- December 1998
- November 1998
- October 1998
- September 1998
- August 1998
- July 1998
- June 1998
- May 1998
- April 1998
- March 1998
- February 1998
- January 1998
December 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Get the Words Out: The Textual World of Titlers
Titles give the first impression that many people will have of your video. This feature and buyer's guide will introduce you to available titling products and will help you choose the titler that's right for you.
Desperately Seeking Power: How to Find Your Way Through the Battery Jungle
Lead-acid, gel cells, fast chargers, memory effect--the depth and complexity of camcorder battery technology is enough to make you hug the nearest AC wall outlet for its simplicity. Learn how to make a battery choice that best fits your needs and budget.
Power Up Your PC: Configuring the PC for Digital Video Editing
Because of the massive amount of data that digital video uses, the nonlinear editing PC needs to be a finely tuned instrument for maximum performance. Learn the basics of PC performance in this feature.
Tips & Tricks for the Digital Nonlinear Editor
Nonlinear editing is a powerful way to take your ideas and turn them into video. With its random-access approach, you can edit and re-edit your video until it is just right. Here are some tips and tricks to make your nonlinear editing dreams a little easier.
Shoot that Show
If you've watched a movie or music awards telecast you know that videotaping audiotorium shows is a fine art. We'll share some practical tips for shooting plays, recitals and concerts this holiday season.
Columns
Viewfinder: It's Getting Better All the Time
Editing video at home is easier than ever.
Getting Started: The Top 10 Reasons Nobody Likes to Watch Your Videos
Keeping your audience awake for the final credits is easy when you avoid these basic video hazards.
Light Source: The Power of the Sun
Tap into free and available solar energy to cast a new and dramatic light on your productions.
Edit Suite: The Direct Approach
Editing begins as soon as the camera rolls.
Sound Track: Mix it Up
Combine multiple sound sources for a more powerful soundtrack.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
Special Effects: Looking Through the Eyes of a Hit Man
How to give viewers the impression they are looking through binoculars, telescope, or the sights of a stalker.
Departments
Gear
- Sony Ruvi
- Canon ES7000V
- Truevision video production workstation
- Ulead VideoStudio
- NUWAVE NVP 2.2
- NRG Research Location Pro Lighting series
- Canon XL Extra Wide-Angle 3x Zoom Lens
- Proton NT-3860
Videomaker Article Index: January 1998 Through December 1998
Find any Benchmark review, feature or column in this complete index of Videomaker articles in 1998.
November 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Video Editing Equipment: Choosing the Right Controller
Pick the right edit controller to fit your budget and personality.
A Fresh Look at Tripods
The tripod is one of the videographer's most basic tools. In this piece-by-piece tour of the tripod, learn what to look for in a good tripod, and techniques for keeping your camcorder stable in the most unforgiving environments.
Camcorder Binoculars: Getting Close with Telephoto
The telephoto lens is full of possibilities and dangers. Learn the basics of telephoto shooting, including when to use a telephoto setting, and how it works.
Image Stabilization: High-tech Help for Shakey Shots
Image stabilization is a popular feature found on almost any camcorder, yet many people don't know how it works. This quick overview of shot-stabilizing technologies, including the differences between digital and optical stabilization, will surely helpcalm those shakey shots.
Edit for Effect
In this editor's workshop, learn how to take the same shots, and edit them together in nearly an infinite number of ways. We'll give you the script and the settings; all you have to do is shoot and edit, edit, and re-edit.
Columns
Viewfinder: How Video Hobbyists Are Born
Video is a perfect accompaniment to many other hobbies.
Getting Started: Space, Time and Videotape
The camcorder allows you to warp time to your advantage.
Edit Suite: Shaping Performance through Editing
Simple tricks for editing complicated dialogue.
