importing video

[BMc]

when I try to import video files from my hard drive, movie maker is
constantly freezing or shutting down. The files in question are mpeg files
from my sony handycam that have had the sound converted through the picture
package software that came with the camera. I have managed to complete some
projects and burn them to dvd but it just takes me soooo long with the
program constantly stopping. Any suggestions? I'm also a novice at all this!!!

 

[Graham Hughes]

Hi,
I'm afraid movie maker does not like mpeg files, so you have two options.
Convert the mpegs to wmv using something like windows media encoder, then
edit with mm, or
Buy a programme that can natively edit the mpegs, like adobe premiere
elements or Ulead video studio.

 

[BMc]

Thank you. I will certainly try that. I was trying to cut out as many steps
as possible. I just find that I'm creating so many files I'm just eating up
disk space! I do have Arc converter through a dvd burning program I have and
I have another product also that converts the mpegs to avi. All these
different movie formats confuse me!!! I was just trying to combine all my
little short clips into longer movies before burning them to dvd. I'll keep
trying.
Many thanks for taking the time to help....

 

[Graham Hughes]

there are over 800 different types of avi, so I'd convert to wmv.

 

[BMc]

I tried to use the windows media converter today and it took almost 20 mins
to convert one small movie clip. This would seem to be as time consuming as
having mm continually shutting down on me! I'm now trying to create my time
line on Sony Vegas so hopefully that will work for me. I'm curious to know
what other Sony Handycam owners are doing? I really appreciate your help.
It's the first time I've ever used a discussion group and I've learnt a lot!

 

[Graham Hughes]

Using an app like vegas that natively handles the clips was in my first
reply, and will be what most users opt for.
I'm glad you are learning, one day it'll all of a sudden change and you'll
be imparting knowledge instead

Keep at it.

 

[BMc]

I'm getting on much better now. The Vegas program works really well. I gues
mm just doesn't work for everyone. Many thanks again.

 

[Milan from Serbia]

Dear Graham,

Your reply is very usefull. What is your opinion about aws4you software? Is
it better than Sony Vegas? I also have Sony Handycam sr290.

Thank you in advance

 

[Graham Hughes]

Never heard of it I'm afraid. Sony vegas is very good. You can get a
consumer version and a pro version.