XL2 Music Video "Forte"

Hi guys,

I am just after some constructive criticism for my latest little project, which was shot with an XL2 and edited on Vegas. It's a promotional video for a Pop Opera group similar to 'Il Divo'.

I wasn't sure where to post this, so I put it under the camera section.

Heres the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyNHPdzUBlY

I'd apprecitiate any comments as this was shot in three hours with a very low budget.

Cheers,

Paul McK.
 
Cheers,

Is trucking the same as tracking? Or a typo?

I used a Wally dolly, I'm surprised any of it came out good considering how quickly I had to shoot it.
 
Hi Paul,

Excellent job and thanks for sharing. As far as the critique goes:

- Sorry, but I'm not wild about the black mask around 1:27, 1:55, 3:20, etc - actually cuts off the talent's head, giving me a bit of a creepy feeling

- Camera wobbles a bit at 1:40

- Editing a bit checkered: usually very nice except a few transitions like 0:39-0:40 (moving to still close up), 2:20-2:21 (again moving to still), 2:22-2:23 (medium to close on different talent)

- A bit erratic with the color/luminescence scene balance at 2:20 (something we all fight)

But aside from a few nits, the overall video was outstanding The voice-over was incredible, the audio/music prestine (always my hot button), the integration of stills was fantastic, camera work was great (loved the POV and lens flare at 3:08), and a mega-awesome story!

You've definitely got a winner; just don't incorporate any of our feedback - you're already tough competition <wink>

Best wishes, Michael
 
Hi Michael,

Thanks very much for the feedback, I find it hard to get good criticism from 'civilians'. I've had a look at the things you mentioned and have taken it on board. I essentially needed more time to edit (not to mention shoot) the video and time is something I will fight for next time.

I can't take credit for the sound, it was mixed by a professional sound engineer.

As for the Iris effect, I kinda went overboard. I think at times it works, but is perhaps overused and too big in size.

Once again thanks for your feedback...

Paul.
 
Hi Michael,

<CLIP>
I essentially needed more time to edit (not to mention shoot) the video and time is something I will fight for next time.
<CLIP>

Paul.

Amen, Paul!!! I'm a believer ;--) Time is always our enemy. And it's really "exciting" when we're doing something like a live event - the show must go on. On too many occasions, I've gotten into position at the last minute - even though the gear might be ready to go, my mind seldom is, and it's easy to forget a small little detail like pushing the fracking record button! Fortunately, after doing enough gigs with familiar equipment, most of the activities become automatic after a while. You'll know you're there when you can actually carrying on a conversation with a well-meaning bystander/kibitzer when you're setting up your gear (instead of snapping his/her head off or ignoring the pest)!

BTW, let me compliment you on asking for the critique - so many have various reasons/issues preventing them from improving. Sure, we are aware of many of the shortcomings but we all find we learn something with every critique.

Good luck, Michael
 
Great !!!!!!! If I Could Get That Quality With My Xl2 I Could Justify All The Dough I've Spent On Camera Gear. You've Achieved A Very Cineamatic Look. Did You Do This In 24p/48fps ? If Your Sharing Your Presets I'd Be Interested In Seeing Them.
 
I'm not as curious about how he got the footage quality as much as how he kept decent quality when uploading to youtube. They always seem to destroy quality. Any helpers on uploading to youtube and maintaing that kind of quality?
 
I Recently Purchased And Downloaded The Divx Compressor And Am Happy With It. It Gives Smaller File Sizes And Much Better Quality Than Mpeg1-2-4 Or Wmv And You Tube Doesnt Seem To Be Able To Trash It As Much.
 
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