AV News 179 - February 2010
One point that cropped up repeatedly was that of ensuring that there is a
beginning, a middle and an end. And the final point that Keith left us with was:
as the Editor you must be your own best critic. Is anything sub-standard? If in
doubt, leave it out!
The day was truly thought-provoking and offered words of wisdom for both
the novice and the expert AV worker.
On behalf of all those attending: many thanks, Keith!
A Day For All
J o a n H o rn e
Or, if you prefer, "The Dick and Dave Digital Show" as it was Dick Williams
and Dave Wilcox from the Essex AV Group and Upminster Camera Club who
lead the afternoon. More on this later! Held at Narborough Parish Centre on
October 25th, the East Midlands Audio Visual Group (EMAVG) members had
been very busy by the time we arrived, as the room was blacked out, chairs in
place plus screen and a welcome cuppa brewing thanks to members Beth
Elston and Marie Thompson.
Those readers who know Brian Jeffs, (and many do!) will find it no surprise
to see the day start on time with a friendly welcome and encouragement to the
audience of about 40, to contribute to the morning session. As usual this
consisted of attendees showing their sequences and receiving constructive
comments about them. Peter Brown, EMAVG chairman lead this session and
was also projectionist. Although this part of the day always follows the same
pattern, two such events vary a great deal. Today, we had 12 sequences to
see from eight authors so it was decided to show one from each author first.
This did fill the morning as, quite rightly, it was thought that time spent
discussing the sequences with each author in turn was the most valuable part.
Several useful pointers came out of these discussions. Among them were:
It is difficult to test at home the volume separation necessary between
music and commentary. Wearing headphones doesn't help here so move
as far away as possible and listen.
Providing a surprise in the sequence is a plus point.
Introduce variety of images by using both distant views and close ups and
also to be aware of the need to dissolve them sympathetically.
Size of font is probably better controlled by adding it to an image in
PhotoShop and not in PTE. If it is not rasterized it can vary on screen.
There is no need to find enough images to fill the length of a piece of
music. The usual trick is to edit it somewhere other than at the end. If done
well, no-one will notice.
Try to vary the pace and make the transitions sympathetic to the music.
E.g. slow music longer dissolves.
Only use special effects if they enhance a sequence and use them
sparingly.
The old chestnut - white border or not? - If it distracts the viewer, probably
not. No consensus here!
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