Power Cropping Tutorial

www.tipsquirrel.com
I've released a new tutorial over at the TipSquirrel.com website. Learn all bout how to crop your photos. Before you think you know all about cropping, consider these points.

  • Cropping to a specific size
  • Cropping for print and web
  • Using Smart Objects for scaling
  • Non-destructive cropping
  • Perspective cropping

Here's a link to the tutorial.
0 Comments

Digital Convergence Podcasts for DSLR Filmmakers

16x9cinema-logo

I was recently interviewwd about a new book – From Still to Motion: A Photographer's Guide to Creating Video with your DSLR

Here's the Podcast – DIGITAL CONVERGENCE EPISODE 6
Episode 6 features Richard Harrington and Robbie Carman, who are two of four of the co-authors of the new book from Peachpit: From Still to Motion.

In this episode, Rich Harrington and Robbie Carman talk about what to expect from their new book. Taking a platform agnostic approach and covering a wide range of budgets, they discuss a broad range of topics including unexpected lessons learned, do-it-yourself lighting, camera support and motion, post-production and color grading, sound, stop-motion and time-lapse and a wealth of other topics. I hated to cut short this conversation - it's our longest episode yet. But it's well worth hearing.
0 Comments

Q&A with the Authors of From Still to Motion

25393_336093304754_171237909754_3570696_2149986_a
Peachpit talks to James Ball, Robbie Carman, Matt Gottshalk, and Richard Harrington about their new book and DVD, From Still to Motion, what photographers struggle with the most when learning video, and how to stay up to date on the latest in the world of video.

Peachpit: What was the motivation behind writing From Still to Motion? Why this topic, and why now?

Authors: We've been thinking about and actively working on the book for more than a year. When we first starting seeing video-enabled DSLR cameras we were excited by their potential. They can be challenging to work with, but have great rewards with incredible visuals.

We decided there needed to be a definitive book and DVD that explored the entire process of using these cameras (from pre-production through delivery), and one that explored both the art and the technology. Camera models and features constantly change, but the process of creating video is relatively constant and we felt there needed to be thorough coverage on how to create video with a DSLR camera. What we've created is an in-depth case study that explores how we used these cameras for six months and all the cool things we learned along the way.

Read the whole interview here
0 Comments

Cool iPhone Apps for Video Pros

apple_app_store_logo_300
If you're a media pro... here are a few iPhone/iPod Touch apps to check out. I've not played with all of these yet, but they've all been recommended to me (or I've used 'em).



0 Comments

Two Workshops in DC Area for SIGGRAPH

DC_SIGGRAPH_logo
I'll be teaching two classes in the Washington, DC area for DC_SIGGRAPH and DC ACM. The workshops are part of their Spring 2010 Professional Development Seminars. These are hands-on workshops that include a textbook.


Understanding Adobe Photoshop
Thursday, March 18 (AM session)

Motion Graphics Toolbox with Adobe Creative Suite
Thursday, March 18 (PM session)


You can register early for a 10% discount (by February 28, 2010). Reference Code (please use when registering): 101


“DC ACM is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for meaningful connections between the area’s academics, professionals, and policymakers in the computer science and information technology fields. The proceeds from the seminars support DC ACM activities such as computer science lectures for the general public and awards for junior and senior high school students at regional science fairs.”

0 Comments

I'm teaching Social Media in DC and NYC

SocialMedia


I'll be teaching two workshops on social media for Future Media Concepts. These are targeted at business folks of all types who want to learn social media in a practical way.

Description: When used correctly, social media tools can help you reach potential customers and keep your current clients engaged and interested. In this informative session you'll learn practical advice that can be implemented immediately, such as:

  • Using Twitter to share your latest news & keep in touch with your best customers
  • How to set up a corporate page on Facebook to share video, photos, & info
  • Keeping your business leads up to date with LinkedIn
  • Creating enjoyable blog posts and content for your readers

The workshops are
March 9th in DC and March 10th in New York

Doors open at 5:30pm and the class starts runs 6-9pm
The cost is $199

0 Comments

NAPP Helps Celebrate Photoshop's 20th Anniversary

20yrposter
The fine folks over at the National Association of Photoshop Professionals offer up two great things to celebrate Photoshop's 20th anniversary.

First, take their (tough) quiz on Photoshop history.

"The quiz is just for fun, of course, but it’s harder than you might think."
If you’ve got a couple of minutes,
click this link to take the quiz and see how you do.
Second, You can virtually attend the Live Webcast of the big party/presentation/Photoshop love-fest happening this Thursday night (the 18th) in San Francisco celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Photoshop.
  1. You sign up here (it’s free): http://www.photoshopuser.com/photoshop20th
  2. The Live Webcast starts at 7:30 pm Pacific Time (10:30 EST).
  3. There are some VERY special guests making an appearance that night.




0 Comments

20 Years of Adobe Photoshop – with Visuals

20-years-of-adobe-photoshop
Photoshop is about to turn 20 years old... yet it seems like yesterday when I had to run it off a floppy disc. The fine folks over at Webdesigner Depot offer 20 Years of Adobe Photoshop with some great tidbits and history.

"The first version of the Photoshop splash screen features just four Photoshop programmers. In subsequent versions, more and more names are added to the list. In more recent versions, a limited number of Adobe VIP’s appear in the splash screen."

You should also check out this great interview with John Knoll, one of the two inventors of the application.






