software:
http://www.dvdtoitunes.net/itunes-drm-remover.html
It’s not only DRM remover, but also a media converter!
Or,
http://download.cnet.com/DRM-Removal/3000-2140_4-10915841.html
Here is another converter:
http://www.youtubetoipod.biz/drm-remover.html
Other DRM Removal software programs can be downloaded from other sites on the internet. Simply Google: DRM removal downloads.
In order to play it on non-apple mp3/mp4 players, you need to remove the DRM and convert the protected music to other audio /video format. The easiest way is to burn an audio CD in iTunes and rip it back as mp3 format.
Or you can get DRM Removal Software:
http://www.dvdtoitunes.net/itunes-drm-remover.html
It’s not only DRM remover, but also a media converter!
Or,
http://download.cnet.com/DRM-Removal/3000-2140_4-10915841.html
Here is another converter:
http://www.youtubetoipod.biz/drm-remover.html
Other DRM Removal software programs can be downloaded from other sites on the internet. Simply Google: DRM removal downloads.
Movie Maker Tasks (Xp version)
Slightly different methods for completing tasks are used in WMM (Windows Movie Maker)XP version 2.1 than are used in newer versions of the movie maker.
Click on links below for step-by-step (visual) instructions on various tasks in the Windows XP version of Movie Maker:
Saving a Movie in Windows Xp
Save your Movie to a CD
Save your Movie to a DVD
Save your Movie for the Web
Save your Movie for email
Windows Movie Maker can polish your video by adding transitions, special effects, titles, credits, background music, and narration. These special features add mood and depth to your movies, making them even more fun to watch.
These links provide detailed instructions on how to add a professional touch to your movie:
How to add Transitions
How to add Titles/Credits (Captions/Text)
How to add Music
How to add Narration
Novel project ideas for WMM Xp v.2.1:
Create a Vacation Video
Make a video Greeting Card
Document your assets with an Insurance video
Click on links below for step-by-step (visual) instructions on various tasks in the Windows XP version of Movie Maker:
Saving a Movie in Windows Xp
Save your Movie to a CD
Save your Movie to a DVD
Save your Movie for the Web
Save your Movie for email
Windows Movie Maker can polish your video by adding transitions, special effects, titles, credits, background music, and narration. These special features add mood and depth to your movies, making them even more fun to watch.
These links provide detailed instructions on how to add a professional touch to your movie:
How to add Transitions
How to add Titles/Credits (Captions/Text)
How to add Music
How to add Narration
Novel project ideas for WMM Xp v.2.1:
Create a Vacation Video
Make a video Greeting Card
Document your assets with an Insurance video
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
How to separate Audio from the Video
To separate the audio from the video:
> In time-line view of WMM, click the + button beside the word Video
> Right-click the Audio track and Copy it. Then select Cut
Your entire video will be removed with the cut.. but don't worry, it's part of the process.
> Close the + Button beside the Video track
> Right-click on the Audio/Music track and select Paste
Now the original audio from the video is in a separate track and will play throughout the movie. But, you aren't done yet.
> Drag the original video into the Video track again from the Imported Media pane.
> Click the + button beside Video to open the options once more
> Click Mute from the drop-down menu
> Close the + button
This is how you separate the audio from the video so you can edit it separately.
> In time-line view of WMM, click the + button beside the word Video
> Right-click the Audio track and Copy it. Then select Cut
Your entire video will be removed with the cut.. but don't worry, it's part of the process.
> Close the + Button beside the Video track
> Right-click on the Audio/Music track and select Paste
Now the original audio from the video is in a separate track and will play throughout the movie. But, you aren't done yet.
> Drag the original video into the Video track again from the Imported Media pane.
> Click the + button beside Video to open the options once more
> Click Mute from the drop-down menu
> Close the + button
This is how you separate the audio from the video so you can edit it separately.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Slow down, speed up...
Some of WMM (Windows Movie Maker) effects don't appear to be sufficient for all users of the program. I came across a Blog that offers links (and downloads) for new/updated WMM effects in addition to other information at:
Blaines Movie Maker
I haven't downloaded the 'speed' effects myself (because I already have them in other video editing applications). But, from what I hear through the grapevine, they work great.
Blaines Movie Maker
I haven't downloaded the 'speed' effects myself (because I already have them in other video editing applications). But, from what I hear through the grapevine, they work great.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Free Video Converters
Some of you have been asking me where you can download a free video converter online, so I thought I'd post a few links to free converters here:
The one I use myself is:
Koyote Video Converter v2.1:
http://www.koyotesoft.com/indexEn.html
Video Converter 1.0
http://www.tucows.com/preview/518513
AVC (Any Video Converter)
http://www.any-video-converter.com/products/for_video_free/
AVS Video Converter
http://www.avsmedia.com/AVS-Video-Converter.aspx
There are more downloads available too. Just put "free video converters" into the keyword search of your Explorer bar to find them. Remember to read the download specs thoroughly though, because some of them are only Trial downloads that will expire after a certain period of time.
The Koyote converter I use is not a trial download if that helps you in making a decision. I am not sure about the others, so you will have to read the specs. If your converter turns out to be a trial, simply download another one. Usually the non-trials are described as "Free-ware or Share-ware"
The one I use myself is:
Koyote Video Converter v2.1:
http://www.koyotesoft.com/indexEn.html
Video Converter 1.0
http://www.tucows.com/preview/518513
AVC (Any Video Converter)
http://www.any-video-converter.com/products/for_video_free/
AVS Video Converter
http://www.avsmedia.com/AVS-Video-Converter.aspx
There are more downloads available too. Just put "free video converters" into the keyword search of your Explorer bar to find them. Remember to read the download specs thoroughly though, because some of them are only Trial downloads that will expire after a certain period of time.
