
Tip #1455: A Win for Creative Folks
Not all of us work in broadcast, but many of us have seen projects canceled when an initial showing didn't generate immediate success.

Tip #1456: Google is Dumbing Down TVs
Google recently announced that it will allow users of an upcoming version of Google TV to select a "Basic TV" feature. Here's what this announcement means.

Tip #1448: 3D Navigation Controls
Once you add a camera to a Motion project, three new navigation controls appear in the top right corner of the Canvas (Viewer). Here's what they do.

Tip #1449: Add Depth of Field to a Camera
Depth of field (focus) can be added to any camera in Motion; though it is off by default. Here's how to turn it on and adjust it.

Tip #1450: Simple 3D Text Lighting Tricks
The more I play with 3D text in Motion, the more fun I have. Here is a very quick way to dramatically change the look of your text.

Tip #1460: A Look Inside "Tenet's" Effects
VFXVoice recently discussed the in-camera effects of "Tenet" with VFX Supervisor Andrew Jackson.

Tip #1461: Easy Sky Replacement in DaVinci Resolve
Replacing an undercast or overexposed sky is one of those techniques that, if your client sees you doing it once, they’ll want it every time! Luckily, there are plenty of tools built-in to DaVinci Resolve that make replacing a sky a breeze. Here's a tutorial.

Tip #1462: Create 3D Voxel Art
MagicaVoxel offers a GPU-based path-tracing renderer, which creates images that look like legos. Here's a free creation utility and sample projects.

Tip #1435: What Is WebM
Developed and owned by Google, WebM is an audiovisual media file format. It is primarily intended to offer a royalty-free alternative for web streaming. Here's a quick summary of what it is and how it's used.

Tip #1436: Safari to Support WebM on Macs
According to the latest beta builds, WebM is coming to Apple Safari. Learn more.

Tip #1437: What are Vorbis or Opus Codecs?
WebM is a container format that uses VP8 or VP9 codecs for video and Vorbis or Opus codecs for audio. So, what are these audio codecs?

Tip #1457: Premiere's Floating Timecode Panel
Premiere has a floating timecode panel which simplifies tracking project durations and selections. Learn more.

Tip #1458: Quick Sky Enhancement
Here's a fast way to improve the look of a cloud-filled sky, using a simple gradient and a blend mode in Premiere.

Tip #1459: A Hidden Keyframe Menu
Most of the time, we add a keyframe and move on. But, hidden in the Effect Controls panel is a wide range of keyframe options that can add life to your visual effects. Learn more.

Tip #1451: Drop Zone Secrets
A drop zone is an image placeholder, created in Motion, for use in Final Cut Pro. Drop zones can be added to titles, effects, transitions or generators. Here's a secret tip.

Tip #1452: The Mysterious Red Box
You've seen it from time to time, the mysterious red box in Final Cut's Viewer. What the heck is it?

Tip #1453: An Editing Keyboard Shortcut
Anything that speeds the editing process is a good thing. Here are three keyboard shortcuts that simplify editing clips into the timeline.

Tip #1438: Another Way to Find the Right Guests
MatchMaker.fm is a relatively new service that seeks to connect podcasters - or anyone doing an interview, actually - with guests. Learn more.

Tip #1439: The Importance of Diversity
Tanya Jones has written an excellent - and short - essay on the challenges of diversity on a film set. There's good and bad - and reasons for hope. Learn more.

Tip #1442: Blackmagic Releases 6K Pocket Camera
The latest Pocket camera is "a new more powerful model that includes features for high end digital film. Here are the details.

Tip #1423: Messing with Transitions in Motion
By default, the two drop-zones in a Final Cut transition template cut between each other. But, it is easy to change, if you know where to look.

Tip #1424: Lights Can Help 2D Video
One of the most powerful, but little known, features in Apple Motion are its lights. These can benefit video clips in ways you might not expect.

Tip #1425: Cool 3D Text Lighting Tricks
This tip started by asking: "What can I do with directional lighting in Apple Motion?" The answer is: "Quite a lot of very cool stuff!"

Tip #1441: Creativity is Always a Leap of Faith
Kaitlyn Yang, an immigrant and wheelchair-user, founded VFX house Alpha Studios when she was 25. She reflects on the struggle for diversity.

Tip #1443: More Free After Effects Tutorials
MotionArray.com recently published more free After Effects tutorials on their website, with a special focus on text and typography.

Tip #1444: Adult Animation is in its Heyday
There has never been a better time to develop an animated series. Why? Because adult animation is wildly successful today. Learn more.

Tip #1430: Who Supports Blackmagic RAW
Last week, Blackmagic Design released the latest iteration of their smallest camera: The Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro. The camera supports only two codecs: Blackmagic RAW and ProRes. Who else supports BMD RAW?

Tip #1431: Editing ProRes RAW in DaVinci Resolve
ProRes RAW can be edited in Final Cut, Premiere and Media Composer. But, not Resolve. However, there's a workaround.

Tip #1433: Uncompressed vs. Raw vs. Log Video
Raw is not video. Log is video. And almost all video formats are compressed, even the uncompressed ones. Andy Shipsides has the details.

Tip #1445: Change a Sequence Starting Timecode
The default starting timecode of 00:00:00:00 is fine for most sequences, but sometimes you need to change it. Here's how.

Tip #1446: Match Captions to Sequence Timecode
This was a tricky problem. What happens when caption timecode doesn't match sequence timecode? The answer is: Nothing - or - a LOT!

