Page 01.pub - Institute of Videography
Transcription
Page 01.pub - Institute of Videography
also this month The official publication of the Institute of Videography Shooting a Civil Partnership Ceremony By Jason Michaelides Wacom’s Intuos A3 Tablet By Graham Stein Issue 136 - May 2006 - £3.50 Roxio MyDVD 8 Premier By Steve Wright INSTITUTE OF VI DEOGRAPHY Foreword Look Inward INSTITUTE OF VIDEOGRAPHY Contacts Administration & Membership Enquiries PO Box 625, Loughton, Essex IG10 3GZ United Kingdom e: [email protected] t: 0845 741 3626 (UK) t: +44 (0) 20 8502 3817 (Int.) Executive Administrator Kevin Cook F.Inst.V. e: [email protected] t: 020 8502 3817 Membership Secretary Martin Baker e: [email protected] t: 020 8502 3817 Executive Chairman Steven Abrams F.Inst.V. 2 Ingledene Road, Liverpool L18 3HJ e: [email protected] t: 0151 722 6692 Treasurer Steven Abrams F.Inst.V. 2 Ingledene Road, Liverpool L18 3HJ e: [email protected] t: 0151 722 6692 Arbitration Officer Ron Lee F.Inst.V. 13 Coleridge Avenue, Dentons Green, St Helens, Lancashire WA10 6RN e: [email protected] t: 0871 8713112 (Calls to this number cost 10p per minute) Assessment Administrator Chris Waterlow F.Inst.V. 78 Portland Road, Bromley, Kent BR1 5AZ e: [email protected] t: 020 8851 0105 Institute of Videography Ltd Executive Committee Derek Latimer F.Inst.V. Ron Lee F.Inst.V. Steven Abrams F.Inst.V. Robert Scarfe F.Inst.V. Peter Snell M.M.Inst.V. Mark Quinn Chris Waterlow F.Inst.V. Published By: IOV FOCUS Ltd 174 Roding Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 3BS United Kingdom e: [email protected] t: +44 (0)20 8502 3817 Editor: Kevin Cook F.Inst.V. News Editor: Martin Baker FOCUS magazine contents, and its logo, and the Institute Logo, are copyright of the Institute of Videography Ltd. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy, we cannot take responsibility for losses resulting from publishing errors of any kind, howsoever caused. IOV2006, IOV2007 and IOV2008 are trading names for IOV Focus Ltd Maybe I’m becoming a little this way myself, but its seems to me that we are fast becoming an industry of whingers. Videographers seem to too easily want to blame everyone else for their ills, instead of looking at themselves first to see if this might be the cause of their problems. Over the past months I’ve had several conversations with members about a perceived downturn in business. These calls normally follow a similar pattern, in that the call comes in under the guise of a completely unrelated question. Once that issue is addressed, up comes the old - “Are others finding things quiet or is it just me?” I normally get annoyed when others respond to questions with another question, but in these situations it’s the quickest way to get people to look at themselves more closely. Without exception, when I ask - “How are you marketing yourself?” - I’ve been met with a momentarily silent phone line. I’m not sure if that’s when the penny is starting to drop, but it sure feels like this is the first time they are considering whether the reason might be down to them and not prevailing market conditions. The conversation normally reveals that their business has continued to flourish on recommendation and their existing client base. This is fine, but when asked to examine how they gained these initial contacts The Cook Retort it’s revealed that this was from a era when they were spending time and money on gaining new clients. Regardless of what area of videography you are involved in, your client base will be subject to ‘churn’. Wedding videographers might do well for a few years on a circle of wedding-ripe clients (those with friends and relatives of marrying age) - but when you’ve exhausted these you’ll be back to square one. Similarly, those in the corporate market might do well out of a marketing department in a company, but when faces change so will their little black book of contacts. Whilst it’s not easy to balance a full schedule of commissions with the important practice of seeking out new clients, it’s the latter that will be keeping the wolves from the door further down the line. Ignore this and you’ll reach a state of commercial stagnancy quicker than you think. I’m sorry if anyone recognises themselves from this piece - but I hope it makes others look to themselves first before trying to lay blame with market conditions. In the cut throat world of business you have to speculate to accumulate - and that means in terms of both money and effort. Kevin Cook This Month FEATURES 14 Black Beauty 20 When the Pen is Mightier than the Mouse 22 Shooting a Civil Partnership Ceremony 24 Roxio’s MyDVD 8 Premier Mike Hughes carries out a detailed review of Canon’s XL-H1 HDV camera Graham Stein gets to grips with Wacom’s Intuos graphics tablet Jason Michaelides recalls his experiences in shooting a same-sex civil partnership ceremony Steve Wright reviews the latest home DVD creation package from Roxio REGULAR ITEMS 5 IOV News IOV and Industry News plus Local IOV Meeting reports 25 Classified Ads Sales & Wants / Products & Services 27 Trade Directory Subscribing Manufacturers & Suppliers 30 The List The Register of Qualified Members 30 Skills Talk The latest news and views from VideoSkills www.iov.com Focus Magazine May 2006 3 Industry News IOV News Industry, Technology & Regional News IOV Photo-ID Scheme The IOV is looking into the possibility of providing its members with an optional photo-ID membership card. This is a result of attempts to get the IOV involved in the UK Press Card scheme - which has so far proved fruitless. The UK Press Card scheme provides journalists and media professionals with a means of proof of identity which is apparently recognised by police forces and other authorities within the UK. To obtain a UK Press Card you must belong to one of the Gatekeeper organisations (see list on www.presscard.uk.com), which the IOV has been trying to become part of in the past couple of months without success. This initiative was instigated by IOV Member, Tim Martin M.M.Inst.V. of FHP Audio Visual in Wiltshire. Already a member of one of the existing gatekeeper organisations, Tim was experiencing problems in obtaining his UK Press Card and felt that the IOV would be able to provide a more efficient service in this respect. Tim also felt that this would be of benefit to other members who regularly require photo-ID in their work. Whilst the IOV will continue to lobby the UK Press Card Authority to allow it to become one of its gatekeeper organisations, we do recognise the immediate usefulness of a photo-ID solution for members - and we are currently looking into introducing this service within the current membership card design. Whilst the IOV’s photo-ID cards will not initially carry the same level of recognition, there that the special offer price of £295 plus VAT is coming to an end and any bookings taken for training dates after July 2006 will be Over recent months, several IOV charged at £345 plus VAT. The members have taken advantage of good news is that we are looking the VideoSkills special offer for for suitably qualified and one-on-one training. The big experienced tutors in light, sound, advantage of this over the set specific editing and DVD creation courses is that each session is packages.” individually designed to meet the Phil is not looking for people precise needs of the delegate. with formal teaching qualifications, This has included hands on, but anyone putting themselves practical tuition on light, sound, forward should have experience to editing packages, weddings, sports a very high level and be capable of coverage and specific cameracraft. designing and presenting practical, Talking of the expansion of hands-on training either at their VideoSkills, administrator Phil own premises or elsewhere. Wilson, commented: “In one Phil will be asking for instance the initial enquiry was showreels and putting candidates made on the Thursday and training to the test before confirming them was delivered less than 48hrs later as part of the VideoSkills network on the Saturday! The response of tutors. Phil added: “Anyone from clients has been tremendous expecting to get rich from being a - but there is some good news and VideoSkills tutor should not apply. some bad news. The bad news is The probability at present is, at are situations where it will be useful for members to be able to give additional assurances to clients and those in authority. The proposed service will be completely optional, but its anticipated that members may have to pay a small administration charge for setting up and renewing the photo-ID card. There will also be a process of ID validation, whereby members will have to complete an application supported by either their passport or photo driving licence. The initial thoughts on this are that this process will be carried out at local meetings, the Annual Convention or other official IOV events where applications can be made in person. Those members who have received their membership card in the past month will see the new design, which incorporates space to include the photo. If you have any queries with regard to this new service, please contact Kevin Cook at the Central Office. Kevin Cook F.Inst.V. [email protected] VideoSkills gets Personal most, perhaps 5-6 working days a year, but obviously this depends on the popularity of the different courses available.” More details are available from VideoSkills on 01482 304830 or by emailing Phil direct [email protected]. www.iov.com Assessment Results The Assessment Panel met for the latest session on 5th April 2006 when the following qualifications were awarded: Master Membership (Fellowship recommendation) Antony Meade M.M.Inst.V. (Harrogate, North Yorkshire) Master Membership Peter Hinkson M.M.Inst.V. (Lytham St Annes , Lancashire) Congratulations to the above. There were 10 applications this time, with only 4 weddings! The general standard of wedding films seems to have reached a plateau at the moment. While the overall quality is not too bad, there is still some lack of understanding of fundamentals which apply to all aspects of video production. People seem to be worrying too much about the quality of their Hi Def images when they cannot get some of the basics right. There are many examples of applicants submitting work too early when, quite apart from not really having that much experience with weddings, they seem to have even less experience with their kit. Don’t try to run before you can walk! We are also getting applications from people who clearly have not read the assessment criteria thoroughly. I get fed up with saying this time and time again, but before you send in work make sure you fully read and digest the information given at the following link www.iov.co.uk/assessment. Apart from the obvious things such as duration of work, there are other little gripes. Don’t send in more than one piece of work and ask us to choose which one to watch or leave it to us to pick the best one; it doesn’t work like that! Try and make it look as if you have at least spent a little time and effort on preparing it for the assessment. Don’t just join together bits of a wedding and think that will do; the piece has to flow properly. Sometimes the apparent lack of effort some applicants put into their submissions often borders on the insulting! The Assessment Panel are experienced professionals and can easily spot when little or no effort has been put into a submission. Don’t do it!!! The next cut-off date for assessments is 31st May 2006. Any work not received by that date will not be included in the June meeting – no exceptions! Chris Waterlow F.Inst.V. Assessment Administrator [email protected] Focus Magazine May 2006 5 Industry News PAL HVX200 Available Now JVC and Hitachi Join Forces Panasonic is proud to announce that the PAL version of the AGHVX200 is now available throughout Europe. Offering flexibility and versatility to video professionals, the AG-HVX200 provides 1080i and 720p recording with DVCPRO HD quality. The AG-HVX200 records onto a P2 card in 1080/50i, 25p, 720/50p and 25p, and 576/50i/25p at DVCPRO50, DVCPRO or DV compression modes. JVC is working closely with Hitachi to provide a wider range of camera solutions. In the UK and Ireland the current Hitachi 4:3 and the new 16:9 studio / ENG cameras are now available through JVC Professional’s authorised dealers. JVC’s recent camera development has been in the area of compact, shoulder-mount, HD camcorders, witnessed in 2005 by the launch of the GY-HD100. Hitachi cameras, meanwhile, already have a reputation for quality and reliability, with broadcasters traditionally being their main user base. The new collaboration between JVC and Hitachi will broaden the appeal of the Hitachi product through JVC’s extensive and competent network of dealers and will offer users an even greater support infrastructure. Whilst majoring on studio cameras, the arrangement between JVC and Hitachi also includes other specialist cameras. force behind tapeless and HD production,” said Chas Smith, VP and general manager for Avid's Video division. "Many European broadcasters are beginning to standardise on 720/50p, and during 2006 we expect to deliver a range of offerings that support editing 720/50p media, while also maintaining our ongoing support of native MXF-based P2 media." “Since its release in North America, we have seen tremendous success with the AGHVX200 and Final Cut Studio,” said Rob Schoeben, Apple’s VP of Applications Marketing. “The 1080/50i support in Final Cut Pro 5 will allow the same success in Europe, China and other 50Hz regions of the world.” The AG-HVX200 records HD and SD video on the P2 card as ‘Files’ that can be quickly imported into a nonlinear editing system or server, The AG-HVX200 inherits many of or edited virtually instantly from the functions of the AJ-HDC27 the P2 card by connecting the Varicam, including DVCPRO HD camera via an IEEE 1394 or quality images, variable frame USB2.0 interface. P2 cards mount rates and a cine-like gamma like a regular hard drive from a curve. In addition, the AGNLE system’s point of view, which HVX200 has a Mini-DV tape eliminates the time-consuming recorder and down conversion task of digitising footage. capability that allows productions With its pre-record function, the to shoot 720p VFR recording on P2 AG-HVX200 starts recording from cards and down-convert to 576 the moment it’s switched on, so recording onto DV tape. Once an users can feel confident that they ‘off-speed’ scene is on DV tape, won’t miss an important shot. productions can be edited on any With easy selection of SD or HD DV NLE software. recording, users are assured a The most popular HD format on future-proof migration to HD on the market is 1080/50i. The AGtheir own timetable. HVX200 allows producers to shoot The AG-HVX200 combines a 1080/50i or 25p (progressive native progressive 16:9 3-CCD mode) and enjoy 1080/50i or 25p high definition imaging system and editing with existing Avid, Apple, or a HD-quality Leica Dicomar wideCanopus NLE systems. Producers angle zoom lens with a smooth, and Broadcasters in the European cam driven manual zoom focus regions have access to 720/25p, ring, and aperture dial in a rugged including VFR and 720/50p package. On the 8GB P2 card, the recording capabilities offering great AG-HVX200 records for 32-mins in versatility in shooting options. P2 DVCPRO or DV, 16-mins in has been co-developed with 720p/25, DVCPRO50, and 8-mins Panasonic’s Partners in order to in 1080i/50 and 720p/50. The offer several workflow options. camcorder has two P2 card slots to “We are seeing a strong demand permit continuous recording and for our FireStore FS-100 DVCPRO the cards are hot swappable to HD portable disk recorder,” said assure non-stop recording. Like Michael Conway, senior VP of Varicam, the AG-HVX200 can business development at Focus capture fast or slow action in 720p Enhancements. “The FS-100 at various frame rates. allows users to record 90-mins of Audio performance promises to DVCPRO HD material with 1080i50 be superb with 4 channels of non or 720p50. DVCPRO HD users compressed 48kHz/16-bit digital requiring long duration productions audio in DVCPRO HD and will benefit from the high capacity DVCPRO50 and two channels in of the FS-100 and its compatibility DVCPRO and DV. The AG-HVX200 with P2 HD-capable NLE’s from comes with system interfaces Apple, Avid and Canopus.” (IEEE 1394 and USB 2.0) and also “We have committed to support includes two XLR audio (with +48 P2 format after the merger of Volt phantom power) inputs, a Thomson/GrassValley group,” said component (D4) output, composite Hiro Yamada, Founder and in/out, S-video in/out, audio (RCA) Chairman of the Board of Canopus. in/out, and a headphone output. “Edius Broadcast is already The AG-HVX200 is available now supporting all possible formats in at a suggested list price of €5,990. the HVX200-60Hz model For further details contact 720/25p and 50p editing will be Panasonic Broadcast Europe direct available at the end of June.” see Video Manufacturers in Trade “The AG-HVX200 is a driving Directory on page 29. 