Out of the Computer

Well, you've made it this far. You've edited your video and now you're ready to share it with family and friends. How will you distribute it?
• You can upload it to a file-sharing site so all your friends and family can download the file to watch on their computers. I prefer Dropbox but there are many similar services. You'll probably want to render your file as MP4 to keep up-load and down-load times to a minimum.

• You can up-load it to YouTube, where all the world can enjoy it. And you can post a link to the YouTube video on your social media page. Check with YouTube to see in what file format they want your upload.

• If you want the file in a physical format you can either make a DVD or load the file onto a USB flash drive. Both have advantages and disadvantages.
  • DVD: You must have a DVD burner in your computer and software that creates DVDs, and carefully follow instructions. DVDs are durable and, unless scratched, will probably last for a very long time. Unfortunately, DVD discs will probably outlast DVD players. Players are being phased out by most computer manufactures and it's difficult to find a laptop in 2020 that has an installed DVD player.

  • USB Flash Drive: USB ports are ubiquitous, so putting your video onto a Flash Drive works well for anyone with a computer or "smart" TV. Render your file as an MP4. This format will play on most devices, including mobile phones and pads. Flash drives are virtually indestructable, but easily lost. Use a physically large size for distribution.

And finally, how will those who receive your production view it? We recommend a free viewer called VLC Media Player. This tiny program will play video files in almost any format and can perform file format conversions as well. It's an excellent alternative to Windows Media Player.

Last updated: 3/31/2020