Within just the last few years, it's become possible for anyone with a personal computer and an inexpensive camcorder to shoot, edit, and publish a movie or music video. Knowing the secret tricks of the Hollywood pros enables readers to reproduce many of the shots and effects you've seen in blockbuster movies. Not yet fully realized, the ''democratization of video'' may well be one of the most significant social phenomena of the early 21st century. For example, more video footage exists for the morning of 9/11 than for any event in human history-not because of the news crews, but because of the prevalence of consumer DV camcorders on the scene. This book educates and encourages the young generation on how to be both capable and fearless about publishing their personal videos. There is a glut of digital video books aimed at the adult market, but the teen space is much less exploited. Most of the books available are either too technical or too application-oriented. Teens will learn that they don't need a studio full of old-fashioned multimillion-dollar film gear to get impressive results. With a solid foundation of and focus on the basics, readers also touch upon some advanced topics as well. Additionally, the final chapter of the book takes a look at ''Going to the Next Level'', which will be of significant use to teens who are looking to submit their work to the film festival and to colleges during the application process.