6 May 2006 Focus Magazine www.iov.com These include the High Definition ‘box’ style production camera, a compact-sized 16:9 SD camera, and also the fascinating POV (point of view) camera, used to get interesting camera angles in sports and outdoor activities. Ian Scott, Director, Pro Video Operation of JVC Professional Europe’s office in London, remarked: “For many years JVC has been fortunate enough in Africa and the Middle East to have exclusive selling rights for Hitachi’s fine range of studio cameras. The fact that the same arrangement now applies to Europe, and that there are to be 16:9 versions of the V-35, is fantastic news for JVC and for professional camera users”. For further details contact JVC Professional Europe direct - see Video Manufacturers in Trade Directory on page 29. Call for Lost and Rare Wildlife Film An ambitious new project to create a comprehensive collection of films and memories from 100years of British wildlife filmmaking is asking for help to find lost and rare films and memorabilia from pioneering filmmakers. For a century, wildlife filmmakers have been recording our natural world on film, often variety of personal and private collections, at risk of loss or deterioration and generally inaccessible to the public. Pioneering films from 1907 to the present day are to be included, as well as programmes from long-running series such as Zoo Quest, Look and Animal Magic, which helped inspire so many of today’s filmmakers. WildFilmHistory is giving priority to key landmark films and those programmes most at risk of loss or deterioration. It is also recording the oral histories of pioneering filmmakers and has started to capture their memories and stories for future generations. Additional materials, including books about the early programmes and photographs bringing viewers the first ever sightings of wild species and wild showing the filmmakers at work, are also being collected and places. Now with thanks to funding from the British Heritage catalogued. Launching in 2007, Lottery Fund (HLF) the WildFilmHistory will bring WildFilmHistory project has got together 100 years of wildlife off to a roaring start. filmmaking, providing an online Founded by Wildscreen, reference resource, as well as organisers of the world's largest enabling public access to the and most prestigious wildlife film festival, WildFilmHistory has begun collection, and an exciting the search for key wildlife films and outreach programme of film screenings and talks. The is looking for any information on project has already unearthed a private collections - as well as well persevered copy of the asking filmmakers to check their 1934 ‘Private Life of Gannets’ by lofts for lost tapes and memorabilia. All offers of help and Julian Huxley, a groundbreaking film that went on to win an support, as well as suggestions of Oscar in 1937. films to include, are welcome. Even though wildlife programmes If you have information on the are hugely popular and dominate location of any old wildlife films, can peak viewing, the programmes offer help, or want to suggest your favourites for inclusion - please themselves may only be shown contact Derek Kilkenny-Blake, once or twice - never to be seen Project Curator, on +44 (0)117 915 again. Many of the records are 7109. Or by email - derek.kilkennynow scattered throughout a [email protected]. Industry News High Def Evolution for Chroma Video Chroma Video Productions of Accrington, Lancashire has recently equipped its entire camera and post production suite with High Definition, which includes the JVC HD-101 cameras and state of the art edit systems. Proprietor, Lee Mannering M.M.Inst.V., is no stranger to pro media work as he was a professional child actor for several years, working along side the stars of the 70's including Ronnie Corbett and Diana Dors, and even with director Alan Parker. Lee had this to say about the HD investment: "I have only been trading for 4-years, but have been involved in narrative (story) film making for 30-years on both film and video acquisition. The JVC HD camera offered us interchangeable lenses, progressive scan and a good solid build which feels comfy on the shoulder helping steady filming. We have also equipped with Macs for DVD authoring and new PC's throughout which has also greatly enhanced our productivity. Chroma has grown over the last few years partly due to my Master Membership qualification from the IOV, and some great recommendations we have gained since day one. I view our membership with the IOV as something of a must-have and can only thank them for the clients which have come to us as a result of our membership." Chroma Video is a small business, but big on personal service, and started out primarily filming Wedding events. Today they produce all manner of videos for both local and national based businesses, film for other videographers, and last year filmed an event in Holland. My, Lee does get about with that camera! More recently, Chroma Video Production was nominated for Creative Innovation for East Lancashire within the Creativity Works Industry awards. For further information contact Lee Mannering on 01254 393683 or by email - [email protected]. EDIUS Pro3 Trial Version Offer Canopus has launched a new 30day trial of its EDIUS Pro3 v3.61 NLE software, which gives customers access to EDIUS Pro3 features, including native 1080i, 1080p and 720p HDV support and realtime mixed-format editing. This trial version also offers a sample of EDIUS Broadcast features, such as advanced metadata support, realtime native editing and I/O support for standard definition Sony XDCAM and standard, as well as high definition, Panasonic DVCPRO P2, the format used in the new Panasonic AG-HVX200 camera. Customers can download the software trial from the company's website at www.canopus.com. EDIUS Pro3 nonlinear editing software provides native editing and realtime processing of uncompressed SD, HD, HDV, DV, MPEG-2, and MPEG-1 formats. With its realtime workflow, EDIUS Pro3 lets professionals mix and share video content in multiple HD and SD formats and work with unlimited video, audio and effects layers, while providing realtime high quality, onscreen display. EDIUS Pro3 delivers increased quality and realtime performance through the company’s variablebitrate Canopus HQ codec. EDIUS Pro3 includes professional features, such as realtime batch capture from 1080i HDV cameras and decks, advanced audio tools and precise colour correction controls, designed to help editors create the highest quality productions. EDIUS Pro3 is also included with Canopus’s line of EDIUS hardware and software editing solutions, including EDIUS NX. For further details contact Canopus Europe direct - see Nonlinear & Hybrid Systems in Trade Directory on page 28. www.iov.com Focus Magazine May 2006 7 Industry News 2,000 Tracks! Prompt Solution Vinten has teamed up with Autoscript to bring you two portable production solutions that are conveniently packaged, reliable, fast to set-up and so simple to use; and with a host of new and exciting standard features that should make each production stand head and shoulders above the rest. Both systems utilise the purpose designed Vinten Vision iScript pan and tilt head with its unique platform, significantly reducing the time and effort associated with the attachment of a conventional prompting system; a pre-set counterbalance system tailored for the prompter system - so no more counterweights and wasted setup time - and all the performance you have come to expect from a Vinten Vision product. In addition, both systems are offered with the Autoscript GoPrompt 12 solution, offering a newly designed ‘speed mount’ hood/bracket, which easily slips into the head platform and is simply and securely locked off. GoPrompt also offers a multitude of performance enhancements such as switchable hi/lo brightness for indoor and outdoor use; 12V DC or universal mains; USB, wired and wireless connectivity for a variety of script communication options; and the unique ‘RAT’ remote wireless scroll controller for simple and reliable location scrolling. For location and production studios alike, scripted talking head sequences can be a drawnout and expensive experience especially when there is no prompting system available and the talent continues to forget their lines. Worse still are live situations where the pressure is on to get it right first time. The new Vision iScript Studio system aims to be the ideal solution for studio situations, comprising the newly released Vision Ped Plus with its perfect balance column providing super smooth on air control and a tracking/castoring skid allowing even more creative opportunities. For those who are constantly asked to produce longer pieces to camera on remote locations, the new Vision iScript ENG system has been carefully pieced together to offer everything you need to maintain production values in one robust lightweight package. Comprising a two-stage Pozi-Loc Aluminum tripod, lightweight ground spreader, iScript head and GoPrompt 12 and all neatly packaged into a very robust lightweight flight case. No more broken prompter glasses, no more lost brackets, and no more wasted time. The new Vision iScript ENG system promises to be the most convenient all-inone location production system you’ll ever need. For information on the GoPrompt 12 system - visit www.autoscript.tv. For further details contact Vinten direct - see Tripods & Camera Supports in Trade Directory on page 29. Register now for BT Vision British Telecom (BT) has announced that its national nextgeneration TV service will be called BT Vision. Claimed to be a world-first service, BT Vision combines digital terrestrial TV with on-demand film, TV and music programming, as well as interactive services, and will be launched in the Autumn. However, BT Broadband customers who want to be first in line for this service can register their interest at www.bt.com/btvision. BT’s most recent announcements of content deals for the new service include a deal with leading TV production company, Endemol, to license programming and develop cutting-edge interactive content for BT Vision. The company also recently signed a deal with Cartoon Network to license its most popular programming such as the Powerpuff Girls and Dexter’s Laboratory and to develop interactive content for BT Vision. BT Vision will also benefit from content deals already announced with some of the world’s biggest entertainment companies including BBC Worldwide, Paramount and Warner Music Group, factual powerhouse National Geographic Channel and with kids’ TV programming leaders HIT Entertainment and Nelvana. BT will unveil further big name deals throughout the year as it builds towards the launch. 8 May 2006 Customers will be able to choose from a wide range of on-demand film, music and television programming as well as a groundbreaking interactive and communications service, all available through their TV sets. The service will combine access to digital-terrestrial channels through the aerial with broadband-powered video on demand. This unique combination, delivered on a software platform powered by Microsoft and through a set-top box made by leading manufacturer Philips, will allow customers choice, control and Focus Magazine www.iov.com AKM Music has announced the release of two new CDs to its library of Copyright Free Music, and so celebrate reaching over 2,000 music tracks now available to the media producer. From starting in 1995 with a humble cassette of themes, AKM claims it has has now grown into one of most reliable quality Copyright Free Music production houses in the UK, with 64 different themed CDs and CDROMs used by broadcast and corporate producers throughout the world. The new CDs added this month include Guitar Textures (AK060) and Cinematic Moods (AK062). Which and can be previewed and purchased online at www.akmmusic.co.uk. convenience. Unlike other payTV services, there will be no mandatory monthly subscription. BT Vision will be enabled by the BT Hub, the device which is at the heart of BT’s strategy for the converged home. The hub will also allow wireless networking for the family’s PCs and laptops and up to five different calls to be made at the same time using voice over internet technology. Dan Marks, chief executive of TV Services, said: “Our choice of the name BT Vision encapsulates the qualities needed to make this offering successful and underpins how important our next generation TV will be in the converged world. BT Vision will be offered nationwide and will be not restricted to metropolitan areas and, as with Freeview, there will be no mandatory subscription.” Other services will include: an extensive library of movies, TV and music; catch-up TV, i.e. programmes from the previous 7days broadcast schedule; a Personal Video Recorder, storing up to 80 hours of programming; more than 30 digital terrestrial TV channels; communication services such as instant messaging, chat and video telephony; and interactive services such as online games, retail opportunities and community services. For more information please contact Laura Burch on 020 7479 4319 or email - [email protected]. Guitar Textures is a collection of electric guitar atmospheres and moods expertly played by Dan Morrissey. The CD features 11 tracks ranging from soft melodic rock to indie guitar, through to U2. Cinematic Moods has over 40 tracks of pure drama and filmic moods. A huge assortment of stings, short edits and underscores gives this CD real variety and flexibility. Until 31st May 2006, Focus readers can purchase either of these albums at the discounted price of £28 for audio CD, and £31 for the CD-ROM (normal prices £32.95 and £34.95 respectively). Prices includes VAT and postage and packing for UK orders. For overseas orders please add £4. To take advantage of this offer call 01926 864068 and quote this article. All AKM Music's tracks can be previewed and purchased at www.akmmusic.co.uk. Industry News Green Award for Creativity in Sustainability It’s become evident over the last 18-months that environmental issues have risen to the top of the news agenda. There are constant stories about the effects of global warming, climate change, polar ice caps melting, acid seas, deforestation, water shortages and flooding disasters. However, consumer behaviour and attitudes will not change overnight if they are still presented with advertising campaigns which promote mass consumerism and unbridled consumption. As marketing is a key driver of economic growth it is ideally placed to be a major player of responsible growth, and take a lead in solving some of these issues by persuading people to adopt greener lifestyles. There has also been a noticeable communications shift where some brands and organisations have started to produce campaigns which appeal to the ethical consumer and which raise awareness of the environmental benefits of their product or services. It could be argued that these brands are just paying lip service to the issues and are jumping on the green bandwagon - but it’s a start. The Green Awards were created to recognise excellent creative work that communicates the importance of corporate and social responsibility, sustainable development, and ethical best practice and to make brands and organisations aware of the importance of including corporate social responsibility within the creative process - especially when briefing creative agencies. They also aim to promote general debate and a forum within the media by putting some of the onus for change on companies and organisations as opposed to consumers. And finally, to develop the notion of ‘reform’ advertising, i.e. advertising which includes environmental and social considerations during its planning and execution - in addition to the traditional marketing mix. The awards will be given to brands or organisations that have demonstrated their commitment to these issues across different media platforms and marketing disciplines. Such as, by promoting a product or service which promotes some aspect of sustainability, e.g. fair trade, energy efficiency, waste awareness, etc. The ceremony takes place on 29th November 2006 at the historic Guildhall, London. The awards, dubbed a ‘green tie’ event, will be hosted by Penney Poyzer, presenter of the popular BBC series 'No Waste Like Home'. The Green Awards are already receiving positive news coverage at a time when sustainability is very much a hot topic within the media. The awards themselves will be made by sustainable designer, Oliver Heath, using recycled glass. One Water, the ethical water supplier at Live8, is also supporting the event and Media Guardian will be the principle media sponsor. The awards will be promoted through a targeted PR and advertising campaign as well as through coverage by the Media Guardian. They will also be promoted through the established CSR networks and direct approaches to companies and organisations who might be eligible to enter. The benefit of having entrants is that part of the rationale behind the event is to engage marketeers to start thinking about the issues surrounding sustainable development and responsible marketing. The event has 12 categories ranging from Best TV Ad to Best Direct Mail and two awards will be given for each category - one for campaigns whose value is over £100,000 and one for campaigns under £100,000. All entries have a standard fee of £50 per entry per category. Entrants can enter as many times in as many categories as they wish. Entries must be examples of work that have been previously published commercially or have www.iov.com been produced in connection with a marketing campaign on behalf of the entrant company. Entries are encouraged from the Marketing or CSR departments of any UK company or organisation that has demonstrated their commitment to an ethical, sustainable, organic service or product. Any entries from advertising, design or communications companies representing their clients are not acceptable, although these companies may enter if the work they are submitting represents themselves. All entries must have been broadcast or published prior to the deadline of 30th September 2006. For information telephone 020 7833 4791 or visit - www.greenawards.co.uk - for full details of the categories, judges and how to enter. Focus Magazine May 2006 9 Industry News Local IOV News Scotland South accompanied by some stunning Nigel told me By Tony Nimmo footage followed by a question and he had one Firstly, may I say answer session. extra item to thanks to all who Then after a short coffee break take back with attended - it was hands-on for the rest of the him and that especially those evening. This caused a definite was a blank who travelled a buzz in the room and access to the cheque! Just distance. A camera was also helped by Jim goes to show special warm welcome went to Barclay supplying a second camera for everyone to have a look at. how his knowledge and Geoff Baxter and Richard Potter. All I said was ‘JVC Hi Def’ and Nigel was surrounded for the demonstration impressed the we had 20 people eager to see the rest of the evening and by the time members. equipment and footage. Nigel Cliff the meeting was brought to a close from JVC gave a short educated the signs of the constant ear information on the products you talk about the products and the bashing were starting to show. can contact Nigel direct at technical aspects of Hi Def, However, as we were packing up [email protected]. South Wales Derek introduced the IOV DVD extremely successful and & Bristol and informative. A number of our Channel gave a short talk about the members took advantage of a If anyone would like further Find out about Local Meetings in your Area... The IOV holds meetings on a local basis throughout the year. If you would like to receive notification by email of when your nearest meetings are being held, simply register on the IOV’s website. You can then subscribe to receive automatic emails when new meeting notices are posted by the Area Rep. Existing members can edit their subscriptions using their normal IOV username and password. Full details of how to register and subscribe can be found in the ‘Using this Site’ section located in the upper main menu of the website. Scotland North Brian Rae - [email protected] 01224 313137 Scotland South By Jack Tristram IOV and laid himself open to one-to-one chat with George Our last questions and answers after his presentation to sort meeting was afterwards. out their particular problems. well attended George Pryce gave us his He managed to keep our Tony Nimmo - [email protected] 01555 661541 North East England Mark Williams - [email protected] 01642 651862 North West England Phil Janvier - [email protected] 0151 487 9338 S. Yorks, Humberside & Lincs. with 17 members and 1 guest showing presentation on capturing sound for video and introduced normally noisy crowd quiet throughout his presentation. up. I had also apologies emails us to some different types of Luckily for Derek he had an from 4 guests who were unable microphones and explained unexpectedly quiet night. to attend through Illness and which were the best types to one who had been called into use in the various situations, was they were very pleased work in his other job. and prices. He demonstrated that a member of the some surprisingly high quality Executive Latimer from the IOV sound from so-called ‘budget’ Committee had taken time out Bob Langley - [email protected] 0845 606 6593 Executive and George Pryce, the IOV’s captive sound guru. mics. The night proved to be to visit and that George’s presentation was first class. East Anglia & A1 Corridor Oxfordshire, M1 Corridor & get to our next meetings). This together with a substantial array NW London of hardware from Sennheiser and By Anthony some Rycote attachments, had We were visited by Derek Feedback after the event the prospect of the imminent sale of my house so that I we were may invest a little equity in much fortunate to have as our guest needed microphone upgrades speaker John Willett, Sennheiser (don't let my wife know!) Incidentally, apropos of her indoors as a possible glitch to my plans, did you hear recently that women deserve their reputations as shopoholics but we should be grateful that, though they shop regularly, they are not necessarily buying expensive goods. Men on the other hand tend to buy infrequently but when in the buying vain buy big and, not surprisingly, to hide our guilt buy secretively. “A new car in the garage? Well, yes, you see…”. The good news is John Willett that the microphones are a lot easier to CD editing and mastering (visit hide. The bad news is trying to www.circlesound.net). have hoped for a more knowledgeable mentor. John had kindly prepared handouts to accompany his PowerPoint presentation (further copies will be available for those who can 10 May 2006 Focus Magazine www.iov.com Midlands Bill Platts - [email protected] 01733 370922 West London, Middlesex & Herts. recent meeting cleanest sound, we could not North Wales & Borders Rowland Barker - [email protected] 01490 430507 Emerson Bovell - [email protected] 020 8575 2842 me personally mouth-watering at always aspiring to record the Roger Staniland - [email protected] 01652 631237 Jack Tristram - [email protected] 01792 816688 Barnett For those of us who are North & West Yorkshire South Wales & Bristol Channel At our most UK Ltd's Technical Applications Manager. Jim Panks - [email protected] 0845 838 1519 Oxfordshire, M1 Corridor & NW London Anthony Barnett - [email protected] 01536 526126 explain to someone who has not attended a talk by an expert like small mechanism in your hand cost £1500 plus! That may lead to a 'trial'. John put forward a strong case for the defence when he compared the longevity of a camera in regular use (3 yrs) to a good microphone (20-30 yrs). Essex, Herts, N, E & Central London Zulqar Cheema - [email protected] 01279 413260 West Country To be announced... Dorset, Wiltshire & Hampshire Colin North - [email protected] 01725 511688 Sussex, Berks, Surrey & SW London Mike West - [email protected] 01903 892951 Kent & SE London Add to that the years on our lives Peter Snell - [email protected] 01634 723838 from fewer frustrations with bad Northern Ireland sound recording and the prosecution hasn't a chance. Mark Quinn - [email protected] 01 835 3389 Hooray! John also has his own Republic of Ireland company - Circle Sound Services - If you would like to present your products or services at local IOV meetings - please contact IOV Rep Coordinator, Peter Snell, on 01634 723838 ([email protected]) specialising in location recording, Mark Quinn - [email protected] 01 835 3389 Industry News West London, Middlesex & Herts. By Emerson Bovell Birgitta representing Adobe gave us an introduction to the new Adobe Production Studio North & West Yorkshire By Roger Staniland This was definitely a meeting that really shouldn’t have been missed by any member of the IOV. The evening started with the showing of some of the IOV North Wales & Borders By Rowland Barker The meeting began by discussing some ideas for future events. Areas we thought about were events on lighting, editing and the current state of the DVD market. More on the timetable offering the latest versions of After Effects, Premiere Pro, PhotoShop, Audition, Encore and Illustrator - all combined with the new Adobe Dynamic Link. After giving us a brief outline of her involvement in video, Birgitta showed us some impressive improvements in Premiere Pro 2.0 and its integration with some of the other products. The one hour we had for the presentation after a late start was not enough time to do justice to this wonderful product. After the presentation, a few of the members present were seriously considering upgrading from their existing Premiere 6.5 to the new Adobe Production Studio. My thanks to Kurt Dallas for providing the Video Projector and Screen. Further information about Adobe Production Studio can be obtained from the Adobe website - www.adobe.co.uk. Q 2005 Awards DVD. It was then the turn of Phil Wilson to clarify the new qualifications white paper and the reasoning behind the proposal, which, he explained, is intended to move the IOV forward into a new era. The main reason for this is to reposition the IOV to be at the forefront of video production industry. Phil explained that it was necessary that the IOV qualification be acknowledged to signify excellence in the production of audiovisual work. This would open up other areas of opportunities for members and finance for the IOV as a whole in order to promote the membership. And then came…. the exam! I believe this was much enjoyed by the members present. I personally found it particularly invaluable as you then realise what you don’t know, but it makes you more determined to find out more. An incredible learning tool, and not one to be missed. Many thanks must go to Phil for such a eye-opening evening. The meeting eventually closed at about 11.15pm with many members going home with exam results, question papers and, I am sure, many thoughts. Q for those at the next meeting. If any members would like to pass on their expertise on any relevant subject at a meeting please let me know. On then to the main event Chris Waterlow and his talk on the Assessment process. Chris gave a wonderful insight into the process that he and the other members of the panel follow when assessing submissions from members. Not only did he give examples of how things can be done badly, but also some of creative and production excellence. Chris also gave us some of his thoughts and reasons why the assessment process should change. All-in-all a fascinating and enjoyable presentation. Thanks Chris. Q Mail Box Bruges Response I feel I must respond to the letter from Ben Bruges in the April 2006 edition of Focus Magazine. Ben raises the issue of civil partnerships and videography in a manner critical of the IOV for not promoting this service. Whilst this main purpose is to discuss a potential business opportunity, Ben also refers to ‘religion being dragged in as a cover for bigotry’ and that demands an answer. I am something very old fashioned, a God-fearing Christian man. I believe in God and I believe in the Bible, where God says what He means and means what He says. Two cities, Sodom and Gomorrah, (Genesis 19) were destroyed because of homosexuality. In Leviticus 18v22 it is described as detestable and in Romans 1v27 the Apostle Paul called it perversion. Quite clearly, irrespective of the prevailing culture in Britain, God does not approve. Now I am not condemning homosexual people, none of us are perfect before God, I am simply pointing out what the Word of God has to say about it and I’ve given the references if anyone wants to check for themselves. Before anyone calls this bigotry they need to carefully consider that they are actually calling God bigoted. In fact He is very gracious and that is what Easter is all about, but that’s another subject. To return to videography, because of what the Bible tells me I definitely will not film any civil partnership ceremonies. Equally I will not film pornography, which can be heterosexual activity. Were the IOV to issue a press release to the effect that members were willing to provide video services for civil partnerships, then I should feel unable to continue in membership. Other videographers may well decide that they will film civil partnerships. That’s fine, I respect your choice, but I would ask that there should not be the implication that my choice is bigoted, bizarre or shameful. Service Beyond Expectation After trying it out on their stand, I bought a PAG Orbitor on the first day of Video Forum recently (the Tuesday), and was pleased with the way it felt and how easy it was to use. I bought it from H Preston as they are one of their suppliers and who were also at the show. I decided to test the unit out the following day at home with one of my Sony HDR-FX1 cameras and, unfortunately, it broke at a rubber mounting joint. I contacted PAG by email straight away, knowing that they would be busy at the show all week, and did not expect a reply too soon - plus I was in no rush to use the kit. At the time I was not happy. On the Wednesday I had a phone call (one of five calls in total) from Alan Lavender the MD of the company who was very sorry to hear that I was having trouble with this kit. He vowed to make amends for my trouble, which he did very quickly indeed and in a big way. I live on the Isle of Wight and he flew the spare part to me in person on Saturday of that week in his own aircraft - plus he gave me other spare parts for my PAG lights as well - plus a newly upgraded belt for the Orbitor. The rubber bush has since been modified and I have a new one of those as well now. I cannot speak highly enough of this company - they are a real pleasure to trade with. If only more companies worked this way. If anyone has this piece of kit and the rubber mounting bush does NOT have a red top and bottom where it screws into the frame and support arm - please contact Sarah at PAG and they will sort this out for you without question I am sure. 12 May 2006 Dennis Cooper M.M.Inst.V. Encounter Video - Stockport I’m sure there’s a whole range of views and standpoints on this subject - which is why it would be impossible for the IOV to make any global statements as to its members’ viewpoint and willingness to accept such commissions. To give those that are willing to take these on a better idea of what to expect - see the article by Jason Michaelides on page 22. Ed. Maurice Gilliam PAG Comment The belt that Alan gave to Mr. Gilliam was just a general idea he was working on and wanted someone to try for him. Mr. Gilliam actually thought the standard belt on the Orbitor was better anyway. This is not a modification to the Orbitor. The rubber bush Mr. Gilliam mentions is also not an update. We unfortunately had a few failures due to the rubber used by the rubber company and have been replacing them under warranty, if they failed. I have already had one member enquiring about the ‘modifications’ and where and when can he have them. I am a bit concerned that IOV members may get the impression that the Orbitor they might have just purchased does not have the latest or best parts - this is not the case. Of course, if anyone does have any problems, with any of our products, we do go out of our way to ensure customer satisfaction and always welcome any queries. I really don't want to cause any misunderstandings with your members, as we value their custom immensely. Sarah Lavender ([email protected]) Well done PAG. Ed. Focus Magazine www.iov.com [email protected] - PO Box 625, Loughton, IG10 3GZ, United Kingdom It is difficult to know where to start this review having been confronted with so much sophisticated technology within the sleek black lines of the XL-H1. The camera supports a range of selectable shooting and recording standards - HDV 1080/50i, SDV 50i (with native 16x9 or 4x3 aspect ratios) and 25F (equivalent to ‘Progressive’) options with each setting. It records on to MiniDV tape and apart from the usual LANC functions can be remotely controlled in a very comprehensive manner from a computer with Canon’s optional ‘CONSOLE’ software. It also has a comprehensive array of AV signal connections – including a coaxial SDI (Serial Digital Interface) that provides uncompressed digital output complying with SMPTE 292M and 259M for use in integrated studios. The Stable As the latest in Canon’s XL product range it embodies pretty well all the features of the excellent XL2 plus many additional functions and, of course, it is a giant leap into HD. Indeed, there are so many features and functions that it would be quicker to say what the camera will not do - but that would make for a very brief write 14 May 2006 up and, certainly, not do justice to such a beautiful piece of equipment. At first glance it looks identical to the XL2 apart from the new all-black body and lens. Those who have got used to the unusual layout of controls on the XL2 will be pleased to know that there is no significant change in that respect. But there the similarity ends. The camera now sports over 60 assorted knobs, buttons and switches that are key to its versatility - but this inevitably creates quite a steep learning curve (and requires a good memory) to make use of its features. Nevertheless splendid results can be quickly obtained by using the camera in fully automatic or semi-automatic modes. The standard unit available in the UK is, of course, designed for PAL frame rates of 50i and 25F, however, at extra cost it can be upgraded at a service centre to be dual standard - PAL/NTSC. If the upgrade is carried out the camera can also operate in 24F mode to be compatible with cine. Video or Stills or Both Canon has taken a feature from the XM2 and made the camera capable of still photography as well as video. There is now a slot for an SD card (up to 2GB capacity) and a couple of ‘Photo’ Focus Magazine www.iov.com buttons. The aspect ratios of stills match the selected video recording formats. Resolutions range from 640x480 up to 1920x1080 and images are saved as JPEGs with ‘normal’, ‘fine’ and ‘superfine’ quality. It is not quite in the same league as top range dedicated still cameras but the results are extremely good and pin sharp - due, in part, to the excellent Canon Fluorite 20x lens. As an added bonus it is possible to take still photographs simultaneously with making a video recording - useful for storyboarding - and it is also possible to play a tape and grab stills from it to the SD card on the fly. The SD card can also be used to permanently store customised pre-set parameters that control the camera’s more sophisticated functions. The Lenses Lenses are interchangeable using Canon’s XL mount. The camera comes with a 72mm diameter 20x zoom f1.6 auto-focus lens that focuses down to 20mm on wide angle and 1 metre on telephoto. It looks identical to that used on the XL2 but there are differences. It retains all the same features that include two switchable neutral density filters and manual focus and zoom rings (both servo actuated). As on its predecessor the auto-focus can be switched in or out or temporarily over-ridden by the manual ring and there is a switch to select Canon’s proprietary double stage image stabilisation system (part mechanical within the lens and part electronic). Auto focus is extremely positive and the stabiliser gives the impression that material has been shot using a Steadicam – after sudden camera movements the image gently ‘floats’ to its new position. The lens also retains the ability to have preset focus and zoom positions that are triggered by a single button press. The speed of returning to the preset positions is adjustable via menu options - very useful for precise ‘focus pulls’. Review It differs from the XL2’s lens in that it will retain the preset focus and zoom positions even if removed from the camera. There are also features in the lens that are required to handle HD and still photo functionality. A new feature is the ability to adjust the lens’ back focus (or ‘Flange back’ as it is described in the manual). Providing that care is taken in using a suitable subject the back focus adjustment can be carried out entirely automatically and the camera goes through the sequence of zooming in and out and adjusting front and back focus without any user intervention. If desired, the procedure can also be carried out manually. Canon warn that although previous XL mount lenses will fit the camera not all the camera’s functions will be available - a point worth noting for anyone considering an upgrade with an existing set of XL2 lenses. As one might expect, Canon offer a range of alternative matching lenses including a wide angle and a manual lens that has end stops on the focus and zoom rings. There is an optional mount adapter that allows the use of Canon’s EF range of still camera lenses (for ultra telephoto work). There is also an optional ‘ratio converter’ that changes the standard lens’ focal length to provide the identical horizontal field of view in 4x3 mode as would have been obtained when using 16x9 mode. I have not tried this but assume it is simply a specially designed wide-angle converter. The Image Sensor and Sensitivity Each of the three native 16x9 1/3” CCD elements comprise approximately 1,670,000 pixels of which 1,560,000 are used when recording in HDV or DV 16x9 formats and 1,170,000 for DV 4x3. Compare this with 800,000 for the XL2 and only 470,000 for the XM2! It is assumed that the ‘unused’ pixels are used in the electronic stage of image stabilisation. This means that stabilisation has no adverse effect on resolution. ‘Green Pixel Shift’ technology is also employed to enhance horizontal resolution. Maximum sensitivity is specified as 0.4 lux at f1.6 with +18dB of gain and a shutter speed of 1/3 second. However, such a slow shutter speed would not be generally useful and I estimate that a more realistic practical sensitivity would be around 5 or 6 lux at full aperture and maximum gain. The Viewfinder As standard the camera has a 2.4 inch 215,000 pixel 16x9 TFT colour electronic viewfinder that is removable. As with the XL2 the large eyepiece and cup can be flipped up allowing the finder to double as a perfectly acceptable monitor - useful when working on a tripod in a studio. New features, to aid focussing, are options to enlarge a portion of the display or to apply ‘Image Peaking’ that enhances edge contrast. These options can be switched in and out without disturbing a recording. By pre-selecting menu options a variety of data, framing and ‘Safe Areas’ can be displayed plus, in manual mode, the lens’ focus setting in either metric or imperial measure. A Zebra Pattern can also be displayed with 7 setting options from 70 IRE to 100 IRE. The standard viewfinder can also be switched to monochrome mode via a menu option or, if desired, an optional 1.5” black and white CRT viewfinder assembly can be purchased. www.iov.com Focus Magazine May 2006 15 Review At the rear of the unit are two XLR inputs that can be switched to accept microphone or line level signals - this dual sensitivity is an improvement over the XL2 but affects both inputs as a pair. Slide switches can introduce 20dB attenuation to either or both of these inputs when used with microphones and, if required, an extra 12dB of gain can be added via a menu option. 