Step 11:

Once you have found a frame rate which suits your needs, there is one last detail to address before saving your .AVI digital video file. Since video files are (usually large) collections of still shot, in order to obtain a reasonable digital video file size, we must compress the video. This is prehaps one of the most puzzling aspects of digital video for newbies. Think of it as the compression controls available in graphics programs when saving to jpeg format, for instance. More precissely, the .AVI "file format" is actually a "shell" of sorts which can house different type of video formats, each of which uses different compression approaches and methods. To choose a compression method, select the Compression... item of the Video menu.

Step 12:

The Select video compression dialog shows the video "codecs" installed on the computer. These "codecs" are thethe digital video equivalent of file formats (or compression/archival schemes). Most Windows installations come with a few pre-installed "codecs". Discussing codecs in detail is well beyond the scope of this document, although it is easy to find help on the internet (check the "Postproduction Toolset" section of this site for specific listings). I will only advise you to add to the installed collection a Mpeg4-type codec (such as DivX or Xvid) and HuffYuv or equivalent. Mpeg4 produces small video files ready for distribution; while huffyuv creates larger files that retain a higher quality and are thus suitable for further manipulation.

Initially, the Select video compression dialog shows the [Uncompressed RGB] option highlighted, which creates truly gigantic files of AVI with the best possible quality.

Step 13:

Learning the intricacies of video codecs is no easy matter, but for the time being, you can simply save use different ones with the same sequence of rendered images and then compare the differences in file size and quality. Other than the codecs list, you do not need to pay attention to the codec configuration options in this dialog at least until you are somewhat comfortable with the basics of the process of choosing codecs and saving video files. Better yet, install and use -and then invest some time learning how to get the best out of- mpeg4 and huffyuv-type codecs.

Step 14:

Once the soundtrack has been turned off (step#), the fps set and the appropriate compression chosen (step#), you are ready to save your .AVI digital video file. To do that, simply select the Save as AVI ... item of the File Menu.

Step 15:

Load the resulting video file in your favorite video player and enjoy the show!