The Koyote converter I use is not a trial download if that helps you in making a decision. I am not sure about the others, so you will have to read the specs. If your converter turns out to be a trial, simply download another one. Usually the non-trials are described as "Free-ware or Share-ware"
Adding Titles, Credits and text to your movie
With Windows Movie Maker, you can add a title, your name, the date, credits, and other text to your movie. For example, you might want to add a title to introduce a person or scene that appears in your movie.
You can add title/text to various places in your movie: at the beginning or end, before or after a clip, or overlaying a clip. The title plays for the specified amount of time, either on the screen by itself or overlaying the video as it plays, and then the title/text disappears and the video clip or picture continues.
To add a title/text or credit:
If you know where you want the title/text or credit to appear in your movie, click that location on the storyboard/time-line.
> Click Tools, and then click Titles and Credits.
> Click the link that corresponds to where you want to add the title or credit.
> In the Enter text for title box, type the text that you want to appear as the title/text or credit.
> After you type the text, the monitor displays the default animation and format for the title or credit you want to add.
> To change the title/text animation, click Change the title animation, and select a title animation from the list.
> To change the font and color for your title, click Change the text font and color, and then choose the font, font color, formatting, background color, transparency, font size, and position of the title to your liking.
> Click Add Title.
To edit an existing title:
> On the storyboard/time-line, click the title/text you want to edit.
> Click Edit, and then click Edit Title.
> Make the changes you want to make, and then click Add Title.
To change the title duration:
To make sure that you are in time-line view, click the View menu, and then click Time-line.
Select the title/text whose duration you want to change.
Do one of the following:
> To extend the playback duration of the title/text, drag the end trim handle toward the end of the time-line.
> To reduce the playback duration of the title/text, drag the end trim handle toward the beginning of the time-line.
To remove a title:
> On the storyboard/time-line, click the title/text that you want to remove from your movie.
> Click Edit, and then click Remove.
You can add title/text to various places in your movie: at the beginning or end, before or after a clip, or overlaying a clip. The title plays for the specified amount of time, either on the screen by itself or overlaying the video as it plays, and then the title/text disappears and the video clip or picture continues.
To add a title/text or credit:
If you know where you want the title/text or credit to appear in your movie, click that location on the storyboard/time-line.
> Click Tools, and then click Titles and Credits.
> Click the link that corresponds to where you want to add the title or credit.
> In the Enter text for title box, type the text that you want to appear as the title/text or credit.
> After you type the text, the monitor displays the default animation and format for the title or credit you want to add.
> To change the title/text animation, click Change the title animation, and select a title animation from the list.
> To change the font and color for your title, click Change the text font and color, and then choose the font, font color, formatting, background color, transparency, font size, and position of the title to your liking.
> Click Add Title.
To edit an existing title:
> On the storyboard/time-line, click the title/text you want to edit.
> Click Edit, and then click Edit Title.
> Make the changes you want to make, and then click Add Title.
To change the title duration:
To make sure that you are in time-line view, click the View menu, and then click Time-line.
Select the title/text whose duration you want to change.
Do one of the following:
> To extend the playback duration of the title/text, drag the end trim handle toward the end of the time-line.
> To reduce the playback duration of the title/text, drag the end trim handle toward the beginning of the time-line.
To remove a title:
> On the storyboard/time-line, click the title/text that you want to remove from your movie.
> Click Edit, and then click Remove.
Add Music to your movie
Music can be an excellent way to establish the mood of your movie, and adding music is easy in Windows Movie Maker. First, find the music that you want to add to your movie and import it into your project. Second, add the music to the time-line on the Audio/Music track and edit it to create just the effect that you want.
Click File, and then click Import Media Items.
Browse to the file that you want to add, and then click the file. You can import audio files with the following file name extensions into Windows Movie Maker:
.aif, .aifc, .aiff .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma.
> Click Import.
> Drag the music file to the Audio/Music track of the time-line.
Use the preview monitor to preview the accompanying video, and then drag the audio track to the right or left to better synchronize the audio and video, if needed. The pointer turns into a hand when you click the audio file, indicating that you can move it.
Tips
A quick way to adjust the volume of an audio clip on the Audio/Music track is to right-click the clip, and then click Volume. Adjust the volume with the slider.
You can add both music and narration to the Audio/Music track in Windows Movie Maker. Both can play at the same time in your published movie. You can then adjust the audio levels to determine which audio will play louder than the other in your movie.
Click File, and then click Import Media Items.
Browse to the file that you want to add, and then click the file. You can import audio files with the following file name extensions into Windows Movie Maker:
.aif, .aifc, .aiff .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma.
> Click Import.
> Drag the music file to the Audio/Music track of the time-line.
Use the preview monitor to preview the accompanying video, and then drag the audio track to the right or left to better synchronize the audio and video, if needed. The pointer turns into a hand when you click the audio file, indicating that you can move it.
Tips
A quick way to adjust the volume of an audio clip on the Audio/Music track is to right-click the clip, and then click Volume. Adjust the volume with the slider.
You can add both music and narration to the Audio/Music track in Windows Movie Maker. Both can play at the same time in your published movie. You can then adjust the audio levels to determine which audio will play louder than the other in your movie.