0 Comments

Cartoon Art Museum is a Great Visit in San Francisco

21037310
When in San Francisco I had the chance to attend the great Cartoon Art Museum. Peachpit Press held a party there and it was a really cool place. It was wild to see so many comic covers that I recognized (and in some cases owned). The museum is filled with all sorts of cartoon artwork.

"From editorial cartoons to comic books, graphic novels to anime, Sunday funnies to Saturday morning cartoons, the Cartoon Art Museum has something for everyone. Located downtown in San Francisco’s Yerba Buena cultural district, the museum is home to over 6,000 pieces of original and cartoon and animation art, a comprehensive research library, and five galleries of exhibition space. Join us for one of our many book signings, lectures, cartooning classes or workshops; mix and mingle with professional and aspiring cartoonists; or visit our bookstore. Whether it’s nostalgic, educational, or just plain fun, a trip to the Cartoon Art Museum will be an experience you will never forget."

The museum is only $6 to visit and is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am – 5pm.

They've got several cool exhibits right now, one on Batman, another on Samurais across cultures, and a spotlight on cover artist Ed Hannigan.


0 Comments

Free Pass to NAB or $100 Off Conference. – Expires Febraury 19

nab
It's almost time for NAB – The National Association of Broadcasters Conference. If you want a free NAB pass for show floor or to save $100 on any conference — then here's a great offer. Thanks to Creative Cow, visit http://tinyurl.com/nab10cow and enter code CC01 and save — good thru February 19.

0 Comments

Gotta Love Free Fonts

Museo-Sans
You gotta love free fonts... I found a great article over at designm.ag offering 50 free fonts. These are cleared to use on commercial projects.

"Designers love to have a lot of quality fonts available to them, and fortunately there are some very good free fonts out there. In this post we’ll feature some of the best free fonts that can be used in your commercial designs."
Here are the fonts.
If you’re looking for more, check out these other sites:


0 Comments

Special Video Book and Content Deal

ShowCover.aspx
Our friends at the Peachpit User Group Program are making a special offer for all Mac User Groups who are interested delivering both great information on video production and a great price on a Peachpit book to their members.

Peachpit would like to give your group a unique opportunity to provide your members with high-quality articles and video instruction from Richard Harrington and Robbie Carman’s critically acclaimed Peachpit book, Video Made on a Mac: Production and Postproduction using Apple Final Cut Studio and Adobe Creative Suite absolutely free.
Get more information – 
here


0 Comments

Resize Video with After Effects

resizer
Do you ever need to size video for web or multimedia? Instead of wasting time processing those clips with your video compression software – use After Effects. You can get cleaner scaling and much faster processing times using AE.

To make things easier... I have made a template project to save you several steps. You can download it here.

Download it
here (it's my Birthday gift to you)

These templates are designed to convert an HD source to a variety of output formats.
  1. Select either the 1080 or 720 source folder.
    2 Locate the correct target format and open the template.
    3 Import a QuickTime movie of your HD source.
    4 Highlight the layer called Replace Me.
    5 Hold down the Option/Alt key and drag your replacement footage onto the solid layer to swap.
    6 Change the comps duration to match your footage layer’s length by choosing Sequence > Settings.
    7 Add to the Render Queue and render to taste.

Feel free to share this post and the link – tinyurl.com/aeresizer

0 Comments

A Thousand Free Fonts

BOTW
Always nice to find a free resources. Here are a thousand+ free fonts – The folks at Brands of the World have a ton of great fonts up for download (all totally free).

You can search alphabetically:
http://www.brandsoftheworld.com/fonts/catalogue/

Or you can search by style
http://www.brandsoftheworld.com/fonts/categories/


0 Comments

A Great Game for Typophiles

play
Here's a game to test your typographic knowledge – It's Cheese or Font? http://cheeseorfont.mogrify.org
0 Comments

Video Data Rate Calculator for iPhone

101
AJA Video Systems, a leading manufacturer of professional video interface and conversion solutions, announced today the release of AJA DataCalc. AJA DataCalc is a free storage requirement calculator designed for video professionals and is available now as a free download from the Apple iTunes Store here.
0 Comments

Calibrating a Computer Display

Want to learn how to do a basic computer monitor calibration? Check out this video.
To download sample files, visit www.peachpit.com/videomac.




0 Comments

Free Font for the Holidays

large_nogged
Just in time for the holidays, here's an eggnog-induced new font for your seasonal enjoyment. The nog makes the whole font a bit fuzzy, but if you bump it up to sizes of 100 points or more, people should be able to read it okay. HO HO HO! Enjoy this new font and use it often. And use it BIG, okay?

https://www.chank.com/shop/detail/4/fonts/63/nogged/

0 Comments

Have You Joined "From Still to Motion" Yet?

ref=dp_image_0
As a part of our new book "From Still to Motion – A photographer's guide to creating video with your DSLR" we've created a new Facebook page.

Over at Facebook you can connect with other users... exchange ideas... share resources!

Here's a sampling of recent stories.

  • Zacuto custom rig for Panavision + Canon 7D setup
  • Photoshop World adds a new DSLR video workshop
  • HDMI capture of live stream for Canon 7D
  • Almost everything you need to know about aliasing in DSLR video
  • Canon 7D Test - Greenscreen

Join us and share your ideas for the book and footage tests.




0 Comments

Layers Magazine Design Contest

cc.cfm

Layers Magazine is running a great contest:

“How would you like a chance to win a 1.5-TB Guardian MAXimus quad interface hard drive and $200 dollars in Fotolia credits, both courtesy of Fotolia? We thought so. Just show us your killer design skills, and before you know it, it could be you downloading a ton of awesome images from Fotolia to your brand-new hard drive. And as an added perk, we'll publish the winning entry in the January/February 2010 issue of Layers magazine. So how do you win these great prizes? All you have to do is enter the Layers Back Page Design Contest.”