Sound Track: The Whole Truth
When it comes to monitoring your video's soundtrack during editing, you want speakers that tell you the whole truth.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Casablanca DV Nonlinear Editor
- Azden ECZ-990 Zoom Microphone
- Sharp VL-PD1U Slimcam
- Cool-Lux Video Kit light kit
- Magix Music Maker music creation software
- Casablanca DV Nonlinear Editor
Projects That Pay: Video Resumes
Help your clients rise above the rest.
Special F/X: Gravity Schmavity
A video illusion that will have you climbing the walls.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
- The Video Hacker's Handbook: Electronic Projects for Video Enthusiasts
- Production Research: An Introduction
- Desktop Digital Video
Gear
- Canon Vistura
- RCA L4000BC
- Westcott speed rings
- Supercircuits PC-57XP
- Promise Technology DriveDefender
- AKG Acoustics WMS 60
- NRG Research 2CD-01
- NRG Research 2CD-04
- Classic Video Products SteadyTRACKER F-10
- Frezzi Energy Systems Full Spectrum MA-50
- Videonics Effetto Pronto
October 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Ten Tips For Fabulous Fiction: Some Common Sense Approaches to Successful Story Videos
The thought of producing the Great American Masterpiece comes easier than the actual production. Here are some clues that can help you realize your epic dream.
Mix it Up: A Selection Of Video Special Effects Generators: Buyer's Guide
If you want to kick your production up a notch with multi-source transitions like A/B-roll editing, this Special Effects Generator buyer's guide can help get you started.
Better Video Through Lighting: Lights and Accessories you will need for the successful video shoot
Learn about the lighting equipment and techniques to make sure your indoor video is lighted properly.
A Shot in the Dark: Simple Solutions for Nighttime Shooting
Shooting video in the dark is always challenging. Here are some simple solutions that may help with that challenge.
The Eye of the Camcorder: Understanding the CCD
The CCD chip, how does it work? We take an inside look at the technology.
Your Camcorder: More Versatile Than You Realize
What was once just a tool for entertainment, is now being used in everyday life.
Columns
Viewfinder: Help Wanted: Video Volunteers
Make an investment in the future - teach video.
Getting Started: Keep on Trucking
Camera moves that will help you make better videos.
Edit Suite: An Off-line On-line Outline
Editing at home on your PC can save you time and money, but there are limitations.
Sound Track: The Auto-gain Migraine
Is your camcorder’s auto-gain circuit giving you headaches? Here are some
remedies.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
Hollywood's Secrets Revealed: Special Effects in the Movies
Look inside the creation of some of special effects in the movies.
Videocrafts: Spread a Little Light
Make this useful light umbrella with tape and tinfoil.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
- Complete Guide to Video
- Directing and Producing for Television: A Format Approach
- Easy Home Videos
Gear
- Cool-Lux Stablecam
- Classic Video Productions Cobra Crane
- DPS Spark Plus/Video Action
- Sonic Foundry ACID
- Pinnacle miroVIDEO DV300
- AIMS Lab VideoHighway Xtreme 98
- Spirit by Soundcraft Folio Powerpad
- JVC GR-DVM5
- Medea VideoRaid DV
- COMO DVX Capture Engine
September 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Video Time Machine: A Look Back to Life Before Camcorders
Step back in time with video pioneer Roger Miller as he takes us on a guided tour that revisits the "old days" of home video equiopment. Your time machine awaits…
How Suite It Is
Take an up-close look at this sweet editing suite. It's versatile, user friendly and 100% digital.
Videomaker Quiz
Making the right equipment selection depends on many factors. Take this easy quiz to find out what you should consider for your next equipment acquisition.
8 is Enough
1998's latest and greatest 8mm and Hi8 offerings from all the top camcorder manufacturers. If you are shopping for an 8mm model, this is the most complete buyer's guide out there.
Grading the Formats: How They Stack Up - and Why
Formats, which one is the best? Have you ever asked yourself that question? We compare them all, VHS, S-VHS, 8mm, Hi8, and DV.