Auto Movie
AutoMovie helps you to quickly create a movie using the video, pictures, and music that you select by combining them based on the automatic editing style that you choose.
To determine the contents of your Auto-Movie, click a collection in the Collections pane, or hold down the CTRL key and then click multiple clips in the Contents pane.
The collection or group of files must contain video, audio, pictures, or a combination of these with a combined duration of at least 30 seconds. Windows Movie Maker assigns each picture a duration of 4 seconds.
Click Tools, and then click Auto-Movie.
On the Select an Auto-Movie editing style page, select an AutoMovie editing style.
Under More options, click Enter a title for the movie.
On the Enter text for title page, type the text that you want to appear as the title.
If you want to add music to the Auto-Movie, under More options, click Select audio or background music.
In Audio and music files, do one of the following:
Expand the list, and then click an audio or a music file.
Click Browse to import an audio or music file into Windows Movie Maker to use in your movie.
To adjust the mix of audio on the Audio/Music track and the background audio, do the following:
To increase the volume of an audio clip on the Audio/Music track, drag the slider toward Audio/Music.
To increase the volume of the audio on the Audio track that is part of a video clip, drag the slider toward Audio from video.
Click Create Auto-Movie, and wait for the clips in your movie to be added to the storyboard/time-line.
The time that it takes for the Auto-Movie to be created and added to the storyboard/time-line depends on the duration and number of audio, video, and pictures that are included in the collection or group of files that you selected.
After you create an Auto-Movie, you can publish it right away, or you can make further edits to the content on the storyboard/time-line, just as you would when you create a project on your own in Windows Movie Maker.
Tip
To display the time-line in greater detail so that individual clips appear more clearly, click the Zoom Time-line In button one or more times. This button appears on the time-line toolbar as a magnifying glass with a plus sign.
To determine the contents of your Auto-Movie, click a collection in the Collections pane, or hold down the CTRL key and then click multiple clips in the Contents pane.
The collection or group of files must contain video, audio, pictures, or a combination of these with a combined duration of at least 30 seconds. Windows Movie Maker assigns each picture a duration of 4 seconds.
Click Tools, and then click Auto-Movie.
On the Select an Auto-Movie editing style page, select an AutoMovie editing style.
Under More options, click Enter a title for the movie.
On the Enter text for title page, type the text that you want to appear as the title.
If you want to add music to the Auto-Movie, under More options, click Select audio or background music.
In Audio and music files, do one of the following:
Expand the list, and then click an audio or a music file.
Click Browse to import an audio or music file into Windows Movie Maker to use in your movie.
To adjust the mix of audio on the Audio/Music track and the background audio, do the following:
To increase the volume of an audio clip on the Audio/Music track, drag the slider toward Audio/Music.
To increase the volume of the audio on the Audio track that is part of a video clip, drag the slider toward Audio from video.
Click Create Auto-Movie, and wait for the clips in your movie to be added to the storyboard/time-line.
The time that it takes for the Auto-Movie to be created and added to the storyboard/time-line depends on the duration and number of audio, video, and pictures that are included in the collection or group of files that you selected.
After you create an Auto-Movie, you can publish it right away, or you can make further edits to the content on the storyboard/time-line, just as you would when you create a project on your own in Windows Movie Maker.
Tip
To display the time-line in greater detail so that individual clips appear more clearly, click the Zoom Time-line In button one or more times. This button appears on the time-line toolbar as a magnifying glass with a plus sign.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Add narration to your movie
You can make your movie more personal by describing in your own words what happens in your movie. The following steps describe how to add narration to your movie.
If the Storyboard view is visible, click View, and then click Time-line.
Move the playback indicator, which appears as a square with a vertical line below it, to a point on the time-line where the Audio/Music track is empty, and where you want to begin your narration.
Click Tools, and then click Narrate Time-line.
If Show options is visible, click it.
To prevent any audio from playing over your speakers while you record your narration, select the Mute speakers check box. This helps to keep unwanted audio or echoes out of your narration.
Under Audio device, click the audio capture device that you want to use. This option is available only for analog devices, and the audio device will usually be the name of the sound card that is installed on your computer.
To adjust the recording level of your narration, speak into your recording device and move the Input level slider to a place on the meter that registers your voice at the volume you want. You'll probably want the slider toward the upper part of the meter, but below the red-colored area.
Click Start Narration and begin to narrate the contents of the time-line.
When you finish your narration, click Stop Narration.
In the File name box, type a file name for your narration, and then click Save.
Click Close.
Windows Movie Maker automatically imports your narration into the current collection and puts it on the time-line at the point on the Audio/Music track where you first began to narrate. Windows Movie Maker saves the file with a .wma (Windows Media Audio) file name extension to the folder you choose.
Tips
If you want Windows Movie Maker to automatically stop recording when you reach another audio track on your time-line, select the Limit narration to available free space on Audio/Music track check box before you begin recording your narration.
You can wear headphones instead of muting your speakers to keep unwanted audio out of your narration. By using headphones, you can also hear any other audio on your video clip. This gives you a better idea of what your audience will hear when they play your published movie.
Notes
If you find that the volume is too low when you play back your narration, and your audio card supports Microphone Boost, verify that Microphone Boost is enabled. For more information, see the documentation that came with your sound card, or go to the manufacturer's website.
If the playback indicator is at the very beginning of your project, it may be difficult to see the vertical line because it merges with the left border of the time-line. Drag the square at the top of the playback indicator to the right to see it and place it where you want.
Please be aware of the fact that narration is added to the Audio/Music track of your project. Unless narration is "combined" with audio on the track, music can't be played in its entirety "over" the narration.
