Member Avatar for macki

Hi,

I have a client that needs me to put samples of his work on dvd into quick time format (I need to put it up on his website):

1-Im on a mac, which application would I use?
2-If its a lengthy or involved process, do u know of any tutorials?
3-He needs me to put up 6 quicktime videos, what would be the suggested maximum length of time or size for each one ?

Thanks a bunch,
macki

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Short answer: if the client owns the footage (or gives written permission), the reliable workflow is (1) produce a decrypted/accessible file from the DVD, then (2) transcode that file to a QuickTime‑friendly codec (H.264 or HEVC) and container for the web. Several replies already pointed you in this direction: was right that “rip then convert,” and correctly named HandBrake as the common encoder. Important legal caution: bypassing DVD copy‑protection can trigger the DMCA’s anti‑circumvention rules, so get explicit permission or the original masters before you proceed. (copyright.gov)

Practical step sequence (fast, repeatable):

  1. Ask the client for original files first (camera masters, DV, ProRes).
  2. If you must use the DVD, extract the titles into a single readable file (many pros use MakeMKV to produce an unencrypted MKV or image).
  3. Transcode that file to H.264 (or HEVC if you need smaller files and your targets support it) and choose AAC audio; HandBrake is a robust open‑source encoder for this step. On macOS you can also use QuickTime Player’s Export options to create .mov files using H.264/HEVC if your source is already accessible. (makemkv.info)

File‑size and quality guidance for web previews: estimate MB per minute = bitrate(Mbps) × 7.5. As a rule of thumb, using H.264:

  • 480p: ~2.5 Mbps → ≈18.8 MB/min
  • 720p: ~5 Mbps → ≈37.5 MB/min
  • 1080p: ~8 Mbps → ≈60 MB/min
    For quick website samples keep clips short (1–3 minutes) or under ~50–100 MB where possible; use variable bitrate VBR and tune for motion. These bitrate targets follow common online recommendations. ()

Troubleshooting tips: if HandBrake shows “no valid source,” it’s usually copy‑protection or a bad title selection — try MakeMKV or load the VIDEO_TS folder and pick the main movie title. Preserve client audio/subtitle tracks, test on a few browsers/devices, and, if in doubt about legality, get written permission or the original files before posting. This keeps quality up and risk down, and follows the practical points made earlier in the thread.

Recommended Answers

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Member Avatar for mikeandike22

you need to rip a dvd onto the computer and then convert it to quicktime. I do not know any ripping programs that copy dvds into quicktime maybe dvdxcopy but that has been recently taken off the market so i suggest ripping with dvdshrink and converting into quicktime. Just so people here dont bash me for talking about dvd copying i should tell you that backing up dvds that you own in case the originals get damaged is not illegal only copying dvds that you do not own or selling copies of dvds that you own is illegal.

Member Avatar for awakening

I now a software,ipod video converter for mac ,which is designed for the mac system of Apple Pcs.Maybe it will be helpful,but i'm not so sure wether it can make it.

Member Avatar for remiremi

You have to first use a program to convertthe DVD to an MPEG. Then you can covert the MPEG to whatever you want. DIVX is recommended also.

Good luck finding shareware.. most of them contain viruses, and the ones that are "FREE" only give you small bits of conversion... you can get a good one for about $30 ...

Member Avatar for roryt

There are dvd decrypters available but they are ILLEGAL so if this is for a serious website you should not do it. It could ruin the clients credibility and is probably not worth doing. After you have got the film of the dvd you can either play it as an mpeg on the web or you can convert it to quicktime. A good program for this can be found here http://www.xilisoft.com/ipod-video-converter-mac.html It is not free though.

I advise against doing this because it is ILLEGAL. You should just explain this to your client and they should understand.

Member Avatar for maybury

not all DVD are copyrite and we don't all need it in small web/ipod form, for extracting content try handbrake () straight from dvd to mpeg with all settings definable.

Member Avatar for MidiMagic

If you created the DVD yourself, with your own camera work or software generation, you OWN the copyright. It is never illegal to copy your own work into a jpeg file.

Member Avatar for jbennet

Hi,

I have a client that needs me to put samples of his work on dvd into quick time format (I need to put it up on his website):

yes, i agree, that would pe perfectly legal as his client has given him permission

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