Video screenshot

[Justin]

Hi there!
I'm trying to take a picture of a video clip to use in a flipchart and annotate over it. All I'm getting is a blank rectangle. I've tried using the camera tool and 'Print Screen' to no avail. I was advised to disconnect from the projector or shut-down my laptop screen - neither worked. I'm using Media Player 9 and the video is *.wmv format.

I've been told AS2 will allow this. Any ideas?

[Danny Nicholson]

I did it today with an AVI file no trouble... Wonder if its related to the problem where you cant display certain video formats on a projector without turning off the laptop screen

[Justin]

Thanks Danny.
I did try every way round of screen on or off or disconnected. Nothing worked. I believe it must be to do with the file format. AVI obviously works but I can't find any way to convert my WMV to an AVI.
Any other thoughts about WMV files anyone?

[Peter Lambert]

Its something we just can't resolve! Media player 9 seems to put certain file formats on a direct x layer that Windows can't access.
Its like trying to capture a DVD session - it can't be done!
As you say avi's are fine as are most mpegs
Sorry but its Bill's fault!

[Rob Radcliffe]

I just tried a WMV playing in Media Player 9 and took a screenshot of it with AS2 - no problem at all! Maybe it's to do with the latest windows codec. You could try using Windows movie maker, import the WMV, and try capturing the screenshot from the preview playback?

Alternatively, there's a nice bit of freeware which should convert your WMV's to Avi's:

http://www.brothersoft.com/Multimedia_Graphics_Video_Tools_STOIK_Video_Conver ter_15581.html

Let us know if this helps

[Justin]

Hi Rob,

Sorry - I haven't got back to you beforehand. What a nice little program. I lost a bit of resolution in the convertion but at least now I can take the screenshots I was after.

Thanks, I'm getting to be a real fan of using video, particularly to support Literacy. I suspect this is going to get good use!