Hence, the only way to get audio/music to play continuously, along with your narration, you will need to first make and publish the movie with the music you want to hear in the background on it.
Then, import the published video into your new project and follow the narration instructions above. Unfortunately, WMM only has two audio tracks to work with - and one happens to be embedded into the video.
Unless you are going to break up (or combine) your audio/music with narration in the Audio/Music track, then you need to produce the video with background music already embedded.
If the Storyboard view is visible, click View, and then click Time-line.
Move the playback indicator, which appears as a square with a vertical line below it, to a point on the time-line where the Audio/Music track is empty, and where you want to begin your narration.
Click Tools, and then click Narrate Time-line.
If Show options is visible, click it.
To prevent any audio from playing over your speakers while you record your narration, select the Mute speakers check box. This helps to keep unwanted audio or echoes out of your narration.
Under Audio device, click the audio capture device that you want to use. This option is available only for analog devices, and the audio device will usually be the name of the sound card that is installed on your computer.
To adjust the recording level of your narration, speak into your recording device and move the Input level slider to a place on the meter that registers your voice at the volume you want. You'll probably want the slider toward the upper part of the meter, but below the red-colored area.
Click Start Narration and begin to narrate the contents of the time-line.
When you finish your narration, click Stop Narration.
In the File name box, type a file name for your narration, and then click Save.
Click Close.
Windows Movie Maker automatically imports your narration into the current collection and puts it on the time-line at the point on the Audio/Music track where you first began to narrate. Windows Movie Maker saves the file with a .wma (Windows Media Audio) file name extension to the folder you choose.
Tips
If you want Windows Movie Maker to automatically stop recording when you reach another audio track on your time-line, select the Limit narration to available free space on Audio/Music track check box before you begin recording your narration.
You can wear headphones instead of muting your speakers to keep unwanted audio out of your narration. By using headphones, you can also hear any other audio on your video clip. This gives you a better idea of what your audience will hear when they play your published movie.
Notes
If you find that the volume is too low when you play back your narration, and your audio card supports Microphone Boost, verify that Microphone Boost is enabled. For more information, see the documentation that came with your sound card, or go to the manufacturer's website.
If the playback indicator is at the very beginning of your project, it may be difficult to see the vertical line because it merges with the left border of the time-line. Drag the square at the top of the playback indicator to the right to see it and place it where you want.
Please be aware of the fact that narration is added to the Audio/Music track of your project. Unless narration is "combined" with audio on the track, music can't be played in its entirety "over" the narration.
Hence, the only way to get audio/music to play continuously, along with your narration, you will need to first make and publish the movie with the music you want to hear in the background on it.
Then, import the published video into your new project and follow the narration instructions above. Unfortunately, WMM only has two audio tracks to work with - and one happens to be embedded into the video.
Unless you are going to break up (or combine) your audio/music with narration in the Audio/Music track, then you need to produce the video with background music already embedded.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Publishing a WMM project
** A WMM project is still in "unfinished" form and can only be viewed in Windows Movie Maker format.
** A PUBLISHED WMM video is the "finished" product that can be viewed in a media player, uploaded, emailed or burned.
Before you can view your WMM (Windows Movie Maker) project on a media player, send it by email, or upload it anywhere, you first need to PUBLISH the WMM project. This finalizes the project by means of "mixing down" audio/video properties.
Note: The videos file name extension (or Properties) will automatically be changed to the .wmv (for computer playback) or other extension depending on the saving option.
To Publish your WMM project files:
> With your project in the time-line view of WMM
> Click on View and Tasks, to open the task pane
> Under Publish to -------
> choose - This computer
> Name the movie and select a destination to save it in ---
(Choose/make a folder to save it in that you can access easily)
> Click Next
> Select option: Best quality for playback on my computer (recommended)
> Click Publish
When the video is published, you should be able to find it in the folder you saved it in. Click on it and it should open up in the media player you use.
** A PUBLISHED WMM video is the "finished" product that can be viewed in a media player, uploaded, emailed or burned.
Before you can view your WMM (Windows Movie Maker) project on a media player, send it by email, or upload it anywhere, you first need to PUBLISH the WMM project. This finalizes the project by means of "mixing down" audio/video properties.
Note: The videos file name extension (or Properties) will automatically be changed to the .wmv (for computer playback) or other extension depending on the saving option.
To Publish your WMM project files:
> With your project in the time-line view of WMM
> Click on View and Tasks, to open the task pane
> Under Publish to -------
> choose - This computer
> Name the movie and select a destination to save it in ---
(Choose/make a folder to save it in that you can access easily)
> Click Next
> Select option: Best quality for playback on my computer (recommended)
> Click Publish
When the video is published, you should be able to find it in the folder you saved it in. Click on it and it should open up in the media player you use.
.avi or AVI ??
There is a major difference between .avi. and AVI file formats. So many people using WMM (windows movie maker)can't figure out why they aren't able to import and edit AVI files. The reason is, AVI formatted codecs are not installed in WMM.
These are the types of files used by WMM (windows movie maker):
You can import files with the following file name extensions into Windows Movie Maker to use in your project:
Video files: .asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
Audio files: .aif, .aifc, .aiff, .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma
Picture files: .bmp, .dib, .emf, .gif, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .png, .tif, .tiff, and .wmf
As you can see, .avi is one of the file name extensions used by WMM but AVI is not. Therefore an AVI file can't be imported or edited in the WMM program... only .avi files can.
