DVD Authoring

Authoring is the creation of the structure of the DVD for navigation (usually menus and chapters) that you, the DVD user will experience while navigating a disc. It determines which menus will be presented to aid in navigation and which video will be played when you select a button. DVD authoring requires both creative and technical expertise, so your DVD will only look as good as the elements (video, graphics, photos, etc.) that go into making it!
Here are some of the features that can be added at the DVD authoring stage:

• MPEG2 encoding
• Basic Still or Motion Menus
• Title sequences
• Backgrounds
• Chapter breaks

Every DVD project is different so you need to answer some questions before starting a DVD project. In most cases, these answers will have a direct impact on the bit rate needed for a high quality DVD. They will also help determine how long the project will take, and therefore how much you can expect to spend!

• How long is your title?
• What format is the Source Master? (DV, VHS etc.)
• Will the disc contain any extras such as slideshows, interviews, etc.?
• How many menus?
• Will the disc contain a chapter or scene selection menu?

The DVD represents a step towards a new standard of Video production as the final product is of broadcast quality, more professional in its packaging and longer lasting.