Making DVDs examines practical, real-world uses of the medium, offering a series of case studies that explore the techniques used by professional communicators and digital media creators. For insights and perspective on the creative process as detailed in the book, the following sample chapters are provided in Adobe Acrobat format.

Creating a High-Caliber DV Short Film demonstrates the advantages of applying time-honored filmmaking techniques to Digital Video productions. In his short film, The Chinese Shoes, Victor Muh boosted production values by hiring a cinematographer, using skilled lighting and sound technicians, adapting his Canon XL1 camcorder to use high-quality 35mm Cooke lenses, and enlisting the services of a film editor to complete the short work.

Supporting Independent Filmmaking takes a different approach, emphasizing the value of shooting films in 35mm and 16mm formats, rather than Digital Video, to ensure the highest quality master and to preserve the filmmaking investments when DVD formats evolve to a high-definition standard. Edgewood Studios, based in Rutland, Vermont, operates a successful filmmaking business that encompasses independent works, studio contract arrangements, and their own original productions, which are enjoying new life as DVD releases.

DVD Fundamentals provides a framework for understanding the structure and organization of files on a DVD disc. If you've been confused by DVD formats and layouts, this chapter should help demystify the fundamental elements.

You can directly purchase Making DVDs from the Lightspeed Publishing bookshelf, a benefit of our affiliation with Powell's Books.