Production
Web Log

On-Camera Microphones for DSLR Cameras

November 11, 2009
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The RØDE mic significantly extends pickup for the camera. This is the Rode VideoMic with PG1 Pistol Grip. We've also added the DeadCat Windshield.

There are several manufacturers that make external microphones that are designed to be attached to your camera. Manufacturers like RØDE offer specialty microphones mount on your hot shoe. The microphones can be plugged into the “mic” port on your camera.

 Read More...
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DSLR Video Shootout

November 09, 2009
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Head on over to ProVideoCoalition and check out my new article – an in-depth overview comparing the Canon 5D, Canon 7D, Nikon D300S, and Red One. Lot's of other goodies and a ton of video clips as well.



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Interested in DSLR Video?

November 08, 2009
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I've launched a new Facebook group for those interested in DSLR video.

The page serves two purposes.
1. I'll share what we're learning about DSLR Video.
2. I'll let you know things about the new book and DVD I'm developing.

I hope you can stop by and join us.

We've got a ton of video clips posted to give you ideas.

We've also opened a forum, so please post a question or comment.

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The Rise of Field Monitors

August 27, 2009
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I’ve recently spent a lot of time evaluating our production processes looking for ways to improve efficiency.  There were two motivating factors.  First, we’ve pretty much abandoned Standard Definition production, relegating it only to live web events where we are streaming the content or where the client demands it.  Second, I was working on a new book, Video Made on a Mac: Production and Postproduction Using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite with Robbie Carman.  In it we try to evaluate ways to efficiently integrate Apple and Adobe software into best practices for production and post.

We discovered a lot along the way, in particular that “field” monitors have taken on a whole new life of usefulness. Here are a few of the things we discovered in the last few months of HD production.

Read the article at ProVideoCoalition.com
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Camera Support Gives Your Wrist a Break

September 08, 2008
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While at Photoshop World, I stopped by the Hoodman booth to check out new products. One in particular caught my eye. The WristShot Camcorder Support System takes the weight of the camera and transfers it to your forearm.

I tried a unit out and bought one... its a nice way to get stability and literally take a load off the wrist. The unit is designed to work with cameras up to 10 pounds. What’s also nice is that the unity includes a tripod adapter mount making it easy to switch from your standard tripod to the WristShot unit.

We did a video interview on the product and will have it up shortly. For now, check out the company’s website.

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Refillable Sandbags

June 14, 2008
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If you go on any professional video set, you’ll see sandbags in use as a protective measure to secure light and audio stands. But traveling with 250 pounds of sandbags can get expensive (and heavy). Instead, try refillable sandbags, which travel light.

When you get to your location you can fi ll them with sand, rocks, or whatever else can be found nearby. A popular model by Lindcraft is made of durable Cordura Nylon with a heavy-duty zipper with a hook-and-loop cover fl ap to keep it shut. www.lindcraft.com/product_details/RS.html.
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Adobe Demos Future Technology at NAB

April 24, 2008
Following up on my "Really Cool Adobe Announcements" post...

Adobe has actually posted their "secret" presentation from NAB. Hart Shafer talks about four cool things Adobe has up their sleeve.



You SO need to watch this... trust me. BTW (for those of you waiting... they did show OnLocation for Mac in this demo).



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School of Podcasting Interview about Video Podcasting

April 23, 2008
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Thanks to the School of Podcasting for having us on the show. I had a chance to catch up and talk with the host about what folks need to think about when moving into the world of video podcasting. The interview also features my co-author (and business partner) Mark Weiser.

You can get the interview for free right here (http://www.schoolofpodcasting.libsyn.com/index.php?post_id=330803) and you should also check out their other shows which offer great perspective.


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Come See Me at New Media Expo

April 21, 2008
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I'll be presenting at this year's New Media Expo in Las Vegas. The event runs August 14-16 and I hope you can come out. My class is called:

Producing Video Podcasts with Multiple Cameras
Want to cut down editing time and give your show more polish? Learn how to create video podcasts using multiple cameras. Join veteran podcaster Richard Harrington as he shows how to harness multiple angles to improve your show. From concerts and live events to demos and interviews, multiple cameras will help you tell your story. Learn how to setup and match your cameras as well as essential editing techniques. This workshop will make multi-camera productions a snap.



