I was feeling a bit smug telling folks that I had unlimited data for $25 a month. I've had it for years and in that regard I was a happy camper. Nope, I could see all the AT&T, Sprint and other users gnash in pain as the balanced what they could do in a day or month.
And then I got the letter. Actually an e-mail. My phone carrier is going to place a 2.5GB cap on what I can access via my phone.
I do watch videos over the phone but I mainly use it for a podcasting back-up. I can, if I want upload videos but I haven't found a video editing/trimmer that I like on the Android side of the fence.
Let this be a lesson to you, don't be so smug. Another implications is that we may have to go back to a time when we consider the bandwidth issues of our viewers.
Back in the day, you did need to make sure that your video was viewable for viewers who had 56k modems. That is one of the reasons vidoebloggers made videos at 320x240.
This is an old video of mine from 2006. In addition to bandwidth issues you had to be aware of what your video host ISP could do to your video as well; such as additional compression.
My Point?
You might not want to just slap anything up and hope that your viewers can see it. In this time of high definition videos and reduction of unlimited date plans for mobile devices you might have to consider making a mobile friendly version of your work.
It is a balance between quality and accessibility.
For some of you that decision means that you want to produce videos that look good across devices and can't and will not sacrifice video quality. Those that can will and those that can't will wish you the best but moving on.
For others you want the widest audience possible and your are willing to take the time to edit, apply the proper compression and upload in a video format that is compatible with your web host.
That would be mp4. Blip.tv, Vimeo and YouTube all have pages that tell you the specifications of that export format.
So until we Americans actually have a full nation data network without the threat of a lock down on usage we'll need to adjust.
Think positive.
Related Posts:
Monday, January 30, 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Quick Look at Kodak PlayFull Dual Zi12 Camera
Ever since I’ve been on the planet there has been Kodak. Brownies, Instamatics, 110s, you name it and I’ve had my hands on it. It took them a while to dip into digital and when they finally got in the game with the DC 290 it like to drove me crazy not to have access to one.
That was a long time ago. Sigh, I wish Kodak luck because bankruptcy is not a good thing. So let’s see if we can make a love match between a person who is Flipped out and a camcorder needing a good home.
This is a quick look at the Kodak PlayFull Dual Zi12 Camera.
David Snooks is an employee at Kodak so I'm thinking he has an interest in sharing the word about the Zi12. So this is some shots of the Zi12 doing that Slo-Mo thing.
Mercy. Let’s look at the specs:
All this for $199? I could be persuaded.
So Who is the Camcorder For?
Broke folk filmmakers. Artists. Reporters and Journalists. Serious hobby folk. Videoblogers. Coaches. Performers. I could go on. Food bloggers, travel bloggers, tech-a-holics of all persuasions.
For Mac users wanting nothing to do with AVCHD this could be of interest.
If you care about video quality and you have limited cash funds I can see going with this. If you had a deep love of the Zi6 or Zi8 and you are ready to step up this is for you.
If you are a beginner I think you would be fine. It does have simple controls but the juice seems to be in the menu. It has more features than a standard point and share camcorder.
On the surface it looks like a keeper but the device will not be released for sale until April 2012. CamcorderInfo.com has a review of the Zi12.
It is has got my attention but until I can lay hands on it in a retail store this is just a dream.
Related Posts:
That was a long time ago. Sigh, I wish Kodak luck because bankruptcy is not a good thing. So let’s see if we can make a love match between a person who is Flipped out and a camcorder needing a good home.
This is a quick look at the Kodak PlayFull Dual Zi12 Camera.
David Snooks is an employee at Kodak so I'm thinking he has an interest in sharing the word about the Zi12. So this is some shots of the Zi12 doing that Slo-Mo thing.
Mercy. Let’s look at the specs:
| Sensor type | 1 / 2.33-type, 12 MP CMOS | |
| Lens | 4.7 mm F2.6 AF lens | |
| Video and Still Wide Angle | Lens 31 mm (4:3), 35 mm equivalent 31 mm @ 1080p with Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) | 31 mm @ 720p with DIS 31 mm |
| WVGA with DIS 26 mm @ still capture. | ||
| Zoom | Optical None | Zoom 4X digital |
| Storage | 20MB internal | SD/SDHC memory cards up to 32GB |
| Video formats | MPEG-4, AAC LC | |
| Editing | In Camera Trim | |
| Capture modes | 1080p (1920 x; 1080, 30 fps) | |
| 720p /60 fps (1280 x; 720, 60 fps) | ||
| 720p (1280 x; 720, 30 fps) | ||
| WVGA (848 x; 480, 30 fps) | ||
| Microphone | Monaural w. level controls | External Mic Jack |
| Speaker | Monaural | Headphone jack |
| Film effects | EktaChrome, | KodaChrome, |
| T-Max,TRI-X, | Sepia |
All this for $199? I could be persuaded.
So Who is the Camcorder For?
Broke folk filmmakers. Artists. Reporters and Journalists. Serious hobby folk. Videoblogers. Coaches. Performers. I could go on. Food bloggers, travel bloggers, tech-a-holics of all persuasions.
For Mac users wanting nothing to do with AVCHD this could be of interest.
If you care about video quality and you have limited cash funds I can see going with this. If you had a deep love of the Zi6 or Zi8 and you are ready to step up this is for you.
If you are a beginner I think you would be fine. It does have simple controls but the juice seems to be in the menu. It has more features than a standard point and share camcorder.
On the surface it looks like a keeper but the device will not be released for sale until April 2012. CamcorderInfo.com has a review of the Zi12.
It is has got my attention but until I can lay hands on it in a retail store this is just a dream.
Related Posts:
Monday, January 23, 2012
Tripod Alternatives for Your Videos
It doesn't matter what you are using to record video, there are times when you need to be still. As in motionless. This is going to be harder for table users and those recording on other devices but it can be done.
The old school ways of holding a camera or camcorder without a tripod still apply. I recommend checking out the post at Digital Photography School about how to avoid camera shakes.
Another way is to find a tool or resource that can help you out. This one is so simple it is brilliant. The Not A Pod anchors two cords to belt loops. The tension holds the camera or camcorder steady. And bone cheap too. If I wore pants that had loops I'd be all over this.
Alas, stretch tights only have loops at the feet and those didn't work out so well either.
Another options is the SteadePod which is also a simple device. You screw one end into the camera/camcorder and there is a cord that can be dropped down to your feet. You adjust the tension and bada bing, you have a form of stability. You can find the SteadePod at Adorama, Amazon, B and H Photo and other photography retailers.
The DIY folks want it to be known that this has been around forever in various forms. A screw, washer and a taunt string are apparently all you need. If you have those things around the house more power to you.
If I'm fishing around in my purse I think I'd rather have something like the SteadePod.
So if you don't have a tripod when you need one consider one of these as back up stabilizer.
Related Posts
The old school ways of holding a camera or camcorder without a tripod still apply. I recommend checking out the post at Digital Photography School about how to avoid camera shakes.
Another way is to find a tool or resource that can help you out. This one is so simple it is brilliant. The Not A Pod anchors two cords to belt loops. The tension holds the camera or camcorder steady. And bone cheap too. If I wore pants that had loops I'd be all over this.
Alas, stretch tights only have loops at the feet and those didn't work out so well either.
Another options is the SteadePod which is also a simple device. You screw one end into the camera/camcorder and there is a cord that can be dropped down to your feet. You adjust the tension and bada bing, you have a form of stability. You can find the SteadePod at Adorama, Amazon, B and H Photo and other photography retailers.
The DIY folks want it to be known that this has been around forever in various forms. A screw, washer and a taunt string are apparently all you need. If you have those things around the house more power to you.
If I'm fishing around in my purse I think I'd rather have something like the SteadePod.
So if you don't have a tripod when you need one consider one of these as back up stabilizer.
Related Posts
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Audio Sound Effects for Video - Free Sound Effects
There are times when you do need a knock at the door. A certain kind of knock. Like a fist on a wood door which is different from slapping your hand on a metal door. It matters and you can spend more time searching for the right sound than you ever thought you would.
You can make you own sound effects, if you have the time. There are places to obtain sound effects. Some of them are free for use in any project if you meet certain conditions and understand about licensing.
Sound effects can be recorded in mp3, wav and other audio formats; these two are the most common but not the only file formats.
Mp3 audio will give you a smaller file size to download and almost all of the video editing programs accept this format. Wav audio will give you better quality but the file size will be larger.
Remember, Safety First
Before you get to downloading you do want to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable web site, that you anti-virus, malware and cootie detection software is at full power. There are a lot of crummy web sites that are not safe to visit that offer free software.
You also want to print out the page of the place where you got the sound effects. The way things are going with the abundance of lawyers and congressional activities you might have to prove where you obtained the resources you used in your video.
