This Totally Free Video Making Software Rocks…
Hey, what if I could show you a way to make videos without getting on camera? Now that would be awesome!
Here’s The Deal…
CamStudio™ lets you capture your screen in real time. This means you can use it to show people what you’re doing, or use it with slideshow software like PowerPoint to build training videos, or even products you could sell. The best part is…
It’s Open Source Software Which Means You Don’t Have To Pay For It!
Wayne Wu, actually turned me on to this software months ago… and it totally rocks. It’s also perfect for people who want to make videos, but don’t want to be “on camera” in front of the whole wide world…
My Grandma Could Use It…
Listen, this program is so easy to use that my grandma could use it. You push the record button and it’s ready to go. Sure, if you want to get fancy, you could set the size of your screen capture, but that’s definitely not brain surgery.
In fact, this program is so “brain dead” easy to use that sometimes I use it INSTEAD of other paid software on my laptop.
The cool part is, it isn’t a huge memory hog either, unless you’re using a Commodore 64. In which case, you’re living in the wrong decade and you can’t even connect to the Internet anyway.
Here’s How To Get It…
It’s super easy to do.
Click right here to go to CamStudio’s site…
Read everything, or just scroll down to the bottom and click those links to download this exceptionally useful program.
Alternatives To CamStudio
Gosh, I don’t really know why anybody would want an alternative to CamStudio unless they’re on a Mac or looking to upgrade to Camtasia. But here’s a few other products you might want to look into. Some have free versions too.
Highly Recommended…
Professional, cutting-edge screen capture software with loads of perks -free trial.
Awesome screen capture software for short video loads of perks – free version.
Recommended By Readers Of The Jason Better Blog…
Hanni Mourra recommended…
Screentoaster.com
Screenr.com
Which I haven’t really looked into yet…
Ilka Flood also recommended…
Goview.com
And One More For Good Luck…
Okay, so Animoto isn’t exactly “screen capture” software, but it’s free and easy to use.
It basically lets you make short videos out of your pictures fast… so it’s perfect if you want to make videos… but don’t want to deal with the technical stuff.
What Video Software Do You Use?
Maybe, you like to edit your videos, tweak the audio, or simply hate CamStudio.
Share your favorite video software in a comment below…
Who knows? Your recommendation might make a great article on the Jason Better Blog someday. If it does, I’ll link to your site. Sound good?
Jason The “Better Networker”
The Jason Better Blog
P.S. Do YOU Have an idea for a blog post? – Don’t be afraid to leave them below. Jerome Ratliff requested this topic last week. Thank you!
P.P.S. New Here? Well then, join the circle of friends by signing up for more free network marketing tips. It’s real easy to do, just put your name and e-mail in the boxes below. 
39 Comments
Dwayne Huggins on February 24th, 2010
Hi J
Phase 2 of my online marketing onslaught involves video marketing.
I have already checked out Jing as per your previous recommendation and I have to say it’s pretty good.
I am thinking of getting Camtasia as I have a Mac (who doesn’t?)
As always thanks for the value
Dwayne
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 11:17 am
Hah,
Nice jab with the Mac Dwayne.
I actually love Macs, I’m on a PC right now
but my trusty mac is six feet away.
Camtasia is a good decsion.
There’s also Screenflow for Mac.
I believe that’s cheaper too.
[Reply]
Andy on February 24th, 2010
I’m a Mac user and hands down from everything I have tried NOTHING comes close to Screenflow ($99).
It’s doubles as a fairly powerful video editing software too.
Andy D.
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:16 pm
Sweet,
Thanks Andy.
I didn’t have time to do a price comparison.
[Reply]
David Wilcoxson on February 24th, 2010
Jing and CamStudio are great for people who are on a budget…
And for people who don’t really like to be on camera, and are more comfortable with a screen-shot presentation.
That said, Camtasia rocks because it allows you to record your screen, while having a small video box that let’s people see you at the same time.
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:16 pm
I love that option…
CamStudio doesn’t have those perks.
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 5:50 pm
You actually can have a small video box that let’s people see you, although the functionality might not be as flexible as that in Camtasia.
In the tools menu, there’s a function called “Video Annotations”. The video source is your webcam and you can place the video box anywhere on your screen and then capture it.