48V phantom power can be applied to either or both inputs. The camera sports a panel of bi-directional analogue sockets – S-VHS (Y/C), BNC and RCA (composite) for video and two pairs of RCA sockets for line level audio. By using the selector switches it is, for example, possible to use the XLRs for channels 1 and 2 whilst using a pair of RCA’s for channels 3 and 4 or, alternatively, use two pairs of RCA’s for all four The Audio System channels - other permutations are When operating in HDV mode the also possible. camera supports either 2 or 4 If four XLR microphone level channel audio and for standard inputs are needed there is an DV it will record 2 audio channels optional attachment (MA-300) that fits on the ‘Advanced at 48kHz or either 2 or 4 Accessory Shoe’. It does not, channels at 32kHz. Audio sampling can optionally be locked however, supply phantom power. This is the same attachment as to that of video but by default is used on the XM2 and XL2. un-locked. Recording level indicators are Most of the audio controls and selector switches are located displayed in the viewfinder and repeated on an LCD panel on the under a hinged cover. These camera’s left side. The indicators include level controls for up to show only a single pair of inputs four channels, an attenuator for at a time but these are switch the standard microphone input, selectable. It should go without input selector switches and saying that there is a mini-jack switches to select AGC or manual output for headphones together control. It is also possible to with a volume control. parallel a single channel to its partner - to direct a mono signal Other Connections to both left and right tracks. The camera sports bi-directional As well as the standard IEEE 1394 (four-pin FireWire) microphone mini-jacks there are and LANC control sockets and, as three other pairs of analogue an enhancement over the XL2, is audio inputs. Standard Microphone The camera is supplied with a perfectly normal stereo electret condenser microphone mounted in a flexible clamp on the end of the viewfinder assembly and it plugs into a pair of mini-jacks. The clamp is designed for a 1” diameter barrel microphone so, as I have had to with my XL2s, it is necessary to lash up a diameter-reducing tube for smaller microphone barrels. A wind noise filter can be switched in via a menu setting. The standard microphone is perfectly acceptable for general ‘wild track’ capture and motor noise is only obvious in extremely quiet conditions. However, the versatility of the H1 comes into its own when external microphones and other audio sources are used. now equipped with a pair of BNC sockets providing input and output of timecode for synchronising multi-camera operations. Other additions (for use in integrated studios) are BNC connections for a ‘Genlock’ input and an HD/SD SDI (Serial Digital Interface) output capable of driving 30 metres of cabling. Also, tucked away (almost insignificantly), is a mini ‘Component Out’ terminal. The standard kit includes a cable that fits this mini connector and fans out to three RCA plugs. Flash but No Flood! The Advanced Accessory Shoe will also hold, connect to and synchronise Canon ‘Speedlite’ flash guns (as used on a range of their SLR still cameras). Yes flash guns! This at first may seem strange on a camcorder but it is reasonably logical considering that the H1 doubles up as a pretty good still camera. However, the shoe on the review model surprisingly would not power or control Canon’s own mini ‘intelligent’ camcorder light – the VL-3. Canon UK tell me that this should not be a problem but I could not get it to work - even 16 May 2006 Focus Magazine www.iov.com though the same lights (I tried two) work fine on my XL2s and XM2s. Internal Battery The H1 utilises a factory installed re-chargeable Lithium battery to maintain the internal clock and other memory settings. Unlike on the XL2 it is not user replaceable. It is charged and maintained from the camera’s main battery whenever one is attached. Should the Lithium battery lose its charge through lack of use for several months it is said that it can take up to 24 hours to regain a fully charged state. Canon advises that the typical working life of the battery should be approximately 5 years. If, however, it should fail catastrophically - or just start to lose its charge holding capacity it would have to be a service centre job to replace it with cost implications and losing the camera for a period of time. Practical Use & Handling It’s all very well having an incredible array of features, but fundamental questions are always about what it is like to use and how well does it work? Review As many others have said about the XL range of cameras - they take a bit of getting used to. Firstly they are notoriously ‘front’ and slightly ‘left’ heavy due to the large lens and viewfinder but it doesn’t take too long to get used to a different style of holding. The front to back balance can be improved by attaching the bolton back plate that is designed to hold an optional twin battery and charger pack (the back plate comes with the kit but the twin battery pack is an optional extra). This would be at the expense of adding extra weight. I have found that the Sennheiser W-100 radio receiver clips perfectly on to the plate and offers a reasonable compromise – as well as being a perfect mounting position – close to the audio inputs. Using the heavier, higher capacity BP-970G battery (rather than the kit’s BP-950G) helps to offset any imbalance towards the left. This also has the bonus of extra recording time that, with the larger battery, can be over 200-minutes in HDV mode and 240-minutes in DV mode. The greater hurdle for anyone new to the XL range is getting used to the positioning and functionality of the myriad of controls - as mentioned previously there are over 60 of them plus many menu options! It must, however, be said that once they have been learned the physical controls are quite convenient to use. Because of the number of modes and pre-settable options it is vital to get into the habit of doing a very thorough ‘pre-flight check’ before embarking on a project. For example - ensure that the ‘Tape/Card’ mode switch is suitably set (for video or stills); decide whether you are intending to work in HDV or DV and set the relevant switch accordingly (an LED warns if you are set for HDV). If working in DV mode, set another switch for 4x3 or 16x9 aspect ratio and then select 50i or 25F (progressive) or, if the camera has been upgraded to dual standard, there is a 24F option. Also, don’t forget to wipe the SD card if you are planning to take stills on the fly! The lens needs to be checked for auto or manual focus, stabilisation or otherwise, and that the focus/zoom pre-set switch has been set to ‘off’ (unless it is specifically required). There still remains attention to the zoom settings. There are two zoom rocker switches - one on the hand grip in the usual position and one on the carrying handle. The hand grip rocker can be switched to provide variable or constant zoom speeds (with 16 levels set by a thumb wheel). The handle rocker only operates at constant speed and is preset by the same thumb wheel. The handle rocker (together with a duplicate ‘start/ stop’ button - also on the carrying handle) can be disabled if required. If you have previously been doing unusual things with the back focus this may need to be re-calibrated! If HD lenses are removed they remember their last back focus setting. Colour bars can be generated and recorded with an option to include a 1kHz tone at levels of –12dB or –20dB and, if you really want to, you can also select automatic ‘fade-in’ and ‘fade-out’ for scenes. Very great care needs to be taken in selecting the right combination of switches in the When shutter priority is selected there is a special setting called ‘Clear Scan’ that, in conjunction with a menu, allows fine control of the shutter speed to combat ‘beat bars’ when recording a CRT image (or other strobing subjects). Aperture control is by means of a thumb wheel (that also doubles for a menu item selector). The directional sense of the thumb wheel can be changed via a menu to suit personal preference. The shutter speed is adjusted by means of a pair of buttons. During adjustments the speeds and apertures are displayed in the viewfinder beneath a useful ‘optimum exposure’ indicator that shows how close or far away ‘audio department’ - it would be you are from the best settings. only too easy to have the wrong Aperture and shutter speeds combination of inputs selected if change in steps that, to an this was done in a hurry. Such extent, are smoothed out. an error doesn’t bear thinking However, a degree of abruptness about! still remains in the recorded image if changes are made on the fly. In manual mode the AE When all else Fails Shift dial is disabled. From there on life becomes Apart from a straightforward easier. If you want to simply ‘Playback’ mode, three others ‘point and press’ then select the remain. One is called ‘Spotlight’ fully ‘Automatic’ setting on the that is supposed to help minimise main mode select rotary switch or, if you want to use a degree of the burning out of spot lit foreground actors on stage, but I manual intervention, you can select the ‘Semi-automatic’ mode have never found this to be and leave the lens on auto-focus. particularly effective on the XL2 and I see no difference with the You can then override the automatic functions or tweak the H1. Another is called ‘Night Mode’ (and is probably best ‘AE Shift’ dial for exposure avoided), which reduces shutter compensation (back lighting, speed and increases gain to try etc). It has to be said that the making the best of impossible auto-focus function is really effective and positive - with very circumstances. The manual itself warns that the image could leave little hunting - but we all know trails and be blemished! where we stand on that subject! The final setting on the mode Other operating modes provide selector dial enables the camera for ‘Aperture Priority’, ‘Shutter to be externally controlled from a Priority’ and ‘Fully Manual’. When computer connected via an IEEE operating manually you have complete control over all exposure 1394 cable - referred to later in settings but auto-focus stays in the this review. condition determined by the lens switch. Superb Image Quality The camera is definitely aimed at the professional or very serious and experienced amateur, with quality to match, and it is well worth the learning curve to be able to benefit from its flexibility and versatility. Once the use of its controls become second nature it is a joy to use. As you might guess for a camera with such a pedigree, the images it produces are absolutely stunning – not just in sharpness and resolution but also in tonal quality. I thought the XL2 was good but the H1 is in a league of its own! Indeed, the means of display that I have at my disposal cannot really do justice to its performance! What more can one say? ) www.iov.com Focus Magazine May 2006 17 Review Other Functions This review has concentrated on the camera’s more day to day features but there is much more besides and a lot hidden within the menu system - indeed too much to cover here. All the AV connections are bidirectional (both analogue and FireWire) which means that the camera can double as a versatile recorder from either DV or analogue sources. Analogue video input will, however, only be recorded in SDV format. A menu option will also allow the camera to operate as a ‘through connection’ analogue to DV converter. Many of the other hidden menu options are best left unchanged unless you know precisely what you are doing. Canon have gone to great lengths building in image processing options to permit high quality video to film transfer. There is an option to shoot in 24F mode but this is only available after a service centre upgrade. If it is necessary to make changes for special applications they can be programmed in to a pair of ‘Custom Preset’ buttons. Examples include adjustments to skin tone detail plus highly technical matters relating to the video signal quality - gamma, knee, black level, pedestal, coring, colour gains and phases plus the ability to tweak six axes of the RGB colour matrix. For more information on some of the more complex features and a detailed specification go to www.canon.co.uk/ Images/14_349972.pdf . devices via an IEEE 1394 connection. As soon as the FireWire cable was connected Windows recognised and identified the camera with no difficulty - but then to my surprise demanded that I should install a driver for the device. A quick rummage through the kit’s packaging proved that no driver had been supplied and, anyway, why should one be necessary? There had been no problems using the XL2 in identical circumstances! A hunt through the manual made no reference to any special driver being necessary, however it did refer to Canon’s ‘CONSOLE’ software that requires an upgrade to SP2 to ensure that the ‘AV/C Subunit’ protocol is I was not able to check if any similar interfacing problem exists for Mac users so I contacted Simon Beer of Production Gear (one of the camera’s distributors). He assured me that he has experienced no problems when using a Mac but could not throw any light on the Windows issue. Having committed to SP2 I downloaded the trial version of the CONSOLE software - mainly out of curiosity. Basically it takes over control of all the camera’s functions via the FireWire connection in a much more comprehensive manner than the LANC route - providing that the camera’s mode switch is set to ‘External Control’. It controls start and stop the 14-day trial version from: http://consumer.usa.canon.com/ ir/controller? act=DownloadDetailAct&fcategor yid=326&modelid=12152 . Summary When reviewing equipment or software I hunt for problems and bugs because these are often overlooked in manufacturers’ glossy brochures, but in the case of the XL-H1 I have been pretty well beaten. Technically the camera is superb with incredible flexibility both in functionality and connectivity. It should be pretty future proof, for a while anyway, and the images it produces can only be described as immaculate. The upgrade option to make it dual standard (PAL/NTSC) could be extremely useful – albeit at extra cost. Although it takes quite a bit of experience to make best use of its advanced features, the automatic modes are kind and forgiving and provide an easy way of getting into the more sophisticated functions and controls. The only negatives I was able to find are relatively trivial - the apparent inability to use a camerapowered continuous light (unless there was a fault on the review model) and the non-replaceable internal battery. For Windows users it seems essential to operate under XP SP2 but that should not be a problem for most people. It is, however, not clear if there might be an interfacing problem installed for the software to work recording, focus, zoom, colour with some Windows installations. balance, gain, AE Shift, aperture properly. Assuming that there A sensitivity of 6 lux with and shutter speed plus all the might be a connection I bit the practical shutter settings is not more complex signal processing bullet and applied the SP2 brilliant for use in difficult lighting features already mentioned. On upgrade to my test system and, situations - but professional users the computer screen it displays a lo’ and behold, everything came will have ways and means of replica of the viewfinder image right without any more requests getting around this. The real for a driver. Capturing into Edius plus a magnified version to aid crunch comes with the price, which focussing together with a vector then went without a hitch. is likely to be in the £5k to £6k scope display and video The AV/C Subunit issue is a bracket - but there is an awful lot waveform. The latter can be little unsettling because, from of functionality to be had for the selected from any line in the various Internet forum money! Although it is classified as discussions, it appears that quite image and, if required, display as a consumer product, Canon will an RGB ‘Parade’. It also allows a few Windows users are initially only be making it available the received image (including experiencing the same problem through a limited number of audio) to be recorded direct to with HD cameras of various professional distributors. the hard drive and will play back makes – even when using For more information contact Computer Interfacing Windows XP SP2! It is difficult to files from the drive. Canon UK on 08705 143723 or After recording some HD material determine whether this is a CONSOLE is a very clever and do a search using the American I thought the next stage would potentially useful asset costing Windows or a Canon problem. section at www.canon.com, be purely academic as I prepared around £350 - and it also Some people think it may be where there is a PDF of the to capture it into Edius 3.5 - but associated with the version of the functions with the XL2. complete manual (bear in mind I was in for a surprise. Unfortunately for Mac users it will it’s describing the NTSC version). msdv.inf driver and whether the I run under Windows XP Pro only run under Windows XP SP2. Currently there is not a full Windows installation was ‘clean’ SP1 (being one of those Space does not, however, permit manual on the UK site. or an upgrade. I have asked dinosaurs who dislike SP2) and Canon if they can throw any light more to be said about it in this have never previously had any review - but, if you already own on this issue but, at the time of Mike Hughes M.M.Inst.V. problems interfacing with AV an XL2, it is worth downloading writing, have not had a reply. Pic Productions 18 May 2006 Focus Magazine www.iov.com Graham Stein gets to grips with Wacom’s Intuos A3 graphic tablet With Illustrator, as the name suggests, it was very good at producing illustrative pieces when using the pen tool, paint brush, symbol sprayer, the warp tool and especially the mesh tool (which allows you to place a mesh into a shape then add colour and manipulate it to produce exceptional illustrations). Cutting Video Then there are Illustrator’s Firstly, Final Cut Pro. This took brushes, like Calligraphic, some getting used to, having Animal, Artistic, etc. Also, been used to a mouse, but I because Photoshop and found that it allowed me to do Illustrator are so compatible, everything a mouse did. The (symbiotic in fact), this means small advantage it did have was the rocker button on the pen that there are many effects that can be applied in Illustrator that you Out of the Mouse Trap allowed me into the contextual find in Photoshop - and this is menus just that bit easier and Now, having used a mouse for where the pen again comes into quicker. This may save time if the past 16-years and never its own giving that degree of you're in a hurry. having used a tablet before, it greater accuracy and control. The one thing it did allow for took a little getting used to, This may be a personal point with slightly increased accuracy especially when moving the of view, but having been an was working with masks and cursor across the screen. When Illustrator with an airbrush in the mattes for compositing. using a mouse you can lift it up middle 80's before computers However, with DVD Studio the cursor will stay in its and software took over, this kind position. You can then reposition Pro there wasn't much difference between a mouse and the pen as of compatibility and control as if the mouse and continue. With using a physical airbrush, pen, this programme doesn't require the tablet the cursor would brush or pencil was comforting much in the freehand always jump to where the pen especially knowing that if a department. The same was also touched (or was held just above mistake was made it was easily the tablet), so I continually found true of InDesign as this is just a corrected. page makeup programme. myself trying to find the cursor on the screen. Entering the To open a folder or hard drive Painting Pictures you tap twice on the icon - and Where the Intuos tablet did shine Third Domain once to open folders in the open was in Photoshop, Illustrator and Now we come to Carrara. This is window. There was also a small a 3D animation program like Carrara. rocker-type button on the side of Maya and Lightwave. This is also In Photoshop there was a the pen. If you clicked the end where the pen and the tablet greater feeling of freedom and, furthest from the nib it would came into it’s own, especially to a larger extent, a degree of give you contextual menus and when creating spline and vertex control - especially with the the other would allow you to objects. freehand lasso tool, brush and select multiple items. This could pencil tool, clone stamp tool, the Splines allow you to draw a all be done without physically 2D shape and extrude it into a eraser tool and the others that touching the pen to the tablet 3D shape. Vertex objects allow you can use freehand. This was and worked within 6mm of the also true when using layer masks you to create or import and alter surface. and drawing paths in Photoshop. 