A project binder or file folder is a mighty handy thing to have and to hold.
Understand and Read The Fine Print
Before you download make sure you understand the web sites terms of use of the audio file. Just because you see the word free does not mean it is free for you to use any way you want to.
For example, you can’t go to any audio site, snag the content and try to sell it as your own. That is stinky. It should be understood that you don’t do that. Yet there are people who don’t gronk this concept.
Sad, really.
Free to Use in Personal and Commercial Video Productions
There are kind souls that will let you use the sound effects found on their web site for no charge. One of those places is SoundJay.com. You can use their audio with or without attribution but the folks wouldn’t mind a shout out on where you got the stuff. A donation wouldn’t hurt either but that is up to you.
Media College has a small but tasty group of sound effects. They have recordings that are in the public domain, recorded by staff members that are available for personal and commercial use. Double check the license and permission page to understand the usage rights.
Another place to find sound effects is good old FlashKit.com.
For some reason in Chrome and Firefox browsers you will have to move to the middle of the page to see the recordings. It an old web site, it hasn’t been shown any love in years. Yet there is much goodness in that musty old house.
At FlashKit there are Freeware, Shareware and for purchase sound effects. You can test out a sound effect before you select it. If you like the effect then and, you have made sure that it is freeware, then proceed to the download link and save it on your system.
Related Posts
You can make you own sound effects, if you have the time. There are places to obtain sound effects. Some of them are free for use in any project if you meet certain conditions and understand about licensing.
Sound effects can be recorded in mp3, wav and other audio formats; these two are the most common but not the only file formats.
Mp3 audio will give you a smaller file size to download and almost all of the video editing programs accept this format. Wav audio will give you better quality but the file size will be larger.
Remember, Safety First
Before you get to downloading you do want to make sure that you are dealing with a reputable web site, that you anti-virus, malware and cootie detection software is at full power. There are a lot of crummy web sites that are not safe to visit that offer free software.
You also want to print out the page of the place where you got the sound effects. The way things are going with the abundance of lawyers and congressional activities you might have to prove where you obtained the resources you used in your video.
A project binder or file folder is a mighty handy thing to have and to hold.
Understand and Read The Fine Print
Before you download make sure you understand the web sites terms of use of the audio file. Just because you see the word free does not mean it is free for you to use any way you want to.
For example, you can’t go to any audio site, snag the content and try to sell it as your own. That is stinky. It should be understood that you don’t do that. Yet there are people who don’t gronk this concept.
Sad, really.
Free to Use in Personal and Commercial Video Productions
There are kind souls that will let you use the sound effects found on their web site for no charge. One of those places is SoundJay.com. You can use their audio with or without attribution but the folks wouldn’t mind a shout out on where you got the stuff. A donation wouldn’t hurt either but that is up to you.
Media College has a small but tasty group of sound effects. They have recordings that are in the public domain, recorded by staff members that are available for personal and commercial use. Double check the license and permission page to understand the usage rights.
Another place to find sound effects is good old FlashKit.com.
For some reason in Chrome and Firefox browsers you will have to move to the middle of the page to see the recordings. It an old web site, it hasn’t been shown any love in years. Yet there is much goodness in that musty old house.
At FlashKit there are Freeware, Shareware and for purchase sound effects. You can test out a sound effect before you select it. If you like the effect then and, you have made sure that it is freeware, then proceed to the download link and save it on your system.
Related Posts
Audio Sound Effects - What Is Royalty Free?
A royalty free sound effect means that you pay for the right to use one specific audio file or a subset of similar files. The terms can vary from a yearly subscription or in perpetuity. It depends on how much you pay and the nature of use.
There are advantages in purchasing a royalty free sound effect for your video. For one thing, you could have a higher quality sound than what you find at the free sites. It depends on the vendor. The site might have various audio lengths that meet your needs or a wider selection of effects.
If your video is being used for commercial purposes it might be safer to use a royalty free service.
BeatSuite.com
BeatSuite.com does have a specific type of sound effects for sale. I'd describe them as futuristic, steampunky or functional. I could imagine that these effects could find their way into an audio drama or podcasts. The standard license covers use for Internet use, web videos and podcasts.
The quality is very good and the price of the tracks reflect the quality. Start at $50 and work your way up. You can sample the tracks before purchasing. You might want to review their guide to royalty-free music so that you are clear on their approach and definitions.
Music Bakery
The Music Bakery has sound effects for sale starting a $1.98. I just tried out their squeaky door and it gave me the shivers. The audio files are available in mp3, wav and aiff use for you MacUsers.
Under their terms of use the sound effect can be used under a lifetime license for everything but theatrical movies or retail businesses. You would need another type of license for those activities. They are also asking for a title card in your video; in my opinion that is a bit much to ask.
It is your call if you want to do that kind of thing. The point of royalty free is to be able to use it they way you want without attribution.Be sure to read the web site's legal notice as well as the terms of service.
RoyaltyFreeMusic.com
RoyaltyFreeMusic.com has sound effect albums for purchase. They also have individual effect audio for sale but this is where it gets tricky.
You can buy an individual track for around $5 or get a whole album for about $100. Sounds about right.
For personal and non-profit use they are free with required attribution of where you got the sound. For commercial use you must purchase a license. The free sound effects are short and are in the mp3 audio format.
These web sites are easy to use, you can review the tracks before you purchase and they make clear what you need to understand before you buy.
I'm not a musician or sound effect expert. I do know with the growing evolution of media consumption that there are hybrid products like books that will have videos embedded in them or textbooks with practical exercises with beeps and clacks a plenty.
If you think that you might need a creaking door or a metallic zapper you might want to check out these or other vendors.
Related Posts
There are advantages in purchasing a royalty free sound effect for your video. For one thing, you could have a higher quality sound than what you find at the free sites. It depends on the vendor. The site might have various audio lengths that meet your needs or a wider selection of effects.
If your video is being used for commercial purposes it might be safer to use a royalty free service.
BeatSuite.com
BeatSuite.com does have a specific type of sound effects for sale. I'd describe them as futuristic, steampunky or functional. I could imagine that these effects could find their way into an audio drama or podcasts. The standard license covers use for Internet use, web videos and podcasts.
The quality is very good and the price of the tracks reflect the quality. Start at $50 and work your way up. You can sample the tracks before purchasing. You might want to review their guide to royalty-free music so that you are clear on their approach and definitions.
Music Bakery
The Music Bakery has sound effects for sale starting a $1.98. I just tried out their squeaky door and it gave me the shivers. The audio files are available in mp3, wav and aiff use for you MacUsers.
Under their terms of use the sound effect can be used under a lifetime license for everything but theatrical movies or retail businesses. You would need another type of license for those activities. They are also asking for a title card in your video; in my opinion that is a bit much to ask.
It is your call if you want to do that kind of thing. The point of royalty free is to be able to use it they way you want without attribution.Be sure to read the web site's legal notice as well as the terms of service.
RoyaltyFreeMusic.com
RoyaltyFreeMusic.com has sound effect albums for purchase. They also have individual effect audio for sale but this is where it gets tricky.
You can buy an individual track for around $5 or get a whole album for about $100. Sounds about right.
For personal and non-profit use they are free with required attribution of where you got the sound. For commercial use you must purchase a license. The free sound effects are short and are in the mp3 audio format.
These web sites are easy to use, you can review the tracks before you purchase and they make clear what you need to understand before you buy.
I'm not a musician or sound effect expert. I do know with the growing evolution of media consumption that there are hybrid products like books that will have videos embedded in them or textbooks with practical exercises with beeps and clacks a plenty.
If you think that you might need a creaking door or a metallic zapper you might want to check out these or other vendors.
Related Posts
Friday, January 20, 2012
Playing With Type - Research Is Scary
I have been dogging the kinetic typography sites and other resources to get a better handle on the process and structure on how to create these types of videos. It is the early stages but I'd have to say that most of them focus on the software and not the process of creating KT type videos.
The other thing I am learning is that I might have bitten off more than I can chew. I'm not a designer or motion graphics expert. But as I travel through some of the web sites it does seem more about how to move the word instead of being in best service of the text or audio source.
Like the above video from Chris - does the video work because of the association with the movie? Or does it work as it own creation? You could understand it even if you had never seen the movie.
I don't know.
Anyway, I have been finding a lot of good sites that have my brain on overload:
and a bunch more but I gotta go.
The other thing I am learning is that I might have bitten off more than I can chew. I'm not a designer or motion graphics expert. But as I travel through some of the web sites it does seem more about how to move the word instead of being in best service of the text or audio source.
Like the above video from Chris - does the video work because of the association with the movie? Or does it work as it own creation? You could understand it even if you had never seen the movie.
I don't know.
Anyway, I have been finding a lot of good sites that have my brain on overload:
and a bunch more but I gotta go.