The Chromakey Genie
Chromakey, it's not just for weathermen anymore. Learn the basics of this versatile electronic effect and some tips on how and when to use it in your next video.
Getting From Here to There: Transitions for the "Cuts-only" Editor
Transitions from scene to scene can be the thread of consistency that turns an ordinary home video into a comprehensive story.
Global Webcasting with Streaming Video
The future is now, and it's streaming your way. Video is being transmitted over the World Wide Web. Yours can be too (and it's more affordable than you think).
Quick Tips
Some helpful tidbits for camcorder users.
Please Release Me
It is good practice to always use a release form when you'll be including a person's name, face or voice in a video that you are producing for pay. A signed and dated release form for each person in a video is the best way to protect yourself legally from requests for additional compensation.
Columns
Viewfinder: You Can Make Better Video
A five step plan for better productions.
Getting Started: Handheld Camera Techniques
Steady camera shots without a tripod can be easy if you practice these simple tips.
Edit Suite: The Power of Suggestion
How can you achieve a big-budget look for your video with a no-budget budget?
Sound Track: An Introduction to Microphonicus Videus
A brief discourse on the behavioral patterns of the common video microphone.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Sony DCR-TRV9 Mini-DV camcorder
- Rab-Byte 3-D Animation Library Professional Tapes Volumes 1-19.
- Elite Video Variety Pack Volume #1 Royalty-free Music CD
- Videonics Python Video/Still Digitizer
- Pinnacle Systems Studio 400 Video Digitizer and Edit Suite
Projects That Pay: Memorial Videos: Gone but Not Forgotten
Memories on video can be treasures
for future generations.
Special F/X: Rain Drops Keep Fallin …
You can turn any day into a rainy day with this easy effect.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
Produce Spectacular Home Videos: A Practical Guide for Camcorder Users, On Assignment: The Video Guide to Basic Videography, Directing Single Camera Drama
Gear
- FAST Multimedia U.S. DV Master Pro
- TenLab MultiTest 100
- TenLab MultiTest 200
- Beseler Contour 700 Series
- Video Research VR-200 FishCam
- Porta-Brace RS-1000
- Century Precision Optics Digital Series .55x Reversible Wide Angle Adapter
- Century Precision Optics Digital Series .3x Ultra Fisheye Adapter
- Yamaha DSP Factory
- Spider Support Systems Spider Pod version 2.0
- Bogen Photo Avenger Jaw Clamp
- Lowel-Light Go Kits
Video Help from Videographers
Our subscribers give advice, and share lessons learned in their videography experience.
August 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
The Chase: Mini Movie Series
Her's a storyboard that you can shoot yourself. It's a one minute chase sequence that you can edit in your camera.
Hands-on Retailing
"Try before you buy" is a rising trend in video equipment retailing. Here are two companies that are leading the way in this innovative approach to equipment sales.
What Your Hear is What You Get:The Benefits of External Mikes and Headphones
Good sound can often be as simple as using the correct mike and headphones. We can help.
Quiet in the House!: A (Floor) Plan for Better Audio
Hickory-dickory-doc, how come I keep hearing that clock? Tips for muffling those troublesome background noises when shooting interviews around the house.
1998 Videomaker/Panasonic Contest
Time to strut your stuff. Enter the annual Videomaker/Panasonic Contest. This is your chance to win wonderful new video equipment.
Routes to Roots: Easy Video Family Histories
More and more families are realizing the benefits of video family histories. By combining those old photos and some simple interview techniques, you can make family keepsakes for future generations.
Videomaker Glossary of Terms
From A/B-roll to Zoom Ratio, we've got the definitions for you.This is the one reference of video terms that you will definitely want to keep at your fingertips.
Videomaker FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions from you, frequently offered answers from us.
Columns
Viewfinder: Video and Time
Time management vs. quality control, a true balancing act.
Camcorder Care
Nine Tips to Keep Your Camcorder as Fresh as a New Baby.
