Video software advise needed

[ccm]

Hello,
I have a Sony DCR-HC40 camcorder that uses mini dvd tapes and I am looking for a SIMPLE, EASY TO USE software. I don't want do do anything fancy and would like to have a software that would take me all the way from my camcorder to the completed DVD without using multiple softwares. I would like the ability to do some minor editing. Mostly removal of unwanted portions of the video. I used MYDVD for a couple of movies and it worked good but then it got to where it would not burn the DVD.

My computer operating system is Window XP Professional and I have a drive dedicated to use for the video work.

I know that Windows Movie Maker is included with my operating system but it appears it will only burn to a CD not a DVD. My videos will not fit on a CD.

Let me say this, I am a novice and will not progress past that point. I find the acronyms used for video, cd, dvd, etc work to be confusing. This is a once a year project for me. I don't want to invest a lot of time in learning software usage.

I know that members of this board surely passed through my stage of development on their way to be very accomplished in video work. I would greatly appreciate some input and suggestions.

Thanks in advance for taking time to reply.

[edDV]

At the "easy to use" end of the scale I'd point you to.

Adobe Premiere Elements (v6 or v7)
Corel-ULead DVD Movie Factory 6

For more "special effects" capability

Corel-ULead Video Studio
Sony Vegas Movie Studio

I left out Pinnacle Studio due to a long history of stability issues.

Your computer profile shows only 512MB of memory. I suggest you upgrade to at least 1GB for these programs.

[ccm]

edDV,

Thanks for the reply. The PC I posted the message on is not the one I will use for the video work. That PC has
1000 MB of memory.

My research had led me to believe that offerings like Ulead and Vegas might have a longer learning curve than some. What do you think?

Thanks again

[zoobie]

Anything has a learning curve...even walking.
Those editors edDV listed are entry level and don't get much easier
See if you can't pick one up new on eBay for $30 like I did

[edDV]

You might consider buying a guide book to make learning easier.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_b?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Premiere+Elements

Make sure the book covers the version you intend to use.