Cheers,
Wayne
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 6:23 pm
Seriously?
I learn something new every day.
Nice.
Mitchell Dillman on February 24th, 2010
Hey there Jason,
You know me…I’m sure not the one whose into all this techno stuff, heck I’m still trying to figure out how to put still pictures on my blog posts.
It sure seems the power of video is the new way to go…It’s awesomely HUGE stuff…
I don’t know about CamStudios, Camtasia, Jing, the Toasterview or Alamomoto…(you do remember the Alamo)
I will tell ya this…For less than $150 bucks you can pick yourself up a Mino Flip HD. What a cool little camera. That was the first little ‘toy’ I got when we started into this Online stuff. Way Cool!
You’ve reminded me, It’s time to get some new videos posted to my YouTube channel, MrMldillman…Go check it out and leave me some comments…
Now, if it’s good training you’re after…well, you and I both know our friend Hanni Morra kicks some major video training butt…
Thanks for this heads up, I’ll go check it out right now…Lights, Camera, taking ACTION!
Mitchell Dillman
P.S. Seeing as I’ve picked up a couple new contracts for my construction biz, MD Construction, Do you think anyone would like to see some vids from the ‘job’ site? Maybe I’ll show everyone a glimpse of the ‘Hammer-Head’ me… 
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:18 pm
Mitchell,
No doubt in my mind.
I bet people would love to see you on the
job so to speak.
It makes you into a living breathing person…
Totally psyched for the new vids.
[Reply]
Tim on February 24th, 2010
Here’s a comparison between Camtasia and ScreenFlow.
http://theappleblog.com/2009/10/28/camtasia-vs-screenflow-creating-your-first-screencast/
Both are good, but I prefer ScreenFlow.
[Reply]
Rhonda Miller on February 24th, 2010
Hey Jason,
Thanks for the information. I have to admit I haven’t started into the video marketing yet, but this sounds like it’s right up my alley. Better get started before I get left behind:)
I think something is pushing me to get that “Wordpress Webinar” started. He he Still need to learn a few more things. I’ve been learning new Wordpress techniques daily.
I can’t begin to tell you how much I’ve learned from your posts. It has really been very helpful and educational. Thanks a bunch.
Rhonda 
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:19 pm
Well get started!
Geez,
It isn’t going to start itself.
Hah, just kidding…
But I thought a friendly push would
do the trick.
[Reply]
Wayne Vassell on February 24th, 2010
Hmmm, that is perfect timining, recently I tried quite a few options.
I tried a program called “iShowU” for the MAC (Yep, it is all about the MAC alright!), The video quality is cool but the sound is a joke!
I will definately look at the options you listed, cheers for that J.
Wayne Vassell, signing out…
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:20 pm
Hey Wayne,
Let me know how those work for you
too.
I’m always curious about what’s out there.
[Reply]
Tim Erway on February 24th, 2010
I’ve used both Camtasia and ScreenFlow. Both are great, but my preference is for the later.
Here’s a great comparison:
http://theappleblog.com/2009/10/28/camtasia-vs-screenflow-creating-your-first-screencast/
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:25 pm
Awesome Tim,
I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz about
Camtasia over the years…
But it’s almost like Screenflow is locked in the cellar.
[Reply]
Jerome Ratliff on February 24th, 2010
What timing…recently I’ve been getting into more video marketing.
Especially since I’ve seen the twist Mark Hoverson has on it.
He’s really broken down how to effectively use videos following his seven vital secrets.
I’ve been using jing and it’s pretty good (thanks to your previous recommendation!)
Have a good one.
Jerome Ratliff
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Hey Jerome,
Jing rocks it for those short videos.
Way cool.
It also saves you the CamStudio headache…
Uploading and changing file types…
[Reply]
Derek Alvarez on February 24th, 2010
Hi Jason,
Like Dwayne, I also have a Mac — so this is a no-go for me.
I’ve tried Screentoaster and can’t say that I like it — it’s clunky and “buggy.”
Screenr’s pretty nice, though — for a free service.
Make it a great Wednesday!
– Derek
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:27 pm
Well then Screenflow it is!
By process of elimination.
