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tutorial - converting with Stream Clip

The following tutorial explains how to use MPEG Streamclip from Squared 5 to compress your video material ready for sending to us. The graphics illustrate the Mac OSX version but the Windows version works in exactly the same way.

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1. First of all download and install MPEG Streamclip for your type of computer. The software is completely free and although it is a little less refined than QuickTime Pro it will get the job done and what more do you want for no money?
   
   When you have the software downloaded and installed run it and open the video you want to convert by clicking FILE > OPEN FILES and then select the file you want to open.
   
   Your video will open in the Streamclip window and you should see something similar to the illustration on the left. Obviously your video image will look different.
   
   Once your video file is loaded click FILE > EXPORT TO QUICKTIME and then go to Step 2.
   
   *Note: You must also have QuickTime from Apple installed to use Streamclip but you don't need the paid for Pro version.
2. Streamclip's compression box is a little cluttered but you only need to focus on the areas marked on the left.
   
   
   Set all the compression options as illustrated on the left. The actual data rate you choose should be between 300 and 400 Kbps. If your video has a lot of motion or camera moves then set it at 400.
   
   If your video is INTERLACED (the other type is PROGRESSIVE) then check the DEINTERLACE VIDEO option.
   
   PAL 16:9 set the size to OTHER 520 x 288
   NTSC 16:9 set the size to OTHER 520 x 292
   PAL 4:3 set the size to OTHER 384 x 288
   NTSC 4:3 set the size to OTHER 360 x 292
   
   Finally, if you're video was filmed using either PAL DV or NTSC DV then set the FIELD DOMINANCE menu to LOWER FIELD FIRST. If not then leave it as it is.
   
   Click MAKE MOVIE.
3. You will then be prompted for a location to save your video file. Once you have clicked SAVE you will be presented with the image opposite. How powerful your computer is will determine how long the file will take to compress.
   
   The finished file will be approximately 17 - 19 MBytes in size dependant and the compression settings and the content of your video.
   
   Once complete the file is ready to send to us using one of the file sending services listed below.
4. When your file is compressed that's it you are now ready to use a large file sending service to get the finished product into our eager little mitts so we can get it online in all its high quality glory.
   
   There are many services that will allow you to send large files for free but Drop Send and You Send It are two of the most reliable, feel free to use any service you like.
   
   Drop Send Website
   
   You Send It Website