Your Tips

by Jim Martin
November 1998

More Computer Graphics
In the July issue of Your Tips, Michael Nasvadi suggested taping your computer screen to use for program titles. I used to do that but the rolling bars on the comp uter screen created too much criticism. The next time I upgraded my computer I included a video driver card with an S-video output, as well as the normal monitor SVGA output. I chose ATI's, Expert At Play and connected the computer to the fourth channel on my MX1 mixer. I use MS Office98 and Powerpoint to make titles with animation and artwork. I even use the MX1's chromakey function to superimpose the graphics over video. This gives a superior result for the display of titles and makes for an interesting, professional looking product. Using this setup, a scanner and almost any picture program, it is very simple to bring photos and artwork into the video system.
Jack Wallace
Toronto ON

Stairway to Video
For event videographers who need to shoot over a crowd, here's an economical idea to turn you're A-frame ladder (6-foot to 8-foot) into a camera mount. Using appropriate screws, mount your tripod head on the platform of your ladder. A tripod with a ball head and bubble level is preferred so that you can level the camera quickly. The ladder is quite portable and sets up quickly with a built-in stand so that your shot will always be "above the crowd."
Abe Sayson
Richmond, B.C.

Silent Video
While recording on location, unwanted noises and wind can sometimes be reduced with a wind filter or mike switch. However, I find it more desirable when recording outdoor scenes to completely wipe-out the audio function. To eliminate recording any sound, use a simple 1/8-inch phone plug in the external mike input jack. I attach the plug to the lens cap string or camera strap so it's always available. Add music, narration or sound effects later. Don't forget to remove the plug when you're ready to record desirable sounds.
Jason Hailey
Los Angeles, CA

Four Things Not to Forget
There are four items I take to every video shoot: 1. A pen or marker (to label tapes, make notes, etc.), 2. Self-adhesive labels to identify your tapes and cables (unlabeled tapes make me crazy), 3. A knife (you never know...), and 4. A pocket flashlight (to read the script, find connections, and make sure the tape is moving)
Jim Coons
St. Marys, OH

Video Cassette Repair
There is a way to repair a damaged VHS tape without worrying about the repair job damaging the video heads on your VCR. You will lose some video, but that's a small price to pay to save important footage. To repair the tape, disassemble the tape cassette, being careful to note how everything is put together. If the tape is damaged at the beginning or end, cut off the damaged portion and remove it from its hub. Remove the clear leader from the tape hub by sliding the retainer off the hub through the slot located on the side of it. Starting from the end of the tape that you want to save, use an acrylic solvent to remove approximately 12 inches of the magnetic material from the mylar backing until it is clear. Use isopropyl alcohol to clean any residue off the end of the tape. Attach the new clear leader to the hub by pressing the retainer into the hub slot until it snaps into place. Reassemble the cassette shell. If the damage is in the center of a tape, sacrifice an identical cassette and remove all of the tape from the sacrificed cassette's hubs. Then perform a similar procedure using half of the original tape in the original shell and the other half in the sacrificed shell. Note: the clear leader is necessary to allow the VCR to sense the end of the tape and keep it from unwinding off the hub and possibly damaging the tape and/or VCR.

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