3D shapes or metaball objects - This is my first time testing equipment for the IOV and having to produce a write-up for it, so here goes. I was given the task of testing Wacom’s Intuos A3 Tablet, and being A3 in size found that I had to clear my desk of mouse and keyboard to make room. It came with the usual pen and USB connection and CD's that contained information documents and drivers, but using a Macintosh I found that I didn't need the drivers and just plugged straight in and away I went. 20 May 2006 Once these operations had been mastered - which took about half an hour - I was then able to start testing its Pros and Cons using Final Cut Pro, DVD Studio Pro, Livetype, Motion, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Carrara 5 and Corel Painter Essentials (which came with the tablet). Focus Magazine www.iov.com allowing you to create things like animals or peoples’ faces - or fire or flowing water effects - which require a high degree of manipulation. The Corel Painter programme that came with the Wacom tablet was also best used with the pen. The main effects that were available in this program needed that element of freehand ability to give the user the feeling of painting with gouache, oils, water-colours, etc. Though not tested, I can also imagine that this piece of equipment is a god-send for those who use CAD programmes. Conclusion The only downside that I noticed was that, even with Photoshop, Illustrator, Carrara - and the others like DVD Studio Pro, Livetype, Motion and InDesign you still needed a keyboard to an extent. This is because, in most of the programs, to change to a different tool it was much quicker to use the keyboard shortcut rather than moving the cursor to change the tool. Also, even in Carrara, to be able to create type you still needed a keyboard. Now, if Wacom could build in a touch sensitive extended keyboard at the top of the tablet so you could type and delete and perform one key tool changes (after all - there’s enough room!), that may just tip the balance for me personally. I would then have the best of both worlds - without having a crowded desk! Graham Stein Pelantya Productions “Fight! Fight! Fight! - Oi! Shrimp! Top field, 1.30… I’ll ‘av ya!” The recent exchange of views regarding Civil Partnerships has reminded me of the glorious heydays of primary school lunchtime fisticuffs challenges. Whilst providing entertaining reading (as well as the odd snort of derision), I thought it was a shame that the debate was the only coverage Civil Partnerships were getting within the IOV. Now, I’m not going to venture an opinion on whether the IOV should have made a proactive statement about the new law or not – my personal view shall forever remain locked within the hidden recesses of my mind for fear of reprisals. Instead I will attempt to articulate my own experiences and expectations as a professional who was seeking to grab a slice of a new market. Once Upon a Time in a Land not so far away… Early in November last year, the office of Rewind Films received a telephone call from Modern Commitments asking us to exhibit at their event a couple of weeks away at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London. It was a very hard sell with promises of advertising in every tube station and 15,000 visitors to the ‘UK’s first Gay Wedding and Lifestyle show’. “100% Gay, 100% Style” was the tag. The cost was extortionate – the same price for two days, as the National Wedding Show in Earl’s Court was for three days – but as I say the sell was a hard one. There were going to be the best of the best exhibiting there – and it was the Pink Pound, man! Double-income, no 22 May 2006 dependants, highly exuberant lifestyles – didn’t I know that the ‘gay’ have money and want to spend it? And with tens of thousands of gay couples in London alone, how could I not afford to get in there just before gay weddings were formally legalised? Finally, the day all homosexual couples were waiting for was arriving and as a dynamic new company I needed to be there! I would be the only videographer at a show that was to be attended by Elton John’s AIDS foundation amongst other high profile guests. Vive La Revolution! Furthermore, Modern Commitments was organising the first Civil Partnership in Bromley to take place on 21st December, the day the Act came into force, and wanted us to film it. I was flattered (correct buttons pushed, Mr. Salesman). Now, Bromley was the subject of a bit of a furore some months before when the local council initially refused to allow same-sex ceremonies to take place in any of its buildings. Only the threat of legal action by the Mayor of London caused them to back down (www.london.gov.uk/ view_press_release.jsp? releaseid=5805). Therefore the press interest around the event was to be immense and great exposure for my company! I must film this ceremony!... And, apparently I must do it for free. Alarm bells really should have gone off at this point. But did I fall for it? Of course I did. or registrars needed and the notice that has to be given. A Civil Partnership is a legally binding union between two people of the same sex. The union is consolidated when the two participants sign the Civil Partnership Schedule in front of a registrar and two witnesses. There is no official wording and there is no required ceremony; in fact, if the couple wish to have a ceremony at all, they have to agree it with the registrar in advance. This differs to a Wedding Ceremony, civil or otherwise. A wedding is solemnised when the couple repeat their vows – the “I Do/I Will” part (or variation thereof) is the actual solemnisation of the marriage. Even if they never sign the register afterwards, they are still officially married. Although they have now allowed Civil Partnerships, the government does not support gay ‘Marriage’ and, as such, the ceremony cannot take place in a religious building, or be blessed by a religious personage whilst at the premises of registration. This is why we’re not really supposed to call a ‘Civil Partnership’ a ‘Wedding’ or ‘Marriage’ as a ‘Wedding’ is the ceremony to form a ‘Marriage’. The Government expects between 11,000 and 22,000 people to be in a civil partnership by 2010. This represents between 1% and 2% of total legal unions if the numbers of marriages in the last four years of figures continue at the same rate (1,124,623 in 2001 to 2004 - www.statistics.gov.uk). A Little Group of Facts to Supplement our Tale On with the Show There are very few differences between applying for a Civil Partnership or for a traditional, heterosexual Civil Wedding service. The legal requirements are the same, as is the number Focus Magazine www.iov.com 15,000 visitors! Celebrities everywhere! Hmm… Without a doubt the exhibitors far outweighed the visitors and the only celebrity present was a Delboy impersonator (although he was very good). Where were all the exuberant homosexuals with fat wallets and nothing on their mind but an awesomely huge party? Not at the Business Design Centre, that’s for sure. So the show was a write-off. A few potentially good business contacts were made; other than that nothing was gained but a big lesson in advertising spending caution. To be fair, Modern Commitments were just as disappointed as the rest of us – they had really big ideas for the show but it just didn’t work. They say they did all the advertising – so why weren’t people flocking through the doors? ‘100 Gay, 100% Style’ have anything to do with it maybe? Well, I lost out there. But it happens sometimes and I still had the kudos of filming the Bromley ceremony amongst a great media horde. Celebration or Circus? The way the media frenzy was being described to me by the event organisers on the one hand excited me, but on the other worried me. At the heart of all of this, two guys were cementing their love for each other by entering into a legally binding union (Oh, damn it – a marriage. As was said in the IOV forum tirade - “If it walks like a duck…”) Sky News, NBC News and all the local media wanted their headlines, but the couple just wanted to get married - and I just wanted to film it well and give them a wonderful lasting memory of their big day. Or maybe they wanted the show? Maybe these two guys were the flamboyant, spendthrifts I was told I would meet at the Modern Life Expo. Well, I met them the week before the event… Article immediately hit upon a few obvious conundrums. Rewind Films always records the whole day from bridal preparations through to when the music stops. Strike one – bridal preparations. Err… which one’s the bride? Well, obviously neither is a bride, but which one shall I film getting ready? Are they even going to be apart in the morning at all? Will one of them wait at the bottom of the aisle and the other one come in or will they enter together? Will there even be an aisle? Who gives who away? Do I call them groom and groom or just the ‘happy couple’? Who’s giving speeches? Are Every page of the site has a there best men or chief photo of an impossibly hunky bridesmaids or both? Ushers? male in a Jean-Paul Gaultier pose Bridesmaids? Page boys? Flower or a beautiful lesbian couple girls? You get the idea. locked in an amorous embrace. I Well, twenty minutes later I was about to enter the land of had my time with them and did my best to reassure them that I the beautiful homosexuals at was there to record their day and last. A pub full of Hollywoodnot to be part of the imposing handsome men and Angelina camera gang. Although I would Jolies snogging in every corner. use the final edited DVD as part Err… well… no, it wasn’t. of my showreel, beyond that I What I did enter was a local pub that was plain in every way. wanted nothing from them. And It was filled with so much smoke as far as traditions and etiquette were concerned, I just came and dressed in such dank décor that I really should have seen old right out and asked how they had planned it. men nursing pints of bitter They decided there and then playing dominos in every corner. After coughing (discreetly) a few that they were to be called the times and adjusting my vision to ‘happy couple’. They had already decided that they would be see through the haze, I looked getting prepared together in the around hoping to pick out my morning, arriving at the pub new clients. together, going to the registry Pitt and Clooney? Not office together, walking down the exactly, no. Huddled together aisle together and generally not with the inter-faith minister who leaving one another’s side. was to be conducting their reception ceremony were two utterly ordinary guys. Two guys The Day Cometh who looked very nervous. Well, the huge media frenzy They were running late – a turned out to be two interviews newspaper photographer was the day before and a short local waiting for them, I was waiting radio spot on the morning of the for them, the owner of the pub ceremony, although there were wanted Jamie to start his shift about four photographers there soon and the boss of the for most of the day snapping launderette was calling Rogan to away constantly. see when he was coming back to So, no national media for my work. Add into the mix the logo to appear in and no hobfashion-designer-cum-event-conobbing with BBC producers that ordinator from Modern would end in swapping business Commitments, and the poor cards and promises of ‘doing couple were looking more and lunch’. But by then I was more like scared rabbits every relieved that was the case, minute. despite the lost opportunity to demonstrate to a wider audience just what Rewind Films is capable A Blank Page in the of. I just wanted to do the job I Rulebook love and give Jamie and Rogan a While I was awaiting my turn I memory to treasure forever. started to run through a typical So I went along to the wedding itinerary in my head and interviews and filmed them, as it The Crown & Anchor This is the local gay pub - where Jamie and Rogan hang out and where I was to meet them. A quick Google search tells me where to find it. It has its own website – www.gaybromley.com. Subtle! was all part of their experience, despite the extra time it involved. It certainly added an extra dimension to the shots – filming the filmers... Wednesday 21st December started at the Crown & Anchor for a pre-ceremony buffet-type thing at 12pm. Once again I crossed the threshold of ‘the only gay pub in Bromley’ but this time found the happy couple pretty relaxed and enjoying a drink with their friends (and looking very dapper). On from there to the Bromley Registry Office for the Civil Partnership ceremony itself, which was laid out just as with heterosexual weddings allowing for my usual two-camera setup. A room full of friends and family welcomed in Jamie and Rogan, as did a beaming registrar who seemed genuinely proud to be conducting the service. The ceremony was again pretty conspicuous in its similarity to heterosexual civil services, although there were sniggers from most guests and barely suppressed guffaws from many when the registrar spoke about taking each other’s rings and how they bind the couple together… I for one was glad of the stabilising capabilities of my 503 tripod countering my own mirth-driven shakes. From there a Mercedes (looks good on film) took the newly registered couple, and a Number 9 Bus (brilliantly original and allowed all kinds of cool shots) took the guests to the hotel. Here, the inter-faith minister conducted a very unusual but extremely moving blessing ceremony, and then on into the main room for the ‘wedding’ breakfast. The toastmaster announced in every VIP and after dinner speeches were given by both grooms and both best men. The cake was cut, the room cleared and the party began. There was the usual plethora of interesting shots to be had – all made even better by the fact it was a wonderfully sunny day. Ah – that’s more like it! There were certainly more amorous attentions on the dance floor than at all the heterosexual weddings I have filmed, but nothing more than that until we were treated to a flamboyant, over-the-top, overtly gay cabaret act. ‘3XS’ stole the show for an hour or so – a triple act including two transvestites. Filming these guys was a real experience, and when I commented on how long one of the guys’ legs were he rebuffed with: “Thanks sweetie – anytime you want to get between them…” Never had that offer before! And they all Lived Happily Ever After Heterosexual weddings will always have their Jordans and Peters. Civil Partnerships will always have their Eltons and Davids. To all intents and purposes there are no differences between the two types – both are at their core a declaration of love and commitment between two people. 