,

Tip #1836: The Inside Tips Take a Hiatus

The Inside Tips are taking a hiatus for the month of August. We'll be back the first week of September with more Inside Tips.
,

Tip #1842: Blackmagic Updates Studio Cameras

Blackmagic Design announces new cameras, recorders and a web presenter; all designed for live streaming and small studios.
,

Tip #1843: Digital Anarchy Updates Rough Cutter

Digital Anarchy updates Transcriptive Rough Cutter to support the new transcript features in Adobe Premiere. Cut video based on a text transcript. Learn more.
,

Tip #1835: The Inside Tips Take a Hiatus

The Inside Tips are taking a hiatus for the month of August. We'll be back the first week of September with more Inside Tips.
,

Tip #1840: Don’t Accept the Defaults

All of the effects in Motion have default settings, most of which just aren't that good. That's because the default settings are set to: "Bland." Here's how to change them.
,

Tip #1841: Combine Filters for Better Comic Look

While the Comic filter creates a comic book look, combining it with another filter makes it look better.
,

Tip #1819: History & Symbolism of Paisley

Paisley patterns, recognizable for the unique figure at its core, can be lush with dense swirls and intricate lines or comprised of sparse shapes set on a placid background. It has a history.
,

Tip #1834: The Inside Tips Take a Hiatus

The Inside Tips are taking a hiatus for the month of August. We'll be back the first week of September with more Inside Tips.
,

Tip #1839: Visual Effects for Low-Budget Sci-Fi

Jonathan Wilhelmsson writes of creating effects for the low-budget sci-fi film: "Untitled Earth Sim 64." Winner of 18 film festival awards.
,

Tip #1837: Trimming Captions

Since captions are generally created once the edit is complete, be careful how you trim them. Here's the trick.
,

Tip #1830: Well, DUH! When Transcripts Don’t Work

I embarrassed myself publicly by not paying attention. Here's when creating transcripts won't work in Premiere Pro.
,

Tip #1833: The Inside Tips Take a Hiatus

The Inside Tips are taking a hiatus for the month of August. We'll be back the first week of September with more Inside Tips.
,

Tip #1829: Compressor Limits Frame Sizes to 4K

Apple Compressor limits compressed frame sizes to 4K. But there is one workaround.
,

Tip #1825: Adobe Media Encoder Supports 8K

Not all codecs support large frame sizes, but for those that do - such as ProRes and HEVC - Adobe Media Encoder will compress them. Learn more.
,

Tip #1832: The Inside Tips Take a Hiatus

The Inside Tips are taking a hiatus for the month of August. We'll be back the first week of September with more Inside Tips.
,

Tip #1826: What is Range Check?

Have you ever wondered what "Range Check" does in the View menu? It's actually really useful - it flags excessive white and chroma (color) saturation levels. Here's what you need to know.
,

Tip #1827: Using the Broadcast Safe Filter

Range Check is a fast way to flag excessive video levels. But, how do you fix video levels that are out of range? Answer: The Broadcast Safe Filter.
,

Tip #1828: Adjustment Layers Can Do Magic

Premiere and Photoshop support adjustment layers. Final Cut Pro does not. But you can create one. Here's how.
,

Tip #1831: The Inside Tips Take a Hiatus

The Inside Tips are taking a hiatus for the month of August. We'll be back the first week of September with more Inside Tips.
,

Tip #1810: Charlie Kaufman’s 10 Screenwriting Tips

Charlie Kaufman, screenwriter for multiple Hollywood films, created his list of "10 Screenwriting Tips." Here's a summary & a link to his video.
,

Tip #1812: An A.I. Upscaling Shootout

There are better ways to upscale clips using AI, rather than the built-in scaling of an NLE. This shootout compares 10 different software for up-rezzing.
,

Tip #1817: PBS Moves Short Film Festival to VR

PBS adds a VR component to their 10th Annual Short Film Festival. Watch using WebXR and a headset or web browser.
,

Tip #1820: Use Bump Maps to Create Texture

A bump map is used to apply texture to an image, based upon input from a second image.
,

Tip #1821: Refraction Improves on Bump Maps

Bump maps add texture to text or an image based upon grayscale values in a source texture. The Refraction filter provides more control and better results.
,

Tip #1822: Hidden Feature of the Paint Brush Tool

The Write-on behavior is automatically attached to every Paint Brush stroke. This animates the stroke and you can edit it. Here's how.
,

Tip #1809: After Effects Gets a Whole Lot Faster

Last week, Adobe released a new beta version of After Effects that emphasizes speed. Here are key excerpts from the Adobe press release.
,

Tip #1813: Unusual Textures to Capture at the Beach

Bulk up your motion graphics library with one-of-a-kind textures from the natural world using a few tips on what to look for.
,

Tip #1818: Myst (the Game) Expands into VR

Myst, a beautiful island world where there is no violence, no time limit, the player never dies, and there's no "game over," expands into VR.
,

Tip #1811: Transcriptive Rough Cutter

Reports from both NewsShooter.com and DigitalAnarchy.com about new features in Transcriptive linking it to transcripts and captions in Premiere Pro. Learn more.
,

Tip #1823: Big New Features in Adobe Premiere

Adobe released a significant update to Premiere Pro in July that supports speech-to-text and native M1 Macs. Learn more.
,

Tip #1824: The Productivity Impact of Speech to Text

The Pfeiffer Report was commissioned by Adobe to analyze the efficiency and productivity gains of the Speech to Text feature set in Adobe Premiere Pro. The results are impressive.
,

Tip #1814: NHK: 200 Hours of Olympics in 8K

For the 2021 Summer Olympics, NHK plans about 200 hour of 8K UHD coverage. Learn more.
,

Tip #1815: The Early Years of Cable TV

In 1977, the author writes, I was 14 years old and desperately wanting to work in radio or TV. He landed in local access cable. Here's a story about the early days of local cable media.
,

Tip #1816: Synchrimedia Updates MovieCaptioner

MovieCaptioner is a stand-alone caption program for Mac or Windows computers that supports a WIDE variety of media and caption formats. They just released a free upgrade.
,

Tip #1801: Apply Effects to Multiple Clips – Fast!

There is a very fast way to apply the same effect to multiple clips scattered throughout a timeline. But, it isn't very obvious. Here's how it works.
,

Tip #1807: Create Your Own “Edit Checklist”

Final Cut Pro supports creating a personal "To-Do" list during your edit - that's dynamic and built directly into the Timeline. Here's how.
,

Tip #1808: A Fast Way to View Captions in Final Cut

Here's a fast way to see all the captions in your Final Cut Pro project, along with an equally fast way to correct them.
,

Tip #1789: 1 Beyond Launches New Tracking Cameras

1 Beyond Inc. makes automated cameras, cameras that follow a speaker's movements without requiring an operator. Last week, they announced two new, lower-cost cameras: The Hawk and the Falcon.
,

Tip #1797: 5 Truths From an Indie Producer

I'm Lilia Le Dieu, a freelance producer, and I'm sharing a few lessons learned throughout three years in the creative industry producing short files, features, commercials and music videos.
,

Tip #1798: Product Reviews of the Un-reviewable

If you are looking for product reviews of production gear that go way, WAAY deeper than cameras and big-name software, check out NewsShooter.com.
,

Tip #1802: Change the Height of Layer Elements

There's a very useful setting in Motion that only appears when the Timeline is open - even though it has nothing to do with the Timeline!
,

Tip #1793: Motion Generators Offer More Options

A Final Cut Generator is the most flexible of the four Final Cut templates in Motion. While Effects, Transitions, and Titles have very specific functions, a Generator can be anything.
,

Tip #1803: Why Use B-Spline Curves?

