Your Video Expert Blog

Intro to Video Sharing Websites Webinar Recording Available

The streaming video recording from the most recent Video Expert Webinar is in the archives!  This past Wednesday I presented a session Introduction to Video Sharing Websites'.  I provided suggestions why using a video sharing website can be valuable and then shared some of the fundamentals of export optimization - with info on recommended settings like bit-rate, codecs, etc.

I highlighted the video sharing websites that are my favorite providers - both free and paid services, and the strengths and weaknesses of each.  I presented details about how you can easily share an on-line video by obtaining the video's URL and also introduced the concept of embedding a video. 

And I closed out the session by showing both a Standard Definition (SD) and High Definition (HD) short video on each of these highlighted websites. 

The 79-minute streaming video is now available in the Video Expert Webinar Archives here, along with a 15-page PDF booklet that you can download and print. This booklet amplifies some of the content from the session, and provides website addresses for all that was presented.

If you're not yet a member at YourVideoExpert.net, you can choose from the Gold, Silver or even the free Trial Membership.  This is done via the pull-down link in the upper right corner of the Home page.

GoPro® Launches HD HERO2® Camera Announces Wi-Fi Remote Control and Video Streaming

I have been very impressed with the Go Pro HD Hero, a portable video camera that launched back in 2009.

I have played with one and have several friends and colleagues who shoot video with the Go Pro HD.  It's a very compact little video camera that is housed in a waterproof, shock-resistant housing. 

The Go PRO HD Hero captured the extreme sports video world wit the video quality coupled with the several mounting options (helmet mount, suction cup mount, belt mount, handle-bar mount).

The Go Pro company has announced a brand new model - the HD Hero2. The new camera is "2x More Powerful in Every Way -- The HD HERO2 Democratizes Professional Image Capture and Broadcast with Support for Remote Control and Live Video Streaming from Virtually Anywhere to the Web"

The new HD Hero2 offers 1080p HD video and 11 mega-pixel digital photos. Here's the improvements in this new model according to the company's press release  "The HD HERO2′s new processor delivers twice the processing power, taking full advantage of a new high performance 11 mega-pixel sensor that delivers more than twice the image detail along with professional low light performance.

A totally redesigned wide-angle lens was required to take full advantage of the HD HERO2′s increased image-processing, resulting in a lens that’s twice as sharp as the previous model.

And with the arrival of GoPro’s new Wi-Fi BacPac™ and Wi-Fi Remote products slated for release this winter, the HD HERO2 will enable video remote control via the Wi-Fi Remote, smart-phones and devices, tablets and computers as well as enabling live GoPro video broadcast from anywhere there is Wi-Fi or a mobile hotspot."

The new camera is available now via the Go Pro Online Store, Best Buy, Amazon.com and other retailers in one of three packages (different mounts)

• HD HERO2 Outdoor Edition – $299.99
• HD HERO2 Motorsports Edition – $299.99
• HD HERO2 Surf Edition – $299.99

The original 1080p HD HERO camera is still available at a list price of US $99.99 – $239.99 (previously $259.99 – $299.99)

Vimeo Videos Not Showing up in Your Web Browser?

I have a colleague who was having difficulty viewing videos in his web browser on his computer - this was a recent change, as he had been previously successful in viewing videos from the video sharing web site.
 

Right away, I had the sneaking suspicion that a corrupt or outdated Flash program was the culprit.  As you may know, Adobe Flash is a plug-in that enables your web browser (Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Mac Safari, and Google Chrome are among the most popular of these computer applications) to view videos and other multi-media content on the web.

And I recall recently updating the Flash players in all my computers (both Mac and Windows OS). I recommended my colleague visit this page on the Vimeo web site - http://vimeo.com/help/flash

It's pretty cool as it shows you what version of Flash you're using right now to view that page and recommends which version you _should_ be using.  video sharing services). 

If you determine you would like/need a later version of Adobe Flash - visit this Adobe page and it will walk you through the upgrade: Adobe Flash Player Download page 

If you're thinking --- 'Gee Chet, this is supposed to be a blog about video, how come all this computer stuff?'  I would answer that on-line delivered video is a huge part of video today!

And if you'd like to learn more about that topic (on-line video) check out my Webinar this Wednesday, Introduction To Video Sharing Web Sites.

 

Online Video Editor Available in Your YouTube Channel

There have been quite a few revolutionary developments in the last few years that affect and impact folks who produce video, both on the professional level and the hobbyist/amateur/family levels.

From affordable pocket video cameras and smart phones shooting High-Definition video to quality video sharing on YouTube, Facebook and more.  One of the newest capabilities may stir the imagination of creative producers even more.

About one month ago I started playing with an on-line video editing application - this 'cloud-based' video editing tool allows you to upload your videos to their file server (host computer) and perform your edits, add transitions, titles and even audio/music on-line. 

This great not only for folks who are away from their home/office video editing studio -- but it's a novel approach allows integrated video editing and film-making... the ability for a small group or people, a team to edit a video together!

