Hey everybody
I'm looking for the cheapest possible way to get some software for blue and green screen effects. For the uupcoming projects I want to take on, it's pretty much the last thing I can pump money into.
All I know are the big names, After effects, Ultra magic... Are there any ways to get legit versions of these for cheap or are there any other cheap programs that work just as well as the big guys? By cheap I'm looking for as close to free as possible.
I'm working with Windows XP. I'm a good editor and pick up on new things quick. Just someone point me in the right direction please!!!! Thanks so much.

Most higher end editing programs have the ability to key, I'm not sure what you're using, but you should look and see if you can.

I use FCP and Avid when I get access to them but don't own either one. From home I use the cheap Studio 8 software which works fine for simple cutting but I'm pretty sure there are no keying tools available on it. I'm looking for something I can key with from my home. I'm going to be doing a series (that I'll just be posting to myspace) as not only a way to receive recognition but also practice editing from a blue/green screen shot (for when I get to work on my big project). I'm sure as everyone else can relate, money is my biggest obstacle.
Sorry to go on and on. Just figured I'd describe my whole situation.

Get Sony Vegas Movie Studio, a lower end but still powerful version of Sony Vegas. Its about 99 dollars, it has color correction and a chroma keyer. It's a nice deal.

It's the ideal investment as a hobbiest

http://www.cyber-aspect.com/sreviews/vegas_studio.htm

Thanks man...I gave that software a shot. Really awesome for the amount of money it cost. I tried out the demo then ordered it real cheap off ebay. Thanks for the advice.

Joe