YouTube Your Film Festival Call for Videos
People keep talking about the importance of story. Well, if you have a story that you have on video you might be interested in the YouTube Your Film Festival. You might be more interested in the prize money but first, a bit of inspiration:
Here is the short version. You have a narrative video that tells a story. The video needs to be under 15 minutes in length. It can be a web video, movie or whatever but it still has to tell a story.
You will be competing with YouTubers from around the world. Remember Life in A Day? Yeah, that many. You can submit your video starting in February 2nd and you have until March 31st, 2012 to upload it.
There is no entry fee. What else? You do have to be over 18 years of age to participate or whatever the age of adulthood/majority is in your country.
The Grand Prize is $500,000 U.S. and a trip to Venice. Not the California one, the one in Venice, Italy where the Venice Film Festival will be occurring at the same time.
Nice. If you want more info go check out the FAQ, and more importantly the official rules.
Here is the short version. You have a narrative video that tells a story. The video needs to be under 15 minutes in length. It can be a web video, movie or whatever but it still has to tell a story.
You will be competing with YouTubers from around the world. Remember Life in A Day? Yeah, that many. You can submit your video starting in February 2nd and you have until March 31st, 2012 to upload it.
There is no entry fee. What else? You do have to be over 18 years of age to participate or whatever the age of adulthood/majority is in your country.
The Grand Prize is $500,000 U.S. and a trip to Venice. Not the California one, the one in Venice, Italy where the Venice Film Festival will be occurring at the same time.
Nice. If you want more info go check out the FAQ, and more importantly the official rules.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Playing With Type - First Steps
The cool kids are going to town with kinetic typography. Kinectic typography tells a story with words or can re-enforce the power of spoken words and music.
I feel like the unworthy when I view some of the animations being done with Adobe After Effects.
I'd love to give it a go but one thing is stopping me. $990.
I purchase software. I just do not purchase software that cost enough toward a down payment on a car.
The software is certainly worth it. Plus the add-ins and doodads. I'm misting up just thinking about it. This is an example of kinetic typography using the famous speech from the movie Network. The video was created by Geek180.
Adobe After Effects make it easier to create motion graphics and kinetic typography. It isn't the only way. Okay, yes it is if you are a professional motion videographer or in the business.
But for the rest of us that want to experiment and push what we can afford a bit farther maybe there are other ways to create kinectic type videos.
Searching The Old Kit Bag
Off the top of my head I can think of a few software programs to play with as a starting point.
One of them is Swish Max2. This is (or was, they are up to version 4 by now) a program that makes it easy to create flash animations. Now I don't want to create flash animations but the program also exports animations out to an .avi file.
So that is what I'll be up to for the next couple of posts.
Now creating type videos might not be your thing. I understand. But the basic skills of working with type in video are the same for most other kinds of videos.
In addition, a motion typography clip can work well as a transition or a bridge from one video to another.
It is all how you look at it. In the meantime if you want to spark up some ideas on using type in movies and videos I have a possible starting point for your. Smashing Magazine has a good post on The Art of the Film Title Design Throughout Cinema History.
It is very visual and you can get a lot of good ideas just from observing how it was done in the past.
Related Posts
I'd love to give it a go but one thing is stopping me. $990.
I purchase software. I just do not purchase software that cost enough toward a down payment on a car.
The software is certainly worth it. Plus the add-ins and doodads. I'm misting up just thinking about it. This is an example of kinetic typography using the famous speech from the movie Network. The video was created by Geek180.
Adobe After Effects make it easier to create motion graphics and kinetic typography. It isn't the only way. Okay, yes it is if you are a professional motion videographer or in the business.
But for the rest of us that want to experiment and push what we can afford a bit farther maybe there are other ways to create kinectic type videos.
Searching The Old Kit Bag
Off the top of my head I can think of a few software programs to play with as a starting point.
One of them is Swish Max2. This is (or was, they are up to version 4 by now) a program that makes it easy to create flash animations. Now I don't want to create flash animations but the program also exports animations out to an .avi file.
So that is what I'll be up to for the next couple of posts.
Now creating type videos might not be your thing. I understand. But the basic skills of working with type in video are the same for most other kinds of videos.
In addition, a motion typography clip can work well as a transition or a bridge from one video to another.
It is all how you look at it. In the meantime if you want to spark up some ideas on using type in movies and videos I have a possible starting point for your. Smashing Magazine has a good post on The Art of the Film Title Design Throughout Cinema History.
It is very visual and you can get a lot of good ideas just from observing how it was done in the past.
Related Posts
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Quick Look at Serif Movie Plus Starter Edition
There came a time when I could deal with Windows Movie Maker no longer. It was free but the crashes when I tried to do anything more complicated than a simple edit were too much to bear. There were tears involved.
True, this was in the past with an old computer and software. There will come a time when you will want to move on. If you mess around with web video and editing at some point you will want to know if there are alternatives. Serif MoviePlus Starter Edition might be what you are looking for in a simple video editing program.
There are people that keep asking if there is a free video editing software and the answer is yes. A qualified yes if you can live with the limitations.
Operating System:
Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7 computers with a Dual Core or higher CPU
Computer Skill Level:
Comfortable with using menus, file folders and Windows Explorer
I use the full version of Serif Movie Plus X5 and the prior version X3 so I'm really familiar with the program. For folks that might have had prior experience with a computer videos editing program this is a great alternative for the price; which is often at a discount for the full program.
The Starter Edition is free but I would only download it from the vendor web site for security reasons. Security means you don't want to download malware cooties.
This Starter Edition (SMPSE) is a limited edition of Serif Movie Plus X5. The software is free to download and use but there are limitations. You need to know about them ahead of time before you invest in using this program.
Some of the advanced editing features MoviePlus X5 are disabled in this version of the program. Or if it the feature isn't disabled you might see something like this:
That is correct, you are seeing a logo for the product in the upper left corner. You can't remove it or prevent it. Consider it the cost of using the program. You can view the full test video by Taykslav so you can see the logo for yourself.
Checking the Serif forums it seems that the watermark logo can appear if you export the video so yes, you need to be aware that this can happen.
You also might see a nag screen to upgrade to the full program.
Still With Me?
Ok, if you have a Dual Core computer and video that it will accept we can talk.
It is good program that makes it very easy to trim, edit, add audio and photos to get a good video. It exports the videos quickly and I haven't notice any artifacts or gunk mucking up the videos, even with my glasses on.
There is a good helper guide that you can use to learn the program as well as a tutorial section on the web site. In addition, the company does have YouTube videos that you can view for help. Keep in mind that they were designed for the full version of the program.
I do like that the render times are generally quick. There are some software that take forever and a day to export the video out in a particular video format.
Again, if you have an older computer this could take much longer than you find comfortable.
I would recommend giving this try if you can live with the limitations.
Related Posts:
True, this was in the past with an old computer and software. There will come a time when you will want to move on. If you mess around with web video and editing at some point you will want to know if there are alternatives. Serif MoviePlus Starter Edition might be what you are looking for in a simple video editing program.
There are people that keep asking if there is a free video editing software and the answer is yes. A qualified yes if you can live with the limitations.
Operating System:
Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7 computers with a Dual Core or higher CPU
Computer Skill Level:
Comfortable with using menus, file folders and Windows Explorer
I use the full version of Serif Movie Plus X5 and the prior version X3 so I'm really familiar with the program. For folks that might have had prior experience with a computer videos editing program this is a great alternative for the price; which is often at a discount for the full program.
The Starter Edition is free but I would only download it from the vendor web site for security reasons. Security means you don't want to download malware cooties.
This Starter Edition (SMPSE) is a limited edition of Serif Movie Plus X5. The software is free to download and use but there are limitations. You need to know about them ahead of time before you invest in using this program.
SMPSE imports and exports .avi, .wmv, .mov videos. If you camcorder records in H.264, mp4 or ACHVD then you might be out of luck. There are mp4 videos in the .mov format so that might work. Or not. .For the record, there are almost no camcorders that record in .wmv. There are however smartphones and tablets that record in .avi or .mov, in which case you score and can give this program a bit more consideration.
Some of the advanced editing features MoviePlus X5 are disabled in this version of the program. Or if it the feature isn't disabled you might see something like this:
That is correct, you are seeing a logo for the product in the upper left corner. You can't remove it or prevent it. Consider it the cost of using the program. You can view the full test video by Taykslav so you can see the logo for yourself.
Checking the Serif forums it seems that the watermark logo can appear if you export the video so yes, you need to be aware that this can happen.
You also might see a nag screen to upgrade to the full program.
Still With Me?
Ok, if you have a Dual Core computer and video that it will accept we can talk.
It is good program that makes it very easy to trim, edit, add audio and photos to get a good video. It exports the videos quickly and I haven't notice any artifacts or gunk mucking up the videos, even with my glasses on.