I was reading several technical articles about when to use B-spline curves. While they make good points, here's the key thing you need to know.
,

Tip #1792: Free & Paid Plug-ins for After Effects

AEJuice provides hundreds of free and paid plugins for After Effects, plus hosts the world's largest motion graphics community. Learn more.
,

Tip #1799: The Craft & Culture of Motion Design

Hosted by Erin Sarofsky and Austin Shaw, this new video podcast covers the craft and culture of motion design. Learn more.
,

Tip #1800: Use Unreal Engine to Re-create Nature

In this first of a three-part series, learn how to produce stunning, natural compositions in Unreal Engine. In particular, focus on aspects of planning an environment while making an eye-catching, well-balanced composition.
,

Tip #1785: 24 Hidden Tips for Premiere Pro

PremiumBeat collected four YouTube videos filled with tips for Adobe Premiere Pro. Tips range from workflow to editing to effects. Learn more.
,

Tip #1791: Free & Paid Plug-ins for Premiere Pro

Recently, the folks at AEJuice contacted me about their free plug-ins for both After Effects and Premiere Pro. Learn more.
,

Tip #1796: Move Multiple Clips with One Shortcut

Premiere provides a fast and easy way to move multiple clips at the same time: the Track Select Forward/Backward tools. Here's how it works.
,

Tip #1804: Ten Tech Innovations at the Olympics

The 2020 Tokyo Olympics won't have fans in the seats, but the games will be offering up a host of tech milestones. Here's a list of the top ten.
,

Tip #1805: The Challenge in Broadcasting the Olympics

The Tokyo Olympics start next week. They are a hotbed of new media technology, as this interview with the head of the Olympic Broadcasting Services explains.
,

Tip #1806: NBC Olympics Selects Avid for Games

NBC Olympics announces they have selected Avid for content production and media management for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Learn more.
,

Tip #1790: Multi-camera Screen Recording Tips

Recently, I've started recording my webinars using two sources: my screen and a camera pointed at my face. Here's what I learned in editing these.
,

Tip #1794: Two Shortcuts to Create Still Frames

In virtually every project I need to create still frames to hide an edit or cover a mistake. A Hold frame won't work because I need separate media to adjust its position in the timeline. Here's how.
,

Tip #1795: Hidden Timeline Secrets

One of the new timeline features Apple added recently to Final Cut is invisible, unless you know where to look. Here's where it is and what it does.
,

Tip #1786: 5 Ways to Turn Your Camera Vertical

Vertical video is increasingly popular. Here are five tripod mounting systems to turn your horizontal camera vertical.
,

Tip #1787: Directing Advice From the Best

Noah Baumbach, Taika Waititi, and David Fincher have directing advice for new and practicing directors. Learn more.
,

Tip #1788: Costs of Video Editing in the Cloud

Blackbird published a free, 14-page report looking at the total cost of ownership comparing different methods of editing video in the cloud. Learn more.
,

Tip #1782: Apple Updates Motion to v5.5.3

Last week, Apple updated Motion to version 5.5.3. Here's what's new.
,

Tip #1783: Animate the Background of a Title

Normally, when we add a title to a video, we want the background video to remain stationary. But, there's no rule that says it must. Here's how to make it move.
,

Tip #1784: Function Keys Make Motion Move

Not all Mac keyboards support Function keys (F-keys). But, for those that do, Motion has built in F-key shortcuts. Here's what they do.
,

Tip #1773: Chaos Updates V-Ray 5

Last week, Chaos introduced initial Universal Scene Description (USD) support for V-Ray 5 for Maya, Houdini and Cinema 4D. Here's what's new.
,

Tip #1778: Render After Effects Comps 70X Faster

Render times in After Effects can vary a lot. There are five criteria that determine render speed. Here's what they are and how to optimize them.

Tip #1777: VFX Pros Tell All – Free Webinars

VFXVoice and Autodesk are co-sponsoring a series of webinars titled: "Ask Me Anything: VFX Pros Tell All." The next one is tomorrow. Sign up - it's FREE!
,

Tip #1779: Export Caution: Match Source Settings

There's a potential "gotcha" when using the default Match Source export setting that can trip you up. Here are the details.
,

Tip #1780: How and Why to Change Label Colors

A menu preference that I skip over ALL the time is "Labels." However, these can be really useful - especially to help organize larger projects. Learn more.
,

Tip #1781: What the Render Bar Colors Mean

Most of the time, Premiere can play back your sequence in real-time displaying high-quality, full frame-rate images by harnessing the power of the Mercury Playback Engine. But, when it can't, it needs to render. Here's what you need to know.
,

Tip #1775: NBC Chooses Signiant for Olympics

NBC Olympics selects Signiant to support remote production during 2021 Olympics. Learn more.
,

Tip #1776: Import VHS Media Using USB

A recent forum thread on MacRumors discussed low-cost options for batch importing VHS tapes of home movies into an iMac using HDMI or S-Video connected via USB.
,

Tip #1774: Media Production Shifts to the Cloud

A paradigm shift in media-production technologies is changing how the cloud is perceived, used, presented and applied to media production. Learn more.
,

Tip #1769: Fix for FCP Crashes in Big Sur

If you are seeing frequent crashes when running Final Cut Pro on Big Sur, make sure all your plug-ins are up-to-date. David offers a specific suggestion.
,

Tip #1771: Tips to Help Find Clips Faster

Looking for better ways to organize and find media in Final Cut Pro? The secret is keywords. These three articles illustrate how keywords can help you get organized.
,

Tip #1772: The “Invisible” Quick Export Button

Hidden in a corner of the Final Cut Pro interface is the Quick Export button. This is a fast way to get your projects out of Final Cut using just the mouse.
,

Tip #1756: Tips for Keeping a Camera Cool

Camera cooling has continued to improve. But that doesn’t mean modern cameras aren’t prone to overheating. Here are some tips.
,

Tip #1758: Night Shoots & the BMD Cinema Camera 6K

If you want to shoot at night, you'll need clever lighting and a great camera. No Film School tests the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K.
,

Tip #1759: Why Are All Video Graphics Yellow?