Here’s the official rules
0 Comments

Photo of nearly every Apple product ever released

Here's a cool picture for those of you into Apple. Click the image to view the full-resolution poster.

applehistory

0 Comments

Web Safe Fonts

This is awesome... a colleague of mine Jason Cranford Teague, has posted some great resources about web typography. My favorite is this useful desktop pattern of web safe fonts.

sis-desktop-1280x800

There is also an incredible
directory of fonts installed on Mac and Windows computers.

0 Comments

New Sites Added to Our Blog Roll

page15_blog_entry360_1
Looking for some great resources to extend your learning? I always like to share the best things I find as well as my favorite reads. My interests are many from photography and video to business and new media.

With that in mind, I'm building a list of favorites on my blog roll page. I am just getting started, but hope to keep adding more soon.

Be sure to check back from time to time for some fresh links to great sites.

If you've got one to share (or that I mistakingly overlooked) just add a comment below.

0 Comments

Great Archive for Free Textures

taLogo
I need to use textures all the time when creating graphics. From backgrounds to text treatments... a good realistic texture adds weight and impact.

I recently found a great website with a bunch of free, high-resolution textures. Be sure to check out TextureArchive.com.

“TextureArchive.com is devoted to providing a site which is useful for all types artists.”

Free is good... "good" free is even better.


0 Comments

Scarves for Geeks

page16_blog_entry165_1

Billed as "functional neckwear," XUBÁZ™ [pronounced SHOE:BÁZ] offers an alternative to a jacket. The scarf-like accessory with six pockets and two straps to keep it in place. This thing looks seriously great for field shoots and photography where I need a place to keep some gear on a warm day. While the company promises to "add style to my wardrobe" (do I need it?) I'd just be happy to have more pockets and less sweat.

• Two upper pockets secured with flaps and snaps.
• Two “nested” pockets within the upper pockets.
• Two lower pockets with a zipper.
0 Comments

Cool Free Fonts

page15_blog_entry84_1
Looking to expand your typographical toolbox? Then be sure to visit Dinc Type at the unique URL www.GirlsWhoWearGlasses.com. The site is sassy and filled with great fonts. The unique thing is that while fonts are free, the selection frequently changes and fonts appear then disappear. Its like an incredible import shop where everything’s free, but the inventory keeps changing. Bookmark and keep checking back as their fonts are absolutely fantastic.


0 Comments

Online Morphing with the Face Transformer

page16_blog_entry196_1
Got to love the Internet. The fine folks over at St. Andrew’s University have released the Perception Laboratory's Face Transformer. It allows you to change the age, race or sex of a facial image. You first have to upload an image, and then you can experiment.
Give it a try.
0 Comments

Free Textures from the Texture King

page16_blog_entry98_1
I saw this mentioned over at Scott Kelby's blog. If you need hi-res textures, for free, then be sure to check out the Texture King website. There's more than 250 images to choose from including glass, fabric, rust, metal, and wood. The images are totally free to use in any project and its a great site to check out.
0 Comments

Cool tutorial on lighting for photographers

Check out this cool tutorial on lighting for photographers from Robert Louis Vanelli. In this video tutorial you will learn how to light a subject using multiple lights and what each of those lights do for the overall lighting scheme.

vtute
0 Comments

Tech Shopping Deals

181917727_eccbf96a1c
There are lots of shopping deals this weekend.... Here are a few that I’ve already taken advantage of.

Delkin Devices25% off and free shipping. This includes a Blu-ray burner, multiple types of card readers (I ordered a 4 card reader to load from 4 Compact Flash cards at once)! Use the code HOLIDAY during checkout.

equinox – Makers of useful software utilities like Coverscout (to get iTunes artwork) and several templates for OSX mail. I ordered the tube stick bundle for $99 that lets you record over-the-air digital TV signals to your Mac, then transcode them for use on iPod or iPhone. Several bundles that are 50% off.

Mophie Get the JuicePack for iPhone and iPod Touch. Doubles your battery life and makes for a long day of web work on the device. Take 25% off this weekend. Use the code gobblegobble3G.

Hop you enjoy... I get nothing from links... this is just what I spent money on and thought the deals were good.


0 Comments

Scott Kelby's Holiday Gift Guide is Great

gonzo_08_logo

Noted author Scott Kelby has released his annual gift guide. What’s great about the list is that there are some really cool tools on there for photogs and even hobbyists. It’s nothing but the coolest photography and Photoshop gear.

“Since many of you are new to the gear guide, I wanted to let you know how I make my picks each year, and why I think it’s different than most other guides you’ll find out there these days. Put simply, every item in here is stuff I actually use, it’s stuff I’m crazy about, and now it’s become stuff I can’t live without (which is sad, in a way), and it’s the same stuff I recommend to my friends (well, my friends with room on their Visa cards).”

I agree with several of his picks, already using things like the Hoodman Loupe and Boda Bag myself. Be sure to check it out.
0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 – Color Range Command



Richard Harrington shows you how to use the color range command and how CS4 makes it even easier to make a localized selection.

Want the videos in HD?  Then check out our
iTunes version.
0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 – Little Things



Richard Harrington shows you the small but important updates and features new to Photoshop CS4 .