I thought it might be useful to offer some interesting information on just what an AVI file really is:
The sad story is that an "AVI" file is just a wrapper, a package that contains some audio / visual stuff, but with no guarantees about what's inside. Microsoft created the AVI format for packaging A/V data, but it's just a specification for sticking A/V data in a file, along with some control information about what's inside. It's sort of like having rules for putting boxes together ("insert flap A in slot B"), and rules for labeling the box, but anybody can put any sort of stuff in a box, in any language. You can make sense of the contents of a box only if you have the right translation kit, otherwise it's all Greek to you (and to Windows).
Each developer of a new A/V format is responsible for writing the translation kits that permit your Windows system to understand that flavor of AVI. These kits are called "codecs", for compressor-decompressor, because the video and audio formats usually perform some form of compression to reduce the amount of data in the file. Windows comes with some basic codecs built-in (and with additional ones in more recent versions). If you buy video capture hardware like a USB camera or a PCI board, it will include the codecs needed to understand the formats produced by the hardware. If you buy a video editing program, it will often include additional codecs to support a wider variety of video formats. However, this means you now have a license to create files that other people can't play. Unless they have the same codec, the file is useless to them.
The result is that sharing video files on PC's can be quite messy. Sometimes the hardware or software product provides a way to share codecs with others, or has posted them on a Web site. Sometimes you can find a third party that provides a compatible codec. And sometimes you can't, and it seems like nobody has considered the possibility that you might want to share your video with others. There is no central clearinghouse for video formats, no standard way to figure out how to get an AVI file to play on your system.
The same basic idea of a general file format with add-in codecs for different video formats is used for the Apple QuickTime video format. As usual, the situation is not as anarchistic on the Macintosh, because Apple tries to build in a wider range of standard formats. Things get more complicated on the PC because video files can be in both AVI (.AVI) and QuickTime (.QT) format, which means installing additional codecs for new AVI formats, plus the separate Apple QuickTime package with its own codecs.
So, there you have it... the difference between AVI and .avi formats. Bottom line? If your videos are in AVI format you will NOT be able to import or edit them in WMM. If they are .avi you CAN.
This does not mean that you should go searching for codecs and codec packs so you can import AVI formats into WMM. Codec downloads are risky, as they are not very well supported (should something go wrong). And too, codecs or codec packages may cause instability within your OS (operating system).
I NEVER download or install any codecs to use in WMM. If I come across a file format that is not compatible with the software I am using (in this case, WMM) I use a video converter to change the format to one that does!
Free video converters are available online. Simply Google "free video converter" Be careful that you don't download a "trial version" only, because you when the trial period ends, you'll have to get another converter again.
I use Koyote Video Converter which is freeware and not just a trial version converter. The program interface is very easy to use and fast! You can convert multiple files at the same time too. Great little free converter.
These are the types of files used by WMM (windows movie maker):
You can import files with the following file name extensions into Windows Movie Maker to use in your project:
Video files: .asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
Audio files: .aif, .aifc, .aiff, .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma
Picture files: .bmp, .dib, .emf, .gif, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .png, .tif, .tiff, and .wmf
As you can see, .avi is one of the file name extensions used by WMM but AVI is not. Therefore an AVI file can't be imported or edited in the WMM program... only .avi files can.
I thought it might be useful to offer some interesting information on just what an AVI file really is:
The sad story is that an "AVI" file is just a wrapper, a package that contains some audio / visual stuff, but with no guarantees about what's inside. Microsoft created the AVI format for packaging A/V data, but it's just a specification for sticking A/V data in a file, along with some control information about what's inside. It's sort of like having rules for putting boxes together ("insert flap A in slot B"), and rules for labeling the box, but anybody can put any sort of stuff in a box, in any language. You can make sense of the contents of a box only if you have the right translation kit, otherwise it's all Greek to you (and to Windows).
Each developer of a new A/V format is responsible for writing the translation kits that permit your Windows system to understand that flavor of AVI. These kits are called "codecs", for compressor-decompressor, because the video and audio formats usually perform some form of compression to reduce the amount of data in the file. Windows comes with some basic codecs built-in (and with additional ones in more recent versions). If you buy video capture hardware like a USB camera or a PCI board, it will include the codecs needed to understand the formats produced by the hardware. If you buy a video editing program, it will often include additional codecs to support a wider variety of video formats. However, this means you now have a license to create files that other people can't play. Unless they have the same codec, the file is useless to them.
The result is that sharing video files on PC's can be quite messy. Sometimes the hardware or software product provides a way to share codecs with others, or has posted them on a Web site. Sometimes you can find a third party that provides a compatible codec. And sometimes you can't, and it seems like nobody has considered the possibility that you might want to share your video with others. There is no central clearinghouse for video formats, no standard way to figure out how to get an AVI file to play on your system.
The same basic idea of a general file format with add-in codecs for different video formats is used for the Apple QuickTime video format. As usual, the situation is not as anarchistic on the Macintosh, because Apple tries to build in a wider range of standard formats. Things get more complicated on the PC because video files can be in both AVI (.AVI) and QuickTime (.QT) format, which means installing additional codecs for new AVI formats, plus the separate Apple QuickTime package with its own codecs.
So, there you have it... the difference between AVI and .avi formats. Bottom line? If your videos are in AVI format you will NOT be able to import or edit them in WMM. If they are .avi you CAN.
This does not mean that you should go searching for codecs and codec packs so you can import AVI formats into WMM. Codec downloads are risky, as they are not very well supported (should something go wrong). And too, codecs or codec packages may cause instability within your OS (operating system).
