Re: For the non-believers -FZ2500/2000 is out!!
 

You can get lightworks or davinci resolve which both have a free version if you are on a budget.

Re: For the non-believers -FZ2500/2000 is out!!
 

When I bought my Panny HMC cameras they came with a free version of Edius too otherwise you could revert to a fairly simple editor too. Not sure if Windows still include their Movie Maker software in the OS but an editor is fairly important and ease of use too so if you are wanting to seriously edit your video trying out all that is available, even as trial versions is a good idea! I tried a myriad of editors until I found one that suited me! You obviously want a camera that you feel comfortable with and the same goes for an editor.

Re: For the non-believers -FZ2500/2000 is out!!
 

As others have pointed out, you can get editing software free in trial versions and most versions of Windows has the free Windows editing software included, although Win10 seems to have dropped it.

If you enjoy wildlife and want to be able to sell your video footage, you really need to understand the other tools involved including editing software. The alternative is to work with an editor, but to do that, you will almost certainly need to have a track record as a cameraman, to get an experienced editor to invest their time.

Learning editing will also enable you to get the best from your footage, and to add a professional look to raw footage. You will also be able to produce a showreel of your best work, including sound track to enhance the visuals. A showreel will enable to present examples of your work to potential clients, maximizing your opportunities. Taking video footage is one aspect, but having taken it how will you deliver it, on DVD, USB, Hard drive etc? Also you may need to convert it to a different format for your client, requiring some understanding of different formats, bitrates etc.

There are a lot of competent people out there striving to reach the same goal as you, so the more skills you have, the better your chances.

Roger