Michael Webber

Category: Video Production

  • Final Cut X – Apple’s Response to Criticism

    Final Cut Pro X - Everything Just Changed In PostI’m still in a state of denial.  How could the Apple screw up Final Cut so bad? Is Apple really dumbing down the software in order to hit a larger market?  Is this really iMovie Pro?

    Maybe, but I remain hopeful (note my denial)…hopeful the Final Cut Pro team can perform a course correction and address the laundry list of issues.

    Final Cut Pro X is a breakthrough in nonlinear video editing. The application has impressed many pro editors, and it has also generated a lot of discussion in the pro video community. We know people have questions about the new features in Final Cut Pro X and how it compares with previous versions of Final Cut Pro. Here are the answers to the most common questions we’ve heard.

    – Apple.com

    Check out Apple’s answer sheet, which attempts to provide a status update on the missing features: http://www.apple.com/finalcutpro/faq/

    Beyond the missing features and new user interface; many professionals are loosing trust in Apple. Where was the communication with the pro users before launch?  For some, this program is their livelihood!  Many businesses, schools, and non-profit organizations invested their limited resources into the Final Cut Pro workflow.  These folks invested in years of training and skill development.  I’m not opposed to change, I think many of who work with technology actually enjoy changes, upgrades, and improvements.  Somehow it seems Apple failed in their product development and launch execution.

    Larry Jordan posted a blog article a few days ago criticizing Apple’s handling of the product development process, the lack of communication, and issues of accountability. Well worth the read: “Who’s Accountable?”

    For me, I continue to hold out hope that Apple will fix the problems and begin the restore credibility.  That said, part of me fears it may be too late!

  • Camera Boot Camp

    I was turned onto these commercial spots by a a colleague, all featuring a cameraman army style boot camp. The commercial series promotes the Rugby World Cup 2011

    Second Commercial in Series – Camera Operators Don’t Speak!

    Third Commercial in Series – Announcers

  • Final Cut X Fallout

    Larry Jordan's Podcast, "Digital Production Buzz"

    I still don’t understand Apple’s new direction with Final Cut…Bizarre!

    For those looking to walk away from Final Cut, you should check out Larry Jordan’s (you may now him from Lynda.com training videos) podcast, “Digital Production Buzz“.  Larry has been doing a great job covering the new release and all the controversy.

    Last week he discussed Avid and Adobe Premiere alternatives, interesting conversations…worth a listen.

  • 3D Cinemas Reduce 2D Movie Quality

    Great article from the Boston Globe that I’ve heard being discussed all over the web this week.

    Check out the Full Article on Boston.com

    The article reveals that many Cinemas are not changing out projector lenses after a 3D movie is shown.  This results in dimmer image as light is lost going through the two sets of lenses used for 3D films.

     

  • Murch Says 3D Will Never Work

    Walter Murch editing in Buenos Aires, Argentina, December 11, 2008
    Walter Murch editing in Buenos Aires, Argentina, December 11, 2008Creative Commons Photo Credit: Beatrice Murch

    The future of 3D is blurry at best, as more and more industry leaders express their concerns with the technology and its long-term viability.  Hollywood editor and sound designer, Walter Murch is the latest skeptic to come out, explaining his viewpoint in a letter to Roger Ebert:

    …dark, small, stroby, headache inducing, alienating. And expensive. The question is: how long will it take people to realize and get fed up?

    You can read Walter’s full letter here: http://blogs.suntimes.com/ebert/2011/01/post_4.html

    I must say, I tend to agree with Murch, but enjoy watching the industry try to figure this out.  In the end, it’s all part of the creative process.  Some love it, some hate it…and the technology is evolving.    For me, I think 3D has it’s place, maybe not to the extent some TV manufacturers are hoping, but suspect it will stick around for years to come.  Do I plan on purchasing a 3D TV anytime soon, NO!