Tip #1447: Change Caption Timing
Captions are contained in a caption file. These can be trimmed, moved, added, deleted or edited. Here's how.

Tip #1426: Create a Stand-Alone Still Frame
One of the more hidden features in Final Cut Pro is creating a stand-alone still frame. I use these constantly when I'm editing my webinars. Here's how to create them.

Tip #1427: What Are "Reference Waveforms"?
There's an option in Final Cut Pro's Editing Preferences called "Reference Waveforms." What are these things?

Tip #1428: Built-in Clip & Batch Renaming
Buried at the bottom of the Info Inspector in Final Cut Pro is a clip and batch renaming utility that can save you a lot of time. Learn more.

Tip #1410: Frame.io Launches "Camera To Cloud"
Frame.io launches Camera To Cloud, a breakthrough technology that changes how films are made in this era of remote work. Learn more.

Tip #1412: Frame.io's Camera To Cloud Hardware
To make Frame.io's newly launched "Camera to Cloud" service work requires a combination of hardware. Here are details.

Tip #1413: Top 10 Digital Video Cameras
In the past year, we’ve seen major technological breakthroughs in cameras. Here's PremiumBeat's Top Ten list for new cameras.

Tip #1429: Blackmagic Announces New Gear
On Wednesday, Blackmagic Design announced several new products, including a new 6K camera. Here's the latest.

Tip #1405: Four Ways to Light in Motion
The default light in Motion is "ambient." But there is much more flexibility when you add custom lights. Here are the four types.

Tip #1406: Lighting Can Bog Down Your System
Lighting in Apple Motion is render-intensive. Here's how to turn it off temporarily.

Tip #1407: How to Enable Shadows From Lighting
All custom lights in Apple Motion can cast shadows - except for Ambient lights. Here's how to turn them on; or off.

Tip #1420: Virtual Production Takes Big Step Forward
Unreal Engine is now creating photorealistic environments for media production on set. Actors see what they are doing without waiting for post. VFX Pros share their opinions on what's next.

Tip #1421: Tips for Editing Better Trailers
Trailers have always been important. But in today's Internet world they have become vital for just about everything.

Tip #1422: What's the Best Way to Show Screens?
Screens are the cigarettes of 2020s cinema, and we’re not going to quit anytime soon. Better figure out how to make the most of them! Here are some examples from Sundance.

Tip #1411: With H.264, the Profile Makes a Big Difference
When compressing H.264 media, the profile you pick determines what you get. Here's what the profile options mean.

Tip #1414: New Features in Premiere Pro
Adobe's monthly updates continue - this month with improvements in export speed, audio renders and bug fixes.

Tip #1415: Bugs Fixed in 2021 Premiere Updates
Adobe continues their push to improve the stability of Premiere Pro. Here's a list of the bugs they've fixed recently.

Tip #1416: Tips to Export HDR Media
Both H-264 and HEVC support 10-bit media, but only if you get the settings right. Here's what you need to know.

Tip #1408: A Quick History of HEVC
I got into a discussion with Birdie on HEVC, which led me into researching more about it's history.

Tip #1409: Does H.264 support HDR?
The answer is a surprising "maybe," and depends upon the compression software and compression profile you are using.

Tip #1417: Use Multiple Drives for Libraries and Media
Berta asks: "Using FCP X, can I save my library and project files to one external drive while using a second external drive for media?" Here's the answer.

Tip #1418: What Do the 3D Text Lighting Controls Do?
There are lots of options on how to light 3D text in Final Cut. Here are some settings to play with to make your text eye-catching.

Tip #1419: Use Motion Drop Zones for Lighting Effects
Final Cut Pro doesn't have the same lighting control as Motion. But, by using drop zones, you can light in Motion then use the results in Final Cut. Here's how.

Tip #1397: Shure Requests Dedicated Wireless Mic Channel
Shure asked the FCC to overturn its decision and dedicate a UHF channel to wireless mics. Or else there may not be any space left for productions.

Tip #1398: Creativity Conference Now Online
The Creativity Conference 2021 premiered with 93 presentations and panels covering the full range of creative arts. Here's how to get access to them - free.

Tip #1399: DPP: Predictions for Media in 2021
The DPP, a London-based think-tank focused on media, published its annual predictions for 2021. Here's their full report - and a free download.

Tip #1388: Learn Apple Motion In Depth
This in depth bundle of training videos, hosted by Larry Jordan, covers everything you need to know to make the most of this powerful motion graphics program.

Tip #1389: Move the Anchor Point for Better Zooms
The Anchor Point is that position around which an image rotates or scales. Moving the Anchor Point makes for much more interesting moves. Here's how.

Tip #1390: Put Text on a Curve
All curves in Motion are created using paths. But there's no "text-curve" tool. Here's how to give your text a curve.

Tip #1402: Notes from "Mank's" VFX Producer
Mank co-producer and VFX Producer Peter Mavromates shares his thoughts on creating the visual effects in "Mank."

Tip #1403: A VFX Workflow for "Mank"
X2X wrote four detailed articles on the Mank VFX workflow. Here's a summary, plus links to the entire set.

Tip #1404: How to Comp a Shot in 3 Different Tools
There are many ways to achieve an effect. This article follows compositer Marijn Eken as he compares using Nuke, Fusion and After Effects to create a high-quality composite.

Tip #1370: intoPIX JPEG XS Now Supports Premiere
intoPIX announced the launch of its JPEG XS Plugin for Adobe Premiere for video editing and live streaming. Learn more.

