Video Editing

The process of video editing consists of deciding what elements to retain, delete, or combine from various sources so that they come together in an organized, logical, and visually pleasing manner.The technical process of video editing consists of copying the various elements onto a single video tape (or CD Rom, or other media) for final viewing or distribution.

TYPES OF VIDEO EDITING

Linear Editing - This process is basically mechanical in nature, in that it employs the use of Camcorders, VCR's, Edit Controllers, Titlers, and Mixers to perform the edit functions. This editing technique is performed in linear steps, one cut at a time (or a series of programmed cuts) to its conclusion.

Non-Linear Editing - This method of video editing utilizes the computer environment to aid in the editing process. This process is almost entirely digital and employs no mechanical functions except for the input of the video sources and its final output to Tape or CD. Editing in this environment is essentially is a visual Cut-and-Paste method.

Because we will be using Non-Linear Editing to put together our sequences, I shall only discuss the method for it.

The basic concepts and rules of the video editing process are the same, but working in a digital environment allows the editor more creative freedom at each step in the process, such as being able to preview and correct each edit decision without having to go to tape or disk first. The video editing process then becomes similar to putting together a document or graphics presentation, where the user cuts and pastes the segments together adding effects and titles. Even audio editing is available. Once the video is finished it can be "dumped" back onto video tape and then viewed or duplicated.

You must have the right combination of Ram, Hard Drive Space, and Operating System. Often, there are hardware and software conflicts with other elements within the computer, which can result in crashes. Outputting the finished video back to tape can have mixed results, such as jumpy or skipped frames.

The most basic way to connect a video source, such as a Camcorder or VCR to a computer is:

Video Capture Board --

Video capture boards are bundled with software for editing and other functions and are usually inserted into a computer PCI slot. These boards are usually equipped with S-video or Composite video inputs. Many boards also have video outputs, to allow you to copy your finished video back out to tape, but not all of them have outputs.