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If you are looking for advice on the best video editing software, chances are you are not a video editing professional. Chances are also that you only recently got -or started using - your camcorder, so you're not wanting to spend big bucks on professional software that gives you absolute control over every step of the process. And chances are also that you are using a Windows PC, as your options are so much wider.

A good place to start is with the best free video editing software available. There is no doubt that VIDEOSPIN, by Pinnacle, leads the pack. Pinnacle is probably better known for its STUDIO, which comes in a couple of variations at differing price points. But they have not skimped on the free version. It is possible to make a very attractive movie, with interesting transitions, music and voice overs, in a very short time, with a low learning curve. A built-in tutorial will take you through everything you need to know, in just a few minutes.

Videospin has five bands on the timeline: video, the audio attached to the video, titles, sounds effects and voice, and music. The preview window is a little small, and there is no storyboard option. You can create your movie in a variety of formats, mostly suitable for Internet or computer usage. You also have the option to upload directly to YouTube and Yahoo!Video, ideal for uploading your Video Blog.

There are two things Videospin cannot do. It cannot import video directly from your camera. And it has no option to create DVDs that you can play in a DVD player.

Once you have made a few movies, using video that you have on your computer or a memory stick, you will probably want more from your video editing software, including the ability to capture directly from your video camera. And there is a Get More button handily situated right inside the program. If the free stuff is so good, surely the paid-for stuff must be amazing!

So what are your upgrade options?

For just a couple of bucks, you can get more movie formats for Videospin. These are usually supplied free with your download, but they expire after a few days. So if you suddenly find you can't make iPod compatible movies any more, and you want to do that, this little expansion pack will solve your problems. Pinnacle seem to update which formats are standard from time to time.

Of course, the option to upgrade to the full Pinnacle Studio program is also there. This will allow you to capture video -and photographs for that matter - directly from your camera. It

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