AV News Magazine | Page 9

AV News 193 - August 2013 · If the sequence is of a floral style, occasionally include close-ups of the individual blooms to make the sequence more interesting (and possibly informative for any gardeners in the audience!). · If factual information is required in the commentary, use a relaxing voice with 'breathing space' between sound bites to give the audience time to absorb what has just been said. Take care that any music finishes smoothly and is not suddenly cut off at the end. · Check that the title matches the content of the sequence and any displayed text should be high enough in the picture to be visible to all the audience and left there for sufficient time to be read. Ensure that the text contrasts against its background. · Avoid predictability in the sequence and use changes in pace to give variety. Make use of the tools in sound reproduction, whether in Audition or Audacity and even PTE in the latest versions. Also be aware of what may sound OK on PC speakers may not sound the same when played at a larger venue over a different speaker system. The afternoon was given over to our two guests whose sequences certainly reflected the points made in their earlier comments. They also added a few others before entertaining us with first class work. They were:Not to overdo the dissolve effects; Use different soft edge wipes to direct the eye; Use the mask tool in PTE to hide unwanted parts of an image such as overhead wires; By using a split screen, it's Chairman David Campbell-Burns possible to put text on one side and the relevant image on the other; Sound effects can be handled more accurately in PTE 7.5 for sound/image manipulation; Always back up a sequence regularly during production as a .zip file: Next came Jill and John's sequences, with relevant comments and sometimes amusing anecdotes related to making a particular sequence. 'Children's Home' showed the work of a particular establishment and highlighted a current problem of not being allowed to photograph children. This was overcome by the skilful use of neutral images of the Home coupled with suitable commentary to make a first class and poignant sequence. The next enjoyable sequence entitled 'A Christmas Carol' told the fascinating history of a carol that most of us sing during the Festive season. Page 7