Tips & Tricks

iDevice Audio

When you export audio from an iDevice, it will be in .M4A format. You will need to convert this to an .MP3 or .WAV. You can do this at freefileconvert.com. Note: When you email an audio file from your iDevice, it may take up to 24 hours to arrive to your email.

Audio Length

If you plan on creating a long script, make sure to record your audio in short segments of 5 minutes or less.

Photos, Videos, and Music

Remember to keep track of the artists and Creative Commons licenses. You should include this information in your digital story credits.

Plan Ahead

You may not be able to check out an iPod Touch immediately or may have to wait to use the Multimedia Production Room. Also, give yourself plenty of time in case of technical errors.

Saving Your Work

When you start a new project, create a new folder on the computer's desktop. Once you are finished transfer that entire folder to a flash drive. Video files are not as easily moved from computer-to-computer as other files.

Use Lynda Campus Videos

View Lynda Campus videos to learn more about Audacity, iMovie, or Movie Maker.

Steps in the Digital Story Process

1. Write your script. Do not "freestyle" your video.

2. Record your voice over/get your raw material.

   a. Microphones are at the Check Out Desk

   b. iPod Touches are at the 2nd Floor Desk

   c. There is a microphone in the Multimedia Production Room

   d. Smartphones are excellent

3. Edit your voice over into a soundtrack using Audacity.

   a. Music and sound effects are a nice touch

   b. Remember to export from Audacity as an .MP3 or .WAV

4. Gather Photo & Videos

   a. Edit photos using picmonkey.com

5. Add all media (photos, video, soundtrack) to Windows Live Movie Maker or iMovie

6. Put the movie together.

7. File --> Save Movie (in Movie Maker) or File --> Share --> File (in iMovie)

8. Send file to your professor.

Lynda Campus Videos

Search for a software tutorial that would would like to learn more about.