Want the videos in HD?  Then check out our
iTunes version.
0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 – Video Improvements



Richard Harrington shows you how to size pictures for video and work with video files in Photoshop CS4 .

Want the videos in HD?  Then check out our
iTunes version.
0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 – Printing



Richard Harrington shows you new printing features in Photoshop CS4 , including the ability to do 16-bit printing.

Want the videos in HD?  Then check out our
iTunes version.
0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 – Dodge, Burn & Sponge



Richard Harrington shows you the improvements that Photoshop CS4 brings to the dodge, burn and sponge tools.

Want the videos in HD?  Then check out our
iTunes version.
0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 – 3D Features



Richard Harrington shows you how to use 3D layers and 3D models in Photoshop CS4 .

Want the videos in HD?  Then check out our iTunes version.
0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 – Enhanced Panoramic Photomerge



Richard Harrington shows you how to use smart objects and how they have been improved in Photoshop CS4 .

Here is the action mentioned in the video.

Want the videos in HD?  Then check out our iTunes version.
0 Comments

More Free Photoshop Tutorials I've Done

CS4_940

Looking for some more, free Photoshop training? Here are a few more tutorials I’ve done... these are from Peachpit.com. Enjoy!


Refining Edges in Photoshop CS4
Cropping in Photoshop CS4
Dodge, Blur, Burn, and Sharpen in Photoshop CS4
Aligning Images in Photoshop CS

0 Comments

Two Great Tools for Blogs

lijit
Just a quick post.... there are two pieces of tech I’ve been using on my blogs (both are free).

Lijit adds a great search engine to your site. You can create your own search network including multiple blogs, facebook, youtube, linkedin, flickr, and more. This is really useful.

Widgetbox lets you turn your RSS feed into a blog widget that can be posted to numerous social sites. Very clean and will help extend your reach.

Be sure to try both out....



0 Comments

Photoshop CS4 Just Around the Corner

923event
Want to find out everything new in Adobe Creative Suite 4? Trust me... there’s some really cool things coming. Adobe has an invitation out to view their Web broadcast on September 23rd. But you do need to go to the sign-up page at www.adobe.com/go/somethingbrilliant.

By the way... we are going to be releasing something very special on the 23rd as well as a “thank you” to all our viewers. Be sure to stick around and keep an eye out.

0 Comments

Great Black and White Conversion Resource

  • Julieanne Kost from Adobe has posted a great resource for converting color images to grayscale using Photoshop.
PSCS3 Black and White Options via Smart Objects (20MB PSD file)
  • To use this template, first open and crop your desired image to 540 x 366 pixels at 72 ppi. Note: you can crop the entire image, or focus in on a smaller, more important part of it.
  • Flatten your cropped file and select "Save As" to save the cropped file as "FileNameFlatLowRes.psd"
  • Then open the template, click on any one of the smart object layers in the layers palette. Select Layer > Smart Object > Replace Contents, and navigate to select your cropped, low resolution, flattened file.
  • After the images are replaced, choose the best looking conversion, open your original high resolution file, and drag and drop the adjustment layer from the template to the high res file. Voila!

Be sure to check out
her great site for more resources.
0 Comments

The Most Important Piece of Paperwork for Your Projects

page16_blog_entry238_1
I often preach extensively about project management at design and creative conferences around the globe. The one piece of paperwork that I always emphasize is completing a scoping document for a project then getting the client to sign off and accept it. This one piece of papaerwork can solve all sorts of problems and is really worth the 2-5 hours it takes to write. The outline is as follows.

Project Scoping Document

( 2 - 1 0 p a g e s )
  • Project Name
  • Executive Summary
  • Background
  • Project Scope (High Level)
  • Project Objectives
  • Deliverables
  • Organizations
  • Interfaces Required
  • Assumptions
  • Constraints
  • Evaluation Criteria
  • Risks
  • Rewards
  • Budgets
  • Schedules (Due Dates)
  • Project Team Readiness
  • Key Roles
  • Executive Sponsor
  • Project Manager
  • Business Experts
  • Technical Experts
  • Signature Lines - Sign Off “Charter”
0 Comments

Collaborative Note Taker for Mac

SubEthaEdit
SubEthaEdit - $35 [Mac] http://www.codingmonkeys.de
Having creative sessions and want to keep notes? This application is the perfect note taker. It allows you to collaborate on one open document across your network. It’s also rendezvous enabled so it’s easy for other Mac users to join in. Nice features such as color-coding for each user as well as time stamping make this a flexible tool.

If you need some groupthink without the use of a projector... then this is a perfect tool.
0 Comments

14 Questions to Ask Before Building a Website

page16_blog_entry238_1
I don’t live in the world of website creation every day... but I’ve been putting up sites since the launch of Mosaic back with PageMill 1.0. I may be a little slow.. but here’s fourteen questions I recommend getting answers to before you build a site (feel free to comment and I’ll expand the list).

Project Planning Sheet – Website


Objectives

1) What main points do you wish to make with your website? (No more than five)
2) Who is the audience? (Please be specific)
3) What is the market’s current attitude toward your company?
4) What objections to potential customers have to your company?
5) What do you want the consumer to think after they see your website?
6) What do you want the consumer to feel after they see your website?
7) What do you want want the consumer to do after they see your website?
8) What Five adjectives describe the look and feel of your future website?
9) Are there any special features or design ideas you have about your website?

Administrative

10) Who will be involved with creating the content of the website?
11) Who has final website approval?
12) What are your deadlines?
13) Is your domain registered? If so, what is the URL and where is it registered?
14) Have you selected a web hosting company?

