Video Formats to Consider (see Wikipedia for more detail)
Most Compatible:
Quicktime - Player is a free download for both Macs and PCs running MS Windows
MP4 - A variant of MPG that has quality and smaller size
This - as streaming mp4 - is an excellent choice for the web. Put a link to the file, rather than embed it in a page. That way handhelds like the I-pod touch and the I-phone can play it full screen without having to download your formatted web page that would contain it.
MPG1- Between VHS and Video CD quality
MPG2 - DVD quality.
To produce a DVD, you must produce first an 800 x 640 minimum dimensions MPG2 video or the DVD making software will take time to make it out of the video you import into it.
This format is also an excellent choice for keeping an archive of your final video. More on backup
MP3 (Audio) - this audio format gave digital music players the name "mp3 player." Streaming variety is best for posting as audio pod cast sermons.
Generally Compatible:
FLV: Flash Video (video produced from a camera rather than Flash animation which is SWF or Shockwave Flash)
The streaming form of this at a minimum 256Kb is an excellent choice for embedding with a "skin" (the frame that may/may not look like a tv, but has a set of video player controls)
Will not play on Apple mobile devices, i.e. Ipad, Ipod touch, Iphone. Therefore, place a link to the same file in mp4 and/or mp3 audio for those who want to watch or listen to it on these devices.
Windows Media (WMA - audio; WMV - audio/video)
Real Media
High Definition Camera Formats recorded on internal memory, dvd, memory card, or hard drive.
HDV This is a format used in Sony, JVC, and other high definition cameras. This format is not a final production format. 720i and 1080 i
AVCHD This is a format based on MP4 that is used by HD video cameras and also as a basis for production of Blu-ray discs. 720 and 1080 i and p