Tip #1393: LTO 9 - Coming Soon
LTO 9 is coming in the first half of 2021. Learn what this new storage technology provides.

Tip #1395: Saturation vs. Vibrance
What's the difference between Vibrance and Saturation? Something significant, actually. Learn more.

Tip #1396: Change a Specific Setting - FAST!
There's a fast way to change Motion settings in the Program Monitor. Here's a trick that prevents changing the wrong one.

Tip #1400: Audio Butler: Automatic Audio Mixing
Alex Audio Butler just released an upgrade to its automatic audio mixing package for Adobe Premiere and DaVinci Resolve. Learn more.

Tip #1401: The Future of Media is Streaming
The powers that be at all of the major networks understand that the future belongs to streaming. Their goal is to make the switch-over as painless as possible. Learn more.

Tip #1391: Interesting Facts About Audio Meters
Most of us know that the audio meters measure the volume of our sound. But here are some facts about the audio meters you may not know.

Tip #1392: A Quick 3D Rotation
There is a hidden setting in the Flipped effect that makes it even more useful. Learn more.

Tip #1394: Track Your Changes - Faster
There's a new feature in Final Cut that can help you track project changes faster - but it is hidden by default.

Tip #1374: Unions Approve Resuming Production
SAG-AFTRA, PGA and JPC agree to resume media production in LA starting Feb. 1. Here are the details.

Tip #1378: Faster Ways to Edit Audio Files
The big problem with editing a documentary is the vast amount of material you need to sift through. There's only so much you can keep in your head. Builder NLE can help.

Tip #1379: Keys to Success from an Executive Producer
From being prepared to checking your ego, here are a few industry lessons from an executive producer to help you stand out and always make the cut.

Tip #1377: Create a Reflection
Reflections in Motion are off by default. Here's how to enable them.

Tip #1381: Precisely Control the Position of Anything
Most of the time, when we drag objects into position in Motion they look fine. But, sometimes, you need more precise control. Here's what you need to do.

Tip #1382: Playing With Gradients
This started by me asking: What happens if I change this? The end result? A simple effect to create the illusion of depth.

Tip #1375: Red Giant Offers Free Color Training
Red Giant, now a part of Maxon, announced "Demystifying Post-Production: Shooting for the Grade." Free color training sessions in February.

Tip #1383: New Ways to Educate Tomorrow's Pros
When the pandemic scrambled classes, here's how several film schools responded to maintain instruction.

Tip #1384: Add Punch to a Dissolve
There is a lot of visual potential hidden even in the most mundane dissolve - if you know what to look for.

Tip #1369: Premiere Pro, Big Sur and M1 Macs
Here's a quick update on Adobe Premiere Pro's support for Big Sur and M1 Macs.

Tip #1371: Introducing intoPIX JPEG XS
JPEG XS is targeted at high-end video applications, such broadcasting, broadcast contribution, and virtual reality applications. Learn why.

Tip #1372: Premiere Pro Sundance NLE of Choice
Adobe Premiere Pro was used by more filmmakers taking part in the 2021 Sundance Film Festival than any other NLE. Here are the details.

Tip #1373: New Features in the Latest Premiere Release
Adobe announced new features in the latest releases of Premiere and After Effects. Here are the details.

Tip #1376: Avoid Image Degradation
How do you maintain image quality while changing the size of an image (aka "Scaling"). The answer is simple, in theory, but tricky in practice.

Tip #1380: Quantum Acquires CatDV
Quantum announced that it has acquired Square Box Systems, a specialist in data cataloging and digital asset management software. Learn more.

Tip #1385: Hidden Dissolve Options In Final Cut Pro
Normally, when we need a dissolve in Final Cut, we type Cmd+T, adjust the timing and move on. However, there is a wealth of creative options if you know where to look.

Tip #1386: Drop Zone Secret
I only discovered this tip this week and it is a huge time-saver when using drop zones.

Tip #1387: Calculating Clip Positions
All NLEs determine position using pixel coordinates. Where those coordinates start is called the 0,0 position. However, Final Cut has simplified where this is set.

Tip #1360: Tips for Filming Undercover
For those interested in careers as documentarians, you’ll need to get used to filming undercover and undetected. Here are some tips.

Tip #1361: The Vocabulary of the Gimbal
Gimbals are replacing cranes - but good cinematography also requires your cast and crew know what you are doing. Here are key terms and images.

Tip #1362: Create Stock Video That Sells
Shooting stock video footage can make you money. These tips explain how.

Tip #1363: Change Motion's Project Properties
Normally, you set essential project properties when you create a project using the Project Browser. But, what happens if you need to change project settings after the project is created?

Tip #1364: Change the Motion Background
By default, the background in Motion is transparent, though it is displayed in the Viewer as black. However, you DO have options.

Tip #1365: Change Reflection Settings
By default, Motion does not allow one object - such as text - to reflect off another object. Not only can you change this, you can also modify the reflections themselves.

Tip #1366: The New AI Frontier of VFX
If there’s a buzz phrase right now in visual effects, it’s “machine learning.” VFXVoice interviewed the experts to learn more.

Tip #1367: When to Use, or NOT Use, a LUT
A LUT is just a "lookup table." That's it. It's a table of values that changes grayscale or color values. But it has limits. Learn more.