NOTE: Please send any relevant documents or promotional material that will affect the content of your website


0 Comments

New Book for Teachers

I've got a new book that's going to press this week. It's a short one, but is designed to help teacher's use Apple's iLife and iWork in the classroom. I come from a family of teachers (having 5 elementary teachers and 2 college instructors in my immediate clan). I really hope this book inspires teachers to fully integrate digital media into their lessons.

51u+S40AIhL._SL160_


Apple Training Series:
A Teacher's Guide to Digital Media in the Classroom

by Richard Harrington with Ted Lai
Price: $19.99
Release Date: August 8, 2008



Product Description
In this Apple-certified guide, Richard Harrington shows teachers how to integrate digital media arts into their existing curriculum using iLife ’08, iWork ’08, and practical, step-by-step projects. Developed in collaboration with the Pearson Education Foundation in accordance with the National Educational Technology Standards council, the book includes class-room tested guidelines from the Foundation's Digital Media Arts program, as well as inspirational profiles of successful digital media classroom projects around the world. Designed to be used with Apple Training Series: iLife ’08 and Apple Training Series: iWork 08, this guide covers everything from designing a photo essay to creating polished video projects, and will have teachers and students producing websites, podcasts, video blogs, and DVDs in no time. Students learn to:

• Express a Feeling: Create a photo-essay slideshow, add sound, and publish it on the web
• Make a Factual Case: Track data in a spreadsheet, organize it into charts, then deliver it as a Keynote presentation
• Make a Persuasive Case: Research an issue, develop an argument, and create a PSA in iMovie and burn it to DVD
• Solve a Problem: Reconcile income and expenses in a household budget and chart financial scenarios
• Tell a Story: Document the personal history of a community leader in a short, sophisticated movie

To order the book,
click here.



0 Comments

A Useful Post on Photographers' Rights

ed
Noted author and podcaster Scott Kelby has a great interview on copyright, photographers’ rights, and release forms. This is truly great and worth checking out.

If you’ve been reading this blog for the past month or so, you’ve read my posts about photographers being harassed when shooting in public, and a lot of readers have chimed in with comments about what we can and can’t shoot, what our rights as photographers are and aren’t, our interpretations of copyright law, and so on. There’s just one problem; we’re not attorneys.

So, I contacted New York-based Intellectual Property Attorney Ed Greenberg, who’s a published author on the topic, and who has been dealing with photography copyright, contract, and creative rights issues for over 30 years, to finally get the straight no-nonsense scoop on all this.”
You can watch the interview
here. Enjoy!


0 Comments

After Effects CS3 Shape Tools



Learn how to use the Shape Tools to create dynamic motion graphics elements. This tutorial was recorded as part of a session at the 2007 NY Post Production Conference (
www.nypostconference.com).

0 Comments

Making Your Photos Look Great On DVD & More!

index.php

I was interviewed by MacEditionRadio.com about Photoshop and creating a portfolio. Here it is.. enjoy.

“At the 2007 Photoshop World in Las Vegas, I sat down with Peachpit Press and Focal Press author Richard Harrington, and we discussed the issues involved in creating DVDs that make your photographs look their best. If you have ever been confused about the proper resolution to prepare files for DVD, television, or video projection, then Richard’s Tips and Tricks will fill in the blanks! Rich is the author of “Photoshop for Video”, and “Understanding Adobe Photoshop: Digital Image Concepts and Techniques.” and if you are working with digital photography, Photoshop, or Lightroom, and need to show others your photos then listen in to this interview! Recorded at the National Association of Photoshop Professionals Photoshop World Conference, in Las Vegas, in September 2007 by Harris Fogel. Posted 6/28/08 (24:09)”



0 Comments

Useful Article About Online Collaboration

pvc
There's a great article over at Pro Video Coalition about using web tools to collaborate with other creative pros. The article is written by Steve Hullfish who truly knows his stuff...

“A few weeks ago there was a short but interesting thread on CML-pro (The Cinematographer’s Mailing List) about how to collaborate with other creatives on a production team using web-based tools. The original poster wanted a solution – a “group scrapbook” - that would allow a small pre-production team to share images, photos and notes. Expanding on the idea a little further, it would be good to be able to communicate across the group, share schedules, comments and video.
There were basically six good solutions presented by members of the list:
  • Google Sites – basically a free on-line website creator.
  • Celtx – free software that links to free shared web storage specifically for film and TV productions.
  • BackPackIt – subscription-based team collaboration website
  • BaseCamp – subscription-based team collaboration website
  • Picassa Web – on-line photo sharing
  • .mac account with iWeb – simple website creation with annual subscription for serving.

I examined each of these concepts for a project I’m beginning. There are pros and cons to each approach and I figure that you might benefit from all of my legwork.”

You can check out the
entire article here.

0 Comments

Great Tutorial on Vanishing Point Exchange

image9
Steve Holmes has a great tutorial over at Layers Magazine on using the Vanishing Point features in Adobe Photoshop and After Effects. The tutorial is totally free and Steve does a great job.

“Without a doubt, the best new feature in After Effects CS3 is the Vanishing Point Exchange with Adobe Photoshop CS3 Extended. Creating very believable 3D movements from quite simple 2D digital photographs has to be seen to be believed, and the best thing is it’s a pretty easy process. However, there are a few caveats to keep an eye out for, so let’s take a trip into the world of two-dee three-dee!”

Check the whole thing out
here.


