Hi,
I've been taking two college courses this past term dealing with video & DVD stuff. One of the courses focused on using Final Cut Pro 5.x, and the other on DVD Studio Pro 4.x. There was also a smattering of playing with Soundtrack Pro & LiveType thrown in there. Now that the courses are comming to an end, I am getting interested in continuing to produce some screencasts and am comtemplating what software I need to buy.
What I *need* to be able to do:
- Handle import from miniDV cam over FireWire
- Apply video filters like color smoothing, color/chroma key, 8 point garbage mattes, blurs, etc.
- Do basic transitions, wipes, etc.
- Export to format suitable for web (320x240) and in full DV quality.
What I would *like* to be able to do:
- Make DVDs with out prepackaged themes, as in
- My own custom background images, motion backgrounds, and layered menus
iLife '06
I've not used the recent iLife apps at all. Do they do all of this? I last used iMovie back in like 2001, and that version definately didn't do what I need to do today. As for iDVD, does it have the ability to do custom layered menus like DVD Studio Pro or is it just using pre-packaged themes?
Final Cut Express HD 3.5
I have Final Cut Express 1.0, although I have never actually installed it. But I think that means I can buy the upgrade to 3.5 for $99. Will this version of Final Cut have everything I need. What is it missing that Final Cut Pro 5.x has?
DVD Studio Pro 3.x
If I think I'm going to be OK with Final Cut Express, then I may try to pick-up an old copy of DVD Studio Pro on eBay or something. Does anyone know what features of DVD Studio Pro 4.x are missing in 3.x? I used 4.x in the class, but would likely only be able to buy a used copy of 3.x since that seems to be the last version they sold seperately.
Final Cut Pro Studio
Ya, I know this has everything I need & want, its what I was using in the classes. I'm just not prepared to shell out that much, even with the educational discount its still $699.
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