Tip #1368: Learn 3D in Cinema 4D Lite
Cinema 4D Lite is the free version of Cinema 4D that ships with Adobe After Effects. In these 31 free tutorials, learn how to use the power of Cinema 4D

Tip #1351: Creating 64-bit Media
Al asks: "I'm running 10.8.5 and have the Adobe CS6 suite. Can I use Adobe Media Encoder to convert my video to 64-bit so it’s usable on the newer Macs?"

Tip #1355: Create a Poster Frame for iPhone Video
This tip was suggested by Darcy Peters, who discovered a very cool way to add poster frames for iPhone movies.

Tip #1356: Fixing Unix Executable Files
Most of the time, your images, media and documents open when you need them on a Mac. However, if you discover your files are unopenable "Unix executables," here's how to fix it.

Tip #1357: Customize the Timeline
The Timeline Wrench icon provides many ways to customize the timeline in Premiere. Here are your options.

Tip #1358: Save & Manage Timeline Presets
One of the challenges in any large edit is seeing what you've got across all the tracks you are working with. Track Height presets make this easy. Here's how.

Tip #1359: How to Find Available Shortcuts
Adobe Premiere Pro has hundreds of potential keyboard shortcuts - but only a fraction of these are enabled. Here's how to find what's missing.

Tip #1352: Change Clip Speed with "Blade Speed"
When you want to change the speed of a clip, the Blade Speed option is a really good place to start.

Tip #1353: Disable Speed Transitions
When you change the speed of a clip segment, Final Cut adds speed transitions to smooth the speed change. Here's how to turn them off.

Tip #1354: Adjust a Speed Transition
By default, when you change the speed of a portion of a clip (Tip #1352), Final Cut inserts a speed transition to smoothly blend the speed change across several frames. Here's how to modify it.

Tip #1344: Which to Shoot - 4K or 1080p?
Nearly every new camera has the ability to film in 4K (even action cameras and phones!). So, this poses a question, “Should anybody be filming in 1080p anymore?” The answer is surprising.

Tip #1345: Creating an Improv Web Series in 7 Days
This might come as a surprise, but we shot a six-episode improv comedy web series in seven days. Here's how they did it.

Tip #1346: 11 Pre-Production Essentials
Got a big shoot coming up? Not sure how to prepare? Don't panic. Here's the ultimate pre-production checklist at your service!

Tip #1341: Add Texture to a 3D Object
Motion doesn't support texture mapping on objects, BUT, there's a clever work-around you can use for 3D objects that delivers a similar result.

Tip #1342: Two Channel Blur Tricks
In Tip # 1341 we learned how to apply a texture to a 3D object. in this tip, I'll show you an intriguing way make that texture more believable.

Tip #1343: Change Direction During Movement
Normally, when you create a motion path, an object will follow that path. However, if you add a curve, sometimes you want the object to change it's direction as it moves around the curve. Here's how.

Tip #1347: The Miniature Models of Blade Runner
In 1982, Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner set a distinctive tone for the look and feel of many sci-fi future film noirs to come. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at how the effects were created.

Tip #1348: Moviola Training on Visual Effects
Moviola.com has a series of nine, free, online video courses on creating visual effects. Each lesson is deeply condensed to get you up to speed on the topic quickly. Learn more.

Tip #1350: DaVinci Resolve Fusion
Fusion features a node-based workflow with hundreds of 2D and 3D tools. It handles everything from quick fixes such as retouching and repairing shots to creating Hollywood-caliber effects.

Tip #1332: Spectra: High-Quality, Cloud Video
Last week, Streambox introduced Spectra, a high-performance streaming virtual media encoder. Now, remote editors can access high-quality images without proxies.

Tip #1333: Set vs. Scale to Frame Size
When placing an image, or video, that has a different size from the sequence, Premiere provides three different ways to scale it. But not all these choices are good ones.

Tip #1334: Frame Hold vs. Frame Hold Segment
In the past, when we needed to freeze the action, we created a stand-alone freeze frame by exporting a still, then, reimporting it and adding it to the Premiere timeline. But, there's a much better way: Frame Hold.

Tip #1335: Add Ease In / Ease Out to Keyframes
Motion keyframes in Adobe Premiere Pro support changing the speed of movement as you approach or leave the keyframes. Here's how.

Tip #1336: Export Stills - Which Codec?
All NLEs support exporting a still frame from a project. But, given all the codec choices when you export, which format should you choose?

Tip #1337: What Does "Low Resolution Proxy" Mean?
We often talk about proxy files being "lower resolution." But what does that actually mean?

Tip #1339: Adjust Thumbnails in Timeline
It's a small thing - but this new feature in the 10.5 update to Final Cut Pro can improve the look of your clips in the timeline; especially if you are editing on a very large screen.

Tip #1340: Something Playful
We are all familiar with chroma-key, removing the green and replacing the background. But, what if there's no green? I was playing with a Luma key and discovered this effect.

Tip #1338: Adjust a Smart Conform
Smart Conform converts clips in one aspect ratio to fit inside a project using a different aspect ratio. This is very fast and does a pretty good job. But you can make it better. Here's how.

Tip #1323: 15 Image Composition Techniques
New tech is great. But it is still the person behind the camera that makes a difference. Here are 15 composition techniques that can improve any story.

Tip #1328: Rewrites & Script Doctors
A script doctor is “a writer or playwright hired by a film, television, or theater production to rewrite an existing script or polish specific aspects of it. Learn more.

Tip #1329: Sony a7R IV & DJI Gimbal Change Football
A small Sony a7 mirrorless camera, DJI Ronin-S gimbal and 24-70 mm lens are changing football coverage. Learn more.

