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Note: Although the steps in this article are specific to iMovie, the capture process in most other programs is similar. You should be able to follow along, regardless of the software that you are using.
The capture process in iMovie is simple and effective. In fact, you can set just two capture options. To adjust capture preferences, choose iMovie --> Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears, as shown in Figure 1. The two options that relate to video capture are as follows:
- New Clips Go To: This default setting sends incoming clips to the Clips Pane. This is the best place to send new clips, unless you want to quickly convert your imported video into a movie without any editing. What's the fun in that?
- Automatically Start New Clip at Scene Break: iMovie automatically recognizes when one scene ends and a new one begins. This useful feature often makes editing easier, so you should leave this check box selected.
Figure 1: Import options also apply to captured video.
The iMovie interface is simple and easy to use. To capture video, follow these steps:
1. Connect your camcorder to the FireWire port.
2. Switch the camera to VTR mode.
3. In iMovie, click the Camera button to switch iMovie to the Camera mode.
The Preview pane displays the message "Camera Connected," as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Capturing video in iMovie is pretty simple.
4. Use the camera controls to identify a portion of video that you want to capture.
When you are ready, rewind the tape about 10 seconds before the point at which you want to start capturing.
5. Click the Play button in the camera controls.
6. Click the Import button to start importing.
7. Click the Import button again to stop importing.
It's just that simple. Your captured clips automatically appear in the Clips Pane, where you can then use them in your movie projects.
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