FilmmakerIQ goes in-depth on color theory to examine why yellow is so pervasive in television graphics.
,

Tip #1766: Quickly Create False Colors

Motion includes a variety of blend modes to provide more dynamic blending between objects. Difference is a rarely-used blend mode that creates eye-catching effects. Here's how.
,

Tip #1767: Multiply Makes Luma Keys Easy

Multiply is a blend mode that drops out a white background while superimposing the darker portions of the image on a background. Here's how it works.
,

Tip #1768: Color Burn Makes Colors More Intense

Color Burn is a blend mode that intensifies the dark areas in two superimposed images. Here's an example.
,

Tip #1761: Boris FX Offers Three New Tutorials

The team at Boris FX offers three new free video tutorials covering Particle Illusion, Sapphire's Builder Effect, Mocha Pro Silhouette, After Effects and Nuke. Learn more.
,

Tip #1763: The AR Elephant in the Ballroom

TVBEurope reports that UK-based Strictly Come Dancing has introduced augmented reality into this year's series. Here's a detailed look at what they did.
,

Tip #1765: Surviving a QNAP Ransomware Attack

A bit earlier this year, a wave of ransomware attacks hit QNAP servers. Robbie Coblentz's company was attacked and he discovered he wasn't ready. Read how he recovered and how he protects his company now.
,

Tip #1753: New Quick Export (Premiere beta)

In the latest beta version of Adobe Premiere, Quick Export was updated to support creating new export presets. Here's what you need to know.
,

Tip #1755: The Slip Tool is Under-rated

One of the most helpful tools in Premiere Pro is the Slip tool - yet it is often overlooked when working with B-roll. Here's what it does.
,

Tip #1764: Vimeo Guide to Embedding Videos

Vimeo recently published a guide to embedding videos for a variety of websites. Here's how to get this free report.
,

Tip #1754: Webinar Showcases Premiere Beta Features

Adobe introduced three major new features in the latest beta release of Premiere Pro. I created a webinar to illustrate all of them.
,

Tip #1760: Creating Video After Lockdown

While the world is slowly getting back to normal, the way we work may be forever altered. This free report from IPV looks at how the media industry returns to work.
,

Tip #1762: Top 5 Content Production Challenges

Jumping into the "how will we get back to work" fray, Quantum has published a free e-book called "Top 5 Production Challenges Addressed." Learn more.
,

Tip #1750: Render Neat Video Effects Faster

Neat Video makes an effect that removes video noise, which occurs when shooting in low-light situations. The filter creates amazing results, but takes forever to render. Here's a workaround.
,

Tip #1751: Create Selects with Keywords

In the old days, we would create a timeline, then add clips to it based upon the shots we liked. This worked, but it wasn't very efficient. There's a better way.
,

Tip #1752: More Keyword Tips

Keywords are a very flexible way to organize clips and clip segments. They are also very, very fast. Here are more tips on using keywords.
,

Tip #1740: Streaming Media Reshapes Entertainment

Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and other streamers are reshaping the movie and television-watching experience. VFXVoice looks at the current state of the industry.
,

Tip #1744: The Best Docs About Filmmaking

If you really want to learn about how films are actually made, you should watch films about filmmaking. These insightful documentaries offer more inspiration than most film classes.
,

Tip #1745: How to Make Script Subplots Shine

Much of script writing concentrates on the main plot. But subplots support and expand the main plot. Learn more.
,

Tip #1748: Use HDR Media in an HD Motion Project

Apple Motion supports HDR media, both for HDR and HD projects. Here's how to use HDR media in an HD (Rec. 709) project.
,

Tip #1749: When to Use HDR Tools in Apple Motion

HDR Tools is a filter that exists for both Final Cut Pro and Motion that converts HDR media into different formats. Here's how to use it.
,

Tip #1746: Create an HDR Project in Apple Motion

Creating an HDR project in Motion requires changing three settings. However, those settings are pretty well hidden. Here's how to do it.
,

Tip #1738: Boris FX Releases Continuum 2021.5

Boris FX released Continuum 2021.5 delivering more 3D power to Particle Illusion, brand new cinematic effects & presets, and time-saving workflows. Here are the details.
,

Tip #1739: Is the Traditional VFX Pipeline Dead?

At HPA 2021, Foundry took a deep dive into the new VFX pipeline that tease at what the next stage of distributed production could look like. Here are the details.
,

Tip #1741: Project Breakdown: TEDxREAL

TEDxREAL explores reality through the work of 10 VFX studios. Here's an analysis of what they created and why.
,

Tip #1737: A Very Cool – Very Simple – Premiere Pro Shortcut

Here's a very cool - and very simple - keyboard shortcut for Adobe Premiere Pro playback that I didn't learn until last week.
,

Tip #1742: Premiere Beta Showcases New Interface

Last week, Adobe released a significant update to Premiere Pro as a beta release. Here's what's new - and where Adobe is going.
,

Tip #1743: Adobe Cleans Up the Header Bar

In the beta release of Adobe Premiere Pro last week, Adobe cleaned up the Header Bar. Here's an explanation of what's new.
,

Tip #1734: Change Starting Timecode in Compressor

Compressor got a surprisingly large number of new features in it's latest update from Apple. One of which is the ability to change the starting timecode for compressed clips. Here's how.
,

Tip #1735: Keep Your Movie Data Secret

Your movies tell the world a lot about you - in ways you may not expect. This new feature disables including metadata in compressed files for privacy reasons. Here's how.
,

Tip #1734: Use Color Indexing for Animation

This new feature in Apple Compressor is specifically targeted at folks creating graphical animation. It reduces image file size without compressing the media. Learn more.
,

Tip #1736: Streaming Media – Not as Big As Thought

Last week, Nielsen unveiled the first true independent measurement of cross-platform viewing on TV, The Gauge. The viewing results were surprising.
,

Tip #1732: Create Custom Column Sets Faster

One of the new features in the 10.5.3 FCP update is custom Column Sets. These determine the metadata that appears in list view in the Browser. Here's how to change it.
,

Tip #1733: Two Hidden Ways to Import Clips

We are all familiar with importing clips using the Media Import window. However, there are two lesser known ways to import clips; one of which was broken until the latest release. Both of these are faster.
,

Tip #1726: Change the Way You Tell Stories

RTNDA researched audience tastes and discovered that how we tell stories needs to change. Here are details and links.
,

Tip #1727: Planar Launches Virtual Production Studio

Planar announced Planar Studios, an advanced-tech facility dedicated to virtual production and extended reality to create realistic on-screen content.
,

Tip #1728: Who Will Produce the First Hologram?

Holograms are closer than you think. In fact, holographic content can be derived today from existing production techniques and technologies. Here's a report on the state of the art.
,

Tip #1718: The New Stroke Filter in Motion

One of the new features in Apple Motion is the Stroke filter. This creates lovely border effects around shapes. Here's how it works.
,

Tip #1719: What Are Parameter Behaviors?

Parameter behaviors are an advanced technique that can create some very subtle effects. Here's how they work.
,

Tip #1714: Apple Updates Motion

Last week, Apple updated Motion to version 5.5.2. Here's a complete list of what's new.
,

Tip #1729: Sonnet Announces Thunderbolt Expansion

Sonnet announces Duomodo, customizable Thunderbolt expansion systems for desktop or rack. A power boost for power users. Learn more.
,

Tip #1725: Rocket Lasso Releases Ricochet

Rocket Lasso just released another plug-in for Cinema 4D: Ricochet. This tool animates splines bouncing around a scene. Learn more.
,

Tip #1731: Do Filmmakers REALLY Need 12K?

We used to think HD would be enough. Now, we're streaming 4K, with cameras shooting 6K, 8K and 12K. Do we really NEED that much resolution? Um, yes.
,

Tip #1722: The New Quick Export Menu

One of the newer features in Adobe Premiere Pro is Quick Export. This is a one-click menu to quickly export a project for review or distribution via the web or social media.
,

Tip #1723: How Much Faster?

Adobe continues improving the compression speed of Premiere Pro and Media Encoder on Windows. Here are some quick stats.
,

Tip #1724: What Do These Icons Do?