I NEVER download or install any codecs to use in WMM. If I come across a file format that is not compatible with the software I am using (in this case, WMM) I use a video converter to change the format to one that does!
Free video converters are available online. Simply Google "free video converter" Be careful that you don't download a "trial version" only, because you when the trial period ends, you'll have to get another converter again.
I use Koyote Video Converter which is freeware and not just a trial version converter. The program interface is very easy to use and fast! You can convert multiple files at the same time too. Great little free converter.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
You have to IMPORT
You can`t drag or paste media into WMM (windows movie maker). You have to use the Import Media feature to bring the media into the program.
Click on Import media in WMM and browse for the file you want. It will appear in your Imported media pane. Drag it from there into the Storyboard or Time-line.
And make sure the files are in a format WMM uses:
You can import files with the following file name extensions into Windows Movie Maker to use in your project:
Video files: .asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
Audio files: .aif, .aifc, .aiff, .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma
Picture files: .bmp, .dib, .emf, .gif, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .png, .tif, .tiff, and .wmf
Click on Import media in WMM and browse for the file you want. It will appear in your Imported media pane. Drag it from there into the Storyboard or Time-line.
And make sure the files are in a format WMM uses:
You can import files with the following file name extensions into Windows Movie Maker to use in your project:
Video files: .asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
Audio files: .aif, .aifc, .aiff, .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma
Picture files: .bmp, .dib, .emf, .gif, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .png, .tif, .tiff, and .wmf
Quick Time (mp4 - AVI) Videos
Quick Time videos are Mac formatted files that WMM (Windows Movie Maker) can't open. But, you can convert them for use in WMM by going online and downloading a free file converter. (Simply Google: free video converters).
My video converter preference is the Koyote Video Converter because of its simple interface, etc. It is much easier to find and convert files to other formats. But, whatever video converter you choose is up to you.
Once you have a converter downloaded, open the program and use its Browse for file feature to locate the Quick Time video you want to convert. When you have it in the program, convert the video to one of the following file name extensions listed below:
.asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
The video conversion formats I usually choose for converting Quick Time videos are .mpg or .avi, but the choice is yours. As long as it is converted to one of the file name extensions listed above, you will be able to import it into WMM for editing/use
My video converter preference is the Koyote Video Converter because of its simple interface, etc. It is much easier to find and convert files to other formats. But, whatever video converter you choose is up to you.
Once you have a converter downloaded, open the program and use its Browse for file feature to locate the Quick Time video you want to convert. When you have it in the program, convert the video to one of the following file name extensions listed below:
.asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
The video conversion formats I usually choose for converting Quick Time videos are .mpg or .avi, but the choice is yours. As long as it is converted to one of the file name extensions listed above, you will be able to import it into WMM for editing/use
Change the Audio on your video
To mute the video in WMM (Windows Movie Maker)
You must be in the Time-line mode of WMM
> Click the + button beside the word Video on the video track
> Right-click the Audio track of this menu
> Click Mute from the menu
Voila! No more audio on the video! You can also use this menu to lower the video volume level, fade the audio in/out, etc. Just remember, the + sign beside the word Video in the Time-line view opens up the menu options specifically for the video in your project.
You must be in the Time-line mode of WMM
> Click the + button beside the word Video on the video track
> Right-click the Audio track of this menu
> Click Mute from the menu
Voila! No more audio on the video! You can also use this menu to lower the video volume level, fade the audio in/out, etc. Just remember, the + sign beside the word Video in the Time-line view opens up the menu options specifically for the video in your project.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Problems importing video/audio files
Every now and then you may come across a video/audio that you can't import into WMM. You may get an Error message like: Cannot import media due to DMR,or File not classified, etc.
If you are unable to import a file it may be because you are trying to import audio or video that has been protected with digital rights management (DRM).
DRM is a technology that lets content authors and publishers, such as record companies and movie studios, control how their digital music and video files are used and distributed. Protected digital media files cannot be imported into Windows Movie Maker.
As such, you will have to find similar media without DRM encoded.
At times you may also find it difficult to import files because they are not supported by WMM. Some audio and video file formats are not supported in Windows Movie Maker and cannot be imported. However, if you have a video or audio file that is not supported, you may be able to use a non-Microsoft video editing program to convert the file into a format that Windows Movie Maker supports, and then import the resulting audio or video file into Windows Movie Maker.
Again, this is where your free video converter comes in handy. Make sure you are converting the file to a format used by WMM if that is where you intend to import the media.
Some people might suggest you download a codec (or codec pack) instead of converting the media with a video converter. I strongly advise against downloading codecs for this reason:
Codecs that you find on the Internet, particularly some of the free codec packs that claim to include codecs from a wide variety of companies or organizations: incompatibilities are known to exist with some of the components in these codec packs that can cause serious playback issues in the Player and other players, lead to system corruption and make it difficult for Microsoft Support to diagnose and troubleshoot playback issues. For these reasons, you are strongly discouraged from installing these codec packs, and recommend that you remove them if you have installed them and you are having problems with the Player. Install only codecs, filters, or plug-ins from trusted, authorized sources, such as the website of the official supplier. Even then, use caution; many codec suppliers offer minimal customer support. Before installing any digital media components, set a system restore point. The restore point enables you to return to your original system configuration, if necessary.
Personally, I have never downloaded any additional codecs(codec packs), filters or plug-ins to use my Windows Movie Maker or Windows Media Player. If I am unable to play a file, or import it into WMM, I simply convert it. Better safe than sorry.
