My Second Software Review

For this assignment, I was asked to locate and evaluate two different open source video editing software resources. I decided to evaluate Windows Movie Maker and Video Spin by Pinnacle. Since I often use Windows Movie Maker, I did not have to download it. However, I did have to locate research and download Video Spin. I found the task of comparing both software programs very interesting. After trying them both I enjoyed each of them for different reasons.

Windows Movie Maker is such an easy program to use. Desktop-Video-Guide.com suggests that “This is one the best free video editing software programs available” (2009). I agree with their statement. I benefit from using a layout that is self explanatory and uncomplicated. This program comes bundled with the purchase of Windows and is free to the user. It offers HD, full screen video output for Windows Media, DVD and DV AVI files. It also supports various audio files such as WMV, ASF, MPG (MPEG-1), AVI, WMA, WAV and MP3. It offers 37 effects and 60 transitions.

Although WMM offers many great benefits, there are so negative aspects about the program. This software offers both a single storyboard and video track. This means that video footage will not have the ability to be layered. WMM may also only be used on the Windows platform. This limits MAC and Linux users. Even with the down sides of WMM, I definitely feel that the positive aspects out-weigh the negative.

Video Spin by Pinnacle was the next program and chose to review. This program has functions that are very similar to WMM. For example, they both are free, easy to use, allow for a single Windows platform and displays a single video track. Both also allow for audio and slide transitions to be added easily. However, there are some major differences between the two. One major difference between the two is that Video Spin has the ability for the user to add sound effects into the video. VS also exports AVI, Flash, Real, MPEG-1, unlike WMM.
VS is offers many useful features, but there are a few concerns to be aware of. This software has no video effects, which means that dark footage may not be brightened. You many also have to suffer though various ads while you work. If you would like to export your footage to DVD or you iPod, you will have to purchase additional codecs after a 15 day trial.

Overall, I really like both programs. There are a few cons to both, but these concerns are not enough to keep me from using them. I am excited about trying Video Spin in my classroom. We have used Windows Movie Maker in the past, so this new program will be nice change for them. The students will complete enjoy being able to add sound effects to their work.

References:

Desktop-Video-Guide. (n.d.). The various stages of creating a digital video. Retrieved on April 20, 2009, from http://www.desktop-video-guide.com/video-creation.html

PCWorld. (n.d.). Pinnacle review. Retrieved on September 2, 2010, from http://www.pcworld.com/reviews/product/31257/review/pinnacle_systems_videospin.html

Wikipedia. August 31, 2010. Windows movie maker. Retrieved on September 2, 2010, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windows_Movie_Maker

Shawntee' Cowan