I don't think I can count how many times I've been asked, "How do you make your music videos?" and "How can I make a music video?" I always just e-mailed everyone the answer... and I was getting really tired of writting it out each time. Too bad I wasn't smart enough to write out an answer and just send it out >.<
Then, my sister said, why don't you make a page telling people how you make videos? Why didn't I think of that? Good job Sissy! So, here you are at Music Videos 101! Ready to take notes? Here we go =)

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*How To Start*

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*Video Capture Cards*

Before you can make music videos, you have to be able to get video clips from your television to your computer. How do you do this? You buy a video capture card of course =) You can buy these at your local electronics/computer store. Ours was purchased at Fry's Electronics. They cost about $80 to $100 depending on quality. It should provide you with the means of connecting your TV to your Computer, and a program with which to capture video clips.
My Pick: WinTV ($80) Its a good program =)
With me so far? Ok, on we go!

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*Video Editing Programs*

Now that you are able to capture all the video clips you need to make a video, you need a program to stick them all together in. So high tail it to Fry's or some other computer store and buy your very own video editing program! =)
My Pick: Adobe Premier 5.1
Adobe is actually the second program we've had, and its pretty expensive. So, if you spent all your money on that video capture card, then you can go to www.download.com
They have all kinds of programs you can download for free =) The first program I used was called Video Framer. Go there and search for "Video Editors" and I'm sure you'll find something to your liking.
Great! Now you've got all the programs you need! Let's make a video!

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*Making A Video: My Personal Tips*

I always choose a song first. I choose a song that I like and that I see as fitting a certain plot. I like to have my videos to have a plot... to make sense. Love songs are the easiest. Just take some cute Usagi and Mamoru shots and shove them together to a love song *^.^* But there are many more possbilities =)

My good buddy Marv has inspired the following list of must have qualities in a good music video:
1. Hidden syncrinization. Let the clips move with the beat of the music. Its more triumphant that way =)
2. Small clips. I dunno, sometimes longer ones are ok, but shorter clips are generaly better (Yes, I know I don't always follow this rule -.-)
3. Mood. Choose a plot, then choose clips that go with the plot and the overall mood of the video. Don't have a sad song with people dancing a jig in it. That just doesn't fit the mood now does it O.o

Now that you have some helpful video making tips, let's continue.

So, choose a song you want to use first. (Use Napster, record from a Cd, etc...)

Next, choose the clips you want to use in your video and capture them. (What more can I say?)

Use your video editing program to open your clips and your music. Follow the instructions for your program to put your clips together to the music....

Now you're done =) You have a magnificent music video to share with the world! Hey, put it online and let me watch it... I may just link it to my page ^.~* I'd love to see a video made by someone who took my course =)

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Well, that just about wraps up my class. I think that this should have answered all your questions.

But, before you go, I have one last tip. Give your video meaning. Don't just stick arbitrary clips together without a point. They're so much more enjoyable when there's a visible plot going on =) I think you'll be happier with the results as well!

Good luck and happy video making for you are now a proud graduate from Callisto's Music Video Course 101!!!