0 Comments

NIN – The Times are Changing

signup
One of the first bands I fell in love with during college was Nine Inch Nails (actually back then, it wasn't a band). The seminal record, Pretty Hate Machine was a mash-up of Prince Samples and Orchestral Scores from Stephen King and Clive Barker films (along with many other sounds). Since then Trent Reznor has continued to evolve/

Yesreday they‘ve releases The Slip—a new 10-track album—for free on
http://theslip.nin.com/. The record is available in virtually every flavor of DRM-free digital format, all you need to do is give them your email address. The album will eventually be available in traditional formats as well. This move mirrors those of both Radiohead and Prince.

Read More...
0 Comments

Field Production Strategies for Video Podcasting

logo_NME2
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)


0 Comments

Podcasting Forum at Creative Cow

Picture 1
If you are looking for an online forum about podcasting, then be sure to check out Creative COW. The Creative COW forums (Communities of the World) offer support for lots of different technical tools for video professionals. You can search past posts for answers or ask your own questions. Their podcasting forum is new... but has a lot of useful forum hosts who will try and help.

Creative Cow Podcasting Forum




0 Comments

Want More on HDV?

cachedimage.axd
Looking to find out more on HDV? A useful book with reading is HDV:What You NEED to Know! By Douglas Spotted Eagle. This book offers useful advice and essential information on HDV workflows. Find out more at www.VASST.com.

“232 pages of information including colorplates, this book also includes a DVD that offers viewers the opportunity to work with HDV from all 4 professional HDV cameras available today including CF 24, 24p, and 24f. The book also discusses products that are available now, and available in the future.
VASST wrote the world's first book on HDV, which has become a resource for over 55,000 readers. The Second Edition delves more deeply into the subject than ever before, containing tips on camera settings, formatting, editing solutions and workflow for every major NLE system, and detailed information on making your HDV video more film-like. VASST has been providing film-look plug in tools for 2 years to the SD and HDV editing world, and some of their tips and secrets are revealed in this book.”

Download a Sample Chapter




0 Comments

Useful Article on Photoshop Automation

page15_blog_entry360_1
I just gave a useful class (at least people there thought it was) on Automating Photoshop. We touched on Actions, Scripts, Droplets, and Automation commands. I have a few notes pulled together on the topic and wanted to share them here.

Photoshop Automation Techniques

If you want a lot more on using Photoshop for Video, be sure to check out the book
Photoshop for Video from Focal Press.



0 Comments

Explore the Adobe P2 Workflow

page15_blog_entry363_1
Thanks to Rod Harlan for pointing out this cool podcast episode. Terry White has a great new podcast on using P2 media with Adobe products. Adobe is about to roll-out great support for Panasonic's cameras with the next software release. Get a sneak peak by watching this podcast.

Check out Terry White’s special 200th episode of his
Adobe Creative Suite podcast. He has as his guest Kevan O’Brien who walks through the entire process he used for creating a video podcast with Adobe Senior VP Johnny L.

Click here to see the “Making of” video with the full P2 workflow.
Click here to see the original video starring Johnny L in the DVA lab at Adobe San Jose.



0 Comments

Scott Kelby Releases 2nd Annual Gonzo Holiday Gear Guide

page15_blog_entry365_1
Thanks to Scott Kelby for releasing his very cool guide to gift shopping (for geeks and photographers at least).
“It’s here: the long awaited, unabated, triangulated, amalgamated, 2nd annual edition of Scott’s Gonzo Holiday Gear Guide!

This year’s expanded in-depth guide includes nothing but the coolest, personally hand-picked gear for the photography and Photoshop freak on your holiday list.”


0 Comments

Strata 3D in Photoshop

page15_blog_entry366_1
I just got done with a full-blown review on Strata 3D plug-ins for Photoshop CS3 Extended for Layers Magazine. I can't spill all the beans (my full review will appear in next month's issue). But I couldn't wait to point out a great new tool. Be sure to check out Strata Design 3D In. This very cool plug-in lets you bring in 3D models to your Photoshop projects. Sure. you're thinking doesn't PSCS3 Extended do that already? Nope... not this well. This plug-in ties into Vanishing Point and lets you match the models and lights to the perspective of your photo. Plus you get even greater control over rendering out lights and reflections. This tool is hot, and I highly recommend you try the demo out.


0 Comments

Free Online Seminar at Adobe.com – Sign Up for Your Spot

page15_blog_entry339_1Adobe is offering a free class that you can take on using Photoshop with their video products. It's a live online seminar and I highly encourage you to sign up in advance.

EVENT DESCRIPTION: Working with Photoshop Extended to use with Premiere Pro and After Effects
Join Richard Harrington, author of Photoshop for Video and Understanding Adobe Photoshop, contributing author for After Effects On the Spot, After Effects at Work, and Broadcast Graphics on the Spot, to learn how to prepare your digital images for video. Using the best professional techniques, bring your still images to life using Adobe Premiere Pro CS3 and Adobe After Effects CS3. Richard is also the host of the weekly show, Photoshop for Video and runs a blog with the same name at www.PhotoshopforVideo.com.
When: Thursday, November 15, 2007 10:30 AM-12:00 PM (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada).
Where: online & telephone
Sign Up:
www.adobe.com/go/dveseminars


0 Comments

An Amazing Website for the Land of Oz

page15_blog_entry338_1
Sci-Fi Network has a very cool series that "re-imagines" the Land of Oz. The show is called Tin Man, and while the show looks fantastic, it is an amazing promo site that deserves mention. They have created a really unique sub-site called The Infinite Oz which offers a virtual reality experience. What I like is how immersive and creative the website is. It also features the work of several up and coming 3D artists. Go take a look... really!