There is a good helper guide that you can use to learn the program as well as a tutorial section on the web site. In addition, the company does have YouTube videos that you can view for help. Keep in mind that they were designed for the full version of the program.
I do like that the render times are generally quick. There are some software that take forever and a day to export the video out in a particular video format.
Again, if you have an older computer this could take much longer than you find comfortable.
I would recommend giving this try if you can live with the limitations.
Related Posts:
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Quick and Easy Storyboard Part Two - A Little Structure
Still not gronking on the 3x5 cards? You say you need something a bit more structured? You are trying to demonstrate a concept or task? Let me see what I have in the old kit bag.
Ah yes, this will do it.
I create a simple template for myself so that I am clear on what I want to explain or show in a video.
This is a reproduction of the storyboard that I used to make the PSA Fannie Lou Hamer PSA
Why Would I Want to Know This?
A restatement of the reason why other people would be interesting in the video. I know why I want to do it however the video will be watched by other viewers. What benefit will they get from the video?
My Storyboard
I made this in 2009. I should try again because I didn’t leave enough time for the reading of the card and I would like to have a better mix of text to images.
You do, you learn and then you do some more. But without this really simple outline I might not have gotten as far as I did.
This is my storyboard; it could be much better by adding start and stop times and making decisions about removing photos to strengthen the point.
In the other hand Mrs. Hamer was a very powerful speaker. Nothing I could do can draw attention away from her voice. A great lady.
It doesn’t have to be complicated but if you want to get a message or idea across you might need to plan it out.
This is just my two cents on the matter.
Related Posts
Ah yes, this will do it.
I create a simple template for myself so that I am clear on what I want to explain or show in a video.
This is a reproduction of the storyboard that I used to make the PSA Fannie Lou Hamer PSA
Why Would I Want to Know This?
A restatement of the reason why other people would be interesting in the video. I know why I want to do it however the video will be watched by other viewers. What benefit will they get from the video?
My Storyboard
Item
|
Audio
|
Video
|
| Title Card – Intro | Fannie Lou Hamer speaking before Congress | Comment About Black Women |
| Fade Into Comment Card | Ignorant Comment Card | |
| Cut to Congress | Fannie – Congress | |
| Transition Image 3 | Fannie – Speaking | |
| Transition Image 4 | Fannie – Sad | |
| Transition Image 5 | Fannie – Older | |
| Title Card – Fannie 1964 | Fannie 1964 | |
| Title Card – Know Your History | Know Your History | |
| Title Card – Stop the Verbal Violence Against Women | Stop the Verbal Violence Against Women | |
| Closing Credit | PSA… |
I made this in 2009. I should try again because I didn’t leave enough time for the reading of the card and I would like to have a better mix of text to images.
You do, you learn and then you do some more. But without this really simple outline I might not have gotten as far as I did.
This is my storyboard; it could be much better by adding start and stop times and making decisions about removing photos to strengthen the point.
In the other hand Mrs. Hamer was a very powerful speaker. Nothing I could do can draw attention away from her voice. A great lady.
It doesn’t have to be complicated but if you want to get a message or idea across you might need to plan it out.
This is just my two cents on the matter.
Related Posts
Quick and Easy Storyboard or Planning Is Good
Diving deeper into what makes a good video. I have the point and shoot aspect of it down pat. Maybe too down pat. I don't want to make boring videos. But to make better ones takes planing.
One of the oldest and cost effective ways of making a good video is by using 3x5 cards.
Paper cards. The kind that come 100 to a pack. You will also need a ink or pencil writing instrument.
An acceptable substitute is a post it note type paper. I don't know what the generic name of it called so the trademark enforcement might be after me.
Why should you invest in 3x5 cards?
You say you don't do anything that complex Good,then you can think of this as coverage protection. For example, say you know that you are going to record an event. People getting up to speak or show a skill.
Before the event you could plan on taking video of the location, the seating, the equipment. You could have a planned shot list of "stuff."
You want that stuff. Why?
Because aiming a camera at a speaker for long periods of time can be boring. Or you have a boring speaker and you have to give your viewers a visual break.
You might need a transition from one person to another. Storyboarding can help you set up the structure of your video so that you can allow for something new and interesting to be inserted.
It helps to ensure that you record what you want or need to have in the video.
Related Posts:
One of the oldest and cost effective ways of making a good video is by using 3x5 cards.
Paper cards. The kind that come 100 to a pack. You will also need a ink or pencil writing instrument.
An acceptable substitute is a post it note type paper. I don't know what the generic name of it called so the trademark enforcement might be after me.
Why should you invest in 3x5 cards?
- They are portable.
- They do not depend on an electrical source.
- Allows for experimentation.
- They are cheap.
You say you don't do anything that complex Good,then you can think of this as coverage protection. For example, say you know that you are going to record an event. People getting up to speak or show a skill.
Before the event you could plan on taking video of the location, the seating, the equipment. You could have a planned shot list of "stuff."
You want that stuff. Why?
Because aiming a camera at a speaker for long periods of time can be boring. Or you have a boring speaker and you have to give your viewers a visual break.
You might need a transition from one person to another. Storyboarding can help you set up the structure of your video so that you can allow for something new and interesting to be inserted.
It helps to ensure that you record what you want or need to have in the video.
Related Posts:
- Thoughts on Windows Live Movie Maker Issues
- Celtx Planning and Scripting Software
- Video Post Mortem 2 or Wow, That's A Lot of Yellow
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Samsung HMX W200 Mini-Review and Video
As promised, this is my test video and mini review of the Samsung HMX W200. I’ve been using it as a video and still camera and I have to say that I like it a lot. I even like that it is red, I can find it quickly in my handbag.
If you knew how much stuff is in my bag you'd know that was a selling point.
Positives
The device turns on quickly and is ready to record in about three seconds. I can quickly switch between photo and video and know which mode I’m in with a quick glance.
On a 4GB microSD card recording at 1080p I have 44 minutes of video. At 720p I can bump that up to 66 minutes. There is no VGA mode. For spontaneous vides that is fine. I have other camcorders for longer recordings.
If you do need to record longer you need to know that the W200 has a non-replaceable battery. One the battery kicks you will need a computer to recharge or an USB A/C plug.
It does have digital image stabilization but I tend to forget to turn it on. It does have a tripod socket at the bottom left of the camcorder.
The camcorder has a F2.2 lens that ain’t to shabby in low light situation.
Surprises
This is a first for me. The supplied video catalog/editing program Intell-Studio does not totally suck. I should mention that the software is for Windows users only.
The camcorder has the installation software, that is why there was no installation CD. Once you attach it to the computer it will install the software.
You can preview the photos and videos in one place and there are simple photo and editing tools you can use.
If you are a total novice users you might have problems. There is no guide to how to begin. If you have used a program like Windows Live Movie Maker or Windows Movie Maker for XP then you will feel at home. You can use the storyboard mode or switch it to timeline mode.
It is a basic trimmer/editing program. On a netbook or laptop I think this could work fine IF you have a dual core or higher CPU. You do need a post 2010 computer with some juice to get this to work.
I’m telling you, your old pokey will have issues with this software. The application does show a message upon opening that states it does need a Core Duo, Athlon X2 or Dual Core processor to operate.
If you know how to access the camcorder as a storage device you can extract the videos and use the software of your choice.
Other Operating System Users
For Linux Ubuntu users – you can actually connect the camcorder to your computer and access the videos. You cannot use the software but if your editing program can read H.264 videos your are good to go.
My tip for you, and it does seem obvious but I forgot to do it, is turn the camcorder on after you attach it. It will show up as a storage device and then you can retrieve the videos.
For Mac users – Y’all know the drill. Can’t use the Windows software. . Like Linux users attach the camcorder to the computer and copy the photo and video folders to your hard drive. You should have no problems with H.264 videos
Hidden Costs
1. Charging the battery. You will need a USB hub or a port on your computer to safely connect the camcorder. Another option is to get a USB plug to connect the swing out USB arm into the plug and then use a wall socket.
2. If you want to connect the camcorder to a television you will have to purchase a HDMI cable. It does not come with the camcorder.
3. On the box a Class 6 microSD card is recommended. It seems to be okay with a Class 4 card but I wouldn’t go lower than Class 4. Beware of vendors jacking up the cost, you should be able to find a good price for a Class 6 or 10 card for around $20 to $40 from vendors like Amazon, Adorama, B and H Photo, NewEgg or TigerDirect.
I’m not going to take the microSD card out of the camcorder. It is too easy to loose or misplace. I’ll transfer the videos using Windows Explorer after I am sure I have my back up copies.
You might want a microSD card reader but that is another choice and cost to consider.
Bottom Line
The camcorder is dust proof, shockproof to 2m/6ft and should I find myself in a rain storm or a boat I am all set. The video quality is good and I enjoy using it as opposed to fighting with a device to get it to function.
