What kind of file does a JVC camera put on your computer?

Question

I have a JVC mini-DV camera and I have a fire-wire cable and a fire-wire port to connect it to. My only problem is what kind of files does the output come in? Will I need to buy a program to edit the files? Or do I need a program to convert the tape to files in general? I really would love the help....thanks!!!!

Answer 1

When you connect the camcorder to your computer, the DV import process uses the importing feature of the video editor you are using... so if you use MovieMaker, they will be MovieMaker files... or if you use Adobe Premiere or Sony Vegas, they will be Adobe Premiere or Sony Vegas files. The video will be in "DV" format, but the video application will store it in a data file it can work with - and that file format may be useful ONLY to that video editor.

The second step - after importing - is to edit the video. That is, take out the stuff you want to cut, add transitions between scenes, maybe add some special effects and more sound (like music or clapping or whatever), add some credits or titles... and save that project.

THEN, export or save as different formats (.avi, .mov, .mp4, etc) for uploading to YouTube or for DVD authoring or whatever.