0 Comments

Which Photoshop is Right for You?

page16_blog_entry282_1
Seems many folks are confused by the wealth of Photoshop choices on the market... (Do I need Elements or Extended?) With five different products baring the Photoshop name, a little bit of sorting is in order.
Fortunately Adobe has all five products
compared on one single page to make your shopping process a little easier. What's nice is that they clearly break down the features as well as the target industries and activities for each program.
While you're there, you can read a quick blurb on
Photoshop’s 20 year history.


0 Comments

Learn More in iWork 08

page16_blog_entry272_summary_1
If you'll be at the Podcast and New Media Expo show this weekend, consider checking out these free classes on the show floor. Podango is offering an “Unconference,” a featured program of the Podcast and New Media Expo (PNME) taking place September 28-30, at the Ontario Convention Center.

Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace.
Read More...
0 Comments

A New Blog on Digital Video

page16_blog_entry272_summary_1
If you'll be at the Podcast and New Media Expo show this weekend, consider checking out these free classes on the show floor. Podango is offering an “Unconference,” a featured program of the Podcast and New Media Expo (PNME) taking place September 28-30, at the Ontario Convention Center.

Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace.
Read More...
0 Comments

I’m Back in the Pasture

page16_blog_entry272_summary_1
If you'll be at the Podcast and New Media Expo show this weekend, consider checking out these free classes on the show floor. Podango is offering an “Unconference,” a featured program of the Podcast and New Media Expo (PNME) taking place September 28-30, at the Ontario Convention Center.

Podango, the online video and audio network that enables publishers and advertisers to “get heard” by today’s hard-to-reach, niche audiences, is heralding a wide range of topics and speakers. They include: new media pioneer Scott Bourne, host of The Apple Phone Show; Paige Heninger and Gretchen Vogelzang, hosts of MommyCast; as well as Jason Van Orden, David Lawrence and others. Speakers will share ideas for building and monetizing audiences in today’s niche-oriented, interest-driven new media marketplace.
Read More...
0 Comments

Really Cool Actions for Photoshop

page16_blog_entry231_1

I've been meaning to post on this for a while (I am knee-deep in 4 books right now). Came across some incredible Photoshop actions from the talented PanosFX.com. The new Analysis action set contains 23 different looks that can make your photos into books, filmstrips, and photo spreads. What's nice is that these actions add realistic lighting and edges for a very believable effect. Another bonus is that things remain layered which means you can perform some level of animation in After Effects (or even the Photoshop CS3 timeline). The set cost $10, but is quite nice and a strong entry into my toolbox. If you'd like to see the quality of PanosFX, check out their generous Freebies. Quite a lot of cool things in there.

0 Comments

New Podcasts focusses On Software

It was a proud day at RHED Pixel (my office). One of our new podcasts made the front page of iTunes. On Software focusses on how software is developed, and features interviews with the creative folks who design and program the tools we all love.

page16_blog_entry217_1

(It's not every day that you're grouped with a presidential candidate, CNN, and PBS)

page16_blog_entry217_2


OnSoftware—Each week, we will talk to some of the software industry's leading developers about a wide range of programming and development issues. Our interviews include talks with Java Puzzlers author Josh Bloch, C++ Inventor author Bjarne Stroustrup, and Java Concurrency in Practice author Brian Goetz to name just three. With discussions on topics ranging from the future of C++ and Concurrency and value driven software development to Design Patterns, Agile Estimating and Planning, Iterative Development, Generics, and language compatibility, we have something for technical professionals working in every part of the industry.
Is it technical... yup. But I still think you'll find it
interesting.
0 Comments

Two Great Peachpit Podcasts

Friday May 18, 2007 Filed in: Adobe | Apple | Education
I wanted to point out two of my favorite podcasts that you should check out.

page16_blog_entry202_1
Peachpit Author Tips –
Looking for some frequent (and free) training on Adobe and Apple software? Then you should check out Peachpit’s Author Tips series. With three or four new episodes per week. you won’t want to miss this valuable training series. The episode is completely free (but you should subscribe so you get all the episodes). The series features several of Peachpit Press’s authors.

Get it on
iTunes or directly on the web.



page16_blog_entry202_2
Tech on the Road with Gary Paul –
This series showcases the latest technology as well as interviews with tech gurus. It's hosted by Gary Paul who works at Peachpit Press. The series offers a lot of great things to discover. Gary files reports from the many tradeshows that he attends including Photoshop World, the National Association of Broadcasters Show. and MacWorld.

Get it on
iTunes or directly on the web.
0 Comments

Great Tutorial on Putting AE to a DVD

page15_blog_entry201_1
Do you need to get your After Effects project onto a DVD for others to view? Bob Donlon (a video evangelist at Adobe) offers a great tutorial on his blog. Bob shows you in detailed steps how to take an AE composition and create an auto-play DVD (one without menus that just works). This is a great timesaver and I strongly encourage you to check it out (as well as the other great stuff on his blog).


0 Comments

The Lockergnome Makes Its Picks

page15_blog_entry194_1
Chris Pirillo and Lockergnome have released their list of picks for 2007. There's a lot of good things here worth checking out. You can see the full list here (and its growing). Here are a few of the ones that I found most useful (and think you will as well).