This new service has gone public and is available for you to use now -- as part of your YouTube Channel.   You will find this new service, called WE Video in the area of your YouTube Channel called 'Create Videos' (if you don't yet have your own free YouTube Channel - I have a tutorial to help you launch that here).

I was expecting something kind of cook when I first looked at WE Video, but frankly I was very impressed with the depth of the features and what you could really do with the software/application. 

For example there are six different categories of transitions from simply crossfades to animated masks (falling leaves).  There are two tracks of audio with 390 built-in sound tracks (music and sound effects) and 18 different types of titles (they call graphics). 

I am producing a thorough tutorial on WE Video, which will be posted on my website www.YourVideoExpert.net. I will share the link for that resource on this blog when it is available.

I should mention there are 4 different levels or accounts with WE Video -the free account provides with 1GB of 'cloud' storage, and only 360P resolution.  This is fine for internet video (on YouTube or Facebook, etc) but would not please most folks to view on a big TV screen. 

For folks that really want to use the full features of WE Video (and export higher quality finished videos) you can choose from their Plus, Ultra, and Commercial Accounts.  Details for each of these you will find here: WE Video Accounts & Sign-up Page.

To check out WE Video, simply go to 'My Videos' in your YouTube Channel, click on the 'Create Video' link at top and you'll be presented with a list of newer options - click on the link next to WE Video and begin editing 'in the cloud'!

NOTE: One of the other functions in your YouTube Channel is the GO Animate short animated movie creation engine - you'll find a streaming video tutorial on this software here: Create Your Own Animated Shorts with GO Animate.

iPhone 4S Accessory and Tip for the Video Shooting Phone User

There has been quite an interesting conversation that the video Side by Side Comparison between Canon 5D Mk II and Apple iPhone 4S posted by Robino Films has inspired.

Two of the questions that came out of the posting have to do with set-up or use of the iPhone 4S in the video.  I found these two items of great value to any reader who has an iPhone 4S and wishes to shoot video. 

Tripod Attachment

There are several after market gadgets available to help you connect your iPhone to a tripod. I found that stabilizing your iPhone is critical to coming away with video that is even half-way decent. This is obvious to long-time videographers, but is even more critical using a small, hand-held camera phone.  

The tripod attachment (and the one I just ordered) used by Robino Jones is the 'Glif: iPhone 4/4S Tripod Mount & Stand' by Studio Neat.  This is available at many camera stores as well as on Amazon.com*  It should be noted that the Glif Tripod Mount works on a 'bare' iPhone 4/4S - it cannot be in a case (which is a bummer for me, I love my Otter Box Defender)

Locked Exposure & Focus

One of the things Mr. Robino did for this comparison is that he locked the exposure and focus on the iPhone 4S to prevent drifting and searching.  This technique is not readily apparent in the phone's menu or in Apple documentation.

Vimeo user Lawrence Marshall shared how to lock the AE (Auto-Exposure) and Focus - this is apparently avaialble to both the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, once you upgrade to the newer iOS 5: "Press and hold on the image to lock AE and Focus. This is a new feature of iOS 5."

If you'd like some more conversation on this issue, consider this online article by Wired Magazine: Phone 4S 1080p Video Is Great, But Can’t Beat a DSLR
 

*The asterisk  signifies an affiliate link whereby Chet Davis receives a small percentage of the sale, for referring customers to the product or service. 

"I do not nor will I recommend or serve as an affiliate for any goods or services I do not find of sound quality or worthy of your consideration.  My reputation and relationship with my clients & colleagues is more important than a small profit to me"  Chet Davis

Sony Releases New Version of Vegas video editing software

Sony Creative Software this week announced the latest upgrade to its Vegas™ video editing software application. 

Among the improvements touted by Sony in the new version - Vegas Pro 11 are:

• GPU Accelerated Video Processing
• Sync Link
• 2D and 3D Text Tools
• Advanced Video Stabilization
• Improved NVIDIA 3D Vision Support

 

The Retail Price (MSRP) for Vegas Pro 11 software is $699 USD. Upgrades from previous versions of Vegas Pro are available for $199 USD from www.sonycreativesoftware.com (this upgrade is available now).

 I should point out they offer a more affordable version - Vegas Movie Studio HD 11 (which has a list price of $44.95 USD) I have heard good things about the Sony Vegas editing tool and plan on learning the product myself later this Fall.

If you're eager to try any of the Sony Vegas Video Editing applications - you can download and use any of the Vegas software applications for a 30-day Trial via the Sony Vegas website.

Side by Side Comparison between Canon 5D Mk II and Apple iPhone 4S

I came across the following video today and was, frankly blown away!  I have colleagues who shoot video with the Canon 5D Mark II digital SLR. This is a high-end quality camera that shoots beautiful video as well (and comes with a price tag of $2,500 - without lens). 

