Real World Digital Video by Pete Shaner and
Gerald Everett Jones, is, as the title indicates, a real world guide to
the world of DV video production. We are very impressed with the scope
and detail within these 400 some pages.
Even though it is targeted to those who want to
make business and industrial videos using DV camcorders, the language is
very accessible and can be easily understood by the most basic of
newbies. In addition, those who are just shooting home videos and
movies, as well as those using top of the line video and film equipment,
can also find valuable info within these pages.
The book covers the latest technology-and
techniques-in almost every phase of video production, with an emphasis
on the production aspect itself.. This practical resource explains how
to capture professional-quality images and sound; with details about
camera selection and set-up, composition and camera movement, lighting,
audio production, and crew selection and management. The book also
covers digital video editing, post process, and the addition of special
effects; as well as the basics of distributing the final video
production on tape, DVD, or streaming Internet media.
In addition it covers the down and dirty
essentials of real world production like safety on the set, what
equipment should be rented and what can be bought, legal issues and
pratfalls, logistics of transportation, and even how to strike a set.
Real World Digital Video draws many of its
examples from practical communication projects in businesses and
organizations: product demos, news-style interviews, documentaries, and
event coverage, as well as scripted presentations with business
messages, and experimental and fictional films.
Real World Digital Video promotes DV's "democratization" of
video and film-making the powerful tools of mass communication more
economical and accessible than ever before. The companion DVD comes
packed with examples of a video interview, a documentary, and a scripted
project, in addition to on-camera interviews with DV experts, software
demos, and useful production forms and templates. For example, rather
than working up your own documents, you can simply download
pre-production and production forms, a template for shot plans, and
checklists for buying or renting cameras, lighting and sound equipment,
and an editing system.
This is a great book for those contemplating entering the world of
professional video production - or even for those with experience,
looking to pick up a few new cool tricks of the trade. This is a book
written by those with experience.