It isn’t for everybody. It is a specialty type of camcorder.
I wish Samsung had used a standard SD card. That is now a small quibble.
For a day to day camcorder that records quality video even underwater I think it is a keeper.
Related Posts:
If you knew how much stuff is in my bag you'd know that was a selling point.
Positives
The device turns on quickly and is ready to record in about three seconds. I can quickly switch between photo and video and know which mode I’m in with a quick glance.
On a 4GB microSD card recording at 1080p I have 44 minutes of video. At 720p I can bump that up to 66 minutes. There is no VGA mode. For spontaneous vides that is fine. I have other camcorders for longer recordings.
If you do need to record longer you need to know that the W200 has a non-replaceable battery. One the battery kicks you will need a computer to recharge or an USB A/C plug.
It does have digital image stabilization but I tend to forget to turn it on. It does have a tripod socket at the bottom left of the camcorder.
The camcorder has a F2.2 lens that ain’t to shabby in low light situation.
Surprises
This is a first for me. The supplied video catalog/editing program Intell-Studio does not totally suck. I should mention that the software is for Windows users only.
The camcorder has the installation software, that is why there was no installation CD. Once you attach it to the computer it will install the software.
You can preview the photos and videos in one place and there are simple photo and editing tools you can use.
If you are a total novice users you might have problems. There is no guide to how to begin. If you have used a program like Windows Live Movie Maker or Windows Movie Maker for XP then you will feel at home. You can use the storyboard mode or switch it to timeline mode.
It is a basic trimmer/editing program. On a netbook or laptop I think this could work fine IF you have a dual core or higher CPU. You do need a post 2010 computer with some juice to get this to work.
I’m telling you, your old pokey will have issues with this software. The application does show a message upon opening that states it does need a Core Duo, Athlon X2 or Dual Core processor to operate.
If you know how to access the camcorder as a storage device you can extract the videos and use the software of your choice.
Other Operating System Users
For Linux Ubuntu users – you can actually connect the camcorder to your computer and access the videos. You cannot use the software but if your editing program can read H.264 videos your are good to go.
My tip for you, and it does seem obvious but I forgot to do it, is turn the camcorder on after you attach it. It will show up as a storage device and then you can retrieve the videos.
For Mac users – Y’all know the drill. Can’t use the Windows software. . Like Linux users attach the camcorder to the computer and copy the photo and video folders to your hard drive. You should have no problems with H.264 videos
Hidden Costs
1. Charging the battery. You will need a USB hub or a port on your computer to safely connect the camcorder. Another option is to get a USB plug to connect the swing out USB arm into the plug and then use a wall socket.
2. If you want to connect the camcorder to a television you will have to purchase a HDMI cable. It does not come with the camcorder.
3. On the box a Class 6 microSD card is recommended. It seems to be okay with a Class 4 card but I wouldn’t go lower than Class 4. Beware of vendors jacking up the cost, you should be able to find a good price for a Class 6 or 10 card for around $20 to $40 from vendors like Amazon, Adorama, B and H Photo, NewEgg or TigerDirect.
I’m not going to take the microSD card out of the camcorder. It is too easy to loose or misplace. I’ll transfer the videos using Windows Explorer after I am sure I have my back up copies.
You might want a microSD card reader but that is another choice and cost to consider.
Bottom Line
The camcorder is dust proof, shockproof to 2m/6ft and should I find myself in a rain storm or a boat I am all set. The video quality is good and I enjoy using it as opposed to fighting with a device to get it to function.
It isn’t for everybody. It is a specialty type of camcorder.
I wish Samsung had used a standard SD card. That is now a small quibble.
For a day to day camcorder that records quality video even underwater I think it is a keeper.
Related Posts:
- Does Your SD Memory Card Have Any Class?
- When A Lens Can Put You Over A Barrel
- Five Resources for Buying A Digital Camcorder
Friday, January 6, 2012
Learning About Demo and Screencasting Videos
I really want to know and understand how to communicate information better. I am currently taking informal courses in how to make a demo movie and one in screencasting techniques.
A demo movie is when a company wants to introduce a product or service to potential clients. How do you get the word out? What does the product or service do for the consumer?
Screencasting is embraced by educators, tutors or folks like me that want to show you how to do something that is generated on the computer or by photographs and screen images.
Some of the commonalities are:
The demo video class is a fee based kind of deal that I found via GrumoMedia with Miguel Fernandez.
Related Resources:
A demo movie is when a company wants to introduce a product or service to potential clients. How do you get the word out? What does the product or service do for the consumer?
Screencasting is embraced by educators, tutors or folks like me that want to show you how to do something that is generated on the computer or by photographs and screen images.
Some of the commonalities are:
- Knowing your audience
- Having a good script
- Be engaging and not dull
- Keep it brief
The demo video class is a fee based kind of deal that I found via GrumoMedia with Miguel Fernandez.
Related Resources:
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Samsung HMX W200 Part 2 - Charging It Up
One of the concerns that I had about the HMX W200 finding a safe way to charge the camcorder, it does have a USB arm that can be inserted into a USB port. If you are a PC laptop user, score.
If you have a desktop computer then there is a small issue. There is nothing to support the camcorder as you attach it to the port.
The USB arm is at the bottom of the device so, yeah, the weight of the camcorder will stress out the port or the USB arm over time.
Charging Options
A USB A (Male) to A (Male) cable will do the trick. Not expensive but you might want to shop via a known on-line vendor for a good price. You might even have one around the house. Hook this up with a USB hub and you are good to go.
There are monitors that have USB sockets on the side. If you have one of those it might be an easier access solution. You still would have the camcorder sticking out at the side but if you have DVD cases on your desk like I do you could pile them up for support.
If you have a USB Hub you can attach the camcorder to the hub and then connect it to the computer. I actually had one that I got from the 99Cents Only store and it works fine.
Another option is a USB Plug. I've had a number of mp3 players over the years and some of them had a USB charging plug that has a slot to attach the camcorder. I had about two of them that I forgot about around the joint. I can charge the camcorder at the office or wherever I can find a socket.
I've seen USB chargers at office supply stores as well. These would have the plug and a number of connectors for various media or phone devices. They don't have to be expensive; I've seen them for about $15-$20.
The more I'm learning about the camcorder the more impressed I am with the features. I have been recording but, I don't know how to say this, I can't find moving objects. I think I've got that licked so hopefully there will be test footage soon.
Other Posts of Interest:
If you have a desktop computer then there is a small issue. There is nothing to support the camcorder as you attach it to the port.
 |
| Samsung HMX W200 Camcorder |
Charging Options
There are monitors that have USB sockets on the side. If you have one of those it might be an easier access solution. You still would have the camcorder sticking out at the side but if you have DVD cases on your desk like I do you could pile them up for support.
If you have a USB Hub you can attach the camcorder to the hub and then connect it to the computer. I actually had one that I got from the 99Cents Only store and it works fine.
Another option is a USB Plug. I've had a number of mp3 players over the years and some of them had a USB charging plug that has a slot to attach the camcorder. I had about two of them that I forgot about around the joint. I can charge the camcorder at the office or wherever I can find a socket.
I've seen USB chargers at office supply stores as well. These would have the plug and a number of connectors for various media or phone devices. They don't have to be expensive; I've seen them for about $15-$20.
The more I'm learning about the camcorder the more impressed I am with the features. I have been recording but, I don't know how to say this, I can't find moving objects. I think I've got that licked so hopefully there will be test footage soon.
Other Posts of Interest:
- YouTube Creator's Notebook
- Three Open Source Video Converters
- Organizing Video Folders for Pack Rats
Monday, January 2, 2012
My Samsung HMX-W200 Camcorder Part 1
When a very nice person gives you a gift card to a retail electronics store what is a girl supposed to do? Just one little tiny problem. I only buy retail when I have to or need it right away.
Places like Best Buy frustrate me. I don't have one really close to me. I have to make an effort to get to the store. When I get there I am either overly helped on can't find a soul.
Like I was thinking about buying a USB to Ethernet gizmo. It wasn't there. The Kindle Fire and iPad tablets were in plan sight but some of the alternative Android tablets that I could afford to purchase, not so much.
A retail store can only hold so much stuff. I walked around that store and I was sad. The CD and DVD section were ignored and a lot of that stuff was over priced. I'm still looking for a desktop computer but all I saw were laptops and tablets.
That Kindle Fire was calling my name again. I had to keep repeating the mantra, "Do not buy first generation." Thought about getting a Pandigital e-reader/tablet to play with but then I laid eyes on the Open Box table.
The frugalista in me led me to a happy place.
A lot of Sony's and Samsung cameras and camcorders were on that table. The Samsung was like a little red corvette. There were a lot of models but since I had the gift card and I really didn't want to make another hike to the store I looked a little closer.