If you are unable to import a file it may be because you are trying to import audio or video that has been protected with digital rights management (DRM).
DRM is a technology that lets content authors and publishers, such as record companies and movie studios, control how their digital music and video files are used and distributed. Protected digital media files cannot be imported into Windows Movie Maker.
As such, you will have to find similar media without DRM encoded.
At times you may also find it difficult to import files because they are not supported by WMM. Some audio and video file formats are not supported in Windows Movie Maker and cannot be imported. However, if you have a video or audio file that is not supported, you may be able to use a non-Microsoft video editing program to convert the file into a format that Windows Movie Maker supports, and then import the resulting audio or video file into Windows Movie Maker.
Again, this is where your free video converter comes in handy. Make sure you are converting the file to a format used by WMM if that is where you intend to import the media.
Some people might suggest you download a codec (or codec pack) instead of converting the media with a video converter. I strongly advise against downloading codecs for this reason:
Codecs that you find on the Internet, particularly some of the free codec packs that claim to include codecs from a wide variety of companies or organizations: incompatibilities are known to exist with some of the components in these codec packs that can cause serious playback issues in the Player and other players, lead to system corruption and make it difficult for Microsoft Support to diagnose and troubleshoot playback issues. For these reasons, you are strongly discouraged from installing these codec packs, and recommend that you remove them if you have installed them and you are having problems with the Player. Install only codecs, filters, or plug-ins from trusted, authorized sources, such as the website of the official supplier. Even then, use caution; many codec suppliers offer minimal customer support. Before installing any digital media components, set a system restore point. The restore point enables you to return to your original system configuration, if necessary.
Personally, I have never downloaded any additional codecs(codec packs), filters or plug-ins to use my Windows Movie Maker or Windows Media Player. If I am unable to play a file, or import it into WMM, I simply convert it. Better safe than sorry.
Importing files into WMM
You can only import files with the following file name extensions into Windows Movie Maker to use in your project:
Video files: .asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
Audio files: .aif, .aifc, .aiff, .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma
Picture files: .bmp, .dib, .emf, .gif, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .png, .tif, .tiff, and .wmf
Windows Movie Maker can import most file types, but not all file types will work when you try to use them to make a movie. Microsoft Recorded TV Show files (with a .dvr-ms file name extension) that are not protected using digital rights management can be imported into Windows Movie Maker if your computer is running Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate.
To find out if what file extension name is, right-click on the file and select Properties from the drop-down menu. Note the file name extension (example: .mpg,.avi)
If the file name extension is not one used by WMM, then you will need to convert the file before it can be imported into the program.
Video converter downloads are available free online. Simply Google: free video converters. (My preference is Prism Video Converter, which is a free [permanent - non-trial] download with an easy-to-use interface.)
Once you have a converter downloaded, just click the program browse button to locate the file you wish to convert and follow the instructions. Make sure the conversion is to one of the file name extensions used by WMM.
Video files: .asf, .avi, dvr-ms, .m1v, .mp2, .mp2v, .mpe, .mpeg, .mpg, .mpv2, .wm, and .wmv
Audio files: .aif, .aifc, .aiff, .asf, .au, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .snd, .wav, and .wma
Picture files: .bmp, .dib, .emf, .gif, .jfif, .jpe, .jpeg, .jpg, .png, .tif, .tiff, and .wmf
Windows Movie Maker can import most file types, but not all file types will work when you try to use them to make a movie. Microsoft Recorded TV Show files (with a .dvr-ms file name extension) that are not protected using digital rights management can be imported into Windows Movie Maker if your computer is running Windows Vista Home Premium or Windows Vista Ultimate.
To find out if what file extension name is, right-click on the file and select Properties from the drop-down menu. Note the file name extension (example: .mpg,.avi)
If the file name extension is not one used by WMM, then you will need to convert the file before it can be imported into the program.
Video converter downloads are available free online. Simply Google: free video converters. (My preference is Prism Video Converter, which is a free [permanent - non-trial] download with an easy-to-use interface.)
Once you have a converter downloaded, just click the program browse button to locate the file you wish to convert and follow the instructions. Make sure the conversion is to one of the file name extensions used by WMM.
Making a WMM movie is easy!
Making a movie with Windows Movie Maker (WMM) is quite easy.
Open your WMM program (Start, Programs, Windows Movie Maker)
Click on the import button. This will open a window to browse for media to add to your project. Import all the pictures you want to use. You will see them appear in the viewing pane of WMM. Now import the audio (songs) you want into WMM the same way.
If you are in the Storyboard mode (it either says Storyboard or Timeline) in the bottom left corner of the program, you can drop the photos and/or video into each space allotted. Don't try to put audio/music into that section though, it goes into another area.
Now change to the Timeline function. This opens a window showing the photos/video in the top Video track. Below that is Audio/Music track. Take your song and drag it into that track. When it is there, you can adjust the length of each photo (by dragging it to the right) until all the visual media is the length of the audio track (your song).
Now this is very important: SAVE YOUR MOVIE NOW! Click on the file button on the upper left menu bar. Select “Save movie as” option. (Save your movie to the desktop of your computer, because it is easier to access from there). Make sure you name your movie too. A lot of people don't "Save" their movie at this point and end up losing all their work. The idea when working on anything on a computer is "SAVE, AND SAVE OFTEN!"
Now, you can play with adding effects and transitions for your photos. This is something you need to practice with yourself, but, I'll give you the low-down on how to do it in general.