Tip #1315: Maximize Image Gray-scale
One of the missing features in Motion that bothers me most is a lack of video scopes. Still, we can maximize the quality of our images without relying on scopes using Levels. Here's how.

Tip #1316: Change the Color of a Single Object
A "secondary color correction" is one where a portion of the frame changes color, without affecting the rest of the image. Here's how to do this in Motion.

Tip #1317: An Example of a B-spline Mask
Mostly, when we need a mask, we'll use the Bezier tool, to create very flexible, highly-precise masks. So, I wondered, when should we use the B-spline mask tool? Here's an example.

Tip #1327: Filmworkz Launches New Site & Pricing
Filmworkz launches a new website and new pricing for six color grading tools. Learn more.

Tip #1330: How to Start a VFX Studio
Like any business, getting a new visual effects studio off the ground can be a monumental effort. Here's what four VFX founders learned.

Tip #1331: Fast Answers to Hard Questions
Looking for a quick answer to a hard question? Check out these tutorials from ToolFarm.com.

Tip #1318: Interesting Ways to Flip a Transition
The Flip Over transition in Adobe Premiere has several hidden settings that can make this transition more interesting. Learn more.

Tip #1319: Customize a Zoom Cut
A Zoom cut zooms into the middle of a clip, cuts to a second shot, then zooms back out. What you may not know is that this transition can be customized to make it even more effective.

Tip #1320: What Does "Ganging Monitors" Do?
When you click the Wrench icon in either the Source or Program monitors, the first choice is "Gang Source and Program." What does this do?

Tip #1322: What is Hardware-Accelerated Encoding?
In the past, when we needed to render or export a file, the software in the NLE did all the work. This worked, but took a long time. Now, we are moving to CPU- and GPU-accelerated encoding. Here's what you need to know.

Tip #1324: Test Compressed Image Quality - FAST!
Video compression ALWAYS removes data during compression. Always. Here's a fast way to see how much damage your compression settings are causing.

Tip #1325: Why Is an Audio Fade Called +3 dB?
Unlike video, where everything is mostly linear, audio is logarithmic, which just makes understanding mixing much more complicated.

Tip #1312: The Comparison Viewer Saves Time
The Comparison Viewer displays two timeline images side-by-side, which can simplify color grading and other tasks where comparing two images is helpful.

Tip #1313: Copy a Library as Proxy-only
A new feature in Final Cut 10.5 is the ability to create a proxy-only Library. This is extremely useful when you need to share a project with a remote editor who doesn't already have access to the project's media.

Tip #1314: Delete Generated Media More Easily
Generated media are files created by Final Cut to enable your editing. The problem is that these files take a lot of space. Here's how to delete them.

Tip #1306: 5 Photo Books to Inspire Cinematography
It can be hard to find the right place to look for cinematography inspiration. Let us narrow your gaze to five exceptional photo books.

Tip #1307: Top 10 Streaming Movies in 2020
JustWatch.com, an international streaming guide, compiled a list of what people were streaming the most this year in the US.

Tip #1308: The Academy Film Archive
The Academy Film Archive is home to one of the most diverse and extensive motion picture collections in the world. Learn more.

Tip #1303: Add a Curve to a Motion Path
All motion paths in Motion are a straight line. Here are three easy ways to add a curve.

Tip #1304: Secret 3D View Control
Switching to 3D view displays an innocuous 3D view controller. The magic happens when you roll over it.

Tip #1305: Groups Do More Than Organize
A group, in Apple Motion, is a folder that holds elements, behaviors and filters. But a Group does more than simply hold stuff. Learn more.

Tip #1309: Deep Fakes - A Creative Perspective
New ‘deep fake’ face-swapping videos seem to go viral on the internet with increasing regularity. But what does this technology mean for visual effects?

Tip #1310: The Path to Mograph - Free Course
This short 10-day course provides an in-depth look at what it takes to be a Motion Designer. And, its FREE!

Tip #1311: Toolfarm Top Ten Tutorials & Freebies
Here are the Top Ten VFX tutorials and freebie posts from Toolfarm.com

Tip #1300: A Hidden SSD Speed Boost
OK, I admit, I was playing. But I discovered something very intriguing about SSDs. Watch.

Tip #1301: Enable High Quality Playback
Premiere allows control over playback quality and resolution. By default High Quality Playback is turned off. When should you turn it on?

Tip #1302: Surprising Preview Resolutions
Render file resolution can vary, depending upon two hidden settings. Here's what you need to know to avoid problems.

Tip #1298: Shortcuts to Move Clips
Here's a quick tip that allows you to move connected clips or storylines using only the keyboard.

Tip #1299: Transition Trimming Tricks
Ever wonder what the icons at the top of transition mean... or do? Here's the answer.

Tip #1283: Cool Tip to Improve Product Shots
The viewer's eye follows movement. But, what do you do when you are shooting a box? Here's a great - and simple - trick.

Tip #1293: Top Ten Tips of 2020 for Random Weirdness
Here are three "Top Ten Lists" for 2020: By readers, by ratings and by subject. This is a fascinating group!
Tip #1294: 5 Secrets to Film Pacing
Pacing is hard to define. This article from PremiumBeat, shares five key areas to consider to keep your projects moving.

Tip #1292: Top Ten Tips of 2020 for Apple Motion
Here are three "Top Ten Lists" for 2020: By readers, by ratings and by subject. This is a fascinating group!

Tip #1295: Motion Compositions are a Good Start
The next time you start Motion, check out the Compositions in the Project Browser - you'll find tons of creative ideas hidden there.

