Need to edit videos? You probably already have a program you can use. Microsoft bundled Windows Movie Maker with Windows XP and Vista.

If you use Windows 7, there's Windows Live Movie Maker. It isn't pre-installed. But, you can download it for free. I have a link to it on my site.

Movie Maker is handy for making quick edits to your videos. Or, use it to piece together smaller clips and photos. Of course, you can also add transitions and video effects. Movie Maker includes a library of transitions. But you can add more, if you want.

Movie Maker is excellent if you're just getting started with video editing. But if you need more advanced features, you'll want to look elsewhere.

I have free programs on my site. Check them before you buy anything:

• An easy, basic video-editing program
• A more advanced video-editing program

If they won't do, you have many other choices. However, a lot will be more software than you need.

For example, you'll find Avid Xpress Pro, Adobe Premiere and Sony Vegas Pro. These are very expensive programs aimed at professionals. Prices run upwards of $700. You'll even see some that are $1,500 or more.