There are six icons, tucked into a corner of Premiere, that can help you better find and organize the media in your project. Learn more.
,

Tip #1720: New! Framing Options in Compressor

New with the 4.5.3 update to Compressor are new compression settings which simplify cropping and compressing square and vertical media. Here's how.
,

Tip #1721: New! Change Starting Timecode in Compressor

New with the 4.5.3 update to Compressor is a setting to modify a job’s starting timecode in the timing area of the Job inspector. Here's how.
,

Tip #1715: Apple Updates Compressor

Last week, Apple updated Compressor to version 4.5.3. Here's a list of all the new features.
,

Tip #1713: Apple Updates Final Cut Pro

Last week, Apple updated Final Cut Pro to version 10.5.3. The new version improves the Browser, metadata and search, as well as quashing a variety of bugs.
,

Tip #1716: New! Browser Column Views in FCP

New with the 10.5.3 update to Final Cut Pro are column sets; custom configurations of metadata displayed in the Browser. Here's how this new feature works.
,

Tip #1717: New! Improved Search in Final Cut Pro

The latest version (10.5.3) of Final Cut improves searching in the Browser. Here's what's new and how it works.
,

Tip #1730: Final Cut Pro Bug Workarounds

Scott Newell sent in two workarounds for a rendering and shortcut bug in Final Cut Pro. See if these solutions can help you.
,

Tip #1710: Tips to Avoid Filmmaker Burn-out

I’ve seen more than a few fellow filmmakers and video professionals drop out of the industry altogether. Here are some tips on avoiding burnout from PremiumBeat.com.
,

Tip #1711: NBC Announces 7,000 Hours of Olympics

NBCUniversal said it will have 7,000 hours of coverage of the Tokyo Olympics this summer. Here are more details, reported by NextTV.
,

Tip #1712: Tips on Restarting Production

With the entire season of "Mare of Easttown" now available on HBO Max, DP Ben Richardson talks the difficulties of a six-month COVID-19 pause, the benefits of Leitz Summilux lenses and his tricks for assigning the right level of suspicion to your red herrings.
,

Tip #1701: Very Fast, But Hidden, Skimming Trick

There are so many hidden mouse shortcuts in Motion that it is impossible to find them all. But here's one that's both hidden and useful.
,

Tip #1702: Four Dragging Tips to Speed Resizing

Here are four dragging tips when resizing media in the Motion Viewer that can make image handling faster and easier.
,

Tip #1703: Make an Element Invisible – FAST!

By default all elements in the Motion Layers panel are visible. But, sometimes, you want to hide something so you can see what's below it. Here's how.
,

Tip #1704: VFX for LED Walls Course

VFX Technologies announces their first Virtual Production interactive course! Discover how to create effects for LED walls.
,

Tip #1708: More Efficient Invisible Effects

Despite the ability to create fantastical worlds, the majority of the work for the visual effects industry is focused on making unnoticeable alterations. Here's a status update.
,

Tip #1709: Being Queer in… Motion Design

Motionographer's new series: "Being Queer in..." are candid accounts of the queer experience in the creative industries. Here's the first.
,

Tip #1697: The Secrets in Clip Properties

Most of the time, you don't need to know all the technical details of the clips you are editing. But, when you do, Premiere has a hidden menu that can tell you a LOT! Learn more.
,

Tip #1699: The Secret Nest Switch

Hidden in plain sight in the top left corner of the timeline is the "Nest Switch." Here's what it does.
,

Tip #1700: What the Linked Selection Button Does

Normally, when you click a linked clip (where the audio and video are synced together), both are selected. But there's a switch that can change that. Learn more.
,

Tip #1705: Atmos, Panasonic Offer Apple ProRes RAW Recording

Atmos and Panasonic now support Apple ProRes RAW recording from a GH5s camera to a Ninja or Ninja V+. Here are the details.
,

Tip #1706: Olympics To Use Signiant File Transfer Software

TVTech reports that the NBC Olympics will use Signiant's File Transfer Software for the Tokyo Olympics to enable remote productions.
,

Tip #1707: NDI Tools 5: NDI Output from FCP & Premiere

NDI Tools announced support to enable NDI output from Apple Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects in their upcoming NDI Tools 5.
,

Tip #1694: What Does “Analyze & Fix” Do?

Final Cut provides an option - Analyze and Fix - that will review clips either during or after import to find and, potentially fix, any problems with the clip. Learn more.
,

Tip #1695: The Hidden Video Animation Editor

Attached, but hidden, to each clip in the Final Cut timeline is the Video Animation Editor. This "bar" provides anther way to adjust keyframe effects over time. Learn more.
,

Tip #1696: The Hidden Audio Animation Editor

Attached, but hidden, to each clip in the Final Cut timeline is the Audio Animation Editor. This "bar" provides another way to adjust keyframe effects over time. Learn more.
,

Tip #1686: Why “IP is the New Prime Time”

"IP" does not mean the Internet. "IP" means intellectual property. With the announced merger of WarnerMedia with Discovery, the old rules of content were shredded.
,

Tip #1689: Frame.io Announces v3.7.1 – Boosts Premiere

Frame.io announced version 3.7.1 with a redesigned Adobe Premiere Pro extension, improved navigation and dozens of other improvements.
,

Tip #1690: Lights are Getting Smaller – And That’s Great!

Smaller light sources are appearing quickly, with new options that expand creative choices for media creators.
,

Tip #1683: Change a Motion Project Duration

It's possible to change the duration of a Motion project - but it isn't always wise. Learn more.
,

Tip #1682: Explore Hidden Artwork

Generally, I encourage you to skip the templates and compositions in the Project Browser and dive right into Apple Motion. But, I discovered something today that modified my opinion.
,

Tip #1684: A Fast Way to Change the Background

By default, Apple Motion places all elements over a transparent background. But, what if you don't want the background to be transparent? Motion has a very easy way to change it.
,

Tip #1691: Monogram Now Integrates with Final Cut Pro

Monogram announced that the company worked directly with CommandPost to add improved color grading functionality between Monograms modular control surface and Final Cut Pro.
,

Tip #1692: 61 Seconds of Beautiful Nonsense

Take a break from reality with a 61-second plunge into summer, where nothing is what it seems and everyone is having fun. (From Yeti Pictures.)
,

Tip #1693: Top 15 After Effects Alternatives

After Effects is an amazingly powerful piece of software, but there are many reasons why you might want to look for an alternative. Here's a list of 15 to consider.
,

Tip #1679: What is Adaptive Audio

Most of the time, Adobe Premiere Pro guesses the audio format and channel assignments correctly when you import a clip. But, sometimes, you need to make changes. Here's how.
,

Tip #1680: The Option Makes the Difference

Sometimes, the simplest shortcuts make the biggest difference. Here's one option I can't live without.
,

Tip #1681: A Cool – But Useless – Feature

There's a long-time feature in Premiere that used to be really useful. Well, at the least, useful. But, now, it's essentially useless. Let me show you.
,

Tip #1685: The Future of Production

Software-defined workflows support creative task through connected automation. Tedial takes a look at how this will influence media production.
,

Tip #1687: A Compressed Guide to Codec Costs

Transmitting data has a cost — in terms of bitrate and budget which CTOs of streaming media services need to carefully weigh. Bitmovin has crunched the numbers - learn more.
,

