If you're just starting out in digital video, or even if you're a season videographer, you may be confused by the vast range of video editing products in the market today. Some software packages cost $500 or more while others are below $100. How do you decide which package to choose? That's the aim of this article - it'll help you understand what factors to consider when choosing that video editing package and how to get the best deal.

1. Your Budget
First and foremost on my list of factors to consider when purchasing a video editing package - your budget. If you're a beginner, I recommend you go for cheaper software like Roxio VideoWave or Pinnacle Studio Plus. I know many people swear by the powerful editing suites like Adobe Premiere Pro, but for the average user, it is complete overkill. The cheaper packages save you money and will fulfill most of your video editing needs. You can always upgrade to better software when you're more experienced.

2. Video File Import and Export
Second factor I'd always consider is the ability to import and export various formats of video files. If you want to import Quicktime movie files or RealMedia video and edit them, check the package to ensure you can import those video formats. Same thing for exporting video files - if you want your finished product to be a Windows Media file, ensure the package supports that feature.

3. Special Effects
Third point - the special effects included in the video editing software. Cheaper software like Roxio VideoWave or Ulead VideoStudio will have more 'stock' special effects that do not allow customization. Packages like Adobe Premiere will allow you more flexibility in special effects. This factor is important if you foresee yourself playing with screen transitions and tilting a lot.

4. Bundled Software (Audio/Music/DVD)
Another point is to see what bundled software comes with the video editing package. Very often, you'll have things like VCD/DVD authoring packages thrown in (e.g. Ulead DVD MovieFactory). Some products bundle in music creation packages like Sony Acid Pro. These products can be really good deals as the bundled software can cost hundreds of dollars if sold separately.

5. Recommended Software
OK, now let's see what are the video editing products I recommend based on the type of user you are - beginner, intermediate and professional.

• For the Beginner - For those starting out in video editing, my best recommendation is ... Roxio VideoWave. This is an excellent package built around an automated approach to video movie creation. VideoWave will help you save hours of video editing time and easily turn your home videos into movies on DVD or CD.
• For the Intermediate Level User - If you're more experienced in video editing, a good choice will be Ulead VideoStudio. This package is twice the price of Roxio VideoWave - but the additional money is well spent. One of the best mid-range video editing programs, Video Studio provides features that will suit both beginners and intermediate videographers.
• For the Advanced User - If you're a professional video editor, you will most likely have used Adobe Premiere. This product is the industry standard for video editing. Lots of features, plug-ins as well as excellent product support. I strongly recommend this for advanced users who want to tweak and customize their videos to their heart's content.

Conclusion
All in all, there is a huge range of video editing software in the market. My basic advice is to start simple. Go buy a product like Roxio VideoWave and try out its features. Learn the ins and outs, get comfortable with the software. Once you progress and learn more about video editing in general, you can then consider upgrading to better products like A or even B.

Gary Hendricks runs a hobby site on digital videography. Visit his website at http://www.desktop-video-guide.com for tips and tricks on buying digital camcorders, as well as shooting and editing great videos.