iMovie '09 and iDVD: The Missing Manual

Chapter 19. Advanced iDVD

Although iDVD appears simple, straightforward, and direct, there’s more power lurking inside than you might expect. You can see, change, and control things you never knew you could—if you’re willing to try new and unusual approaches. Some of these approaches require add-on software programs. Others demand nerves of steel and a willingness to dive into hidden iDVD files.

In this advanced chapter, you’ll discover how some of these sideways (and backward and upside-down) methods can expand your iDVD repertoire.

iDVD: The DVD-ROM Maker

iDVD’s ability to add data files to the DVD-ROM portion of your disc may be its least-known feature. When it creates a DVD-ROM, iDVD sets aside a portion of your DVD for normal computer files. This area of the disc won’t show up on a DVD player—only on a computer.

With iDVD, you can store any variety of data on your DVD. Here are just a few ways you can use this feature to enhance your disc:

• Store documents that relate to your DVD contents. The DVD-ROM area provides a perfect place to store copies of documents that concern the material presented in the DVD. This might include the script used to film a movie, the different versions that eventually led to a final event invitation, extended family narratives, copies of email and other correspondence, and so on. Remember: TV sets aren’t much good for displaying text, but a DVD-ROM and a computer can come to the rescue. Or store the full-resolution versions of the digital photos featured ...