Tip #1688: intoPIX Offers JPEG XS Codecs for NVIDIA

JPEG XS provides an uncompressed stream with low-bandwidth designed for production in the Cloud. Learn more.
,

Tip #1676: Create A New Library from an Event

Final Cut has a very useful utility that allows you to create new libraries from existing events. Here's how this works.
,

Tip #1677: Working with Dual-Channel Audio

Normally, when you import a two-channel audio clip, Final Cut Pro treats it as stereo. But Final Cut makes working with multi-channel audio easy. Here are some tips.
,

Tip #1678: Create an Animated Background – Quick

Here's a fast and fun way to create an animated background for text, graphics or other uses where you need the background animated, but not distracting.
,

Tip #1670: 10 Things to Know about Backlight

The backlight is an essential piece of your lighting setup. It can create separation, depth, and help you achieve that cinematic look. Here are ten tips to better lighting.
,

Tip #1671: 10 Tips to High Production Value – at Low Cost

High production value is what is going to draw viewers in and keep them there. Here are ten tips to high production value on a budget.
,

Tip #1672: Top Sources for Affordable, Royalty-Free Music

Looking for affordable, royalty free music for your video project in 2021? These resources offer the quality tracks video editors need.
,

Tip #1675: View Control Icons in Motion

When you add a camera or light to create a 3D group, three or four icons appear in the top right corner of the Viewer. Here's what they mean.
,

Tip #1674: Make a Particle System 3D

Particles, like cameras, lights, replicators and 3D Objects, can expand into 3D space. However, by default, all particle systems are set to 2D. Here's how to make the switch.
,

Tip #1673: Replicator Effect: Chop Sticks

Apple Motion gives us a lot of visual toys to play with as we create motion graphics. Here's one you may not have looked at very carefully: Replicators.
,

Tip #1662: Dissecting “Jisei” – An Animated Short

Tom Teller & Julian Connor created "Jisei" - an animated short. Here, Motionographer interviews them in-depth about how they created their film.
,

Tip #1663: VFX in “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”

Here's an inside look at the VFX creation process in "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier," as told by the team that created them.
,

Tip #1659: 12 Principles of Animation – From Disney

Disney animators Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas wrote a book, "The Illusion of Life: Disney Animation," outlining the twelve principals of animation. Here's a summary.
,

Tip #1664: Add & Trim Captions

One of the new features in Premiere Pro is the ability to trim captions like clips. Here are some basic caption tips.
,

Tip #1665: Align Titles in Premiere Pro

Here are some intriguing icons in the Essential Graphics panel that can simplify aligning text (even though two of them are wrong). Here's what they do.
,

Tip #1666: Customize the Audio Mixer Meters

Premiere Pro supports customizing the audio meter display in the timeline as well as the Audio Clip and Track Mixers. Here's what's possible.
,

Tip #1667: Behind the Scenes: Codec Central

illustrate makes products focused on audio codecs, audio conversion and metadata. Here's a link to their Codec Central.
,

Tip #1668: Planning for Future File Sizes

Camera makers are rushing to support ever larger frame sizes. But, I wondered, what impact does increasing frame size have on storage requirements? The answer is: a LOT!
,

Tip #1669: StreamingMedia Codec Survey

StreamingMedia is conducting a survey to figure out where media encoding and transcoding are going. Learn more - and take the survey - here.
,

Tip #1643: Add and Modify a Hold Frame in FCP

A hold frame is a still frame that is attached to a clip in the Final Cut Pro timeline. Hold frames can be added to any video clip, with any duration you want. Here's how to create them.
,

Tip #1660: A Highly Useful Keyboard Shortcut

Here's a very handy keyboard shortcut to help you move quickly around the Timeline.
,

Tip #1661: Three Quick Video Scope Tricks

The video scopes in Apple Final Cut Pro are both flexible and powerful. Even so, we can still tweak them further. Here are three tips.
,

Tip #1650: How to Make Your Script More Memorable

We all want to capture the zeitgeist - the imagination of the masses - with our projects. But, what exactly makes a film or TV show quotable and memorable?
,

Tip #1651: David Weil on Directing.

This Filmmaker Magazine interview, with first-time director David Weil discusses his approach to directing Solos for Amazon.
,

Tip #1652: What Makes a Horror Film Scary?

Horror films have become predictable - a formula created to get a reaction out of the audience. NoFilmSchool analyzes what makes today's films so scary.
,

Tip #1647: Create a Constant Speed Change in Motion

Motion makes it possible for you to change the playback speed of clips, but this feature is pretty well hidden. Here's how this feature works.
,

Tip #1648: Create a Variable Speed Change in Motion

Creating a variable speed change to a video clip in Motion is involved and somewhat hidden. Here's how.
,

Tip #1649: Shear vs. Rotation Effects

Shear is a Transform property that you probably haven't played with. But it is quite different from Rotation. Here's an illustration.
,

Tip #1653: Create Landsharks Using Free Software

Here's a video tutorial on creating effects using free versions of Meshroom, Blender and Nuke Non-commercial.
,

Tip #1654: Add Fonts to Photoshop

DesignBuckle created a tutorial showing how to add fonts to Photoshop from Adobe Stock.
,

Tip #1655: The Path to MoGraph (FREE)

"The Path To MoGraph" is a free 10-day course where you'll get an in-depth look at what it takes to become a professional Motion Designer.
,

Tip #1644: How to Create a Fit-to-Fill Edit

A Fit-to-Fill edit changes the speed of a source clip to match a specific duration in the Timeline. Here's how to create one in Adobe Premiere Pro.
,

Tip #1645: Creating High-Quality Slow Motion

One of the exciting features in mobile phones these days is the easy ability to shoot high-frame rate videos. Here's how to display that glorious slomo in Adobe Premiere Pro.
,

Tip #1646: Timing Trick When Slowing Clips

There's a "hidden" option when you change the speed of a clip in the Timeline that can make your editing life easier. But, it is off by default. Here's what you need to know.
,

Tip #1656: iOS Advertising Opt In Rates

Apple now requires opt-in for all ad tracking. Flurry Analytics is tracking the results. Here's their report.
,

Tip #1657: Will the VVC Codec Succeed?