Profile: Campus Research 101
College tours on video help students choose the right school.
Edit Suite: Making a Video Album
Turn your home videos into family keepsakes.
Sound Track: Seven Studies in Superlative Sound
Simple tips for better sound from common shooting situations.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Videonics MXPro Digital Video Mixer
- Panasonic PV-A208 VHS-C Camcorder
- Sima SFX-M Digital Video Mixer
- Crystal Graphics 3D IMPACT! Pro 3D Title Creation and Rendering Software
- Dubner Scene Stealer Tape Logger
- Videonics MXPro Digital Video Mixer
Titling for Under a Buck
You don't need to shell out major dollars on expensive character generators to achieve those desired titles. We'll show you three cheap titles you can make in minutes, without breaking the bank.
Videocrafts: Get Ready, Get Set
Make your own studio-style backdrop in less than one hour.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
- Copyrights and Trademarks for Media Professionals
- Digital Nonlinear Editing
- Beyond Weddings, Cracking the Commercial Market
Gear
- Canon ES180
- Studiomaster Club DSP
- Ulead Cool 3D
- Parkside Optical LensPen MiniPro
- Westcott Masterpiece Collapsible Two-In-One Illuminator Backgrounds
- Elite Video Long Distance Runner
- Head-Cam HC-100N
- Head-Cam HC-100S
- Light & Motion Industries Mako series housing
- Panasonic AG-EZ30U
- Hollywood FX 3.0
July 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Let's Put on a Show
The shooting was hard and the editing was long and lonely. But the product, well the product turned out pretty darn good. In fact, it turned out really good. You're proud of itand you want people to see it, but how? It can be easier than you think and fun too.
Meet Real Camcorder Users
There is a revolution going on out there and you are part of it. See how folks like yourself are depending more and more on video in their everyday lives.
Production Suite
The one-stop production shop. Take a look at one heck of a post-production facility (and one reader's dream come true).
In the Bag: Essential Camcorder Accessories
Camcorder Accessories are essential tools for any videographer interested in professinalism. Here are some handy items to have along on every shoot.
VHS Camcorder Buyer's Guide: VHS Camcorders - Still Useful After All These Years
The VHS Camcorder, is there still a place for it in todays world of DV pocketcams? We think so. The story and a handy buyer's guide are inside.
The Amazing Camcorder: A Guided Tour
Did you ever get this one? "Daddy, what makes the pictures go into the camera and come out on the TV?" Hey, it's ok, we can help you out here. Take an inside look at how your camcorder works.
Videomaker/Panasonic Contest: Call for Entries
It's time for the 12th Annual Videomaker/Panasonic Contest. Show us what you can do, and we'll give you a chance to take home some pretty slick video equipment.
Video Production Equipment to go Shopping on Location
Video production equipment for shooting on location: What you need to know.
Columns
Viewfinder: Why Did You Buy Your Camcorder?
The camcorder as therapist.
Video Editing Without Software
Do your video editing directly, tape to tape, without the use of a computer.
Sound Track: 10 Tips for Better Sound
10 easy ways to improve the sound of your next video.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Panasonic PV-L558 VHS-C Camcorder
- Sima SCW-2 ColorWriter Plus Titler
- Strata VideoShop 4.0/3D Nonlinear Editing Software
- Nady 802 Platinum Wireless Microphone System
- Smith-Victor M-75 & MP-100A On-camera Lights
Special F/X: In Your Face!
All you need to create this drippy, gooey lens effect is a pane of clear glass or plastic.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
- Digital Imaging A to Z
- Cut To The Chase
- Educator's Survival Guide to TV Production Equipment and Setup
June 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Graduation Day
It's the official rite of passage for American teens--high school graduation--and parents want that moment captured on tape. By using our storyboard and editing in-camera as you go, you can make a graduation video free of the usual missed shots and random visuals.