Carrying a camcorder everyday in my handbag is rough on a device. I got books, pens, projects and 10 pounds of necessities. Having a water and shock proof device is not such a bad idea. The Samsung HMX W200 was $87 open box and my cost came out to be $37.
This is a commercial for the device:
I didn't know anything about the camcorder in the store. Hence, I have violated Rule 1 - know what you are buying and make sure it meets your needs.
My need at the time was getting the heck out of the store. Making a good purchase and not wasting a gift from a friend. I also had that fear about the gift card scamming that is going on so I just wanted to be done with it.
I bought it. Even though I was still wondering why there were a bunch of returns for this camcorder.
The Unboxing on the Bus
I couldn't wait so I peeped in the box as was heading home. It was just the camcorder and the strap and nothing else. No DVD, manual, A/C plug. I took at look at Sam the Geek's video to see what I was missing. I have downloaded the manual and I don't need the editing software but I can get it if I want.
Might do that for testing later one.
Class 10 microSD card
What I did discover is that it uses a microSD card. It would like a Class 10 micro-SD card. That could be one reason folks brought it back to the store. I was surprised. It makes sense but I have a bunch of standard size SD cards. I'm not going to easily find a Class 10 microSD card and if I do that is going to cost some bucks. On the quality vendor low end at least $40 and I'm seeing prices up to $75 from no-name brands. Stick with known memory card vendors.
I'll do the testing on a $9 Class 4 microSD but that could serious affect performance. It isn't going to record as fast as a Class 10 card. It could affect the video quality.
Internal Battery
There is an internal battery that is charged via a swing out USB arm, like The Flip (RIP). There is no USB external connection point. You can't have one in a submersible camcorder.
My problem is that I have a desktop computer that sits on the floor. I will have to stack books on the floor so that the camcorder can reach my front USB port. Instead, I hooked it up instead to my Unbuntu Netbook. It charged it just fine but did not recognize it as a storage device.
It is not a deal killer. But when I run out of juice that is it. I can't exchange it with another battery.
Buying Reflection
I really wasn’t going to buy another camcorder in 2011. Very happy with what I have. I could have waited and purchased via the Best Buy web site. There was a tablet that I did like and could have saved up for it.
Truth is, I really had concerns about gift card theft. If I had taken a closer look at the card (it was still in its original package) I would have seen that the security code was covered and thieves would not be able to use it.
I had options. I could have walked out of the store. I could have bough a DVD collection of cable shows I’ve never seen.
The Samsung is a specialty type of camcorder. I’m not going underwater anytime soon but I do put a lot of stress on the objects in my handbag. This is going to be able to withstand that stress. Not a great reason to buy a camcorder but that is mine.
I think this is gonna work for me but I'm learning about my purchase. You should know before you buy but life happens.
Going to give it a shake out test soon.
Other Posts of Interest
Places like Best Buy frustrate me. I don't have one really close to me. I have to make an effort to get to the store. When I get there I am either overly helped on can't find a soul.
Like I was thinking about buying a USB to Ethernet gizmo. It wasn't there. The Kindle Fire and iPad tablets were in plan sight but some of the alternative Android tablets that I could afford to purchase, not so much.
A retail store can only hold so much stuff. I walked around that store and I was sad. The CD and DVD section were ignored and a lot of that stuff was over priced. I'm still looking for a desktop computer but all I saw were laptops and tablets.
That Kindle Fire was calling my name again. I had to keep repeating the mantra, "Do not buy first generation." Thought about getting a Pandigital e-reader/tablet to play with but then I laid eyes on the Open Box table.
The frugalista in me led me to a happy place.
A lot of Sony's and Samsung cameras and camcorders were on that table. The Samsung was like a little red corvette. There were a lot of models but since I had the gift card and I really didn't want to make another hike to the store I looked a little closer.
Carrying a camcorder everyday in my handbag is rough on a device. I got books, pens, projects and 10 pounds of necessities. Having a water and shock proof device is not such a bad idea. The Samsung HMX W200 was $87 open box and my cost came out to be $37.
This is a commercial for the device:
I didn't know anything about the camcorder in the store. Hence, I have violated Rule 1 - know what you are buying and make sure it meets your needs.
My need at the time was getting the heck out of the store. Making a good purchase and not wasting a gift from a friend. I also had that fear about the gift card scamming that is going on so I just wanted to be done with it.
I bought it. Even though I was still wondering why there were a bunch of returns for this camcorder.
The Unboxing on the Bus
I couldn't wait so I peeped in the box as was heading home. It was just the camcorder and the strap and nothing else. No DVD, manual, A/C plug. I took at look at Sam the Geek's video to see what I was missing. I have downloaded the manual and I don't need the editing software but I can get it if I want.
Might do that for testing later one.
Class 10 microSD card
What I did discover is that it uses a microSD card. It would like a Class 10 micro-SD card. That could be one reason folks brought it back to the store. I was surprised. It makes sense but I have a bunch of standard size SD cards. I'm not going to easily find a Class 10 microSD card and if I do that is going to cost some bucks. On the quality vendor low end at least $40 and I'm seeing prices up to $75 from no-name brands. Stick with known memory card vendors.
I'll do the testing on a $9 Class 4 microSD but that could serious affect performance. It isn't going to record as fast as a Class 10 card. It could affect the video quality.
Internal Battery
There is an internal battery that is charged via a swing out USB arm, like The Flip (RIP). There is no USB external connection point. You can't have one in a submersible camcorder.
My problem is that I have a desktop computer that sits on the floor. I will have to stack books on the floor so that the camcorder can reach my front USB port. Instead, I hooked it up instead to my Unbuntu Netbook. It charged it just fine but did not recognize it as a storage device.
It is not a deal killer. But when I run out of juice that is it. I can't exchange it with another battery.
Buying Reflection
I really wasn’t going to buy another camcorder in 2011. Very happy with what I have. I could have waited and purchased via the Best Buy web site. There was a tablet that I did like and could have saved up for it.
Truth is, I really had concerns about gift card theft. If I had taken a closer look at the card (it was still in its original package) I would have seen that the security code was covered and thieves would not be able to use it.
I had options. I could have walked out of the store. I could have bough a DVD collection of cable shows I’ve never seen.
The Samsung is a specialty type of camcorder. I’m not going underwater anytime soon but I do put a lot of stress on the objects in my handbag. This is going to be able to withstand that stress. Not a great reason to buy a camcorder but that is mine.
I think this is gonna work for me but I'm learning about my purchase. You should know before you buy but life happens.
Going to give it a shake out test soon.
Other Posts of Interest
Laying Down Audio for The White Hut
I want to try new things in 2012. I want to do a form of essays/documentation where I connect a memory to my current life view. Sound a bit pompous to me but that is part of the joy of trying to be creative.
You can be pompous and then reality sets in and shows you what you intended to do and what you have created is a world apart. Then the humble phase kicks in.
I've had this idea for The White Hut a while and finally got a chance to put it together. I want the words to be important. I'm going for a prose piece kinda thing.
Process
Script
I had to write out a small script. Nothing complicated but I planned out what words would appear with an image. It seems like that should have been a no-brainer but it saved a lot of time.
Recording
I tried a number of programs but I came back to Audacity for control of the audio file. I first tried something simple with Microsoft PhotoStory. PhotoStory didn't want to play nice with my USB Snowflake microphone.
It would record but I had to cancel a dialog window that keep popping up about not working with the microphone. The audio was low and it wasn't worth the hassle.
Next tried to do in in Serif MoviePlus X5 - There was no problem in recording the audio but I lost time trying to line up the images before I recorded the audio. It occurred to me 50 minutes later that I should lay the audio down first.
Audacity allowed me to do as many practice takes as I wanted and I could see that I wasn't talking loud enough. What it couldn't do was get rid of me being hyper critical of my voice and delivery. That will take more time.
Editing
Once I placed the audio track in the timeline it was a lot easier to compose the video. I thought about adding music. One of the reasons I like old movies is that you can hear people talk. You don't need a musical accent for every movement or action in a video.
I didn't want the music to be more important than what I was saying. That isn't going to be true for other works in the project but for this one I just didn't want to spend time trying to find the right bit of music.
So, yeah. I got it done. And it does not look like what I wanted. In fact, it looks like a bunch of my other videos. I know the look I'm going for and this ain't it.
But it is a learning curve. I got no where to go but up.
You can be pompous and then reality sets in and shows you what you intended to do and what you have created is a world apart. Then the humble phase kicks in.
I've had this idea for The White Hut a while and finally got a chance to put it together. I want the words to be important. I'm going for a prose piece kinda thing.
Process
Script
I had to write out a small script. Nothing complicated but I planned out what words would appear with an image. It seems like that should have been a no-brainer but it saved a lot of time.
