Encore Software

Today I used the Encore software for the first time. It is an interactive video software that allows a user to create DVD menus and DVD's. We used clips already on the L:Drive on the college computer to functions such as Introduction, Behind the Scenes and The Lyrics. This is a record of my work and some of the tasks I had to go through to achieve a brief DVD menu.

1. Boot up Encore and select New Project

2. Set appropriate properties

It is important to notice all the different features and functions that the Encore software has to offer, and try to identify any shortcuts, to save time when creating. Also note where the save button is, so you can regularly save and avoid any loss of work.

3. Import as a Timeline

File>Import As>Timeline

This is now my workspace.

After selecting import as timeline a browsing folder appeared. I selected a movie clip on the L:Drive and when I opened it, it appeared on my workspace.



Project                                      Monitor                                          Timeline

Note: Encore works best with the video formats .mov and .avi, choosing the formats .mpeg and .wmv is not advised.

The video symbol with a yellow play icon on the top left shows that the clip will be first played on the timeline.

4. Use 'pickwhip' tool to link buttons to menus and clips

Click appropriate sub-menu on menu and then look on right where a new menu will be displayed, and look out for link. Next to the link should be a swirl button, this is known as the 'pickwhip' tool. Click the button and whilst keeping your mouse button down drag to the appropriate video clip. It should create a line across the page so you know whats being linked (this will disappear once you release your hand off the mouse button).

Now you have set up a basic link on a DVD menu!