How to Import Videos from Tape-based Cameras to iMovie?

Importing video clips to iMovie from tape-based camera is easy. You can view those video clips using iMovie before you import them to determine which video clip you want to import. First check your camera or camcorder is compatible with iMovie or not. After connecting the camcorder to your computer, you may need to adjust the settings on your camcorder so that it can be controlled by iMovie. Following are the file extensions that are supported by iMovie to import tape-based camera: DV (including DVCAM and DVCPRO) and HDV.

Here are the steps to Import Video from Tape-based Cameras to iMovie:

1. Connect the camcorder to your computer using the cable that came with it.
2. Turn ON the camcorder and set it to VTR or VCR mode.
3. Click "Import" button located in the toolbar.
4. Select your tape-based camcorder in the Cameras section of the Import window sidebar.
5. You will see the image from the current position of the tape.
6. Position the pointer over the preview in the top portion of the Import window to control preview playback.
7. Click "Play" button.
8. To choose an existing event to contain the imported clips: Choose the event from the "Import to" pop-up menu at the top of the Import window.
9. Click "Import" button.
10. iMovie begins importing immediately from the current location on the tape.
11. When the section of video you want to import has been imported, click "Stop Import" button.
12. When you are done importing, click "Close" button to close the Import window.