Tip #1291: Top Ten Tips of 2020 for Visual Effects
Here are three "Top Ten Tip Lists" of 2020: By readers, by ratings and by subject. A look back at highlights from the past year.

Tip #1296: The Fairy-Tale Effects in Pinocchio
Matteo Garrone’s Pinocchio, an Italian-made re-telling of the classic tale by Carlo Collodi, is an effect-heavy live-action puppet story. Here's a look behind the scenes.

Tip #1297: Super Alien Models of Valerian
Among the many aliens showcased in director Luc Besson’s "Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets" are members of the Pearl, humanoid-like creatures who live in a picturesque beach setting.
Here's how they were created.

Tip #1278: Jump in Time
Here's a quick tip to help you move around Premiere's timeline more easily.

Tip #1279: Marker Tips & Tricks
Markers do so much in Premiere, it is hard to list all the options. But here are some of my favorites.

Tip #1280: Quick Project Panel Tricks
When you switch to List view in the Program panel, clips and sequences are sorted into rows and columns. This gives you lots of ways to look at the elements of your project.

Tip #1281: Larger Frame Sizes Protect Projects
We are in the middle of determining the "optimum" frame size for video projects as frame sizes continue to scale up. Still, there are benefits - even for HD projects.

Tip #1286: Optimize RAIDs for SSDs
RAIDs are collections of hard drives or SSDs designed for high-performance with high capacity. However, setting the wrong "level" can slow your system or put your data at risk. Here's what you need to know.

Tip #1287: What is Latency
Latency is directly tied to spinning storage media - the traditional hard drive - and determines how quickly you can access your data.

Tip #1289: Top Ten Tips of 2020 for Codecs & Media
Here are three "Top Ten Tip Lists" of 2020: By readers, by ratings and by subject. A look back at highlights from the past year.

Tip #1290: Top Ten Tips of 2020 for Adobe Premiere Pro
Here are three "Top Ten Tip Lists" of 2020: By readers, by ratings and by subject. A look back at highlights from the past year.

Tip #1251: Add & Resize Emojis
This holiday season, add some emojis to spice your visuals. Here's how to add, adjust and size them in your next project.

Tip #1276: Quickly Reverse or Flip a Clip
Lawrence Sobczak shared a very quick way to flip or invert a clip in Final Cut Pro.

Tip #1277: Trim - With More Options
I create a lot of picture-in-picture effects in my projects. Recently, I discovered a way to make this process faster. Here's how.

Tip #1288: Top Ten Tips of 2020 for Final Cut Pro
Here are three "Top Ten Tip Lists" for 2020: By readers, by ratings and by subject. A look back at highlights from the past year.

Tip #1267: Top Filmmaking Gear for 2020
Like most industries, the video gear market was inundated with new gear this year. Here is PremiumBeat's choices for top products in 2020.

Tip #1268: Revolutionary Sound Design and Mixing
This article from NoFilmSchool highlights two interviews with sound design leaders: Kami Asgar and Walter Murch.

Tip #1269: 5 Basic Filmmaking Principles
Editing is powerful, but good editing takes time, patience, and practice. Here are five tips to make it better.

Tip #1258: Change Keyframe Ease In/Out Speed
This is a trick I discovered while researching a recent webinar. We can change the ease-in / ease-out speed when animating objects using keyframes. Here's how.

Tip #1262: Change Behavior Ease In / Out Speed
I discovered this tip while researching a recent PowerUP webinar. We can also change the ease-in / ease-out speed when animating objects using behaviors. Here's how.
Tip #1263: Animate Lights in Motion
Motion has a full range of lights and, more importantly, lighting presets that can add drama and visual interest to any scene. Here's a quick way to animate them.

Tip #1270: Learning DaVinci Resolve 17
This DaVinci Resolve tutorial website has a host of tutorials on learning the brand-new DaVinci Resolve 17. Here's a list and a link.

Tip #1271: How to Setup Network Rendering
The idea behind render "farms," or network rendering, is to distribute your renders over a network, or farm, of computers, to speed your render times. Here's how this works.

Tip #1272: Art & Business of VFX for TV & Streamers
VFXV provides an in-depth look at the visual effects industry's transition into more complex effects for TV and streaming services.

Tip #1273: What is an MKV File?
An MKV container can incorporate audio, video, and subtitles into a single file. Here's more including software to play them and whether they work in Big Sur.

Tip #1274: Where a QuickTime Movie Stores Timecode
We often think of a QuickTime movie as a file. But, it actually isn't. It's a container for multiple files - each of which can be different. This means that timecode is one of the elements stored inside a QuickTime container. Learn more.

Tip #1275: How an AVCHD Folder is Organized?
AVCHD (Advanced Video Coding High Definition) is a format for digital recording and playback of high-definition video. An AVCHD file is actually not a single video file, but a hierarchical file structure dcontaining multiple video clips. Learn more.

Tip #1264: Where Premiere Stores Metadata
You spend all this time entering labels and other metadata for the clips in your project. Where does Premiere store this data and can you use it again?

Tip #1265: Dublin Core Metadata
I was wondering about what Dublin Core metadata actually is. So, I looked it up. Here's a quick summary.

Tip #1266: Interpreting an Alpha Channel
The process of adding an alpha channel to an image - as a developer - is highly complex. Fortunately, we don't need to understand how the channel is added to take advantage of it. Here's an overview.

