An .iso file includes all of the video, graphic, audio files and scene links that make up a DVD or BluRay disc in a single file. It can be, then, a very neat way to save your disc files.
Many programs (including DVD Architect) are then able to the .iso file and convert it into the array of files that make up your DVD or BluRay disc.
Which eludes to (off topic) another question.
Is Blue Ray supposed to be *better* in any way or is it just another proprietary format that has nothing to do with resolution/clarity?
Four times the res of a DVD.
Man, do I wallow in ignorance with all this new technology.
My current monitor is a 27" Viewsonic at 1920x1080 and my Movie Maker Platinum 9.0 has that option to burn to Blue Ray.....very interesting for me.
I presume the Blue Ray recordable disks are out there and cost significantly more but would be worth it for the resolution.
Then...off to Fry's Electronics to spend more money.
In order to create BluRays you need hi-def source material -- like HDV or AVCHD video. Otherwise, there's not point. You can't get hi-def BluRay video from a standard definition miniDV, for instance. It will just come out fuzzy.
So, before you rush out and drop $100 on a stack of BluRays, make sure:
a) You've got hi-def source video; and
b) You've got a BluRay burner (not just BluRay burner software); AND
c) A BluRay disc player and HDTV set to play it back on.
The discs alone won't do you much good without the entire workflow, naturally.