How to Import a DVD to iMovie
Most DVDs contain two main file folders: AUDIO_TS and VIDEO_TS. To import a DVD to iMovie, you first have to convert the audio and video files from your DVD into a format iMovie can read. IMovie reads common file types such as MPEG-4, H.264, DV and AIC. Several commercial programs are available to do the conversion for you. Compare programs such as Toast, Popcorn 2, ffmpegX, DVDRemaster and Cinematize. The import process works the same, even if menu options and user interfaces vary.
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Instructions
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Select a conversion program and familiarize yourself with the interface. Check the help file if you have a hard time navigating the menus. Most programs have easy-to-use toolbar buttons to perform conversion tasks.
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Insert your DVD and stop playback if it auto-runs. Don't play the DVD while you import the files. Copyright-protected DVDs can't be imported without express permission from the copyright owner. A second piece of software is required to rip copy-protected files if you have permission.
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Click the "Source" button to locate the source DVD you want to import. Your program may call it something similar. A file navigation window opens. Select the DVD and click "Open" or "OK" depending on your program. The disk will be quickly scanned for errors.
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Choose a destination folder. Either click the "Destination" button in the toolbar or go to "File" then "Save As." Your program may vary, but again, a file navigation window opens. Type in a file name and choose a destination folder. This is usually where you choose the file type. Select MPEG-4, H.264, DV or other available compatible file type.
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Change any other settings you want altered. Depending on your program, use the menus to change the aspect ratio, apply filters, crop the image size or change the bitrate. These are advanced options that may not fit your needs. When in doubt, leave the default settings alone.
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Click the "Import" or "Encode" button to begin the import process. Your program may have a different file command. Wait until the status bar says complete.
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Open iMovie and go to "File" then "Open."
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Navigate to the file you just created from your DVD and click "OK."
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Click "OK" again if iMovie prompts you with a message to "Fix Time Code Breaks." This gives your imported file a continuous time code on the time line and makes it easier to work with.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're importing video from a DVD that came directly from a camcorder that records on DVD, you should be able to insert the disc and drag the files directly into iMovie. This only works for camcorders that record MPEG-4 or DV files. Check your manual to see if this applies to you.
Some DVD conversion programs are available as online downloads. Before you download any software from the Internet, make sure you're downloading from a reputable website. Read reviews about the software company and only download directly from the company's website.
References
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