68% of weddings were non-religious in 2004 (www.statistics.gov.uk) and that number is rising every year so the religious argument will soon be a defunct one. Every ‘wedding’ is individual for one reason or another. It’s what makes this job so much fun. Jason Michaelides Rewind Films Ltd www.rewindfilms.net Notes: More information on Moderen Commitments can be found on their website www.moderncommitments.co.uk www.iov.com Focus Magazine May 2006 23 Roxio isn’t a name or brand that I have noticed before – but it comes straight from the SONIC stables, the leader in digital media software. SONIC must have been the first serious DVD authoring package that I ever looked at, and at the time you would paid around £5,000 for an authoring set-up. SONIC still provide a vast array of highend applications for creative professionals, so I was keen to see what Roxio MyDVD 8 Premier was capable of. captured video. Before I had spotted this, I was capturing to a drive with only 2.9 gig left on it, so for a 15-minute test piece, I was asking for trouble. One of the effects of using the wrong drive (apart from not having enough space) is that the drive also become very sluggish. This lead to the picture being out of synch and intermittent loss of sound. As a test, I dragged the saved file over to another drive and played it. The result confirmed that the capture was not intact. So I re-captured the footage to the correct drive A Lot of Bang which solved the problem. for your Buck Creating a DVD Menu Costing less than £50, Roxio has background is fairly simple. You a very intuitive way of doing either choose a background or things. I’ve worked with various use your own artwork. There is packages and the ones I loath also the facility to ‘Extract Image are the ones where nearly every from Production’ so that you can decision you need to make is use it on the menu pages, etc. If made for you – such as where you are lazy and want to spend the menu/chapter icons will be more money – you can download placed on the menu/chapter additional menu styles (5 for pages. £17.17). For me, Roxio was like using For an extra £10 you can a desk-top publishing package, have the Creator 8 suite which where you had more-or-less full includes MyDVD 8 and allows you control of how you want it to look to compile 50 hours of music on and how you want to set up any a DVD; compress an entire 9GB technical issues. DVD to 4.7GB; and quickly restore your system with BackUp First Steps MyPC - amonst other things. First of all, Roxio will either Since I visited the SONIC import footage from another website, I have had emails from package or you can capture SONIC offering discounts on all straight into Roxio. In the their Roxio products. Free capture window you have product and driver updates plus information such as how much tips, etc. are available once ‘time recorded’ and ‘time left on registered. So well worth a visit. drive,’ and in brackets ‘how many gigs’ are left on the drive. Very useful for me, as I quickly Options and Settings realised that I hadn’t set up Roxio enable you to change all which drive it should be the project settings that you capturing to. would expect, such as PAL/NTSC The ‘Modify’ button allows 4:3/16:9, encoding settings, you to change the drive to which pixel ratios, interlaced/ folders are used to store the progressive, etc. And on that Inputs/Outputs Video: AVI, DV-AVI, MPEG-1/2, DivX, WMV Video disc formats: Audio: MP3, WAV, WMA, Dolby Digital AC3 Graphics: JPG, PNG, TIFF, BMP, GIF Input-only: Audio: audio CD, AAC, M4A, MP4 24 May 2006 Video: MPEG2-HD, IFO/VOB, DivX-HD, XviD, DVR-MS, TiVo, ASF, AVI, DV, MOV, QT DVD, Video CD (VCD), Super Video CD (SVCD), Mini DVD subject of interlaced verses progressive, the default was interlaced and the result was very visible. Two of my monitors have a 100Hz refresh rate which tend to make a bad picture look better, particularly on titling. Monitoring on an old TV allowed me to see it as some clients may see it. I was horrified and quickly changed the setting to ‘progressive’ which solved the problem. appropriate part of the timeline, the playline/hairline moves to that point. You can move clips around as you wish and edit chapter points with ease. One feature I didn’t find was the ‘Undo’ button, so I had to use the ‘Edit / Undo’ in the pull-down menu. I never resorted to using the manual at all because the pull-down menus and icons give you a great idea of the capabilities of this software. Even if you have edited your programme on your favourite state-of-the-art (lots of bucks) editing program, but at the DVD creation stage feel that you have maybe got your brightness/ Editing your material with MyDVD contrast ratios a little out, there is no need to go back to your 8 is simple and has a surprising array of tools and effects. Bearing editing system. Roxio does it right here, as well as saturation in mind the cost of this software, levels. it is the best that I have seen. When it comes to burning it The player controls and jog/ to DVD, you can name the disk shuttle wheel make it easy to get around. I’m used to compressing and watch a progress window showing the preview. the time duration of an audio clip – but compressing video footage Conclusion to fit a certain time requirement on a low budget DVD authoring My overall impression was that it piece of kit is a bonus. processes the encoding fast and You can also add text/ efficiently giving the user a good overlays, and position them range of control on each project wherever you wish with and comes at a very reasonable ‘professional’ tools like show/hide cost. I’m sure that when I have TV safe zone. read the manual, I’m going to get a lot more out of this product. Have a look at the web In Control site and check it out! I like to use shortcuts and Roxio What’s next? Well, I’m allows you to do that while you looking at its big sister - SONIC edit on the timeline - plus use rubber-banding to edit the audio. DVDit Pro 6 (£229:00) - which is You can grab the playline/hairline a professional DVD authoring software. and move along the timeline back and forth for accurate Steve Wright editing, adding FX, overlays, text TV2DAY and music. Notes: More details are If you click the mouse on the available from www.sonic.com Minimum System Processor and Memory Requirements For real-time MPEG-2 capture and burning: 1.6 GHz Intel Pentium 4 or equivalent; 256MB RAM (512MB rec.); 1024 x 768, 16-bit colour graphics card and 16-bit Windows-compatible sound card; 1GB HD space for program plus 1GB for every 5minutes of video. Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Home/Pro/ Media Center Edition (Service Pack 2), Windows XP Pro x64 Recordable media formats: Edition, or Windows 2000 Supports all popular formats: CD-R/ RW, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, DVDR DL, DVD+R DL, DVD-RAM Image (Service Pack 4 or later) - plus Focus Magazine www.iov.com Microsoft Windows Media Player 10.0 or later and DirectX 9.0c CLASSIFIED SECTION CLASSIFIED SECTION CLASSIFIED SECTION CALL KEVIN COOK ON 020 8502 3817 FOR MORE DETAILS Equipment & Service Suppliers This space could be yours… Contact Kevin Cook 020 8502 3817 [email protected] SALES & WANTS Sales & Wants Rates All adverts are listed here and at www.iov.co.uk for up to three issues/ months. IOV Members £17.63 Inc. VAT per item (per 25 words or part thereof) Non Members £23.50 Inc. VAT per item (per 25 words or part thereof) Cameras/Camcorders DSR300 Sony DVCAM With Fuji Lens - Quick release plate camera bag manual -head drum 788hours, includes 4 Batteries & 1DSM battery belt with chargers. Sale includes Sennhieser ew112 radio reciever & plug on transmitter with microphone also Manfrotto tripod etc. Sale is due to closure of wedding video business offers around £2800 please. Contact Keith: 01343-812955 [137] Email: [email protected] Sony DSR300AP Camera Kit With Fuji 12:1 Lens. 230 Hours - As New. Sony battery charger, tripod and dolly, soft case included. TOA Radio Mic System. £3,000 for all. Contact Tom: 00353 5521785 Or 00353 863485817 [137] SALES & WANTS SALES & WANTS CALL 020 8502 3817 OR ORDER ON-LINE AT WWW.IOV.CO.UK SALES & WANTS JVC DV5000E camera Fujinon 14x lens, tripod plate & manual. Superb picture quality, 527 hours, tested July 2005. £2000 Contact Martyn: 01978 350122 Email: [email protected] [137] NLE System & Camera Pinnacle DV500 Plus, with Premiere 6 in a PIII system built by Siren. Fully WKG and reliable. Supplied with a Canon XM1 - low hours usage - excellent condition and with case etc. £1,500. Contact Norman: 01925 411349 [138] Sony DSR 300 Camcorder Complete with 14X Fujinon Lens. Good condition with only 264 head hours. Also Anton Bauer Lifesaver dual charger and one Digital Trimpac battery. £2850 ono Contact Colin: 01992 461858 [137] Email: [email protected] Sony DSR250 Mint Condition. Comes with Hawkwoods 100W batteries x 2 plus charger, also Portabrace CTC3 carry case. Used as a backup camera. Very low head hours (19 hrs total). Bargain at £3,700. Contact Tim: 01962 860882 [135] Email: [email protected] Sony TRV 950 3CCD camcorder, mint condition, only 4 times used as back-up camcorder. Original cost £1,500. Will sell for £700 ono. Contact Mr. Uddin: 07957 108251 or 07830 383081 [135] Sony PD150 Sony DVCAM PDX10 Retiring - Complete kit for sale 3 chip camera Very low hours (about 30 Sony DSR 250 very low hours, 2 batteries with IDX v-lock housing, charger & tripod plate. Sennheiser W100 radio mic. Sennheiser ME66 with K6 module incl. carry case plus Rycote Softee & extension lead. IDX X3 LED Lite (brand new). Manfrotto 503 tripod complete with case. Manfrotto 522 remote handle. Tripod dolley. KATA professional case for camera & accessories. Complete kit £4400 (cost new £6473) Contact Colin: 07860 333444 or 01623 409704 Email: [email protected] [134] Excellent condition & low hours. Three hours. Tripod Plate. Very Good batteries and wide angle convertor £1095 Condition. £3300.00 Contact Mark: 01625 523237 Contact Alastair: 01789 765893 [134] Email: [email protected] [135] head hours) Almost mint condition with box and all supplied accessories. I have had a part-ex offer of £750, hence offers over that amount. 1 week only to decide. Contact Chris: 01252 662427 [134] Email: [email protected] JVC GY-DV5000e DV Camcorder Kit Ex-demo unit. 121 drum hours. FUJINON S16X7.3BRM-SD. "Pro Bag" carry bag. 3 x Pag Digital NMH60 Time battery. PAG AR Series 2 charger. Compact switch mode PSU. £3995 inc VAT. Contact Lee: 01458 252522 [134] Email: [email protected] JVC-JY-HD10 HDV Camcorder Stunning HDV 720 x 1280 pictures from this compact camcorder ideal second camera to use with the JVC HD100/01. Records in SD too. Just over 12 months old. Only run 15 tapes. Boxed inc many accessories. 2 x batts and editing sofware too. Full spec at http:// www.jvcpro.co.uk/item/index_html? item=JY-HD10 £1300.00 Contact Alastair: 01789 765893 [134] Email: [email protected] Panasonic AG-DVC200 3 CCD Camcorder 3 CCD DV Camcorder, Full size tape for over 3 hours recording. 16x Fujion Lens. Two IDX Endura 50 Batteries and twin charger. Low Email: [email protected] Computer & NLE Products Adobe Encore DVD 1.5 software New with user guide - not required due to system upgrade with pre-installed Adobe products offers around £180.00 Contact Kevin: 07802 691686 Email: [email protected] [136] Casablanca Prestige 80GB HD, DVD burner, excellent condition only completed 4 weddings and a truck show, boxed, £1195.00. Contact Alan:01782 560060 Mobile: 07788 793114 Email: [email protected] [135] Matrox RTX100 / Multicam software Matrox RTX100 (hardware only) £300. United Media Multicam 2-camera software (for Premiere Pro) - £100 (http://www.unitedmediainc.com/home/) Contact Rob: 07919 885210 Email: [email protected] [135] Continued… Call 020 8502 3817 or order on-line at www.iov.co.uk www.iov.com Focus Magazine May 2006 25 CLASSIFIED SECTION CLASSIFIED SECTION CLASSIFIED SECTION CALL KEVIN COOK ON 020 8502 3817 FOR MORE DETAILS Voice Over Services Insurance This space could be yours… Contact Kevin Cook Copyright-Free Music 020 8502 3817 [email protected] SALES & WANTS SALES & WANTS Computer & NLE Products Cont... Miscellaneous COMPLETE PC EDITING SYSTEM AND SOFTWARE 3MHZ PENTIUM4 WINXP SYSTEM, 1GB RAM, 256MB GRAPHICS, AUDIGY2 SOUNDCARD, SONY DUAL-LAYER DVD, 3 HARDDRIVES, SPEAKERS, PROFESSIONAL SOFTWARE. INCREDIBLY FAST AND RELIABLE. £1270 + VAT. Contact Beverly: 01622 204801 [134] Email: [email protected] DVD Duplication Equipment Two drive DVD Producer II Protégé. Includes Protégé II automation station with two 8x DVD+/-R recorders, Everest II PRINTER, STANDARD Dell Control Centre and Producer software suite including QuickDisc 2 and software developer’s kit. Input capacity up to 300 DVD/CDs. The Everest II Printer is a first class quality printing system. Price £6,000 plus Vat. Contact Chris Male 01425 625020 Email: [email protected] [138] JVC Monitor JVC BM H1400 14 inch professional monitor with component/YC/composite in and out £250 Contact Paul: 01269 860649 [136] Email: [email protected] Data Video SE800 Mixer and Camera Cable Kit New totally unused Datavideo SE800 Vision Mixer and Camera Cable kit still in original packaging. Would prefer to sell this complete with 300 meters of EEE1394 Cable and connections. For further information visit: www.miragedigitalvideo.co.uk/se800.pdf or email me. Contact Andy: 01253 596900 [137] Email: [email protected] Tripod and Monitor Vinten 10, 2 Stage tripod with head, 2 pan bars, spreader, soft case, plus dolly with cable guards & track locks £1,500 (MRP £ 3280). Sony PVM -902ME 9" Monitor £500. All equipment is in good condition. Contact Don: 020 8769 6425 Email: [email protected] [137] Recorders/Players Sony DSR 20P VCR Firewire in/out YC in/out. Composite in/ out 350 hours private use. Takes mini and large DV/DVcam Tapes. £850 Contact Paul: 01269 860649 [136] Email: [email protected] JVC BD-X200E DVD RECORDER "NEW" Creation of DVDs in real time. All-inone solution with no PC required Easy one-time creation of customised menu, that can feature corporate logo & name, department, own background images and colours. Simple creation of DVD chapters. Automatic creation of thumbnails for chapters and titles which can be edited Professional compression engine provides top class audio and video. Comprehensive range of digital and analog I/Os Compatible with NLE systems. PRICE AT A BARGAIN £990.00 INCLUDING VAT & DELIVERY [134] Contact George: [email protected] Sony UVW 1800 Plus Aluminium flight case good condition, T1:982-T2:94-T3:65 £2000 plus vat Contact John: 01279 414737 Email: [email protected] [134] SALES & WANTS CALL 020 8502 3817 OR ORDER ON-LINE AT WWW.IOV.CO.UK Total Training DVDs Adobe AE 6.5 (standard) - £175. Adobe Audition 1.5 - £100. Adobe Encore 1.5 £100. Adobe Premiere Pro 1.5 - £125 Entire set - £400 Contact Rob: 07919 885210 Email: [email protected] [135] Teletest OZL1702 7" monitor & Optex beachtec dual XLR adapter. Teletest OZL1702 7" monitor. 4/3 - 16/9 swichable. Takes Sony NP-F series battery and mains.(Neither included) includes good quality Teletest case/rain jacket. Used once, so in "as new" condition. £500 ono. Optex beachtec dual balanced XLR adapter. Suitable for any camcorder with a stereo mini jack 3.5mm audio input. Bought in error, never used, £200 ono. Contact: Alan 01655 883137 [136] Email: [email protected] DVD/CD Disc printer with 2 disc caddy Matisse Gold. Good as new in original box £150. Full details tel. Contact Roger: 01737 279889 or mobile: 0794 1250072 Email: [email protected] [135] WANTED Sony DSR PD150P/PD170P or similar 3 chip camera. Also reasonable priced tripod. Cash paid, can collect. Contact John: 07746-462695 [136] Email: [email protected] Casablanca Late model Contact John: 00353 85 7244810 DVCAM Back end for Ikegami camera New or nearly new. Contact Jamie: 01527 861911 Call 020 8502 3817 or order on-line at www.iov.co.uk 26 May 2006 Focus Magazine www.iov.com SALES & WANTS Commemorative Video & DVD Cases Animation & Graphics Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net Batteries & Power contd... Westgate Developments Derby House, 11 Rosebery Road, Langley Vale, Epsom, Surrey KT18 6AF Tel: 01372 800404 Email: [email protected] Web: www.westgatepower.com Audio Equipment Supplies HHB Communications Ltd 73 - 75 Scrubs Lane, London NW10 6QU Tel: 020 8962 5000 Fax: 020 8962 5050 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hhb.co.uk MediaAtlantic PO Box 5050, Derby DE23 8ZW Tel: 0870 161 5050 Fax: 0870 161 5051 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediaatlantic.com RPA 6a Juno Way, London SE14 5RW Tel: 020 3183 0000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.riverproaudio.co.uk Soundgenie Unit 2, Heybridge Enterprise Centre, The Street, Heybridge, Maldon, Essex CM9 4NN Tel: 01621 843200 Fax: 01621 843201 Email: [email protected] Web: www.soundgenie.co.uk Soundkit 12 Earle Place, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1NZ Tel: 02920 342907 Fax: 02920231235 Email: [email protected] Web: www.soundkit.co.uk Total Audio Solutions 3 Woden Court, Park, Saxon Business Park, Hanbury Road, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B60 4AD Tel: 01527 880051 Email: [email protected] Web: www.totalaudio.co.uk Authoring Video To DVD DVDIY Unit 4, Balksbury Estate, Upper Clatford, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7LW Tel: 01264 336330 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dvdiy.com Hattrick Studios P.O.Box 8, Whetstone, Leicester LE8 6WX Tel: 0116 2234 119 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hattrickstudios.co.uk Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net Samron Technologies 6 Middle Place, Rotherham S65 2HH Tel: 01709 511819 Email: [email protected] Web: www.samron-tech.com Batteries & Power DS Video Facilities Unit 27, Metro Centre, Britannia Way, Coronation Road, London NW10 7PR Tel: 020 8965 8060 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dsvideo.co.uk Hawkwoods Ltd Briscall House, Wotton Road, Ashford, Kent TN23 6LW Tel: 01233 638715 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hawkwoods.com IDX Technology Europe Ltd 34 Taunton Road, Metropolitan Centre, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB6 8UQ Tel: 020 8813 1666 Fax: 020 8813 1777 Email: [email protected] Web: www.idx.tv PAG 565 Kingston Road, Raynes Park, London SW20 8SA Tel: 020 8543 3131 Email: [email protected] Web: www.paguk.com Photon Beard Ltd Unit K3, Cherry Court Way, Stanbridge Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4UH Tel: 01525 850911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.photonbeard.com Camcorder Power Rhino Power & Light Ltd Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Buckinghamshire SL0 0NH Tel:01753 651444 Fax:01753 651334 Email: [email protected] Web: www.rhinopower.tv Camera Lenses & Filters IDX Technology Europe Ltd 34 Taunton Road, Metropolitan Centre, Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB6 8UQ Tel: 020 8813 1666 Fax: 020 8813 1777 Email: [email protected] Web: www.centuryoptics.com or www.idx.tv South London Filter Ltd 3 Richbourne Terrace, London SW8 1AS Tel: 0207 735 1900 Fax: 0207 820 1718 Email: [email protected] Web: www.camerafilters.co.uk Camera Soft Cases & Bags CP Cases Ltd Worton Hall Ind. Est., Worton Road, Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 6ER Tel: 0208 568 1881 Fax: 0208 568 1141 Email: [email protected] Web: www.cpcases.com TVcases 9 Elmsdale, Wightwick, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV6 8ED Tel: 07976 369776 Email: [email protected] Web: www.tvcases.co.uk Karina Krafts Complex 7, 34 Nelson Road, Ystrad Mynach, Hengoed, Mid Glamorgan CF82 7BP Tel: 01443 815595 Fax: 01443 862204 Email: [email protected] Web: www.karinakrafts.com RPA 6a Juno Way, London SE14 5RW Tel: 020 3183 0000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.riverproaudio.co.uk Warehouse Video Services Burnside, Horton Road, Staines, Middlesex TW19 6BQ Tel: 01753 689400 Fax: 01753 689401 Email: [email protected] Web: www.warehouse-video.co.uk Computer Hardware & Software CVP Imaging Solutions Ltd. Priory Mill, Castle Road, Studley, Warks. B80 7AA Tel: 01527 854222 Email: [email protected] Web: www.creativevideo.co.uk Hybrid Media Production & Distribution 7 Birches House, 245 Birchfield Road, Redditch, Worcestershire B97 4LR Tel: 01527 544883 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hybridmedia.co.uk MediaAtlantic PO Box 5050, Derby DE23 8ZW Tel: 0870 161 5050 Fax: 0870 161 5051 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediaatlantic.com Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net Quad Logic (Apple Video Expert) Unit 46, Station Road Workshops, Kingswood, Bristol BS50 4PJ Tel: 0117 970 1550 Fax: 0117 970 1440 Email: [email protected] Web: www.quadlogic.co.uk XS Computers Ltd 196 Kilmarnock Rd, Shawlands, Glasgow G41 3PG Tel: 0870 747 6484 Email: [email protected] Web: www.xscomputersltd.co.uk ZEN Computer Services 3 Carolina Way, Salford Quays, Manchester M50 2ZY Tel: 0161 736 5300 Fax: 0161 736 5303 Email: [email protected] Web: www.zenvideo.co.uk CD & DVD Recordable Media MediaAtlantic PO Box 5050, Derby DE23 8ZW Tel: 0870 161 5050 Fax: 0870 161 5051 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediaatlantic.com Microboards Technology Ltd 7 Harriott Drive, Heathcote Industrial Estate, Warwick CV34 6TJ Tel: +44 (0) 870 350 3581 Email: [email protected] Web: www.microboards.co.uk Multi Media Replication Ltd Unit 4, Balksbury Estate, Upper Clatford, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7LW Tel: 01264 336330 Email: [email protected] Web: www.replication.com RPA 6a Juno Way, London SE14 5RW Tel: 020 3183 0000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.riverproaudio.co.uk SkyCom UK Ltd Suite 17, 2nd Floor, Fifty7 Frederick Street, Hockley, Birmingham B1 3HS Tel: 0121 236 2594 Email: [email protected] Web: www.sky-com.co.uk Chromakey Supplies Bristol UK Ltd Unit 3, Sutherland Court, Tolpits Lane, Watford WD18 9SP Tel: 01923 779333 Fax: 01923 779666 Email: [email protected] Web: www.bristolpaint.com Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net Copyright Free & Commissioned Music AKM Music PO Box 3199, Kenilworth CV8 2ZP Tel: 01926 864068 Email: [email protected] Web: www.akmmusic.co.uk Chris Worth Productions 27 Stainesway, Louth, Lincolnshire LN11 0DE Tel: 01507 601546 Fax: 01507 601546 Email: [email protected] Web: www.chrisworthproductions.com Holdan Ltd Unit 2 Waterside Business Park, Waterside, Hadfield, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 1BE Tel: 0845 1304445 Email: [email protected] Web: www.holdan.co.uk Motcombe-Relf Music PO Box 254, St Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands GY1 4LH Tel: 01481 257804 Email: [email protected] Web: www.royaltyfree.cd2.com Smartsound powered by Datavision Russell Farm, New Road, Maulden, Bedfordshire MK45 2BG Tel: 01525 406886 Email: [email protected] Web: www.smartsound.co.uk Trackline Music Services 68 Alton Street, Crewe, Cheshire CW2 7QB Tel: 01270 665750 Email: [email protected] Web: www.trackline.com Dimming Equipment LCC Photon Technik Watt House, Pirbright Road, Normandy, Surrey GU3 2AG Tel: 01483 813814 Fax: 01483 811668 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lcc-lighting.co.uk www.iov.com Dimming Equipment contd... Photon Beard Ltd Unit K3, Cherry Court Way, Stanbridge Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4UH Tel: 01525 850911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.photonbeard.com Westgate Developments Derby House, 11 Rosebery Road, Langley Vale, Epsom, Surrey KT18 6AF Tel: 01372 800404 Email: [email protected] Web: www.westgatepower.com Dolly & Track Systems PEC Video Ltd 65-66 Dean Street, Soho, London W1D 4PL Tel: 020 7437 4633 Fax: 020 7025 1320 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pec.co.uk Drapes LCC Photon Technik Watt House, Pirbright Road, Normandy, Surrey GU3 2AG Tel: 01483 813814 Fax: 01483 811668 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lcc-lighting.co.uk DTV / Nonlinear Training CVP Imaging Solutions Ltd. Priory Mill, Castle Road, Studley, Warwickshire B80 7AA Tel: 01527 854222 Email: [email protected] Web: www.creativevideo.co.uk Symbiosis (FCP & DVD Studio Pro) 47 The Parade, Royal Priors, Leamington Spa CV32 4BL Tel: 01926 436930 Fax: 01926 885936 Email: [email protected] Web: www.symbiosis.com Duplication Services Double Vision The Studio, Half Key Farm, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 1UP Tel: 01886 830084 Fax: 01886 833783 Email: [email protected] Web: www.doublevision-videos.com Media Heaven Ltd Unit 12, Castleton Close, Armley Road, Leeds LS12 2DS Tel: 0113 244 3550 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediaheaven.co.uk Media Matters Technology Ltd 12-14 Somerset House, Hussar Court, Waterlooville, Hampshire PO7 7SG Tel: 0870 870 1123 Fax: 0870 870 1124 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediamatterstechnology.co.uk Multi Media Replication Ltd Unit 4, Balksbury Estate, Upper Clatford, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7LW Tel: 01264 336330 Email: [email protected] Web: www.replication.com MVS Video Alkham Valley Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7EH Tel: 01303 891468 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsvideo.com Penridge Multi-Media The Barn, Rashwood Meadow, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 0BS Tel: 01527 861911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.penridge.com RPA 6a Juno Way, London SE14 5RW Tel: 020 3183 0000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.riverproaudio.co.uk DVD & CD Applications Media Heaven Ltd Unit 12, Castleton Close, Armley Road, Leeds LS12 2DS Tel: 0113 244 3550 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediaheaven.co.uk Penridge Multi-Media The Barn, Rashwood Meadow, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 0BS Tel: 01527 861911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.penridge.com Focus Magazine May 2006 27 DVD & CD Replication Services Equipment Dealers contd... Field Production Cases 24-7 DVD Ltd 1 Ravenscourt Park, London W6 0TZ Tel: 020 8748 2247 Fax: 020 8237 1247 Email: [email protected] Web: www.24-7dvd.co.uk Intelligent Television and Video Ltd ITVV House, Norwood Street, Scarborough, North Yorkshire YO12 7EQ Tel: 0800 137423 Fax: 0800 0265050 Email: [email protected] Web: www.itvv.net Media Heaven Ltd Unit 12, Castleton Close, Armley Road, Leeds LS12 2DS Tel: 0113 244 3550 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediaheaven.co.uk Media Matters Technology Ltd 12-14 Somerset House, Hussar Court, Waterlooville, Hampshire PO7 7SG Tel: 0870 870 1123 Fax: 0870 870 1124 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediamatterstechnology.co.uk Multi Media Replication Ltd Unit 4, Balksbury Estate, Upper Clatford, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7LW Tel: 01264 336330 Email: [email protected] Web: www.replication.com Penridge Multi-Media The Barn, Rashwood Meadow, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 0BS Tel: 01527 861911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.penridge.com Samron Technologies 6 Middle Place, Rotherham S65 2HH Tel: 01709 511819 Email: [email protected] Web: www.samron-tech.com Gearhouse Broadcast Unit 12 Imperial Park, Imperial Way, Watford, Hertfordshire WD24 4PP Tel: 0845 820 0000 Fax: 01923 691499 Email: [email protected] Web: www.gearhousebroadcast.com Griffin Media Solutions 53 Regent Place, Hockley, Birmingham B1 3NJ Tel: 0121 212 0044 Email: [email protected] Web: www.askgriffin.co.uk H. Preston Professional Video 103 Worcester Road, Malvern, Worcester WR14 1EP Tel: 01684 575486 Fax: 01684 575594 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hpreston.co.uk LEQ Ltd (Lightweight Equipment) Room 156, Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Buckinghamshire SL0 0NH Tel: 01753 651444 Fax: 01753 651444 Email: [email protected] Libra Professional Broadcast Chester House, 91/95 Alcester Road, Studley, West Midlands B80 7NJ Tel: 01527 853305 Email: [email protected] Web: www.libraprobroadcast.co.uk MVS Video Alkham Valley Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7EH Tel: 01303 891468 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsvideo.com PDC Digital Solutions Ltd Palmerston Studios, Palmerston Road, Barry CF63 2YZ Tel: 01446 722503 Mobile: 07971 642269 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pdcdigital.co.uk PEC Video Ltd 65-66 Dean Street, Soho, London W1D 4PL Tel: 020 7437 4633 Fax: 020 7025 1320 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pec.co.uk Proactive UK Ltd 1 Eastman Way, Hemel Hempsted HP2 7DU Tel: 01442 253313 Fax: 01442 260913 Email: [email protected] Web: www.proav.co.uk PROKIT 111 Power Road, Chiswick, London W4 5PY Tel: 020 8995 4664 Fax: 020 8995 4656 Email: [email protected] Web: www.prokit.co.uk QAV Ltd 2 The Mount, Station Yard, Longstanton, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB4 5DS Tel: 01954 262100 Fax: 01954 262101 Email: [email protected] Web: www.qav-ltd.com Symbiosis 47 The Parade, Royal Priors, Leamington Spa CV32 4BL Tel: 01926 436930 Fax: 01926 885936 Email: [email protected] Web: www.symbiosis.com T2 Direct Bridge House, Royal Quay, Park Lane, Harefield, Middlesex UB9 6JA Tel: 01895 855655 Fax: 01895 822232 Email: [email protected] Web: www.t2direct.com TouchVision 6 The Riverside, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7SS Tel: 01252 823850 Fax: 01252 711702 Email: [email protected] Web: www.touchvision.tv MVS Video Alkham Valley Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7EH Tel: 01303 891468 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsvideo.com DVD Duplication Equipment Media Matters Technology Ltd 12-14 Somerset House, Hussar Court, Waterlooville, Hampshire PO7 7SG Tel: 0870 870 1123 Fax: 0870 870 1124 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediamatterstechnology.com Microboards Technology Ltd 7 Harriott Drive, Heathcote Industrial Estate, Warwick CV34 6TJ Tel: +44 (0) 870 350 3581 Email: [email protected] Web: www.microboards.co.uk Multi Media Replication Ltd Unit 4, Balksbury Estate, Upper Clatford, Andover, Hampshire SP11 7LW Tel: 01264 336330 Email: [email protected] Web: www.replication.com Penridge Multi-Media The Barn, Rashwood Meadow, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 0BS Tel: 01527 861911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.penridge.com Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net RPA 6a Juno Way, London SE14 5RW Tel: 020 3183 0000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.riverproaudio.co.uk SkyCom UK Ltd Suite 17, 2nd Floor, Fifty7 Frederick Street, Hockley, Birmingham B1 3HS Tel: 0121 236 2594 Email: [email protected] Web: www.sky-com.co.uk Equipment Rental Editing & Facility Hire Activelight Coppins, West Road, Stoney Common, Stansted, Essex CM24 8NQ Tel: 01279 414736 Email: [email protected] Web: www.activelight.co.uk Equipment Dealers Calumet Pro Video 93-103 Drummond Street, London NW1 2HJ Tel: 020 7380 1144 Email: [email protected] Web: www.calumetphoto.co.uk CVP Imaging Solutions Ltd. Priory Mill, Castle Road, Studley, Warks. B80 7AA Tel: 01527 854222 Email: [email protected] Web: www.creativevideo.co.uk 28 May 2006 Kitroom Monkey Limited Ealing Film Studios, Ealing Green, London W5 5EP Tel: 0845 166 2597 Mobile: 07739 806807 Email: [email protected] Web: www.kitroommonkey.co.uk RPA 6a Juno Way, London SE14 5RW Tel: 020 3183 0000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.riverproaudio.co.uk Equipment Service & Repair MVS Video Alkham Valley Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7EH Tel: 01303 891468 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsvideo.com Focus Magazine www.iov.com Grip Equipment LCC Photon Technik Watt House, Pirbright Road, Normandy, Surrey GU3 2AG Tel: 01483 813814 Fax: 01483 811668 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lcc-lighting.co.uk Insurance Companies Aaduki Multimedia Insurance 2d Cranmere Road, Oakhampton, Devon EX20 1UE Tel: 0845 838 6933 Fax: 0845 838 6944 Email: [email protected] Web: www.aaduki.com AUA Insurance De Vere House, 90 St Faiths Lane, Norwich NR1 1NL Tel: 01603 623227 Fax: 01603 665516 Email: [email protected] Web: www.aua-insurance.com Golden Valley Insurance The Olde Shoppe, Ewyas Harold, Herefordshire HR2 0ES Tel: 0800 015 4484 Fax: 01981 240451 Email: [email protected] Web: www.photographicinsurance.co.uk Towergate Camerasure Funtley Court, Funtley Hill, Fareham, Hants. PO16 7UY Tel: 0870 4115511 Email: [email protected] LCD Monitors MediaAtlantic PO Box 5050, Derby DE23 8ZW Tel: 0870 161 5050 Fax: 0870 161 5051 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mediaatlantic.com Lighting ARRI (GB) Limited 2 High Bridge, Oxford Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 1LX Tel: 01895 457000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.arri.com Cirro Lite (Europe) Ltd 3 Barretts Green Road, London NW10 7AE Tel: 020 8955 6700 Email: [email protected] Web: www.cirrolite.com David Lawrence Lighting Unit 7, New Lydenburg Commercial Estate, New Lydenberg street, Woolwich, London SE7 8NF Tel / Fax: 020 8858 2820 Email: [email protected] Web: www.studiolighting.co.uk Desisti Lighting (UK) Ltd 15 Old Market Street, Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2EQ Tel: 01842 752909 Email: [email protected] Web: www.desisti.co.uk Gekko Technology Ltd Deer Park Business Centre, Stoneleigh Deer Park, Stareton, Warwickshire CV8 2LY Tel: 07005 942686 Fax: 024 76 531844 Email: [email protected] Web: www.gekkotechnology.com Ianiro UK Ltd Unit 7, Walkers Road, Manorside Ind. Est., North Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcs. B98 9HE Tel: 01527 596955 Fax: 01527 596788 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ianiro.com Photon Beard Ltd Unit K3, Cherry Court Way, Stanbridge Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4UH Tel: 01525 850911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.photonbeard.com Studio & Lighting Services 3 Cedar Drive, Loughton, Essex IG10 2PA Tel: 020 8418 9848 Email: [email protected] Web: www.slservices.co.uk Lighting contd... Westgate Developments Derby House, 11 Rosebery Road, Langley Vale, Epsom, Surrey KT18 6AF Tel: 01372 800404 Email: [email protected] Web: www.westgatepower.com LCC Photon Technik Watt House, Pirbright Road, Normandy, Surrey GU3 2AG Tel: 01483 813814 Fax: 01483 811668 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lcc-lighting.co.uk Mini Cams & Special Facility Cameras Extreme Video Alexander House, 7-13 Rose Lane, Norwich NR1 1PL Tel: 01603 630555 Email: [email protected] Web: www.evgroup.co.uk Nonlinear & Hybrid Systems Adobe Systems UK 3 Roundwood Avenue, Stockley Park, Uxbridge UB11 1AY Tel: 020 8606 1100 Fax: 020 8606 4004 Email: [email protected] Web: www.adobe.co.uk Apple Computer UK Ltd 2 Furzeground Way, Stockley Park East, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB11 1BB Tel 020 8218 1000 Fax: 020 8218 1310 web: www.apple.com/uk/pro AT Computers (Apple Centre Glos.) 48 Barton Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucs. GL20 5PR Tel: 01684 291112 Email: [email protected] Web: www.atcomputers.co.uk Avid Technology Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Bucks. SL0 0NH Tel: +44 (0)1753 655999 Fax: +44 (0)1753 654999 Web: www.avid.co.uk Canopus Europe Unit 4, The Duran Centre, 14 Arkwright Road, Reading, Berkshire RG2 0LS Tel: 0118 921 0150 Email: [email protected] Web: www.canopus-uk.com CVP Imaging Solutions Ltd Priory Mill, Castle Rd, Studley, Warks. B80 7AA Tel: 01527 854222 Email: [email protected] Web: www.creativevideo.co.uk Datavision Limited Russell Farm, New Road, Maulden, Bedfordshire MK45 2BG Tel: 01525 406886 Email: [email protected] Web: www.datavision.co.uk Edirol Europe Studio 3.4, 114 Power Road, London W4 5PY Tel: 0870 350 1515 Email: [email protected] Web: www.edirol.co.uk Holdan Ltd Unit 2 Waterside Business Park, Waterside, Hadfield, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 1BE Tel: 0845 1304445 Email: [email protected] Web: www.holdan.co.uk Hybrid Media Production & Distribution 7 Birches House, 245 Birchfield Road, Redditch, Worcestershire B97 4LR Tel: 01527 544883 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hybridmedia.co.uk In-Deep 15 Abrahams Road, Henley on Thames, Berkshire RG9 2ET Tel: 0870 350 2450 Email: [email protected] Web: www.in-deep.co.uk MVS Digital (Sony Vegas) Unit 23, Wordsworth Business Centre, 21 Wordsworth Road, Perivale, Middlesex UB6 7LQ Tel: 0845 456 0801 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsdigital.com PDC Digital Solutions Ltd Palmerston Studios, Palmerston Road, Barry CF63 2YZ Tel: 01446 722503 Mobile: 07971 642269 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pdcdigital.co.uk Planet Video Systems 33 Bournehall Avenue, Bushey, Hertfordshire WD23 3AU Tel: 020 8950 1485 Email: [email protected] Web: www.planetaudiosystems.co.uk Nonlinear & Hybrid contd... Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net Siren Technology 178 Radcliffe New Road, Whitefield, Manchester M45 7RG Tel: 0161 796 5279 Fax: 0161 796 3208 Email: [email protected] Web: www.sirentechnology.co.uk Ulead PO Box 835, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7WE Tel: 01227 379481 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ulead.co.uk ZEN Computer Services 3 Carolina Way, Salford Quays, Manchester M50 2ZY Tel: 0161 736 5300 Fax: 0161 736 5303 Email: [email protected] Web: www.zenvideo.co.uk Outside Broadcast MVS Video Alkham Valley Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7EH Tel: 01303 891468 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsvideo.com Portable Power Rhino Power & Light Ltd Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, Buckinghamshire SLO ONH Tel:01753 651444 Fax:01753 651334 Email: [email protected] Web: www.rhinopower.tv Studio Lighting Design Video Accessories LCC Photon Technik Watt House, Pirbright Rd, Normandy, Surrey GU3 2AG Tel: 01483 813814 Fax: 01483 811668 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lcc-lighting.co.uk Photon Beard Ltd Unit K3, Cherry Court Way, Stanbridge Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4UH Tel: 01525 850911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.photonbeard.com Composite Video Ltd Unit 15, Liongate Enterprise Park, 80 Morden Road, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 4NY Tel: 020 8687 9700 Email: [email protected] Web: www.compositevideo.co.uk DVStuff PO Box 389, Maulden, Beds. MK45 2WG Tel: 01525 406886 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dvstuff.co.uk Holdan Ltd Unit 2 Waterside Business Park, Waterside, Hadfield, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 1BE Tel: 0845 1304445 Email: [email protected] Web: www.holdan.co.uk Keene Electronics Old Hall, Unit 9, Mills Bus. Pk, Station Road, Little Eaton, Derby DE21 5DN Tel: 01332 830550 Email: [email protected] Web: www.keene.co.uk Lektropacks Unit 6 Metro Industrial Centre, St. Johns Road, Isleworth, Middlesex TW7 6NL Tel: 08700 711 911 Fax: 020 8560 8050 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lektropacks.co.uk MVS Video Alkham Valley Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7EH Tel: 01303 891468 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsvideo.com Tape Stock MVS Video Alkham Valley Road, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7EH Tel: 01303 891468 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mvsvideo.com Penridge Multi-Media The Barn, Rashwood Meadow, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire WR9 0BS Tel: 01527 861911 Email: [email protected] Web: www.penridge.com RPA 6a Juno Way, London SE14 5RW Tel: 020 3183 0000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.riverproaudio.co.uk That’s A Wrap Sales The Boreen, Condor Road, Staines, Middx. TW18 1UG Tel: 0871 222 0808 Fax: 01784 465639 Email: [email protected] Web: www.taw.eu.com Warehouse Video Services Burnside, Horton Road, Staines, Middlesex TW19 6BQ Tel: 01753 689400 Fax: 01753 689401 Email: [email protected] Web: www.warehouse-video.co.uk Post Production Software New Media AV (Avid distributor) 25 Basepoint, Caxton Close, East Portway Industrial Estate, Andover, Hampshire SP10 3FG Tel: 08456 446663 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nmav.com Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net The Carpark (Red Giant Software distributor) 7 Lissadell Drive, Magherafelt, Co Derry, Northern Ireland BT45 5AR Tel: 028 7963 2614 Email: [email protected] Web: www.thecarpark.net Radio Microphones Soundkit 12 Earle Place, Canton, Cardiff CF5 1NZ Tel: 02920 342907 Fax: 02920231235 Email: [email protected] Web: www.soundkit.co.uk Total Audio Solutions 3 Woden Court, Park, Saxon Business Park, Hanbury Road, Bromsgrove, Worcs. B60 4AD Tel: 01527 880051 Email: [email protected] Web: www.totalaudio.co.uk Wireless Mics. & Ears Unit 2, Heybridge Enterprise Centre, The Street, Heybridge, Maldon, Essex CM9 4NN Tel: 01621 843200 Email: [email protected] Web: www.wirelessmics.co.uk Royalty Free Media Holdan Ltd Unit 2 Waterside Business Park, Waterside, Hadfield, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 1BE Tel: 0845 1304445 Email: [email protected] Web: www.holdan.co.uk Studio Facilities Picture It Studios The Studio, 50 Church Road, London NW10 9PY Tel: 020 8961 6644 Email: [email protected] Web: www.picit.net Teleprompting PortaPrompt Lane End Road, Sands, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP12 4JQ Tel: 01494 450414 Email: [email protected] Web: www.portaprompt.co.uk Tripods & Camera Supports Hague Camera Supports Mile End Road, Colwick, Nottingham NG4 2DW Tel: 0115 987 0031 Email: [email protected] Web: www.b-hague.co.uk Libec Europe Unit 7, Walkers Road, Manorside Ind. Est., North Moons Moat, Redditch, Worcs. B98 9HE Tel: 01527 596955 Fax: 01527 596788 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ianiro.com Louma UK Tel: 020 8959 3082 Email: [email protected] Web: www.verycam.com Manfrotto Tripods Distributed by DayMen International Tel: 0870 420 5113 (Customer Services) Web: www.manfrotto.co.uk Miller Fluid Heads (Europe) Ltd Unit 21, Ford Lane Business Park, Ford Lane, Nr Arundel, West Sussex BN18 0UZ Tel: 01243 555255 Fax: 01243 555001 Email: [email protected] Web: www.millertripods.com Vinten Western Way, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 3TB Tel: 01284 752121 Web: www.vinten.com Video Editing Hattrick Studios P.O.Box 8, Whetstone, Leicester LE8 6WX Tel: 0116 2234 119 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hattrickstudios.co.uk Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net Video Manufacturers Holdan Ltd Unit 2 Waterside Business Park, Waterside, Hadfield, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 1BE Tel: 0845 1304445 Email: [email protected] Web: www.holdan.co.uk JVC Professional Europe JVC House, JVC Business Park, 12 Priestley Way, London NW2 7BA Tel: 020 8208 6200 Email: [email protected] Web: www.jvcpro.co.uk Panasonic Broadcast Europe Ltd West Forest Gate, Wellington Road, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 2AQ Tel: 0118 902 9200 Email: [email protected] Web: www.panasonic-broadcast.com Pioneer GB Ltd Pioneer House, Hollybush Hill, Stoke Poges, Slough, Berkshire SL2 4QP Tel: 01753 789789 Fax: 01753 664001 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pioneer.co.uk Sony Broadcast & Professional UK The Heights, Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0XW Tel: 01932 816275 Web: www.sonybiz.net Video Measuring & Signal Processing HAMLET VIDEO INTERNATIONAL LTD Maple House, 11 Corinium Business Centre, Raans Road, Amersham, Bucks. HP6 6FB Tel: 01494 793763 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hamlet.co.uk GET YOUR COMPANY LISTED In Focus magazine and on the IOV web site - www.iov.co.uk from £145 per year (£20 for each additional listing) Call +44 (0) 20 8502 3817 for details... All these benefits from a trade subscription of just £145 p.a: Listing in the Trade Directory of Focus magazine Listing in the searchable Trade Directory on the IOV web site www.iov.co.uk Link from the IOV web site Trade Directory to your own web site Automatic discounts on advertising Discounts on IOV Convention exhibition space Priority consideration of your company news/press releases for publication in Focus magazine Priority introduction to IOV regional meetings Product reviews undertaken by professionals in true working situations And last, but not least, our excellent magazine delivered every month to your door! Video Streaming Planet PC The Old School, 690 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, West Yorkshire BD11 2DR Tel: 01274 713400 Web: www.planetdv.net Additional Headings Welcome! Voiceover Services Colin Days Overnight Voiceovers The Old Rectory, Ombersley, Worcs. WR9 0EW Tel: 01562 822222 Email: [email protected] Web: www.voiceover-uk.co.uk First Person Digital Media 40 Viaduct Drive, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV6 0UX Tel: 01902 772455 Email: [email protected] Web: www.firstpersondigitalmedia.com Geoffrey Annis 261 Boothferry Road, Hessle, East Yorkshire HU13 0NG Tel: 01482 647461 Email: [email protected] Web: www.voiceovers.co.uk/geoffrey.annis www.iov.com Call Kevin Cook (Sales) on +44 (0) 20 8502 3817 Kevin Cook IOV Focus Limited PO Box 625 Loughton IG10 3GZ United Kingdom Email: [email protected] Focus Magazine May 2006 29 David Howles M.M.Inst.V. Phil Janvier M.M.Inst.V. Thomas Jones M.M.Inst.V. Ron Lee F.Inst.V. Lee Mannering M.M.Inst.V. Van Martin M.M.Inst.V. Mirage Digital Video Productions * Gordon Moore M.M.Inst.V. Jeffrey Mortimer M.M.Inst.V. Jason Naylor M.M.Inst.V. Mark Newbolt M.M.Inst.V. Peter Parker M.M.Inst.V. Geoff Proctor M.M.Inst.V. David Royle M.M.Inst.V. Steven Smith M.M.Inst.V. Ken Stott M.M.Inst.V. Carl Stredder M.M.Inst.V. The Graham Fenton Experience * Peter Thornton M.M.Inst.V. Mike Waring M.M.Inst.V. Les White M.M.Inst.V. Des Williams M.M.Inst.V. Tony Williams M.M.Inst.V. 1a 1b 2 Kevin Winn M.M.Inst.V. Andrew Blow M.M.Inst.V. Broadcast Media Services * John Goodwin M.M.Inst.V. Chris Goulden M.M.Inst.V. Philip Groves M.M.Inst.V. Lynne Hamilton M.M.Inst.V. Nick Kirk F.Inst.V. Geoff Knight F.Inst.V. Adrian Medforth M.M.Inst.V. Ben Newth M.M.Inst.V. Alfred Overy M.M.Inst.V. Gordon Simpson F.Inst.V. Mike Walker F.Inst.V. Robin Walters M.M.Inst.V. Philip Wilson F.Inst.V. 4 3 19 5 6 7 10 8 9 13 14 11 15 16 - Channel Is. THE LIST is designed to help qualified IOV members to share work on a national scale and for potential clients to find the right kind of videographer for their needs. The List is divided into geographical areas, as shown above, and specialist work types as listed below... Corporate, Industrial & Commercial Video Services Wedding & Celebrational Video Services Freelance Camera Operator Freelance Audio Engineer Freelance Lighting Technician Freelance Directing Script Writing Freelance Production Assistant Presenter and Voice-overs Graphic Design & Animation Services Freelance Editing Services Training Broadcast Production Special Interest Videos Steadicam Operator Underwater Videographer 01847 01224 01382 01764 Danny Hart M.M.Inst.V. Trevor Jenkins M.M.Inst.V. Guy Kinder M.M.Inst.V. Wendy Love F.Inst.V. Graham Mackay M.M.Inst.V. Douglas Miller M.M.Inst.V. Lee Mulholland M.M.Inst.V. Ken Neil F.Inst.V. Tony Nimmo M.M.Inst.V Pro-Create.Co.Uk * Jonathan Robertson M.M.Inst.V. Paul Russell F.Inst.V. Steve Towle M.M.Inst.V. Michael Ward M.M.Inst.V. Graeme Brown M.M.Inst.V. Jack Buchanan M.M.Inst.V. Jim Closs M.M.Inst.V. Alex Crosbie M.M.Inst.V. 01563 542195 020 8551 9399 0131 221 1697 0141 954 0840 01236 730770 01555 860382 01294 217382 0141 779 3915 01555 661541 0141 587 1609 0131 476 5432 01563 523424 0131 561 6280 0141 644 1136 01577 865000 0141 643 1651 0131 667 2086 01555 663023 Midlands (Area 6) AB P 01388 605386 0191 270 9063 01325 241821 07786 705066 01661 844542 01429 824177 0191 549 3675 0191 252 7354 North West England (Area 3) Chris Abram M.M.Inst.V. Steven Abrams F.Inst.V. Matthew Aindow M.M.Inst.V. Graham Baldwin M.M.Inst.V. Mark Barnes M.M.Inst.V. Dave Barrow M.M.Inst.V. Roy Beaumont Swindlehurst M.M.Inst.V. David Brindley M.M.Inst.V. Philip Chrystal M.M.Inst.V. Dennis Cooper M.M.Inst.V. Paul Cragg M.M.Inst.V. Chris Dell M.M.Inst.V. Trevor Draycott M.M.Inst.V. Jack Ebden M.M.Inst.V. Steve Edwards M.M.Inst.V. Nick Farrimond M.M.Inst.V. Jimmy Goodinson F.Inst.V. Gavin Gration M.M.Inst.V. Peter Hinkson M.M.Inst.V. John Hodgson M.M.Inst.V. 30 May 2006 AKN AB ABKN ABCD ACKN ABCJK 01524 736573 0151 722 6692 01204 843549 01257 264303 01706 879717 01254 830823 01254 679625 01772 458300 01204 604840 0161 427 0661 01204 847974 01772 622522 01772 705876 0161 428 9646 01942 703166 01254 830823 01204 576826 07930 431662 AB ACFGIKM ABCJ ABCK ACFGKL ACDFGIKN ABC BK AB ABCG ABCDEFHIKMN ABC ABCFGJ AB ABC Chris North M.M.Inst.V. Mike Payne M.M.Inst.V. Gillian Perry M.M.Inst.V. Roger Perry M.M.Inst.V. Michael Shaw M.M.Inst.V. Chris Smith M.M.Inst.V. VegaTV & Media Solutions Ltd* Jackie Williams M.M.Inst.V. Simon Hammond M.M.Inst.V. Stephen Hart M.M.Inst.V. ICE * David Impey F.Inst.V. David James M.M.Inst.V. Colin Jones M.M.Inst.V. Bob Langley M.M.Inst.V. Michael Leach F.Inst.V. Matthew Leech M.M.Inst.V. James Mackenzie M.M.Inst.V. Brad Miles M.M.Inst.V. Adrian Moore M.M.Inst.V. Simon Page M.M.Inst.V. Jim Panks M.M.Inst.V. Bill Platts M.M.Inst.V. Robert Scarfe F.Inst.V. John Suckling M.M.Inst.V. Malcolm Wooldridge M.M.Inst.V. John Worland M.M.Inst.V. Hedley Wright M.M.Inst.V. Blue Slate* Bernard Coe M.M.Inst.V. Mike Deal M.M.Inst.V. Extreme Video* Brian Gardner F.Inst.V. Colin Goody M.M.Inst.V. Nigel Hartley M.M.Inst.V. John Lambert M.M.Inst.V. ABN ABFILMN ABC ABCK AB ABCKL BCKN 01492 543246 01902 377882 01743 355725 01743 891286 0151 342 8184 01978 358522 01352 755397 01948 780564 01490 430507 01588 650456 01978 350122 01952 605213 01530 836700 01283 567745 01676 541892 01676 541892 01782 746553 01386 830128 0870 080 1961 01455 848199 01386 47013 01527 878433 01926 864800 01926 497695 01782 514942 07837 276475 0845 606 6593 01902 893068 0121 308 1227 01902 342154 0116 275 2100 01283 515861 ABCJKN BCKN ABCFIKN ACEGLMN ACFJKLNR AGI ABCFHK ACDFGHJKLMN AIKMNR ABCHJK AB ABCHKN ABCGIKN ABCFG ABCFGHK CK ABCGIJKM ACFKM ABL AIMN ABCFGHKLN ABCFHIK ABCHKN AC A ABKN B ABCKN ACDKMN ABCFKM ABCFGJKM ACFGJKLMN ABJ ABCK AJMO BC B A AB 01362 693569 01775 822200 01733 370922 01508 570600 020 8517 6752 01449 720282 01206 241820 07836 595859 01733 232232 01223 441137 0800 970 6159 01603 630555 01603 260280 01473 257595 01449 614378 01603 610566 ABCEKLN CDKN ABCDGK ABCN N AB ABCKN ACGJKLNP ABC ABCGJKLN A ACFGKMN AB South Wales & Bristol Channel (Area 8) ABCFHJKN ACHIKN AB ABCFGHJKLMN ABCFGHJKLMN ABCNP ABCK AGJKMN ABCK B 01535 646444 01274 595421 01274 690110 01943 870431 0113 224 4800 07952 713793 07979 914996 01723 890610 0113 218 9298 0113 261 1688 01423 755397 01924 249700 01924 864613 01756 798335 0113 263 2496 01759 369811 01484 684617 01422 844392 East Anglia & A1 Corridor (Area 7) North East England (Area 2) Peter Watkinson M.M.Inst.V. Neil Wood-Mitchell M.M.Inst.V. Michael Bell M.M.Inst.V. Roger Brown M.M.Inst.V. Andrew Charlton M.M.Inst.V. Andrew Crinson M.M.Inst.V. Glenn Huntley M.M.Inst.V. Brian Jenkinson M.M.Inst.V. Ian Brown M.M.Inst.V. Philip Burton M.M.Inst.V. Colin Campbell M.M.Inst.V. George Duncan M.M.Inst.V. Gareth Harrison M.M.Inst.V. Keith Howard M.M.Inst.V. Ian Jackson M.M.Inst.V. Terry Ladlow M.M.Inst.V. Christopher Lawton M.M.Inst.V. Simon Marcus F.Inst.V. Antony Meade M.M.Inst.V. Richard Mortimer F.Inst.V. Terry Mullaney M.M.Inst.V. Paolo Pozzana M.M.Inst.V. Dave Redmond M.M.Inst.V. Iain Rogerson M.M.Inst.V. Mike Wade F.Inst.V. Gail Allaby M.M.Inst.V. John Ford Evans M.M.Inst.V. George Fenney M.M.Inst.V. David Gold M.M.Inst.V. David Jones F.Inst.V. Graham Kay M.M.Inst.V. Richard Knew F.Inst.V. Tudor Owen M.M.Inst.V. Christopher Smith F.Inst.V. Rowland Barker F.Inst.V. Cam 3 Video * Martyn Chidlow M.M.Inst.V. James Edwards M.M.Inst.V. Peter Eggleston F.Inst.V. 895899 ABC 782777 ABCDJKMN 520437 655655 ABCK Scotland South (Area 1b) 01482 782187 01522 754901 0115 955 3989 01246 850963 01430 431634 01526 353225 01246 852969 07836 702502 01472 811808 01964 503771 07984 629968 01405 704381 01724 720111 01924 515100 01482 441007 01430 422697 North Wales & Borders (Area 5) PLEASE NOTE: In this listing Qualified Members have declared their own areas of specialisation. The declaration of a work type should not be regarded as an endorsement by the Institute of Videography. Colin Sinclair M.M.Inst.V. Mark Stuart M.M.Inst.V. Ron Carmichael M.M.Inst.V. Iain Johnston M.M.Inst.V. ABCK ABCK AKN North & West Yorkshire (Area 04b) 12 Scotland North (Area 1a) ABCDE ABCDGN BN ABCG ABCKN ABFKLM ABCDFHKLMN ABCK B S. Yorkshire, Humberside & Lincs. (Area 04a) 18 A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P 01706 657835 0151 487 9338 01744 603799 01744 29976 01254 393683 0161 902 9000 01253 596900 01706 215914 0161 487 1200 01942 891466 01928 733225 01772 611590 01706 221928 01942 244903 0161 797 6307 01282 414073 01282 619085 01253 884100 01706 812008 01704 531576 01768 899936 0161 928 7361 01704 232116 Colin Riddle M.M.Inst.V. Alan Torjussen F.Inst.V. Jack Tristram M.M.Inst.V. Alan Vaughan M.M.Inst.V. Chris Wheatley M.M.Inst.V. Glyn Edwards M.M.Inst.V. Steve Hart M.M.Inst.V. Michael Hill M.M.Inst.V. Harley Jones M.M.Inst.V. Manolo Lozano M.M.Inst.V. Dawn Morgan M.M.Inst.V. Andrew O'Leary M.M.Inst.V. Nick Pudsey M.M.Inst.V. 01437 029 20 01792 01453 01242 01443 01568 01242 029 20 01792 01792 01656 01646 769635 666007 816688 835422 579712 838715 620644 674462 520599 520450 776121 650249 651555 ACGJKLN AFGLMN ABC ACFGN ABCDN BC ABCK ABCDIKN ABCFK ABCN ABC ABCK West London, Middlesex & Herts. (Area 9) KLN BC ABCN ACFK ABCKM ACGKLN ABCN ABCHJKN Alan Benns M.M.Inst.V. Adam Carroll M.M.Inst.V. Tim Healy M.M.Inst.V. Mike Henson F.Inst.V. Michael Lawson M.M.Inst.V. Stuart Little M.M.Inst.V. Anthony Myers M.M.Inst.V. Brian Royer M.M.Inst.V. Sam Spence M.M.Inst.V. ABC ABCKMN Oxfordshire & M1 Corridor (Area 10) 01253 892177 B Focus Magazine Gillian Gee M.M.Inst.V. Derek Gobbett M.M.Inst.V. www.iov.com 020 8943 2666 07768 014503 01895 672890 01494 438904 020 7932 1190 020 8347 9567 020 8958 9838 020 7514 9923 020 7738 4162 01753 553312 07762 021566 ABCEKMN AJM ACFGKLN BCK ABK Hamish Maclean M.M.Inst.V. Gordon O'Neill M.M.Inst.V. John Snelgrove F.Inst.V. Jennifer Swift M.M.Inst.V. Don Barnes M.M.Inst.V. Anthony Barnett M.M.Inst.V. David Blundell F.Inst.V. Roger Coe M.M.Inst.V. Dave Collins M.M.Inst.V. Driving Standards Agency* First Sight Video* Ken Franklin M.M.Inst.V. 01582 01494 01442 01367 01604 01536 01234 01604 01908 01234 01993 01993 596935 786611 250088 870640 756576 526126 764883 403481 522157 744060 878252 868479 AM ABCDJ AB AJKL ABCK AB AB ABC E. London, Essex & Hertfordshire (Area 11) Colin Pethurst M.M.Inst.V. Kresh Ramanah M.M.Inst.V. Peter Robinson M.M.Inst.V. John Rose M.M.Inst.V. Iain Wagstaff M.M.Inst.V. Gillian Walters M.M.Inst.V. Peter Walters M.M.Inst.V. Roger Wilshaw M.M.Inst.V. Andreas Andreou M.M.Inst.V. Ross Campbell M.M.Inst.V. Zulqar Cheema M.M.Inst.V. David Chevin M.M.Inst.V. Albert Clack M.M.Inst.V. Fred Curtis M.M.Inst.V. David Durham M.M.Inst.V. Rick Fiore M.M.Inst.V. John Harding M.M.Inst.V. Duncan Hector M.M.Inst.V. Martin Klein M.M.Inst.V. Elaine Laurie M.M.Inst.V. Alan Legg M.M.Inst.V. Tony Lench M.M.Inst.V. Anthony Manning M.M.Inst.V. Hugh Morris M.M.Inst.V. 01992 461858 020 8521 3322 01702 232669 01375 483979 01376 556417 01708 724544 01708 724544 01462 701770 020 8440 0770 01376 344353 01279 413260 020 8502 7232 01462 629212 01708 343123 020 8281 7041 01702 293003 01206 793315 01462 892638 01707 655895 020 8502 6198 020 7193 4060 01702 525353 020 8923 6068 020 8220 6955 BC ABCHK ACKN ABCN B A ABCFKN ABJKNO ABN ABCKN ABCDKLN BC ABCH ABCGK ABCFGHIKL ABC B BJ ACE ABCGN AFKL West Country (Area 12) John Port M.M.Inst.V. Paul Svendsen M.M.Inst.V. John Bentley M.M.Inst.V. Mark Brindle M.M.Inst.V. Pip Critten M.M.Inst.V. Chris Ellery M.M.Inst.V. David James M.M.Inst.V. David James M.M.Inst.V. Mike Last M.M.Inst.V. 01803 214414 01404 881608 01258 450850 01271 891140 01752 361210 0117 910 9704 0117 979 2858 01752 510999 01803 290999 ACGHIJ ABGI ACDJKMN ABC ABCHJN AB ABCDFHIJKN Dorset, Wiltshire & Hampshire (Area 13) Graham Mew M.M.Inst.V. Colin North M.M.Inst.V. Jeremy Payne M.M.Inst.V. Steven Salmon M.M.Inst.V. 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John Daly F.Inst.V. * indicates Corporate Member 00353 552 1785 00353 21 733 2240 00353 87 681 4208 ABCKN 00353 93 35933 00353 1 212 3887 00353 1 495 3937 CM Phil Wilson highlights the importance of proper training for the wedding videographer I heard recently from my friend Kris Barrass of Barrass TV Crews that Discovery Home and Health have recommissioned the 7 live weddings programme of last year. Frankly, I am somewhat surprised because as far as I could see from a production point of view it was a disaster from beginning to end with the production company seriously underestimating the resources necessary to cover a wedding (I hope they do not read Focus magazine!). The crew at the wedding I was covering comprised two cameramen, a sound recordist, a producer, a presenter and a ‘man with a van’. It started to go wrong at the very beginning when all seven wedding venues were to record an opening teaser approximately 30-minutes before broadcast. With our wedding at Molyneux, the home of Wolverhampton Wanderers, our opening consisted of a funky (for funky read hand-held, tilting, zooming moving all over the place) shot of a statue outside the ground and the presenter. Naturally, this involved around 10-seconds at the front of the piece and a few seconds after it, all of which was beamed back to the studio. To our horror the studio obviously did not have time to edit it prior to broadcast and it went out exactly as we had shot it, including the presenter turning her back on the camera afterwards. All of the other 6 venues suffered the same treatment (or lack of it) and it looked amateurish. Worse was to follow, however, the ‘man with a van’ was overworked laying cables all over the football stadium so we could film the brides arrival outside, the wedding ceremony inside and then another piece by pitch-side. There was confusion between our producer and the studio as to when we were live and as a cameraman I was not getting the right audio feed through my headphones. In truth, the actual wedding ceremony went smoothly but after that came the biggest embarrassment. Steve Bull, a famous Wolves player was waiting in the tunnel to present our happy couple with champagne. It was meant to be a surprise so when we did the rehearsal we were going to exclude the Steve Bull bit. Unfortunately communication with the studio was so bad that when we started our rehearsal the studio thought it was the real thing and started broadcasting us live. To cut a long story short I was shooting Steve Bull hiding in the players tunnel with the studio yelling in my earphones to - Go! Go! Go! - and my producer at pitch-side yelling - Stay! Stay! Stay! The rehearsal went badly, the presenter swore and the viewers were treated to both the rehearsal and the actual event one after the other. www.iov.com After shooting ended came the inquest and it became apparent that all seven teams had suffered similar problems and even the base camp shoot had been problematical with make up artists wandering on during live broadcasting and crew getting in shot at odd times. Hopefully, this year, the production team will have learned from their mistakes and will not underestimate what it takes to film a wedding well. The Moral of the Story Filming weddings is difficult enough without having the complications of a live broadcast, and anyone who goes into it illequipped either in the sense of equipment, experience or aptitude is asking for trouble. One of the reasons that the overall quality of wedding videos is poor is that these are often the stepping stones for the inexperienced part-timer wanting to break into full-time videography. It is a case of the least experienced people doing the most difficult work. I guess this was a long winded way of saying how important it is to get yourself on to the VideoSkills Wedding workshop! Phil Wilson F.Inst.V. Notes: More details on the VideoSkills workshops can be found on www.videoskills.net. Focus Magazine May 2006 31