[Reply]
Kurt Henninger on February 24th, 2010
Your right on here Jason.
Camtasia is a great option for people who don’t want to be a “talking head” on videos, but still create great content for their subscribers and get exposure for their business through video marketing.
Plus, the free version of camtasia works very good as well.
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:29 pm
You know Kurt,
This is a biggie here.
A lot of people think they have to
get on camera to do video…
Not so. That’s what I like about it to.
[Reply]
Kurt Henninger on February 24th, 2010
Ohhh yes, one other note.
In terms of a suggested blog topic. How about email? You have a very unique and effective way that you use email in your own marketing, bringing traffic back here to your blog.
So the topic would be email copywriting…
VERY few people in the home biz industry are good at it.
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 2:29 pm
Awesome idea too.
I’m going to add that to my list.
[Reply]
Ilka Flood on February 24th, 2010
Cool, Jason, a new tool to try out. I love “brain dead.” Couldn’t be too hard for me to figure out then.
My husband has incorporated video marketing in to his mortgage business and it’s working very well for him.
[Reply]
Twila Jacobs on February 24th, 2010
Awesome! I’ve been contemplating going in this direction, but wasn’t real thrilled about it for the simple fact I’m ususally w/out makeup and in yoga pants (oh the perks of working from home)!
While I don’t mind getting all dolled up to do a video, sometimes things don’t always work as planned around here so this would be perfect!
Thanks for all of the great info too everyone!
Twila
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 6:21 pm
Hah Twila,
I think everybody who has ever
worked from home knows how that is.
That’s why I love these tools.
[Reply]
Marcus Baker on February 24th, 2010
Hey Jason,
Thanks for the CamStudio info. I have known about it but never used it.I have to say I enjoy using Camtasia although I probably have yet to explore all of its capability. The secret for me when it comes to any software is how quickly I can learn to use it well enough so that it does not become a barrier to my success.
Cheers,
Marcus
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 6:22 pm
Hey Marcus,
Stick with Camtasia instead of CamStudio
if you already have it…
Man, CamStudio rocks, but way more features
with paid software.
[Reply]
Wayne on February 24th, 2010
Hey Jason,
Thank you so much for the credit. I truly appreciate it. I’ve gotten to know some awesome people people through you featuring them here.
Thanks again,
Wayne
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 6:24 pm
No prob,
Thank you for mentioning this software.
I know some people are trying to cut back
expenses while they figure out video marketing.
This really helps.
[Reply]
Jannerre Barrett on February 24th, 2010
Hi jason. I’ve just discovered Animoto myself and in no time, made some really great 30 second videos. I liked it so much I’ve paid just $30 for an entire year of video making. You can use graphics and music from anywhere, including your own laptop. I sponsor an orphanage/school in Northern India so am going to make a video promoting them as well http://www.balmaitri.org thanks so much. Your emails are packed of really important information. Jannette
[Reply]
February 25th, 2010 at 9:34 am
Hey Jannerre,
I’m happy to help. If you ever
have any ideas of suggestions for
blog topics too… then feel free to
pass them along.
[Reply]
Steve Tenerovich on February 25th, 2010
Jason,
Thanks for the information, this was a great post. I’ll be researching the mentioned software tomorrow.
[Reply]
February 25th, 2010 at 9:35 am
Hey Steve,
And thank you for dropping in.
There were some good recommendations
here in the comments too.
[Reply]
Dale Hinton on July 1st, 2010
Hey Jason,
Thanks for the info on Camstudio. My question is about installing the Lossless Codec. Do you have any suggestions for installing this?
BTW here’s another freebie that might help some people. Open Office is a great suite of software including their version of a Powerpoint-type software. And it’s all for free!!!
Here are some websites for open office.
http://download.openoffice.org/
Enjoy!
Dale Hinton
[Reply]
Hey Jason,
This is great! Valuable information after valuable information. It’s like you have been reading my mind. I have been recently looking at software to start video marketing. This is perfect!
Can you do a post on video marketing.
Chat with you later…
Josh
[Reply]
February 24th, 2010 at 10:19 am
Hey Josh,
That`s an idea… I have one hiding here somewhere.
Need to work on my gremlin tags.
[Reply]