Jan Ozer analyzes the likelihood of success for the newly-announced VVC codec, in this article from TechRadar.com.
,

Tip #1658: V-Nova LCEVC Royalties Announced

LCEVC is a codec targeted at European streaming services. This week, V-Nova announced its royalty structure.
,

Tip #1640: A Really Fast Still Frame Trick

Here's a very fast way to create a still frame from any video clip in the Browser and edit it as a connected clip in the Apple Final Cut timeline.
,

Tip #1641: How to Create a Fit-to-Fill Edit

A Fit-to-Fill edit automatically alters the speed of a clip in the Browser to fit a specific duration in the Timeline. Here's how to create it.
,

Tip #1642: How to Add A Speed Transition

Here's how to add a speed transition to smooth speed changes in Apple Final Cut Pro.
,

Tip #1617: Best Cinema Cameras for Docs

Documentary filmmaking can oftentimes require a unique set of needs, skills, and demands on any production. This is especially true when it comes to the camera. Here are some top choices.
,

Tip #1624: LiveU Launches Subscription Production Service

LiveU launches LiveU 360° - an all-inclusive subscription-based service package. Here are the details.
,

Tip #1628: Tips to Keep Lenses from Fogging Up

Here are the best ways to prevent foggy lenses, and practices for keeping your lenses clean, clear, and ready to shoot in inclement weather.
,

Tip #1637: An Invaluable Preference Setting

If, like me, you add new elements to a Motion project only to discover that they seem to land anywhere EXCEPT where you want them, here's a very simple fix.
,

Tip #1638: Create a Default Motion Project Duration

Here's a quick tip on how to create a default duration for any Motion project.
,

Tip #1639: Switch Between Timecode & Frames

Video folks tend to think in timecode. Animators tend to think in frames. Motion supports both. Learn more.
,

Tip #1636: New Demos at Toolfarm

Toolfarm has added or updated 8 demos to their ever growing collection of free trials. Here's the list and the link.
,

Tip #1626: Defying Gravity in “Passengers”

Fabian Nowak, VES award winning Houdini artist, presented a webinar last week discussing how he created the gravity scene in "Passengers"."
,

Tip #1635: Converting “Terminator 2” to 3D

VFXVoice looks at the process of converting James Cameron's "Terminator 2" to 3D.
,

Tip #1634: New! Loudness Meter in Premiere

New with the May, 2021, update to both Audition and Premiere Pro is the Loudness Meter; separate from the long-standing Loudness Radar. Here's how the Meter works.
,

Tip #1627: Adobe Updates Premiere & Audition

Last week, Adobe updated both Premiere Pro and Audition. Here's what's new.
,

Tip #1633: New! Text Color Gradients in Premiere

Text gradients have been a part of the legacy Titler in Premiere for a while. Now, however, you can create them directly in Premiere itself. Here's how.
,

Tip #1623: H.264 is Going Away. Chaos is Coming.

H.264 ruled the roost - but change is coming and, this time, it won't be good. HEVC is stumbling - learn what's ahead.
,

Tip #1625: IP is the Future of Broadcast

The move to IP media frees broadcasters to compete more directly with streaming services. Here's an interesting discussion from the HPA Tech Retreat.
,

Tip #1629: What is the VVC Codec

The VVC codec is promoted as the successor to HEVC. But, what is the VVC codec and why should we consider it?
,

Tip #1630: Simplify Transferring a Final Cut Library

Here's a quick tip that makes sharing Final Cut Libraries between editors less stressful by consolidating custom Motion templates into the Library.
,

Tip #1631: Learn Where Your Library Media Is Stored

Here's a fast way to learn how much space the media for a Final Cut Library takes, what it is, and where it's stored.
,

Tip #1632: Change Default Color Grading Options

The Color Board is the default color grading setting for Final Cut Pro. But, you can change this. Here's how.
,

Tip #1609: Prompters for Remote Production

Remote and small studios require different teleprompting. TV Technology reports on how the industry is changing.
,

Tip #1615: Screenwriting: Utopian Societies

Dysfunctional, dystopian societies are at the core for many films - BladeRunner comes first to mind. But utopian societies, where everything is "perfect," are also film-worthy. Here are some screenwriting tips.
,

Tip #1616: Top 50 Perfect Shots from Star Wars Films

Someone with too much time on their hands selected the 50 live-action Star Wars cinematic universe’s most perfect frames from "A New Hope" to "The Mandalorian." See if you agree.
,

Tip #1611: Remove Keyframes in Motion

Sometimes, Motion creates keyframes when you don't expect them. Here's why and how to get rid of them.
,

Tip #1612: What Do Red Numbers Mean in Motion?

You are happily creating stuff in Motion when, all of a sudden, red numbers appear. What do they mean?
,

Tip #1613: A Weird Effect to Cheer You Up

The Polar filter takes something ordinary and turns it exotic weirdness. Quick and easy..
,

Tip #1614: BorisFX Releases Sapphire 2021.5

BorisFX updated Sapphire to version 2021.5. Here's a list of what's new.
,

Tip #1618: Game Design: “Galaxy’s Edge”

Here's an inside conversation on designing the look of "Tales from the Galaxy's Edge" Oculus game, from the animators themselves.
,

Tip #1619: ActionVFX: Crowd Stock Footage for COVID Times

ActionVFX just introduced the first two VFX collections in their new Crowd category: Sports Crowds and Concert Crowds. Each has 330 clips with variations. Learn more.
,

Tip #1620: How to Rename Timeline Tracks

Premiere allows renaming audio or video tracks - if you know where to click.
,

Tip #1621: Create Custom Workspaces

You can create an unlimited number of custom interface workspaces in Premiere. Here's how.
,

Tip #1622: Reduce Audio Noise in Premiere Pro

One of the new features in Adobe Premiere Pro is a filter to reduce noise in an audio clip. Properly used, this effect can salvage otherwise unusable clips.
,

Tip #1608: Add Metadata to Videos in Compressor

Add labels (metadata) that travel with video files in a variety of formats during compression, using Compressor. Here's how.
,

Tip #1610: Add Automated Job Actions in Compressor

Apple Compressor contains eight automated tasks that it can perform when compression is complete. Here's what they are.
,

Tip #1604: SoftRAID Now Compatible with M1 Macs

SoftRAID now works with M1 Macs and Big Sur - but it wasn't an easy journey.
,

Tip #1605: How to Reset a Slomo Clip to Normal

Here's a fast way to reset a slow motion clip back to normal speed in Final Cut Pro.
,

Tip #1606: Change Metadata Labels for Video Exports

Have you ever wondered where those labels come from when you share (export) a file? Here's what they are and how to change them.
,

Tip #1607: Add Metadata to Videos in Compressor

Add labels (metadata) that travel with many video files during compression, using Compressor. Here's how.
,

Tip #1601: Divergent Thoughts on New M1 iMacs

PremiumBeat and Larry Jordan both have thoughts on the new M1 Macs for creatives and video editing.
,

Tip #1602: Animation Fundamentals

Implementing the fundamentals of animation is no easy task. Here’s a quick guide to understanding and applying the basics in animation, written by two Disney animators.
,

Tip #1603: 6 Tips for a Successful Grass Roots Release

The past year has thrown everything but the kitchen sink at filmmakers. But there have also been bright spots. Here are tips from two producers on launching a successful grass roots release.
,

Tip #1592: A “Better” Way to Adjust Audio in Motion

Audio always seems like an afterthought in Motion. Audio clips are impossible to find and almost impossible to adjust. But, here's a trick that makes setting levels a bit easier.
,

Tip #1593: How to View Motion Keyframes

Most of the time, the mini-Timeline in Motion, combined with the Inspector, allows us to adjust keyframes without getting bogged down in too many details. But here's what to do when you need to see them.
,

Tip #1594: What the Keyframe Controls Do

Most of the time, we don't need to access keyframes as a group. But, when you do, the Timing Pane has the tools you'll need. Learn more.
,

Tip #1599: Does Foundry Support M1 Macs?

Here's the latest update from Foundry on their support for Big Sur and M1 Macs. (Updated 4/22/2021.)
,

Tip #1595: Re:Vision Effects Goes Beta for M1 Mac

Re:Vision Effects is in the process of updating current versions of their plug-ins to support M1 Macs. Here's a status report.
,

Tip #1600: What Effects Software Runs on M1 Macs?

