Learning To Edit Video
 

I have never done it before, but would like to learn. Is there any free trial versions I can download, or is it something I would have to buy?

A good place to start is with Microsoft Movie Maker (for PC), Apple iMovie (for Mac) or Avid Free DV (for both).

Forgot to mention, those are all free. If you're willing to spend some money, I would recommend Adobe Premiere Elements. It's usually between $70-100, but it's a fantastic program for amateur editors.

If you PC, Windows Movie Maker (WMM) is strong for first timers. Once you get the hang of it, you'll want something else. I use Sony Vegas. I have never tried out the Adobe offering. WMM is quick and easy, but it has it's limits and when you want some special effects and multiple video and sound tracks, you'll be wanting something else for sure. I still like the titler in WMM better than Sony Vegas though. Vegas is almost too complicated or too many options. Check out YouTube for tutorials on whatever you choose.

To answer your earlier question pnichols, you can download a 30 day trial for Vegas. There are different levels of the software, but I paid $40 for mine at Amazon or Ebay.