Recording
I tried a number of programs but I came back to Audacity for control of the audio file. I first tried something simple with Microsoft PhotoStory. PhotoStory didn't want to play nice with my USB Snowflake microphone.
It would record but I had to cancel a dialog window that keep popping up about not working with the microphone. The audio was low and it wasn't worth the hassle.
Next tried to do in in Serif MoviePlus X5 - There was no problem in recording the audio but I lost time trying to line up the images before I recorded the audio. It occurred to me 50 minutes later that I should lay the audio down first.
Audacity allowed me to do as many practice takes as I wanted and I could see that I wasn't talking loud enough. What it couldn't do was get rid of me being hyper critical of my voice and delivery. That will take more time.
Editing
Once I placed the audio track in the timeline it was a lot easier to compose the video. I thought about adding music. One of the reasons I like old movies is that you can hear people talk. You don't need a musical accent for every movement or action in a video.
I didn't want the music to be more important than what I was saying. That isn't going to be true for other works in the project but for this one I just didn't want to spend time trying to find the right bit of music.
So, yeah. I got it done. And it does not look like what I wanted. In fact, it looks like a bunch of my other videos. I know the look I'm going for and this ain't it.
But it is a learning curve. I got no where to go but up.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Plug-A-Matic Buying An Audio+ Camcorder
A what? The focus is on the quality of the audio. The video is an secondary feature. And no, I don’t mean an audio recorder. Maybe I can describe it as an audio+ Camcorder
Who would want such a thing? Podcasters! You are at a convention or social event. You are talking with the genius of the moment and you really need to get a good recording. You could be a citizen journalist without a lot of cash. You can be a student, a historian, a hobbyist talking with an expert in the various incarnations of Namor Mckenzie aka the Sub Mariner.
Most Point and Share camcorders have dicey microphone placements. The mic can be on top where the zoom motor can be heard. Or on the bottom where your hands grasping the camcorder is going to be picked up.
Users who are looking for an affordable camcorder with good audio include:
If we had the money we’d get the high tone stuff. We don’t. So the search is locked in at:
It can be done, if you are flexible. There are trade-offs you need to know:
High Definition Audio+ Camcorders
Zoom Q3HD Handy Video Recorder
Olympus LS-20M PCM Recorder
Standard Definition Audio+ Camcorders
Alesis Video Track Handheld Camcorder
Zoom Q3 Handy Video Recorder
On the retail side you are not going to find the Alesis, Olympus or Zoom products at your local Target or Tesco brick and mortar (UK shout out) You will have to go to a music store which can be a trippy experience.
Don’t go to a music store during peak hours. There always seems to be some guy on symbols or drums the few times I’ve gone. It really is the headbanger's ball
Some of these audio+ camcorder are fixed in that there doesn’t seem to be a planned upgrade or new version coming out anytime soon. One of the above devices I suspect is a closeout candidate but I can’t confirm it just yet.
Mac Users: you know you have to check to make sure if the camcorder video format is compatible with your video editing software. If not, and you are not a techy kind of guy, you shouldn’t purchase the camcorder.
You want to visit YouTube for camcorder reviews, and check out places like CamcorderInfo.com or Videomaker magazine for information.
Audio+ Camcorders
Who would want such a thing? Podcasters! You are at a convention or social event. You are talking with the genius of the moment and you really need to get a good recording. You could be a citizen journalist without a lot of cash. You can be a student, a historian, a hobbyist talking with an expert in the various incarnations of Namor Mckenzie aka the Sub Mariner.
Most Point and Share camcorders have dicey microphone placements. The mic can be on top where the zoom motor can be heard. Or on the bottom where your hands grasping the camcorder is going to be picked up.
Users who are looking for an affordable camcorder with good audio include:
- Audio/Video creators, podcasters and videobloggers
- Musicians and singers
- Visual storytellers
- Journalists, reporters, writers
- Documentary activists, historians, memory keepers and folks like that.
If we had the money we’d get the high tone stuff. We don’t. So the search is locked in at:
- Between $150 and $350
- Ease of Use
- Mac and/or PC Compatible
- Able to adjust audio to specific needs
It can be done, if you are flexible. There are trade-offs you need to know:
- At this price point the video quality will be acceptable in the high definition side. Your budget might have to settle for standard definition.
- You might have great audio and not as great video.
- You will have to be more aware of lighting concerns. More external light is better, especially if you are recording indoors or in a controlled environment.
The Contenders
High Definition Audio+ Camcorders
Zoom Q3HD Handy Video Recorder
Olympus LS-20M PCM Recorder
Standard Definition Audio+ Camcorders
Alesis Video Track Handheld Camcorder
Zoom Q3 Handy Video Recorder
On the retail side you are not going to find the Alesis, Olympus or Zoom products at your local Target or Tesco brick and mortar (UK shout out) You will have to go to a music store which can be a trippy experience.
Don’t go to a music store during peak hours. There always seems to be some guy on symbols or drums the few times I’ve gone. It really is the headbanger's ball
Some of these audio+ camcorder are fixed in that there doesn’t seem to be a planned upgrade or new version coming out anytime soon. One of the above devices I suspect is a closeout candidate but I can’t confirm it just yet.
Mac Users: you know you have to check to make sure if the camcorder video format is compatible with your video editing software. If not, and you are not a techy kind of guy, you shouldn’t purchase the camcorder.
The Usual Vendors of Reliable On-line Purchasing Options
- Amazon
- Adorama
- B and H Photo
You want to visit YouTube for camcorder reviews, and check out places like CamcorderInfo.com or Videomaker magazine for information.
Plug- A-Matic Buying A Point & Share Camcorder
I hope you thought about why you want a camcorder. The next few posts are going to be kind of a template where I’m going to imagine a possible user and conjure up a possible camcorder option.
The point and share person wants a camcorder that they can turn on at a moment’s notice. It is there for the baby’s first steps, the car accident up the street, or one of many conflicts between freedom of speech and law enforcement.
Life happens and you want to be ready. My understanding of what these users want is:
It is doable at this price point. But there are trade-offs you need to know:
It is a balance between what you want, what you need, how much can you pay and the time it might take you to get a video you want to share with friends and family.
If I have to pick I’d go with one of the following vendors/camcorders
High Definition Camcorders
Kodak Playtouch or Playsport
Panasonic HX-DC10 or HXDC1
Sony Bloggie line camcorders
Standard Definition Camcorder
Samsung F50 Flash Memory Camcorder – this is a standard definition camcorder but if you are recording a performance or event from a distance you will appreciate the 52x optical zoom. With the use of optical zoom you will need a tripod or some kind of support to stop the shakes.
If you have a digital television and you plan to watch videos from it this might not be a good option. If you are just uploading to a video web hosting service like YouTube it could be a good affordable way to capture video.
Not necessarily. Some are current. Others camcorders are being closed out. That is why the price is someplace between $100 and $199, depending on when and where you purchase the device.
Retail vendors are going to charge more. On-line vendors will charge less but you have to factor in shipping.
Stick with known quality sellers. There is a whole line of shifty photography retail and on-line stores who will piece out what was sold by the manufacturer in one box. You want no part of those folks.
These are reliable vendors who have clearly stated return policies and shipping options.
Retail is going to depend on where you live. Those of us near big cities are going to have stores like Costco, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club. Other folks just have Sears.
What I am noticing is the re-instatement of the 15% restocking fee at the retail level. Or the 14 day only return policy. Or the slip of paper in the device begging you to return it to the vendor and not the nearby store.
Shop careful. Check YouTube for camcorder reviews, visit places like CamcorderInfo.com or Videomaker magazine for information.
Point and Share Camcorders
The point and share person wants a camcorder that they can turn on at a moment’s notice. It is there for the baby’s first steps, the car accident up the street, or one of many conflicts between freedom of speech and law enforcement.
Life happens and you want to be ready. My understanding of what these users want is:
- Low costs – Between $100 and $199
- Ease of Use – Push a button and recording happens
- Able to transfer from the device to the computer
- Able to upload to a video web hosting service
- Able to create a DVD for non-techno friends and relatives
It is doable at this price point. But there are trade-offs you need to know:
- At this price point the video quality will be fair to very okay. Not necessarily great.
- The audio will be either really bad or just acceptable. (There are exceptions with certain models of camcorders)
- Outdoors the video will be pretty good. Indoors it can be horrible without a lot of supplemental lighting.
- You will need to learn how to use some form of video software. It might be the stuff provided by the manufacturer. It might be the free software provided by Microsoft or Apple.
- Hand held camcorders and smartphone videos suffer from the shakes. Humans cannot hold the camcorder absolutely steady. You will need to think about how are you going to have steady video. Does the camcorder have image or optical stabilization?
It is a balance between what you want, what you need, how much can you pay and the time it might take you to get a video you want to share with friends and family.
