DVD authoring software

[jdbulldog]

I have had several of my clients ask about purchasing pictures in a DVD slideshow format for family and friends. I am shooting more and more functions such as weddings, family reunions, etc. where people are not present but want a slide show that is easy to view and send to others.

I am struggling with finding a good software application. I have read many reviews on line but it seems that every program has its downside. Yes, I know most will, however, I would like some professional opinions of individuals in this forum. I have gleamed more info here than anywhere else.

I would like the ability to create menus, add slideshow images in jpeg format, sound, text, and other cool transitions. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Jerry

[Harry Settle]

I'm a wedding videographer and use Sony Vegas for editing and DVD architect by Sony for authoring. Go over to www.fastforwardclub.com and ask there. There are a lot of good people there that use a variety of software for various projects. Another place for you to look for some information is www.vcdhelp.com.

Sounds to me like you might be looking for something like Ulead movie studio or something like that. Come to think of it, there are a few tricks left in the Microsoft Movie Maker that may be already installed on your computer.

[jdbulldog]

OMG! These are two great links for information. I will review these and see what I can dig up.

I have heard about DVD Arch. but it is a little outside of my budget at the moment. I am also concerned about the learning curve required. I will eventually move up to a more sophisticated system. I started with PS 2.0 and have now graduated to CS and I hope to do the same with DVD creation. Have you used the Ulead software? I am looking at purchasing "DVD MovieFactory 3.0 Disc Creator by Ulead". I want good software that is reliable (will not crash) and is easy to learn.

Thanks for your reply.

Jerry

[lost]

This may help you out a little. I had Roxio EX CD creator for a while and it had software built in that could make CD/DVD slide shows of you pictures. Might want to check it out.

[enigmatic]

Highly recommend considering getting a Mac. I've made a number of DVD movies and photo slide shows using the iLife suite of applications.

[jdbulldog]

I have reviewed comments on the Roxio Media Creator 7.5 suite but would like to see it in action first.

I also surveyed comments from www.vcdhelp.com. about authoring software and was impressed with the reviews of TMPGEnc software line. They have put out the following application:

TSUNAMI MPEG DVD Author which contains TMPGEnc DVD Source Creator.

Has anyone seen or used it? Any tips.

It seems like an inexpensive software application that gets good reviews for beginners. I did download a trial version of it last night and plan on putting together a DVD slideshow for my dad of our trip to Alaska. I will post a review of the software when I have finished, if anyone is interested.

I have used Macs for many years, but got tired of struggling with availablity of all of the programs I need and use for business and school. I know they build great computers but until recently not having dual platforms has put Apple behind. I will have a hard time giving up my DELL because of the customer service I have received over the past 10 years. I have a total of 5 Dell computers plus countless laptops through my school.

Thanks again for all of the comments.

Jerry

[cargo123]

I have used Pro Show Gold by Photo Dex. It has a demo you can try out. I spent a lot of time using ULEAD and others. Once I tried this, I was hooked. It is very easy to use. I have created many DVDs with this product. You can check it out at photdex.com.

Mike

[chucksberg]

Pro Show Gold.....fast and easy.

[Rob612]

It may be an overkill application, but have you considered Adobe Encore ? I just love it, even if the learning curve is a little bit steep and the price is not really "consumer".

[jdbulldog]

I will check out Pro Show Gold later this week.

So far I am not impressed with the Tsunami program listed above. Maybe it will get better.

Thanks for the advice and posting to this thread from many days ago.

J.D.