What is the best software to import video from a camcorder?

I have a rather slow pc, it's old so I don't want anything like Adobe Premiere. Is there a software that can run fine on an older pc and is easy to use?

What is the best software to import video from a camcorder?
The video editing process: just take your pick





1st Part: transfer video files from vcam to computer


i.e., using a program to receive the video stream from vcam into the PC and saving it as a video file.


- connect vcam to computer via firewire cable (4 or 6 pin) for good transfer (USB may drop frames)


- open (free w/XP) Windows Movie Maker in computer (for starters). **see/click WMMaker help ...it is very detailed.





a. Set the camera mode to play recorded video.


b. In the Movie Maker Tasks pane/Capture Video, click Capture from video device.


c. the video files from vcam will then be put into WMM collection (usually there are several video files from vcam although you will not notice on vcam playback.


d. drag %26amp; drop video files one by one from collection to video chart below noting proper number sequence (Note: if no editing is to be done, drag all collection files to one video chart)


e. save the video files (WMAv) one by one


(Note: if no editing is to be done, save WMAv file as one)


...Transfer of the video files is now complete





2nd part: video editing


for starters, XP/Windows Movie Maker would provide the easy way to learn the process. SpiceFx by Pixelan would provide enhanced effects. You may venture to other video editting softwares - Ulead, Adobe Premiere, Pinnacle, etc. with Hollywood effects after learning the editing tricks thru WMMaker.





a. Open WMMaker (steps similar to 1st)


b. In the task pane, import your previously saved video files into another WMM collection sub-folder


Also import your desired audio/music files in another WMM collection sub-folder


c. Edit 1 your video - ' Make your muvee' thru mouse drag %26amp; drop technique.. video file to to the video chart below (video/audio)- take note of proper video sequence. Also drag %26amp; drop audio/music files to aud/music chart below. The audio from video file and from music files can be adjusted the way you like (mute if you want to) thru setting audio levels icon between video %26amp; music.


d. Edit 2 - Can also enhance the muvee thru video effects (zoom/pan - for greater degree, buy Hollywood/Spice FX), transitions, tiltles, credits like a muvee.





3rd part: finish the Movie (thru WMMaker)


Usually save files to computer first for review of the project. You can always go back to edit the project if you want to add or change anything. The saved MMK file is in WMAv.





Finally …Burning to DVD


First off, you'll need an authoring program like Windows DVD, Nero vision or Encore DVD. Import the video file, Once you click burn, it will automatically convert your .AVI files into mpeg-2 .vobs.


Hope I've been of assistance.
Reply:I use Pinnacle Studio 9 Plus on XP and Studio 10 on Vista. It is an AWESOME program with a ton of features and very easy to use. And it runs well on most PC's. Good luck!