The Contenders
If I have to pick I’d go with one of the following vendors/camcorders
High Definition Camcorders
Kodak Playtouch or Playsport
Panasonic HX-DC10 or HXDC1
Sony Bloggie line camcorders
Standard Definition Camcorder
Samsung F50 Flash Memory Camcorder – this is a standard definition camcorder but if you are recording a performance or event from a distance you will appreciate the 52x optical zoom. With the use of optical zoom you will need a tripod or some kind of support to stop the shakes.
If you have a digital television and you plan to watch videos from it this might not be a good option. If you are just uploading to a video web hosting service like YouTube it could be a good affordable way to capture video.
Are These Top of The Line, Bleeding Edge Camcorders?
Not necessarily. Some are current. Others camcorders are being closed out. That is why the price is someplace between $100 and $199, depending on when and where you purchase the device.
Retail vendors are going to charge more. On-line vendors will charge less but you have to factor in shipping.
Stick with known quality sellers. There is a whole line of shifty photography retail and on-line stores who will piece out what was sold by the manufacturer in one box. You want no part of those folks.
These are reliable vendors who have clearly stated return policies and shipping options.
- Amazon
- Adorama
- B and H Photo
- Overstock.com – harder to find good camcorders but they do have them from time to time.
- TigerDirect
Retail is going to depend on where you live. Those of us near big cities are going to have stores like Costco, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club. Other folks just have Sears.
What I am noticing is the re-instatement of the 15% restocking fee at the retail level. Or the 14 day only return policy. Or the slip of paper in the device begging you to return it to the vendor and not the nearby store.
Shop careful. Check YouTube for camcorder reviews, visit places like CamcorderInfo.com or Videomaker magazine for information.
Plug-A-Matic Buying Camcorder Guide – The Questions
When people ask me about buying a camcorder I will usually ask why do you want one? I’m not stalling while I am thinking about the answer. It is a very important part of the buying experience.
Most people don’t want to buy a camcorder. They want a way to record events and memories. A camcorder can help them so that. So can an iPad, Smartphone or digital still camera with a video mode.
You don’t need a camcorder but a camcorder might better serve your goals of recording quality video.
Here is the thing.
Casual users do not want to know about specs, f-stops, lighting, file formats or conversion software.
That is okay.
It just makes it very hard to for me to recommend a camcorder. It is not like a linear process of buying a television and plugging it in.
You as a camcorder buyer will have to learn how to do new stuff. Stuff you really didn’t plan on learning.
How much you will have to learn will be up to you. If you go cheap and use basic software that is going to require an investment of x-amount of time.
So before I lay this out here are the questions:
Stew on this a while.
It could save you money and future frustrations.
Most people don’t want to buy a camcorder. They want a way to record events and memories. A camcorder can help them so that. So can an iPad, Smartphone or digital still camera with a video mode.
You don’t need a camcorder but a camcorder might better serve your goals of recording quality video.
Here is the thing.
Casual users do not want to know about specs, f-stops, lighting, file formats or conversion software.
That is okay.
It just makes it very hard to for me to recommend a camcorder. It is not like a linear process of buying a television and plugging it in.
You as a camcorder buyer will have to learn how to do new stuff. Stuff you really didn’t plan on learning.
How much you will have to learn will be up to you. If you go cheap and use basic software that is going to require an investment of x-amount of time.
So before I lay this out here are the questions:
- Why do you want a camcorder?
- What is it you want to record?
- How much can you spend on not just the camcorder but on memory cards, batteries, a tripod, maybe external lighting, software and other stuff?
- What is your return on investment?
Stew on this a while.
It could save you money and future frustrations.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Plug-A-Matic Buying A Family Camcorder
Tag, you are it; you are the person in your family designated to record video. You have in-laws to the left of you and moving children to the right of you growing fast. You don’t mind pushing the button but really don’t want to get involved in a time sink
I don’t know how to break it to you but working with video does take up time. With planning and a good workflow you can reduce the amount of time spent getting video out of the camcorder to your pesky and persistent viewers.
Here is what I think are essential for family and event recordings:
Now I haven't said a word about high definition, sensor size, ergonomics or memory cards. I want to but the population I'm trying to reach are in linear thinking mode. "Tell me what to get so I can do what I want."
Except that many of the things we need to do now days isn't linear. There are choices, sub-choices and results from those choices.
There I go again. I’m supposed to remove options, not add to them.
You connect the camcorder to your computer (using the power cord, do not transfer anything on battery power) and use the software to transfer the videos from the camcorder to the computer.
Canon - Vixia HF R20 8GB Flash Memory Camcorder with 20x optical zoom
JVC GZHM30BUS HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 40x optical zoom
Samsung - HMX-Q10 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 10x optical zoom
I have to be honest. This seems like the plan. Except that there can be hitches along the way.
You might have an older computer that doesn’t accept new video file formats.
You might not have enough space on your hard drive to store video. You can get an external drive but that is another expense.
If you are a Mac user you cannot use the PC software that comes with some camcorders. You will have to check the Apple web site to make sure the camcorder is compatible with your version of iMovie.
If you are a PC user and can’t get the software from your device to your computer you might have to copy and paste files from one location to another.
The software might be too basic. Or not basic enough.
Roxio Video Lab – PC
Sony Vegas Movie Studio HD Platinum – PC
Toast Titanium 10 – Mac
You can do this for under $400. You can even do it under $300. If you just want the camcorder $250 can buy you a decent optical zoom camcorder.
This really is a matter of time allocation. If you don’t have the time or the desire to learn about computer video editing then you will need help from software designed to take over for you.
That doesn’t exempt you from knowing how to troubleshoot or find an alternate way of doing a task. No camcorder can compensate for not knowing how to copy and paste or where the video is on your memory card.
Just saying…be ready to asked your kids for help if you need it.
I don’t know how to break it to you but working with video does take up time. With planning and a good workflow you can reduce the amount of time spent getting video out of the camcorder to your pesky and persistent viewers.
Parental Family and Event Camcorder Kit
Here is what I think are essential for family and event recordings:
- Optical zoom, at least 10x but more is better if you can afford it. If you are recording dances, games, vacations or activities you need optical, not digital zoom.
- A tripod if you use optical zoom. Yes, there are image and optical stabilization in camcorders but if you are holding the device by hand you can never remove all of the shakes. A tripod or at least a monopod can keep it steady.
- Extra batteries cuz the suckers that come with more consumer camcorder run out in about 45 minutes to an hour.
- External lights for home recording – Your living room lamp isn’t up to the job.
- External hard drive or DVD transfer for recordings for back up.
- A video editing program you are comfortable using.
Now I haven't said a word about high definition, sensor size, ergonomics or memory cards. I want to but the population I'm trying to reach are in linear thinking mode. "Tell me what to get so I can do what I want."
Except that many of the things we need to do now days isn't linear. There are choices, sub-choices and results from those choices.
There I go again. I’m supposed to remove options, not add to them.
Workflow via Software
- You have a camcorder that allows you to optically zoom in and out and has decent audio.
- You want a DVD or video to give to another person. That can be on a disc, memory card or uploaded to a web service.
- Corel Digital Studio 2010 or Corel Video Studio Express is designed to help novice users create a DVD or stylized video.
You connect the camcorder to your computer (using the power cord, do not transfer anything on battery power) and use the software to transfer the videos from the camcorder to the computer.
The Under $250 Camcorders with 10x or More of Optical Zoom:
Canon - Vixia HF R20 8GB Flash Memory Camcorder with 20x optical zoom
JVC GZHM30BUS HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 40x optical zoom
Samsung - HMX-Q10 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 10x optical zoom
Beyond Theory
I have to be honest. This seems like the plan. Except that there can be hitches along the way.
You might have an older computer that doesn’t accept new video file formats.
You might not have enough space on your hard drive to store video. You can get an external drive but that is another expense.
If you are a Mac user you cannot use the PC software that comes with some camcorders. You will have to check the Apple web site to make sure the camcorder is compatible with your version of iMovie.
If you are a PC user and can’t get the software from your device to your computer you might have to copy and paste files from one location to another.
The software might be too basic. Or not basic enough.
Similar Software for Parental Users
Roxio Video Lab – PC
Sony Vegas Movie Studio HD Platinum – PC
Toast Titanium 10 – Mac
You can do this for under $400. You can even do it under $300. If you just want the camcorder $250 can buy you a decent optical zoom camcorder.
This really is a matter of time allocation. If you don’t have the time or the desire to learn about computer video editing then you will need help from software designed to take over for you.
That doesn’t exempt you from knowing how to troubleshoot or find an alternate way of doing a task. No camcorder can compensate for not knowing how to copy and paste or where the video is on your memory card.
Just saying…be ready to asked your kids for help if you need it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)