Video Editing Software

I need to make some simple edits to video footage. The files that need editing are in the following format: QuickTime, DVD, and episodes bought on Itunes. I need then put them in a format that someone can put together a DVD reel out of them. I don't have a DVD burner, would a CD burner do the trick? As I'm paying $750 for the person to do my reel, I'm hoping someone can suggest a free or trial software that can accomplish this. I'm not an expert at slicing and dicing, but I'm pretty good with instructions. Any advice is appreciated!
Thanks, Stephanie

P.S. The QuickTime file I have plays in stops and starts. The person who gave me the file said maybe my processor isn't fast enough - but it's a Pentium (2, I think). I would love to upload it to my hard drive on my computer and see if that fixes the problem, but there are no options to do so. How would you do this? Any other suggestions how to fix this problem?

 

You can do it with freeware but your PC will not handle it at all.

You can either go with the $750. OUCH. Maybe shop around.

Or get a new system built for video editing.

Look in the guide section.

Also look here

 

I hear what you're saying Hipster. I was just hoping it wasn't true.

 

I've had good luck with Roxio CD/DVD Creator 6, not so good luck with Pinnicle stuff. The Roxio editor is tight (no bugs), and straightforward. If you are willing to loose resolution it will even burn video stuff as a VCD (video CD).

Another approach I've never used (but seen the finished product) is DivX. They have a custom compression technology that fits near DVD quality on a CD.

Not sure if this was what you were asking for, hope it helps.

 

You are out of luck for anything purchased from iTunes as they are DRM protected.

 

Thanks everyone. I found someone to do some editing for me, but the Itunes file really bums me out! There's no way of getting around it? It's a video file. I thought with a video Ipod you could play it on the TV and then tape it to a VHS...no?

 

I hadn't considered that. You could do that though I would recommend a DVD recorder instead. You will need a video output cable. You could buy the one Apple sells but it's not cheap or use a 1/8 miniplug to RCA output cable like this:

http://www.macdevcenter.com/pub/a/mac/2005/11/18/video-ipod.html?page=2

 

Fantastic! I hope this helps other people, too. Thanks so much!