Step by Step Directions on How to Copy Camcorder to DVD

Copying movies from your camera to a DVD is simpler than you think. There are a few ways to do this, the simplest and cheapest is using a DVD recorder. However, it limits editing options to what the recorder offers. We'll get to how you can get around this and edit your movies later.

To Copy Camcorder to DVD, follow these steps:

1. First, you'll need a DVD Recorder with a Blank DVD-RW inside (the media on which the movie will be recorded) and the Camcorder with the tape/video inside. DVD recorders go from $150 if you don't already have one.
2. Connect the Camcorder's Audio/Video outputs to the DVD Recorder's Audio/Video inputs. Choose the right cable for your camcorder: For Older ones, use a cable such as RCA. Most new, digital camcorders have a Firewire (IEEE 1394) connection.
3. Make sure the Camcorder is connected to an AC power source, and not batteries. Rewind the Video you want to copy. Begin recording with the DVD recorder, while clicking the play button on your camcorder simultaneously.
4. If you want to copy more than one movie, simply pause the DVD recorder, switch a tape in the camcorder and proceed as in step 3.
5. Make sure the DVD is finalized before removing it, so it can be used with other drives. For more info, refer to the DVD recorder manual.

Now that your movie is on a DVD, it's much easier to edit it with your PC. Just pop the DVD in to your PC, convert the movie on it to a more comfortable format (such as AVI or MPG), and start editing with your favorite software.

Copying Movies from your camcorder to a DVD can be a bit frustrating at first, but once you're experienced it's a breeze. Soon enough it will become fun & simple.