Tip #1259: Change Keyframe Ease In/Out Speed
This is a trick I discovered while researching a recent webinar. We can change the ease-in / ease-out speed when animating objects using keyframes. Here's how.

Tip #1260: How to Burn Timecode Into Video
Final Cut Pro provides a fast way to add timecode to your review videos using a generator. Here's how.

Tip #1261: What is Automatic Speed?
You may have noticed "Automatic Speed" in the Retime menu. What does this do?

Tip #1248: The Creative Process of Filmmaking
Several years ago, Norman Hollyn and I created a 32-part web series called "2 Reel Guys." We called it: "Film School in a Box." Learn more about this free series.

Tip #1249: Use a Foil to Enhance a Character
This article details the purpose and use of foils to enhance dramatic characters.

Tip #1252: Essential Tips for an Indie Film
This article - "Essential Tips for Filming Indie Sci-fi on a Tight Budget" - focuses on a sci-fi film. However, these tips apply to just about any low-budget film. Learn more.

Tip #1239: Change Clip Speed by Dragging
Here's a way, suggested by MediaBox Productions, to increase the speed of a clip in Motion - without using the Inspector.

Tip #1243: Hidden Clip Control Options
There is a wealth of clip control options hidden in the Motion Viewer. Here's where to find them.

Tip #1244: Hidden Ways to Rotate Elements
Motion provides two hidden options which can simplify rotating a clip. Discover them here.

Tip #1250: Special Effects in Miniature
"The Mandalorian" turns to a tried-and-true special effect — hand-crafted miniature models - to create stunning visuals. Here’s how they did it.

Tip #1253: How to Light an Animated Film
Lighting animated movies isn’t just about making scenes look more stunning, it’s also about choosing an aesthetic. Here are some tips.

Tip #1254: Turn Your Kids Into Super-Heroes
Ben Eshagpoor of beMotion.dESIGN shows you how to turn your kids into Super Heroes using Premiere Pro and After Effects.

Tip #1245: What is the Assembly Workspace?
You've seen the text button: Assembly. But what is this workspace and how do you use it?

Tip #1246: Hand-painted Fonts for Premiere
Recently, I wrote an Inside Tip on some hand-painted fonts for Premiere. Richard sent me a note asking how to install them. Here's the answer - and it isn't what you expect!

Tip #1247: The Change to Color effect
In Tip #1246, I illustrated how to use some hand-painted fonts in Premiere. The problem is that these fonts are all black. How do you change their color?

Tip #1255: Criteria for Buying a Computer System
So how would you answer this question: "I need a new system. What are your thoughts about the 2019 27" iMac?" Take a look at my response.

Tip #1256: What's the "Ideal" Computer?
My wife has a saying: "The perfect is the enemy of the good." Nowhere is that more true than in technology; and it is driving us all nuts.

Tip #1257: Repair a Broken QuickTime Movie
QuickTime is a very flexible media container, but, when it breaks, it breaks badly. Here are several ideas on how to repair or convert QuickTime files.

Tip #1240: Turn Categories Off or On
Effects are grouped into categories, displayed on the left of the appropriate browser. With a single click, you can hide or reveal them. Here's how.

Tip #1241: Shortcuts for On-screen Viewer Controls
The Transform, Crop and Distort inspector controls can all be adjusted using on-screen controls. There are actually two places these can be enabled. Here's where.

Tip #1242: How to Move a Generated Shape
I use Generators > Shapes frequently in my projects - especially the arrow. However, if I don't pay attention, when I scale the arrow smaller, then drag it around the screen, it disappears. Here's why.

Tip #1230: How to Use Insert Shots Effectively
An insert shot is not, necessarily, a close-up. But, in this article from PremiumBeat, you'll learn a variety of ways to use inserts to move your story forward.

Tip #1231: How to Break Down a Script
A script breakdown helps a film crew prepare for production. Here are some tips on how to prepare an effective and informative breakdown.

Tip #1232: What Should Be in Every Scene You Write?
Scenes: they're the backbone of every story, whether it be TV, film, or even on the stage. But, what should be in every scene?

Tip #1227: Compare Two Images for Artifacts
Ever wonder what happens to your image when they are compressed? Well, Motion has a elegant way to illustrate these differences. Here's how to discover them.

Tip #1228: How to Burn-in Timecode
While Motion does not have the ability to burn-in timecode to a project, you still can. Here's how.

Tip #1229: Enable Dramatic Lighting in Motion
Motion has some very dramatic lighting presets built into it. But, to use them, you need to turn the ambient lights off. Here's how.

Tip #1233: New Color Tools in DaVinci Resolve 17
DaVinci Resolve has long been respected for its color grading tools. In the Version 17 release, these were improved even more. Here's a quick summary of the new features.

Tip #1234: When to Use a More Powerful Chroma-Keyer
Both Adobe Premiere and Apple Final Cut Pro X include chroma-keyers. When should you consider using something stronger than your NLE?

Tip #1235: 6 Ways to Motion Track in After Effects
Motion tracking, in its simplest form, is the process of tracking the movement of an object within a piece of footage. Here's how to do motion tracking six different ways.

Tip #1224: Interesting - and Unassigned - Shortcuts
Here is a collection of unassigned keyboard shortcuts that you may want to add to your toolkit.

Tip #1225: Create the Illusion of Speed
You are editing an action scene, but elements in it don't seem to be moving fast enough. Here's filter that can help.

Tip #1226: Make Video Look Like a Button
There's a little known effect in Premiere that can turn any video into a 3D button. Here's how to use it.

