Animoto is a very easy tool to use. The registration is free and you can create 30 - second videos with music. You can also apply for Animoto Edu and create your full length videos for free. That's what I have done.
Creating a video consists of three steps:
- you upload photos and decide if you want to add any text and where. Then you put your slides into the order you want to tell a story. It's a simple drag and drop activity.
- You choose music for your video. You can upload music from your computer, and you are reminded to respect the copyright. I always choose from the songs already offered by Animoto team. I find it easier and they have a lot of beautiful songs in different styles.
- You check that you have everything you wanted (the right title, tags, etc) and click "Create". Then you only wait. The video is created for you.
This is the animoto I have created to introduce myself in Digital Storytelling Group of TESOL EVO. Please be gentle in your comments.