Simple Tests for Your Camcorder
You don't need an engineering lab to find out how your camcorder really performs. Just use these basic tests to see if your camcorder makes the grade.
Pause: Dr. Monty's Four Prescriptions for Computer Video
Cyber-video-psychotherapist Dr. Monty has built a thriving practice serving desktop video producers. Today, he shares the advice he gave to four very different patients on what they should add to their desktop video systems.
Streaming Video: Internet Broadcasting for the Masses
Use the technology of streaming video to transmit your videos over the Internet to a global audience. We'll explain step-by-step how to get started on this road to the future of video.
The Nonlinear Video Summit: Excerpts From the Videomaker Expo Nonlinear Editing Panel
At every Videomaker Expo, representatives from the leading equipment convene on stage to face several hundred Expo attendees. Their purpose: to hash out some of the issues that have faced the consumer video market in the past 12 months. Here are the highlights of the last Nonlinear Editing Panel discussion.
Columns
Viewfinder: The Disciplines of a Storyteller
Spinning a good tale is as important to video as having good gear.
Getting Started: A New Perspective
Use creative camera angles to improve your videos.
Profile: Sara Pellegrino and the Superior Seniors
There's no such thing as "over the hill" when it comes to making video.
Digital Video Editing: The Grammar of Editing
Bad Grammar can lead to a bad impression. Learn the grammar of editing to avoid common mistakes.
Sound Track: Audio-torium
How to get good audio from auditoriums, gyms and other sound-hostile environments.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- RCA ProV2000D MiniDV Camcorder
- Pinnacle Systems miroVIDEODC30 plus
- DataVideo TBC-2000 TimeBase Corrector
- Smith-Victor K-86 Light Kit
- Canopus DVRex M1 DV Capture Board
Old New Borrowed Blue: Excuses to Use Your Camcorder
Can't find inspiration? These no-plan video ideas are guaranteed to put the zing back into your zoom. Choose an idea or subject that interests you - and go shoot it!
Videocrafts: Don't Knock It (Over)
Solve a lightweight light problem with homemade heavyweights.
Departments
Video Production Books and Tape Reviews
Reviews of educational books and tapes for the videographer.
Gear
- Lowepro Pro Roller 1
- Bogen Photo Manfrotto510-10 Pro Video tripod head
- Fostex FD-4 Digital Multitracker
- Supercircuits wireless covert book-cam
- Telemetrics PT-LP
- TecNec On The Level
- Sharp VL-E760U
- Cinema Products DV Steadycam
- Cool-Lux Pan-EL-Lites
- Century Precision Optics Digital series
May 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Slide into "Thin Streaming"
How can you put your video productions on the Internet today? The answer lies in the slideshow, a fast and inexpensive wayto get your videos out to a mass audience without having to resort to slow, chunky and tiny video.
Dan's Drive-In Theater
When Oklahoma broadcast production students needed a venue to exhibit their video projects, they took to the fields and built their own drive-in theater.
Low Budgets and High Hopes
Great advice on how to make a low budget documentary.
The Desirable Dozen: 12 Features That Put the Editing VCR Atop the Videographer's Most-Wanted List
Explore the 12 features that put the editing VCR atop the videographer's most-wanted list. If a VCR doesn't have them, then it's not an editing deck - it's a deck trying to edit. Check out today's hottest models in the accompanying buyer's guide.
Outdoor Video Sound ...ound ...ound ...ound
Aare wind, background noise and uneven mike levels giving you a pain in the plug? These tips will help you capture clean, clear, and consistent audio even when you tape in the ambient racket of the great outdoors.
Digital Video & FireWire Made Simple
When digital video (DV) is combined with FireWire, you have everything you need to edit great quality videos. Dr. Cathode answers your questions about this new technology that's creating an exciting upheaval in the video world.
Columns
Viewfinder: VHS: A Successful Format
The resilient videotape persists beyond expectations.
