Since the early days of Windows Movie Maker 1.0, Microsoft has been aspiring to the version they have shipped in Vista (version 6.0). This version has a multitude of interface and capability enhancements, such as an improved preview pane and enhanced transitions and effects, but more importantly, the inherent support for the high-definition video (HDV) format coupled with the integration of DVD burning facilities (using Windows DVD Maker) has elevated the package from low ranking amateur to a fully fledged movie production and publishing facility. When you eventually get your video content into Windows Movie Maker, the fun can start, but if you are starting out for the first time as a budding Steven Spielberg, or are simply looking to take some holiday footage and distribute it to relatives, here are a few movie making tips you can bear in mind while shooting your epic.

 You've probably noticed the plethora of material available on this subject in bookstores, not to mention the professional training courses and college courses devoted to the subject, however, here are a few simple pointers to help you get your production off the ground:

1) Shoot as much footage as you possible can - you can never have too much footage and it's easier to cut stuff out than recapture lost moments. You will be using Movie Maker to edit the final production so it doesn’t matter how much raw material you have, as long as you have captured the content in the first place.

2) Experiment with your camcorder’s manual settings. Automatic shooting is a great way to get started (of if you are in a hurry), but there’s nothing better than adding atmosphere through the artistic application of a shallow depth-of-field, placing objects in the rear of the shot out of focus. Try also experimenting with a slow shutter speed to emphasize action shots and give a impression of speed.

3) If your movie is to be more dialog-based, consider hiring or buying some clip-on microphones for your subjects. If possible, try using wireless microphones which offer your subjects the freedom to move around without constraint.

4) Have fun. Experiment with Movie Maker's plethora of effects and transitions, add overlays, audio tracks and credits, and basically turn any bland movie footage into something you'd be happy to publish.