Editing Sony video takes a few steps and a little creativity.
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Editing video from a Sony digital camcorder is achievable using any video-editing software program. Create a storyboard, or an outline, prior to importing the video files to help you organize the various sections of your video as you approach the editing process. Add some text, still images and graphics to showcase your creativity within your edited video.
Step 1
Open a video-editing software program and start a new project. Check the preference settings of the program, if required, and set the capture settings to coordinate with the model of the Sony camera and the format of the video recordings. For example, if you shot high-definition footage in stereo, you may need to indicate that the footage is HD and the audio is a stereo track. This varies dramatically based on the software program you use, so choose one that fits your skill level and keep the user manual handy for a reference. Some programs may read the camera automatically after it is connected and you can bypass this step.
Step 2
Connect the camera to the computer using the required cord specific to the model of your Sony camera and turn on the power. Or, if your camera uses the Sony-specific memory stick, simply plug this stick into your computer using a specialized Sony card reader or any media drives attached to the computer that read this format.
Step 3
Select the capture function on your video-editing software program and press "Play" on your camcorder. Most video-editing programs require you to transfer the video footage in real time as the video plays the tape or footage for the same duration as your recording, which is referred to as capturing video.
Step 4
Drag and drop the video file onto your software program's timeline after the capturing process is completed. If multiple files exist, drag them into the timeline in your desired order to create a cohesive piece. If your video files do not appear in the workspace of your editing software, you need to import the files into your program. This varies based on your program, but the Import function is usually located under the "File" menu of the program.
Step 5
Add any text slides, transitions, graphics or still images to your video to enhance the artistic value of the piece. A transition is used between two clips of footage or between video footage and still images. The transition is usually one to two seconds, and a cross-dissolve, or fading into black, is the most professional type of transition for a video. Still images should remain on-screen for three to four seconds to allow the audience to absorb the content of the photo.
Step 6
Render the video after all the content and media is in the proper place. Rendering ensures that all the video, images and audio are using the same settings and will play back properly.
Step 7
Save the project and export in the proper format for your desired outcomes. If your video is going to be placed on a playback DVD, use a high-quality, uncompressed format, such as an MOV file. If your video will be used on mobile devices, such as phones and MP3 players, use a compressed MP4 or M4V format.
References
Photo Credits
- BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images