Getting Started: Videotape Storage
Take care of your videotapes and they'll reward you.
Edit Suite: Editing: Linear or Nonlinear?
Don't confuse linear and nonlinear editing with analog and digital formats.
Sound Track: Top 10 Audio Crimes
Keep your recording clean by avoiding these common audio crimes.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Sharp VL-DX10U DV Camcorder/Still Video Camera
- Elite Video SD-3 Duplication Station
- Bryce 3D Software
- Mitsubishi HS-U680 VHS VCR
- Video Sphinx Pro MPEG-1 Video Digitizer
Projects That Pay: Spare-Time Shooting: Making Hobbies Pay Off
Make some spare change shooting leisure-time activities.
Special F/X: (Sort of) Via Satellite
The secret to staging remote interviews
without a network television budget.
Departments
Letters to the Editor
Ask Videomaker. Questions and comments from our readers and answers from the editors.
Book and Tape Reviews
- Footage: The Worldwide Moving Image Sourcebook
- Complete Camcorder Troubleshooting and Repair
- The Essential TV Director's Handbook
Gear
- Quest Tiberon
- Datavideo Technologies MD-1000 Video Producer
- Seagate Elite 47
- Panasonic PV-L858
- Panasonic PV-L958
- RCA CC4371
- MetaCreations Final Effects Complete
- Vitec Multimedia MPEG-Cut Machine
- Sharp Electronics VL-PD1U
- Marshall Electronics V-VGA300
- Azden WX/T-PRO
April 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Why Broadcasters Want YOUR Camcorder Footage
The camcorder is making our view of the world much more personal as it has redefined television entertainment and news. Now broadcasters can't get enoughof your videos.
30-Second Sensation
Your camcorder, some creative ideas and an afternoon's work are all you need to create a 30-second "commercial" with this script and storyboard.
Steal from the Best
Compare the style and technique of eight great film makers as we demonstrate what you can learn from the masters.
Take It Light-ly
From inexpensive on-camera lights to costly lighting systems with all of the amenities, we've got it covered. In this article, we show you the lighting equipment for four levels of video producers: the casual user, serious amateur, entry-level professional and serious pro.
Let the Sun Shine In: How To Control the Great Outdoor Light Source
Though massive and incredibly bright, the sun is not the greatest light source for shooting video. Here we cover the most effective ways to modify, control and supplement the sun's light for good outdoor video.
Going Wide: How To Use A Wide-Angle Lens
There's a whole wide world hidden right in front of your camcorder. In these pages, find out how to use a wide-angle lens to free your vision.
Columns
Viewfinder: Videomaker's Vision
"The rights of the whole can be no more than the sum of the rights of the individuals." - Thomas Jefferson
Getting Started: Avoiding Common Camcorder Mistakes
Five ways to keep from shooting yourself in the foot.
Rewind: Four From the Videomaker Vault
They seemed like good ideas at the time
Profile: Look! Up in the Sky: It's Video Man!
A hobbyist merges freefall and video
into a thrilling career.
Edit Suite: It's About Time: How To Control Pacing
Make your videos more interesting by
manipulating time.
Audio advice: Analog to Digital Conversion
How to convert analog to digital.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Panasonic PV-D607 VHS-C Camcorder
- Sony CCD-TRV52 8mm Camcorder
- Samsung SCL918mm Camcorder
- Organica 3D Modeling Software
- Pyromania! Pro
- Panasonic PV-D607 VHS-C Camcorder
How Many Cameras?
How can a videographer who only has one camcorder and no control room hope to produce a slick and professional-looking video? Find out how in this article about clever editing techniquesfor making one camera look like many.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
- Sales and Marketing
- Capture the Power
- The Home Studio Guide to Microphones
Gear
- Sony DCR-SC100
- MEtaCreations Bryce 3D
- Mitsubishi HS-U680
- Martel Electronics Videomaster V456-2
- Panasonic PV-DP2000
- iRez CapSure PC Card
- Dubner Stealer-in-Color
- TechSmith SnagIt 4.1
- Castlewood ORB
- DogByte Custom Video Labels and Covers
March 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Teaching Video: What's the Story?