As the following video producer who created this comparison mentions - this is not to suggest the iPhone 4S should or will replace your high end video cameras - but it makes a very strong case that video cameras, especially for amateurs or those shooting family videos or videoes when you don't have a more expensive camera/camcorder.... the iPhone (and perhaps other comparable devices) are strong contenders as of this moment and the years to come.

 

From Robino Films Vimeo Channel:

"Here's a 'fair' test between the iPhone 4S and the Canon 5D MK II. I made a little rig that allowed me to shoot both cameras at the same time side by side. All scenes are perfectly synced together so you can pause and scrutinize the frames! See photo of the makeshift rig in the photo area."

(further comments from Robino Films):

"You can download the full 1080p version of this video for a more accurate presentation.

Exposure, shutter speed, frame rate and picture style were matched as close as possible between the two cameras. (I used the Zacuto Z-finder to help me adjust exposure for both iPhone and 5D)

This test shows that the tiny F2.4 lens and sensor on the iPhone are pretty nice. It even got a little depth of field!

I did not overlay the exact ISO and Stops 5D settings per shot. It was too much to keep track for this simple test. To be fair I matched 5D exposure to the iPhone so no "Cinestyle" / 24p here.

Here are the settings:

iPhone 4S

- AE.AF locked. That's all you have!

Canon 5D MKII

- Canon 50mm 1.4
- ISO 160 ~ 640 (varied per shot to match the iPhone)
- F 7~22 (varied per shot to match the iPhone)
- Shutter 1/60th
- Auto WB
- Standard Picture Style
- 1080p 30

Big thank you to Voicewalk, Inc and Snap Recordings for the iPhone 4S and camera gear. "

Video Expert Webinar - Video Hosting Web Sites

Did you know that...

• The average computer user watches almost 16 hours of on-line video a month.
• Over 5 hours per person per month is spent watching YouTube, alone.
• YouTube videos are watched over 3 Billion times each day.

Using a video hosting website can be the easiest, most affordable way to share you videos - and if you're looking for a lot of view - it's likely the best way to reach your maximum audience.

In this on-line class, Chet Davis will teach you the important background information and useful, short steps to begin sharing your videos with others over the internet!

Agenda: Internet Hosting Websites - Getting Started

• Why you should use the internet to share your videos
• How to prepare (optimize) your video for successful uploading
• Fastest way to load video (and many videos) from your computer
  
• Loading video to your internet host remotely (while on vacation)
  
• Easiest ways to share your on-line video/s with others (links vs. embeds)
  
• The benefits & limitations of Chet's six favorite video hosting websites
  • YouTube
  • Facebook
  • Vimeo
  • SmugMug
  • Exposure Room
  • iPlayer HD
  • 
    

This on-line classroom will take place on Wednesday, October 26th from 9:30AM Pacific Time (click here for other time zones).  Cost is only $10 to participate!

If you're already a members of YourVideoExpert.net or CasablancaExpert.com - your registration is free - click either of these links for registration info.

If you're not a website member - I would love to have you join us for some valuable learning - click the link below for on-line registration (and classroom details)

Storytelling, Documenting, and Snippets

Added a new article to my website today, with musings about what I think the three different types of videotaping/video projects folks are engaged in - Storytelling, Documenting, and Snippets.

This relates to the important question that you must decide answer before getting to your location: What are you going to do with the video footage once you're done videotaping?

For years we, as folks who shoot and edit video, have either documented video happenings with little or no editing or we've thoughtfully (usually) taken the video recordings and edited together what I call a digital story.  

Well, I contend with the increasing popularity of portable digital media devices, like iPhone and Android smart phones that shoot video; and the generation of what some are calling pocket video cameras (like the Flip, Bloggie and Play-full/Play-Smart) we're seeing and going to see an increase in the number of video snippets.

You can read more in my article here: Your Video Expert: Storytelling, Documenting, and Snippets

Take 15 Live Lesson: Depth of Field - up Monday at 9AM Pacific

The first 'Take 15' lesson will be presented live this coming Monday at 9:00AM Pacific Time - this is a 15-minute internet delivered lesson on a specific topic to help you improve your videos.

You Video Expert Chet Davis will present the topic in detail in the short 15-minute time slot. You'll also receive the link for a 1-page PDF document with the 'take-aways' for each session -- the important info or techniques covered in that session.

And if you can't join Chet in the live lesson, you can view each and every Take 15 episode in the Take 15 Archives!

This week our live lesson is Depth of Field.  You'll learn what Depth of Field is, the factors affecting Depth of Field and how to use the limitations of Depth of Field creatively in your videography. Shallow DOF (Depth of Field) is all the rage for some professional videographers - see some video samples in this Take 15 Live Lesson.

Website members (Silver or Gold Ticket Holders) click below to register for the Take 15 series - and you you can click on any of the scheduled topics below to see what's being taught in the next few weeks. Visit this page for the schedule of upcoming lessons in the "Take 15" Live Lesson series - and for Gold and Silver Ticket Holders to register for the sessions, then join Chet Davis each Monday at 9:00AM Pacific (click here for other time zones).