#ukeditors getting together

After Larry Jordan’s London show a few punters stayed at the bar. We wondered whether some of the attendees there might want to stay in touch. We could support each other using similar Q&A sessions as we had today. Digitally, as well as meeting up in pubs and bars. If you’re interested follow me on [...]

NAB and me

In which I say why I can’t make NAB, but pass on a code ‘worth $150′ that their PR agency sent me.
Over the years I’ve watched the stories coming out of the NAB Show, and heard tales from those who visit. Sometimes I daydream about visiting – especially if I’m going to be in the [...]

Paper edits: Timecode for QuickTime movies

Sometimes working on low-budget projects means leaving the initial edit to others. Researchers sometimes already have plans for the footage. Producers might not have the funds for all your editing time.
That means preparing the way for a paper edit. You send the footage to someone else who sends you back an initial edit as a [...]

3D editing secrets

Yesterday, the Hollywood Reporter announced that Avid are researching ways to making their products work with 3D footage. I would characterise the kind of footage they mean as being ‘2.5D’ – two cameras shoot simultaneously from slightly different positions to simulate human stereoscopic vision.
The article refers to the ‘Over and under’ 3D technique. In the [...]

Media Composer now $2,495, Xpress Pro discontinued

Avid have finally done what many have suggested: simplify the range and reduce prices. Composer is now $2,495. Xpress is discontinued. $495 to upgrade to Media Composer. If I can work on Xpress at home and Composer on jobs, why would I want to upgrade?
This is Avid attempting to set the agenda for NAB. [...]

Backup computer = secondary screen

For you editors who go on location with two Macs – a backup and a main, I’ve discovered an interesting piece of software. It uses networking software that lets you use the screen of your backup computer as a second screen for your main computer. As it uses the network, I suggest that you use [...]

Fair

Apple have followed Avid in dropping out of NAB this year. Some see this as a sign that trade shows are becoming less important. The return on investment isn’t good enough. Maybe Apple has all the mindshare it needs from now on.
This reminds me of when I beta tested Macromedia Director for the Mac and [...]

Tapeless

The BBC reported recently on its progress on removing tape from its post workflow. They believe in open source software, so if you want to use their Linux-based software for your tapeless production, download the sourcecode from SourceForge.
The software includes:
A Windows package that takes a Avid rendered show and wraps it in the correct [...]

Hurry

Apple have announced a new version of Final Cut Express. It features the Final Cut open format timeline. You can mix DV, HDV and AVCHD on the same timeline. It’s the application for all those disappointed by the lack of fine control in iMovie ‘08.
$199 for a piece of software that most people will see [...]

How to make the grade

Today I visited Ascent Media in Soho. I was there on a tour that was organised as part of the Soho Shorts festival. The festival organisers feel that celebrating the culture of Soho includes visits to the artists who work in the post industry.
On Tuesday I visited St. Annes Post, where we had the opportunity [...]