How can teachers use video in the classroom -- as a tool and as a subject -- to enhance the learning process? This article surveys the purpose of video instruction, where it fits in the education process, and how instructors can deliver it to their students.
One Reader's Room
Sig Thorsen makes documentaryand memorial videos from her home-based studio. Take a look at her well-designed editing suite.
DTV: Imagination Engines
We survey eleven different DTV product types, from simple titling and storyboarding programs to full-blown nonlinear editing workstations. The world's largest DTV buyer's guide accompanies our product overview.
DTV Manufacturers Information
Addresses, phone numbers, and web links to all manufacturers of desktop video products.
Good Sound? Sounds Good!
We rely on microphones to get sound into our camcorders and while we use them often, we rarely stop and think about how they work. We explain how mikes function so you can get the best sound into your camcorder.
The Editing Saboteurs-Every Editor's Enemies: Videomaker's Most Wanted
Be on the lookout for the Federal Bureau of Editing Aesthetics' most wanted perpetrators. After you read this article, you won't be able to say you weren't warned about how NOT to edit.
Columns
Viewfinder: Express Yourself
Camcorders may be easy to use but making good video requires skill and discipline.
Getting Started: Audience Appreciation: Be Kind to Your Viewers
Four questions you should ask yourself before you hit that red record button.
Edit Suite: Analog vs. Digital Editing
Clarity shines on the murky confusion surrounding the two types of signals.
Sound Track: The Audio Mixer: It's No Contest
The story of one man, one woman and an audio mixer.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Canon XL1 Mini DV Camcorder
- Hitachi VM-8300A VHS Camcorder
- Samsung SCF34 VHS Camcorder
- in:sync Kohesion Nonlinear Editing Software
- Strata StudioPro 2.1 3D Animation Software
Master Video Storytelling With The Hollywood Look
Anyone can achieve the Hollywood Look using subtle techniques. With this article, you'll learn what these techniques are and how to use them to create video classics.
Videocrafts: Homemade Shade
Improve your outdoor lighting for less than $10.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
- Writing Docudrama
- Camcorder in the Classroom
- Get to Know Boris FX
Video Equipment
Hot new products for the videographer.
February 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Holy Video!: Video Use In Houses of Worship-
Video is becoming an effective means to educate and motivate a congregation. Producing video for your house of worship is also an opportunity to show your work to a large audience.
Back to School: A Video Project
Shoot a fun, no-budget dream sequence about an all-too-familiar nightmare of being back in grade school.
Cybermarketing: Using the Internet to Promote Your Video
Twenty years ago you needed a deal with major distributers to become an independent producer. Today, you can use the Internet - if you know where to look.
Making the Digital Decision: Buyer's Guide
We checked out the latest DV camcorder models in the Videomaker test lab and give you the results here in the form of some short reviews, along with a convenient matrix of features to help you compare models.
Lens Accessories: Stretch Your Visual Limits
We show you how to select the right optical marvels for your needs and how to use them to get the most from your camcorder.
Crafting Skillful Interviews
Need to shoot an important interview? Learn the craft of staging interviews for the camera by following these expert techniques.
Videomaker's Best Products of 1997 Awards
Our editors' picks for the best of '97 fulfill our primary criterion of the most value and functionality for your consumer dollar.
It's a Win Win Situation: Winners of the 1997 Videomaker/Panasonic Contest
Our judges chose from among a varied assortment of compelling videos to select this year's winners.
Columns
Viewfinder: Index Vexed
Why is it such a chore to log videotape?
Getting Started: Don't Get Fooled Again: The Power of Manual Control
Put yourself in control of your camcorder's automatic features.
Edit Suite: What Is Editing?
