How can I record a video in SL?

Hello, we want to shoot a film in SL but dont have any idea how to do it. Is there a tool or something for this?

Hi Catinca

You need 2 things.

1. Software to capture what is displayed in your Second Life Window. "Fraps" is easy to use and there is a free version available to download. This will record the scenes as a sequence of uncompressed images.

2. you then need to turn this into a movie. If you are lucky, you will already have Windows Movie Maker installed in your computer. You can load the best of your recorded scenes into WMM and edit them as required. WMM will turn this into a movie in a format suitable for you to post on Utube or to mail to friends or any other purpose that you want.

There are many other packages available. Doubtless, further posters will be recommending others.

Its easy to make a movie. Its difficult to make a good one though. GOOD LUCK.

Camstudio is a free screen capture program; Mac-users can try the free program Berio.

XFire is another free one. There are many not-for-free programs.

Suppress your UI: control-alt-F1
Video shot in virtual reality is usually called "machinima."

In this section of the forums, there are a LOT of information. Many posts that speak about specific elements/techniques etc of machinima making, other posts include links to individuals websites with further and detailed information (search for Thinkerer).

The software you use is very much based upon your operating system and your personal workflow. What works for one, doesn't mean it will work for others.

If you are new to machinima, using freebie and or trail versions of software, is a good way to start.

If you are new to movie making, try and find a mentor. Read forums, manuals etc. Look at other peoples styles see what works for you and what doesn't.

Most of all... enjoy what you do.