Toolfarm has published and recently updated a list of effects titles and their compatibility with M1 Macs. This list of over 100 applications includes those with both Rosetta and native compatibility.
,

Tip #1570: Video Scope Settings

At the bottom right corner of the Lumetri Scopes is a small menu called "float." This controls the detail visible in the video scopes. Here's how to set it.
,

Tip #1587: When to Use Render at Maximum Depth

There are new render settings for Premiere. Here's what they are and which to choose.

Tip #1588: Stitching Clips in Adobe Media Encoder

When using Adobe Media Encoder to compress clips, you can combine multiple media files into a single file when adding them to the queue. Here's how to stitch multiple clips into one.
,

Tip #1596: SxS Card Data Transfer Speeds

I found myself wondering about the data transfer rate of SxS cards, which a variety of cameras use for recording media. Here's what I learned.
,

Tip #1597: MicroSD Storage Growth

For some reason, this morning I found myself thinking about storage. Especially portable storage for cameras. And that brought me to MicroSD cards.
,

Tip #1598: What is an NVMe SSD?

The latest SSD storage technology is NVMe. But what makes this format so different - and so blindingly fast?
,

Tip #1589: New Use for Custom Overlays

In Tip #980, I showcased a new Final Cut feature: Custom Overlays. But, recently, I discovered a new use for this feature that saves time during editing.
,

Tip #1590: An Easy Way to See Interlaced Video

We have lived with interlaced video since the beginning of television. Fortunately, Final Cut has two ways to quickly determine if a video clip is interlaced.
,

Tip #1591: The Hidden Metadata of Final Cut Pro

There is a ton of metadata that Final Cut Pro tracks for each audio or video clip -- all deeply hidden in the Info Inspector. Here's how to unlock it.
,

Tip #1578: Video Production and the Law

When you start any business, you should know the legalities of the business. This article describes all of the considerations when it comes to video production and the law.
,

Tip #1582: Four Approaches to Translating Films

In addition to properly describing a film, translated titles must also navigate a minefield that runs the gamut from cultural sensitivities to market preferences.
,

Tip #1583: The Basics of Live Multi-cam Streaming

John Hess presents a rundown of all the elements needed to create a successful live multi-camera streaming production.
,

Tip #1576: The Essential Write On Behavior

Behaviors create animation without requiring keyframes, and one of the most essential behaviors is Write-on. Let me illustrate.
,

Tip #1575: A Simple Layers Slider

Tucked into the bottom edge of the Layers pane is an icon of two rectangles. This "scale slider" hides a useful function. Let me illustrate.
,

Tip #1577: Sometimes You Just Want Stuff to MOVE!

Sometimes, you just want something to move. Not a lot, but enough to catch the eye. Enter Random Motion. Look here.
,

Tip #1579: Understanding ACES for Color

ACES is a color management system designed to be the industry standard for color. Learn more.
,

Tip #1581: Bring the HEAVY Weapons to “Monster Hunter:

What are the challenges of creating a movie based on a video game with more than 1,300 visual effects? Here are some in-depth answers.
,

Tip #1580: Finding Inspiration in Architecture

The practice of motion design constantly evolving. But, where do you look for inspiration? Vikkal Parikh suggests: Architecture.
,

Tip #1571: Video Limiter Settings

In my experience, Premiere Pro’s Video Limiter effect has proven very useful as a method to keep luma and chroma levels legal for broadcast. But, there's a trick you need to know.
,

Tip #1568: Adjust Title Gradient Edge Softness

Philippa asks: How do I adjust the edge softness of gradients in Premiere? Well, it's pretty well hidden, but here's how.
,

Tip #1569: A Wrench, or Two, in the Works

In the Essential Graphics panel, part of the Graphics workspace, are two wrenches that you've probably overlooked. Here's what they do.
,

Tip #1584: New DJI Air 2S Drone with 5.4K Images

DJI updated the popular Mavic Air 2 with a 1″ sensor and a new name. Plus, it shoots 5.4K/30 images. Learn more.
,

Tip #1585: Canon Utility Converts Cameras to Webcams

The EOS Webcam Utility is Canon’s answer to the ongoing webcam shortage. It’s really, really easy to set up, and the picture quality is top notch. Here’s how it all works.
,

Tip #1586: Video Tips for Nikon Cameras

Nikon has published an excellent series of tutorials on using Nikon cameras for stills and video with sections on lighting, technology and creativity. Here's the link.
,

Tip #1572: What Is Range Check?

Range check is a special option in the Viewer > View menu that flags shadow or highlight levels that are "illegal" for the timeline video clip containing the playhead. Here's how to turn it on.
,

Tip #1573: The Broadcast Safe Effect

The Broadcast Safe effect clamps video levels so that they do not exceed safe levels. This works, but there are limitations. Learn more.
,

Tip #1574: The Video Scope View Menu

The View menu, in the top-right corner of the Video Scopes, provides options to customize their display. Here are the options.
,

Tip #1559: Top 10 Filmmaking News Sites

Filmmakers should always be striving to improve their skillset. So, fire up your favorite browser. Here are PremiumBeat's top ten favorite filmmaking news sites.
,

Tip #1560: Female Filmmakers: Sony Has $$ For You

Alpha Female was created to help close the diversity gap and make our industry an environment where all voices have an opportunity to thrive. Plus, there's money in it.
,

Tip #1562: Instagram Reel Editing Tips

Here are six tips to improve your video editing using the Instagram app.
,

Tip #1553: Creating Imperfections: Droplets

Sometimes, you don't want things to look perfect. You'd rather they look a bit more "real." Here's an effect to consider.
,

Tip #1554: Just Playin’ Around

Here's an interesting technique that creates synced movement using a copied motion path... and a flying rock.
,

Tip #1555: Spins Can Also Be 3D

When we work with video in Motion, it is easy to overlook that the Spin behavior actually works in 3D. But it does. Here's how.
,

Tip #1561: How to Get Started in Motion Capture – FREE

Trying to decide if motion capture is for you. Here are some free tools and assets to help you explore this part of the VFX industry.
,

Tip #1563: Inspiration Resource

Motionographer is dedicated to "unexpected inspiration" for visual effects artists. And a highlight is their "Quickies."
,

Tip #1565: 10 Mo-Graph Artists to Follow on Twitter

If you are a motion graphic designer or just interested in the art form, here are 10 mo-graph artists that you should definitely be following on Twitter.
,

Tip #1556: Use Curves to Create Custom Gradients

I was messing with curves to create a screen shot for an ad. What I discovered, totally by accident, is that this is also a great way to create custom gradients.
,

Tip #1557: Caution When Using the Video Limiter!

The Video Limiter is an effect that clamps white and black levels to "legal" levels. However, there are two significant problems with the Video Limiter that you need to be careful about.
,

Tip #1558: Change Color Grades Within a Shot

You have a shot where the talent walks into an interior scene from the outside. In post you are looking at a shot that probably starts color balanced, then goes orange. How do you fix it?
,

Tip #1566: What is a “Reference Monitor?”