Terms of Service Comparison for Video Hosting Sites

Online Spreadsheets for Collaboration

Blog2PDF & deskFlickr for Windows

Starter set of 10 Tweaks for Windows Vista

FontRenamer for Windows

Sharable Web-based Whiteboard

Hope you enjoy...


0 Comments

Photographer's Rights

page15_blog_entry193_1
I have personally experienced harassment first hand when it comes to urban photography. In DC, one routinely gets threatened or chased off in the spirit of 'national security.' So it was with great joy that I came across this entry over at Stu Maschwitz blog. I also found another helpful post at John Nack's prolific blog on the same topic.

You can find a
great PDF here that describes the rights of photographers (and videographers) within the U.S. Print this out and place it into your gear bag for the next time you get harassed.



0 Comments

Holiday Shopping Guides for Gadget Loving Geeks

page15_blog_entry162_1
There are two great gift guides for the holiday season (both published by friends). If you need to find something for the digital geek in your life (or even just want something to give others ideas) then check these two out.

First, you have Scott Kelby's
Gonzo Holiday Gadget Guide.” This free PDF features a ton of cool digital photography and photoshop related goodies. All the products have been tested by Scott himself, which is cool as he certainly knows his stuff. You can download it from http://www.planetphotoshop.com.

The other guide is from Terry White (who is a true road warrior who works for Adobe).
The 2006 Holiday Gadget Gift Guide is an interactive PDF links to some of the coolest gizmos out there. Terry covers everything from digital video to frequent traveler to music lover. His choice are really very good.



0 Comments

A Truly Amazing Comic (On Copyright)

page15_blog_entry158_1
I’m still reading this comic, but it is absolutely amazing. Bound by Law is absolutely amazing, it analyzes the murky world of copyright law in a clear way. It is an excellent source on information for film and video pros as well as other creative professions. Published by the Duke University Center for the Study of the Public Domain, this comic covers the essential information in the most creative and entertaining way possible. It’s totally free and should not be missed.


0 Comments

The Director’s Cut – Now Available

page15_blog_entry152_1
I've just posted an old article of mine that I really like. It’s called “The Director’s Cut – Digital Video and the Power of the Macintosh.” It’s a fun article that shares a bunch of ideas on pre-production, production, and post. It was originally published in MacDesign Magazine (now called Layers). The article is totally free and showcases a lot of products and techniques that we use to save time and money over at RHED Pixel. I hope you enjoy.


0 Comments

New Freebies for Video Pros

page15_blog_entry145_1
I've posted some new items online to help spice up your projects and make your digital life a little easier.

Background Textures from Digital Anarchy
NTSC Test Image (For use with Photoshop's Video Actions)
Power Window/Vignette to enhance Film Look
Over The Shoulder Data Sets Template

I hope you enjoy. If you spot any problems, please let me know.


0 Comments

New Film/Video Group in NYC

page15_blog_entry146_1

While at NAB New York, I had the chance to catch up with some industry pros. I just found at that the New York Final Cut Pro User Group has evolved into a broader focus. The group is now called The Motion Pictures Collective.

"The Moving Pictures Collective fosters our professional filmmaking community to enhance their abilities and broaden their overall knowledge and skills to reach their career goals. With post-production as our core competency, we will share techniques, tools, and best practices in all competencies including editing, directing, writing, producing, and shooting. We will also promote member collaboration by sharing our work in a supportive environment and create opportunities for our members to flourish.”

If you live near New York City, be sure to check out one of their
great events.



0 Comments

Classic TV Test Pattern Now as Desktop Wallpaper

page15_blog_entry127_1

A few folks commented about my desktop pattern at a recent conference. It seems the old 'Indian head' pattern evokes some memories in many audience members.

Well the version I had comes from a Russian designer named Art. Lebedev. You'll find it and several other pieces of artwork on his
posters page. For the test pattern, scroll down to the bottom and you'll find it in the right column. All are free to download.



0 Comments

Missed SIGGRAPH? Want News?

page15_blog_entry116_1

If you couldn't make it to SIGGRAPH, be sure to check out these great video reports. Over at the Digital Production Buzz, you'll find several video podcasts with the newsmakers at SIGGRAPH. Additionally, you'll find additional podcasts from NAB and E3. You can subscribe to this occasional feed of video-of-interest here.


0 Comments

Macdinked

page16_blog_entry46_1In my efforts to keep you a member of the techno-elite, I bring you a new tech word.

MACDINKED – verb: When a designer (or client) continues to tweak a project beyond an appropriate level because they are technologically capable of doing so.

This word was brought to my attention by my Dad (and yes... I felt slightly aghast that he was more plugged in). Feel free to comment or add your own.
Email submissions welcome and there will be a prize for the best word each month.
0 Comments

Your Voice Matters - Computer Hardware Survey


page16_blog_entry48_1
Many of you voted in our survey last month about computer hardware. The results were very interesting with Macintosh taking a strong lead. In fact we weren't the only ones who were interested in your future technology plans. Inside Mac Radio featured the results of the survey on the daily Macintosh podcast for August 3. You can listen to it here if you'd like. Be sure to vote each month as your input affects the coverage of this site as well as which training products we release.

0 Comments

New Resource Page - Free Images

page16_blog_entry49_1
We've added a brand new page to our Resources section. Come search for “free” images at various government agency sites. Several websites offer images that are either public domain or have very generous usage rights. Be sure to read usage terms at each site.

We call them “free” as they were paid for with U.S. tax dollars (which means they are now free to use). Start to
explore now and find images for your next project (many of these are high-resolution as well!) Please share this page with your friends or students.

0 Comments