Appendix D: Digital Video Basics

Overview

In This Appendix

An overview of videotape formats

Video production tips

File formats for digital video

As you begin to create more complex Flash presentations that include digital video, you need to know how to achieve the highest quality image and playback. In this appendix, you learn how to prepare a digital video file for use in a Flash 8 document.

Cross-Reference 

After you have successfully created a digital video file, you can learn how to import and use digital video files within a Flash 8 document by reading Chapter 17, "Displaying Video."

Before you consider importing digital video footage into Flash 8 or exporting your video with the Flash 8 Video Encoder, you need to plan how the video will be used within the Flash movie (or Web site). Will you be using several video clips for product demonstrations, interviews, or prerecorded events? Will you be using video for special effects such as a time-lapse effect of moving clouds or the sun setting? The more footage you plan to use, the more important it is to make sure you're acquiring the footage properly — you wouldn't want to redo all your footage after you've seen the results in the Flash movie! In this appendix, tips are provided for making sure you have the best possible video quality for your Flash presentations.