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NAB Video Blog

April 18, 2008
I just got back from NAB this morning... here are a handful of videos we produced while on the road.

The Red Scarlet: A First Look


Adobe Media Player at NAB 2008


On the Scene at NAB 2008


The AJA IO HD with Gary Adcock


The Litepanels Micro


The Litepanels Micro


Hope you Enjoy!


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Refillable Sandbags

April 08, 2008
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If you go on any professional video set, you’ll see sandbags in use as a protective measure to secure light and audio stands. But traveling with 250 pounds of sandbags can get expensive (and heavy). Instead, try refillable sandbags, which travel light. When you get to your location you can fill them with sand, rocks or whatever else can be found nearby. A popular model is made by Lindcraft, and is made of durable Cordura Nylon with a heavy-duty zipper with a hook and loop cover flap to keep it shut.

You can check them out here


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Don't Use Auto White Balance

April 05, 2008
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While you may be tempted to rely on an Auto White Balance feature on your camera, don’t. These can be overly sensitive to things like a passing cloud. Instead, just keep an eye on your monitor or viewfinder while shooting.

Looking for an easy way to white-balance on a shoot? I just discovered the useful Whibal White Balance Reference Cards.

Here's what I like:

  • Lightweight and single-card format.
  • Light Gray, certified to recommended Luminance
  • Includes Black and White Spots
  • Focus and Sharpness targets
  • Sturdy and Easy to Pack (it even floats)
  • Affordable
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What's Your Angle?

March 10, 2008
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While it may seem a little cliché, another way to refine your show’s concept is to ask the standard Who, What, Where, When, and Why questions.

Who – Who is going to watch the show? Who is going to host the show?

What – What topics will the show cover? What genre or format will it use?

Where – Where will the show be recorded? A studio? On location?

When – When will the show come out? Weekly? Monthly?

Why – Why would a viewer subscribe to the show? Why would they come back for another episode?


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Field Production Strategies for Video Podcasting

February 16, 2008
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Podcast and New Media Expo 2007: The rules of the studio don’t apply the same in the field. In this session you will learn how to properly capture your video content outside of a controlled environment and unpredictable lighting and background noise. You also learn how to achieve the best results when encoding files for various output devices. See how the experts retain overall quality with an overview of the latest methods and technologies. This session will also share best practices for multi-camera productions.


Download mp3:
Distributing Video in Various Formats: How To Make the Right Choice (1:00:46 min 27.9 MB)


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Great Field Monitor for HD and SD

January 12, 2008
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We recently "bit the bullet" and bought a "real" HD monitor for our field productions, the Panasonic BT-LH80W . This one is pricey (street price is $2200) but its a great monitor. We can mount it on the HD camera for field work, hang it in a carrier for the director (think a Flava Flav clock) and even run it off batteries.

  • Designed for studio and field applications
  • 7.9-inch low-power, lightweight monitor
  • Built-in waveform monitor
  • Compatible with 1080/24 psf, 1080i, 720p, 480p, and 480i

For more information www.panasonic.com/broadcast.




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On-Camera Considerations

December 04, 2007
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Here are a few extra tips to help less-experienced on-camera talent or interviewees.
  • Bring at least one alternative set of clothing.
  • Herringbone, stripes, or small patterns do not look good on camera. Avoid vivid patterns, plaids, and geometric shapes.
  • Please keep you’re jewelry simple.
  • Do not wear bright white. Cream, eggshell, or light gray are preferred.
  • Unless told otherwise, maintain eye contact with your interviewer throughout the interview.
  • Relax.



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Interviewer Tips

November 30, 2007
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Becoming a good interviewer is an acquired skill that takes training and practice. For the less experienced, here are a few helpful pointers.
  • “Edit in the Camera.” Encourage short answers and come back to topics again. Better to focus on good, tight answers than trying to cobble together six takes to make your point.
  • Avoid enumeration or the phrase “Like I said before.” It is highly likely that you will use only part of the answer (such as step three, without steps one and two).
  • Ask leading, open-ended questions… being sure to ask a single question only.
  • Don’t be afraid to stop and start over. Do not let an answer ramble on. Smiles and nods encourage subjects that they are ‘on-target’ and can stop trying to talk themselves out of a corner.



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