My friends, we are making ourselves crazy. We have been set to the task of achieving a pinnacle of perfection, while being given imperfect tools. Alexis van Hurkman has advice on picking the right color-grading monitor.
,

Tip #1564: Premiere Pro’s Color Management

"Why don't my colors look right?" The underlying assumption that they should match is a fallacy and Oliver Peters explains why in this article.
,

Tip #1567: A New Way to Create Color “Looks”

Color.io just launched Photon 3D Color Grading and Match, both designed to enable colorists to create the visual looks they need. Here are the details.
,

Tip #1541: Create Shapes Filled with Video

OK, this is tricky, but worth trying. Here's how to create a shape in Photoshop, fill it with moving video in Final Cut, then place it over a background.
,

Tip #1542: More Hidden Uses of the Tilde Key

Stefan Sonnekus shares this hidden feature of using the Tilde key to move clips in the Primary Storyline.
,

Tip #1552: Add Rain Drops to Your Video

Shooting video in the rain is rarely a pleasant experience. Fortunately, Final Cut offers the ability to add rain later, in post, where things are warm and dry. Here's how.
,

Tip #1543: Use B-Roll More Effectively

B-roll can be just as important—or even have more impact—than A-roll when used properly. Here are some tips.
,

Tip #1544: Pick the Best SloMo Frame Rate

Which frame rates should you shoot to slow the action? Not all frame rates create the same effect. Here's some tips.
,

Tip #1545: What Media Tech Can Expect Post-Pandemic

TVBEurope wanted to find how the industry is feeling about the future. Here's a summary of what they expect this year.
,

Tip #1539: Quickly Fill a Shape with a Gradient

Here's a very fast way to fill a shape with a gradient in Apple Motion.
,

Tip #1538: Working with PDFs in Motion

Motion handles PDFs differently from both Final Cut and Premiere. But, it still doesn't handle them well. Learn more.
,

Tip #1540: Create Movement with a Zoom Blur

Here's a fast way to make a still image look like it's moving.
,

Tip #1546: Autocad Resources for Educators

Autodesk created a webpage specifically for educators providing resources for students and teachers. Here's the link.
,

Tip #1547: Ask the Artist: Nemanja Sekulic

Nemanja Sekulic is a world-class photo-manipulator. Here's his interview with BorisFX.com on his workflow and portfolio.
,

Tip #1548: Training & Tutorials from Foundry

Foundry offers a free license to four of their apps for students who qualify. There's also a wealth of other training materials on their website. Learn more here.
,

Tip #1523: Multicam Audio Workaround

Here's a workaround, from Lee Berger, on how to make 4 discreet XAVC audio tracks available in Premiere.
,

Tip #1536: Working with PDFs in Premiere

Premiere does not support importing PDF documents. This doesn't mean that you can't use them. Here are two workarounds.
,

Tip #1537: A Fast Way to Improve an Image

If you have an image that isn't exposed properly and you need a quick fix, here's how.
,

Tip #1551: Create Still or Moving Watermarks

Apple Compressor has a hidden feature that can create watermarks that move. Here's how.
,

Tip #1549: What Is Handbrake?

HandBrake is a free open-source video transcoder available for Linux, Mac, and Windows. Learn more.
,

Tip #1550: Use Nesting to Add Power to Watch Folders

Adobe Media Encoder supports creating nested watch folders, which is a great way to perform multiple actions at once. Learn more here.
,

Tip #1528: A Better Way to Replace JPEG Images

Scott was having problems when he replaced one JPEG with another; it often altered the clip order in the timeline. The fix was simple.
,

Tip #1534: Faster, Focused, Final Cut Pro Help

Apple made two significant changes to the Help system in Final Cut Pro in the 10.5 release. Both will help you find the information you need faster.
,

Tip #1535: Better Options Working with PDF Files

When you import a PDF file into Final Cut, it gets converted into a PNG. This causes problems when you need to scale the image. Here are two workarounds.
,

Tip #1524: The IP Video Revolution in Here

The shift from digital to IP media turned into a race in 2020. Primestream just published a free, 7-page, illustrated white paper on the transition.
,

Tip #1525: Monetize Images Using Blockchain

NFTs are digital assets whose ownership is verified using blockchain technology. Media creators can use them to verify purchases and accrue royalties. Learn more.
,

Tip #1527: Directing Advice from Denis Villeneuve

Denis Villeneuve is quickly becoming one of the best sci-fi directors of our time. With Blade Runner 2049 and Arrival being massive successes, here his thoughts on directing.
,

Tip #1531: Motion Titles for FCP are More Than Text

When you create a title template in Motion for use in either Motion or Final Cut, you are not limited to only using text. You can actually do far more.
,

Tip #1532: Align: A Cool, Unused Behavior

Align is one of those Basic Motion behaviors that you probably never use. Mostly because Fade In/Out, Spin, Throw and Motion Path are more obvious and useful. But Align has some very cool traits. Let me illustrate.
,

Tip #1533: Point At: A Little-Used Behavior

Point At is a Basic Motion behavior. It points an element at another element, no matter where each of them moves. Here's how this works.
,

Tip #1526: Design Trends for 2021

Millions of Shutterstock users search for media daily. Tracking search terms helps spot design trends. Here are their top ten and these are amazing!
,

Tip #1529: Real-Time VFX Conference Returns

Real-time VFX has been making massive leaps in the past few years. The RealTime Conference returns with two free events devoted to real-time VFX.
,

Tip #1530: Boris FX Continuum Public Beta for FCP

Boris FX just released a free, public beta of Continuum 2021 for Final Cut Pro and Motion editors. Here are the details, including a download link.
,

Tip #1518: Absolute vs. Relative Audio Levels

There are two ways to adjust the volume of any audio clip: Absolute and Relative. Here's what these terms mean and how they work.
,

Tip #1519: Hidden Media Replacement Controls

There's a hidden feature in the new motion graphic templates that allow media replacement. I mentioned this in last week's tip, but it deserves more attention.
,

Tip #1520: Caption Track Tricks

One of the exciting new features in Premiere's new caption workflow is its flexibility. Let me illustrate.
,

Tip #1521: Use FFmpeg to Create HEVC Files for iPhones

This command line tweak describes how to use FFmpeg for HEVC compression that plays on iOS devices.
,

Tip #1516: What is FFmpeg?

Underlying many popular transcoding or media viewer applications, like VLC Player or Handbrake, is FFmpeg. Here's some background.
,

Tip #1522: Salvaging Dead Codecs: LibreOffice

I've been creating files on computers for a long, long time. One of the challenges is opening files that are decades old created with dead codecs. Here's some help.
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Tip #1514: Tilde Key Secrets

The tilde key (~) has two very useful - but obscure - functions in Final Cut Pro. Let me illustrate.
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Tip #1515: A Faster Shortcut to Audio Levels

Normally, we adjust clip volumes by dragging the volume line in the clip up or down. But there's a faster way. Here's the tip.
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Tip #1517: Absolute vs. Relative Audio Levels

There are two ways to adjust the volume of any audio clip: Absolute and Relative. Here's what these terms mean and how they work.
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Tip #1508: Streaming Subscribers Pass 1 Billion Worldwide

The Motion Picture Association, in its annual THEME report, stated that streaming subscribers exploded in 2020 - adding more than 230 million new viewers worldwide.
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Tip #1509: 2 Newsletters to Track Broadcast Media

There are two reports I get every day that are very helpful in tracking what's going on at the high-end of the media industry: broadcast and film.