Go back to the storyboard function. Click on the Effects button under the Edit menu on the sidebar. This opens a window with all the available effects in it. Click and drag one of the effects into the little white box on the bottom left hand corner of your first photo in the storyboard (a blue start will appear in the window). Now click the play button of your viewing pane. This will show you what effect your photo will have in your movie. You should also hear your music at this time as well.
Now, go back to the Edit section in the sidebar and click on Transitions. The transitions available will now appear in the window. Click and drag one of them to the blue and white box between your first and second photo in the storyboard. Click the play button in the viewing window and see what the transition looks like.
To remove/change an effect or transition, you need to right-click it and select cut. Again, I must warn you to SAVE your movie often! At this point all you need to do is click file, and the save option (NOT save movie as). It is so frustrating to be working on a project, get things just the way you want them and suddenly the program freezes up or closes unexpectedly. But, if you save as often as possible, you will not lose all your hard work.
Okay, so let's say you have all the effects and transitions in your movie. Go back to the Timeline mode and make adjustments there. You will find that the effects and transitions have lengthened your video and may not be inline with your music any longer. Make sure your media and music end at the same time. Click save project if you are satisfied with your creation.
Now, I suggest you play your entire movie (in the timeline mode still). If you like it, the next step is to Publish it to your computer. This converts the WMM into a mpg (so it can be burned to a disk or played by windows media player, etc.). To do this, you will see the words "Publish to ---- " under the Edit section on the sidebar. Click on the option, “This computer”. This brings up a publishing window. Name your movie and save it to your DESKTOP. Click the Next button on the bottom right. Don't touch any of the settings in this window. It should have a highlighted button on "Best quality playback on my computer" selected already. Simply click on the publish button in the bottom right corner.
Viola! It is now publishing your movie to the desktop. When it is done, you should see the movie name and icon on your desktop. You are done! You can now play the movie, burn it, email or upload it to the web. The only thing you can't do, is re-edit it now. But, if you still want to edit it, open the WMM project by clicking on File in the program and select Open Project...
There you go. You are on your way to making movies with WMM. Just a reminder though. Take your time with projects (it takes a lot of practice to get it right) and SAVE, SAVE, Save!
Open your WMM program (Start, Programs, Windows Movie Maker)
Click on the import button. This will open a window to browse for media to add to your project. Import all the pictures you want to use. You will see them appear in the viewing pane of WMM. Now import the audio (songs) you want into WMM the same way.
If you are in the Storyboard mode (it either says Storyboard or Timeline) in the bottom left corner of the program, you can drop the photos and/or video into each space allotted. Don't try to put audio/music into that section though, it goes into another area.
Now change to the Timeline function. This opens a window showing the photos/video in the top Video track. Below that is Audio/Music track. Take your song and drag it into that track. When it is there, you can adjust the length of each photo (by dragging it to the right) until all the visual media is the length of the audio track (your song).
Now this is very important: SAVE YOUR MOVIE NOW! Click on the file button on the upper left menu bar. Select “Save movie as” option. (Save your movie to the desktop of your computer, because it is easier to access from there). Make sure you name your movie too. A lot of people don't "Save" their movie at this point and end up losing all their work. The idea when working on anything on a computer is "SAVE, AND SAVE OFTEN!"
Now, you can play with adding effects and transitions for your photos. This is something you need to practice with yourself, but, I'll give you the low-down on how to do it in general.
Go back to the storyboard function. Click on the Effects button under the Edit menu on the sidebar. This opens a window with all the available effects in it. Click and drag one of the effects into the little white box on the bottom left hand corner of your first photo in the storyboard (a blue start will appear in the window). Now click the play button of your viewing pane. This will show you what effect your photo will have in your movie. You should also hear your music at this time as well.
Now, go back to the Edit section in the sidebar and click on Transitions. The transitions available will now appear in the window. Click and drag one of them to the blue and white box between your first and second photo in the storyboard. Click the play button in the viewing window and see what the transition looks like.
To remove/change an effect or transition, you need to right-click it and select cut. Again, I must warn you to SAVE your movie often! At this point all you need to do is click file, and the save option (NOT save movie as). It is so frustrating to be working on a project, get things just the way you want them and suddenly the program freezes up or closes unexpectedly. But, if you save as often as possible, you will not lose all your hard work.
Okay, so let's say you have all the effects and transitions in your movie. Go back to the Timeline mode and make adjustments there. You will find that the effects and transitions have lengthened your video and may not be inline with your music any longer. Make sure your media and music end at the same time. Click save project if you are satisfied with your creation.
Now, I suggest you play your entire movie (in the timeline mode still). If you like it, the next step is to Publish it to your computer. This converts the WMM into a mpg (so it can be burned to a disk or played by windows media player, etc.). To do this, you will see the words "Publish to ---- " under the Edit section on the sidebar. Click on the option, “This computer”. This brings up a publishing window. Name your movie and save it to your DESKTOP. Click the Next button on the bottom right. Don't touch any of the settings in this window. It should have a highlighted button on "Best quality playback on my computer" selected already. Simply click on the publish button in the bottom right corner.
Viola! It is now publishing your movie to the desktop. When it is done, you should see the movie name and icon on your desktop. You are done! You can now play the movie, burn it, email or upload it to the web. The only thing you can't do, is re-edit it now. But, if you still want to edit it, open the WMM project by clicking on File in the program and select Open Project...
There you go. You are on your way to making movies with WMM. Just a reminder though. Take your time with projects (it takes a lot of practice to get it right) and SAVE, SAVE, Save!
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