Create a video program by adding, sequencing and enhancing your camcorder
footage.
Sound Track: The Balancing Act
A balanced signal is the cleanest way to get audio from point A to point B. Any questions?
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- Hitachi VM-H835LA Hi8 Camcorder
- Videonics Personal Titlemaker
- JVC HR-S9400U S-VHS Editing VCR
- Hewlett Packard SureStore 7100 CD-Writer Plus
- Medea VideoRaid EIDE Disk Array
Projects That Pay: Personal Histories: Video for Future Generations
Video histories can be a unique and profitable way to record life's precious moments.
Special F/X: Two's A Crowd
Turn any room into a crowded restaurant.
Departments
Gear
- Samsung SCL90
- Samsung SCL91
- Fast Electronics DV Master IEEE 1394 FireWire
- Panasonic Proline CT series
- Lexmark 7200V Color Jetprinter
- Videonics MXPro
- Video Research SportsCam
- FutureTel VideoSphinx Pro
- Lawhide deposition system
- TV One CORIOscan Pro
- American Recorder Technologies CO-2 Dust and Particle Remover
January 1998 Table of Contents
Feature Stories
Cops with Camcorders
Although video use is common in the private sector, local police departments are just beginning to explore the possiblities of the camcorder. What they're learning is improving law enforcement techniques and making the streets safer for everyone.
Titlers: The Untold Story
Throw out your magic markers and construction paper -- this buyer's guide to titlers will help you choose from simple or sophisticated, stand-alone or computer-based CGs that let you create video titles with style.
Make 'Em Look Good: How To Coach On-camera Subjects
Few people are comfortable when they face camcorders. This article explains how you can put Nervous Nellies and Difficult Dans at ease and encourage their best performance regardless of their expertise.
How to copy a video tape
Tips for avoiding generation loss when duplicating video tapes.
Golly, Why Didn't I Think of That?: * Unusual Uses for Your Camcorder
Tire of videotaping the same old family events? For a change of view, try using your camcorder for these unique applications.
Why Y/C?
Want better color accuracy? Learn the benefits of the Y/C (or S-video) cable. This article explains what this special connector will do for your image quality.
Columns
Video Editing Vs. Film Editing
Advantages of video editing over film editing.
Getting Started: Artistic Vision
Ten simple camera techniques can give your videos an "artistic" look.
Rewind: 10 Years Ago in Videomaker
Check out these video "antiques" to appreciate what's available now.
Edit Suite: Deck Control, Once Over Lightly
If you plan to buy an editing system or improve your current one, it pays to understand edit protocols.
Sound Track: The Invisible Mike
Sometimes, mikes should be heard and not seen.
Test Bench
-
Benchmarks
- JVC GR-AXM25 VHS-C Camcorder
- DataVideo Technologies SE-300 Digital Video Illustrator
- Mitsubishi HS-U780 S-VHS Editing VCR
- Data Translation Broadway 2.5 MPEG-1 Video Digitizer
- FutureVideo Media Commander 100 Batch Digitizer
Homemade Sound Effects With Big-Budget Impact
Don't buy sound effects, make your own! We'll show you how to create realistic sound effects using Hollywood style tricks to fool the ear.
Departments
Book and Tape Reviews
- The Facts and Results, Non-Linear Broadcast Video for Under $10,000!
- Wedding Videography for Ding Dongs
- Cross-Cultural Filmmaking
Gear
- Magix Entertainment Music Maker 3.0
- Hitachi VM-H835LA
- Iomega Buz
- Photoflex Quick-Release Corner
- Photoflex Bullet-Tipped steel support rods
- Holloywood FX version 3.5
- CanonXL1
- Panasonic AG-EZ20
- Parnassus Software Script Werx
- Fresh Music SearchTrack
- Case Logic CB-1
- Case Logic CB-3
Video Help from Videographers
Our subscribers give advice, and share lessons learned in their videography experience.