Tip #1236: Compare ProRes 422 vs. 422 HQ
I got into a discussion recently about the differences between ProRes 422, 422 LT and 422 HQ. Here's some research I did to learn more.

Tip #1237: An Overview of GoPro Cineform
Cineform started development in 2001 and has several advantages over DNx and ProRes. Here's a quick overview.

Tip #1238: An Overview of Alpha Channels
The process of adding an alpha channel to an image - as a developer - is highly complex. Fortunately, we don't need to understand how the channel is added to take advantage of it. Here's an overview.

Tip #1214: Unlock the Timeline Index
Here's a very handy free utility that I use every edit. A key feature is that it unlocks the data stored in Final Cut's Timeline Index.

Tip #1222: Fix a Warbling Music Track
Here's a quick workaround from Phil Cutting that fixes audio artifacts when importing media.

Tip #1223: Create a Default Effect - FAST!
If you find yourself using the same effect over and over again, here's a fast way to turn it into a keyboard shortcut.

Tip #1207: I Need Your Help
I want to encourage you to submit a tip or two for "The Inside Tips." We all benefit when we take the time to share what we know. Learn more.

Tip #1216: A Split-Screen Movie - that Works.
There are gimmicks and there are stories. Here's a story told with a gimmick that works.

Tip #1217: Create Loglines that Sell Movies
Taglines intrigue audiences. Loglines sell films to investers. Learn how here.

Tip #1219: Split the Viewer into Multiple Views
In the top right corner of the Viewer is an icon composed of small boxes. This is actually a big benefit when working in 3D. Here's how.

Tip #1220: What is the Active Camera?
Apple Motion allows us to add multiple cameras to any project; which means we need to understand the "Active Camera."

Tip #1221: Interpreting the Alpha Channel
The alpha channel represents the transparency of each pixel, the same way color channels represent the amount of color in each pixel. But, how do you interpret what the alpha channel display shows?

Tip #1208: I Need Your Help
I want to encourage you to submit a tip or two for "The Inside Tips." We all benefit when we take the time to share what we know. Learn more.

Tip #1215: Create a Crash Zoom from Two Shots
The crash (or snap) zoom is a cinematography technique you’ll see quite often in big-budget films. Here's one way to create it in post using After Effects.

Tip #1218: Free After Effects Courses from Adobe
Adobe has created a series of courses to help After Effects users become more proficient. Here's a list and a link.

Tip #1164: How to Retime a Clip in AME
Retiming a clip means to change the frame rate at which a clip plays back. For example, from 24 fps to 25 fps. This can easily be done in Adobe Media Encoder. Here's how.

Tip #1205: Display the Compression Log in AME
Every compression job in Adobe Media Encoder is logged in a hidden log file. This shows how long it took to compress a file, where the file is stored and what settings were applied to it. Learn more.

Tip #1206: Reset a Compression Job in AME
When Adobe Media Encoder completes a compression job, it flags the task as Done and won't recompress it - unless you know this simple trick.

Tip #1209: I Need Your Help
I want to encourage you to submit a tip or two for "The Inside Tips." We all benefit when we take the time to share what we know. Learn more.

Tip #1210: Tips for Faster Video Compression
Both Apple and Intel CPUs support hardware accelerated compression for H.264 and HEVC. However, it is possible to accidentally turn this OFF by changing one setting in either Apple Compressor or Adobe Media Encoder. Learn more.

Tip #1211: What Is Clean Aperture
You may have seen the "Clean Aperture" check-box in Apple Compressor and wondered what it does and when to use it. Here's the answer.

Tip #1193: New On-screen Controller for Compressor
Once you've imported a clip into Compressor, if you zoom into the image in the Preview monitor so that it is bigger than the screen can display, a small "map" appears. Here's what this means.

Tip #1212: What Does This Icon Do?
In the top left corner of the Final Cut Pro X interface, you may see this icon. What does it do?

Tip #1213: Find & Delete Clips - Fast!
The Timeline Index is an underutilized feature of Final Cut Pro X. But, if you take the time to explore it, you'll find all kinds of interesting things it can do. Here's a quick list.

Tip #1198: 6 Tips to Improve Audio Quality
Not much is more distracting than bad audio in an otherwise good film or video. This article provides six ways to improve audio recording, plus a tutorial video.

Tip #1199: Video Creativity: Casey Neistat
This in-depth interview with Casey Neistat presents his philosophy of production, the tools he uses and what he thinks of our digital future.

Tip #1200: Filmic Pro Adds 10-bit Dolby Vision HDR
Filmic Pro updates the already stellar version 6 to now support 10-bit Dolby Vision HDR on the iPhone 12. Learn more.

Tip #1195: Create a Watermark That Moves
We first looked at watermarks in Tip #1191. Here, I want to explain more about how to create a moving watermark in Motion.

Tip #1196: Replicators Can Use Multiple Shapes
Replicators are a great way to duplicate an element. What you may not know is that replicators can contain multiple elements. Learn how.

Tip #1197: Stay Oriented in 3D Space
It is very easy to get disoriented when working in 3D space in Motion. Here's a tip that helps me stay oriented.

Tip #1201: Get Started with Nuke
The hardest part of learning effects software is getting started. Foundry, the makers of Nuke, created the free "Nuke Studio for Beginners." Learn more.

Tip #1202: BorisFX Sapphire Tutorials
Sapphire plug-ins, published by BorisFX, let you create stunning organic looks unmatched by any host native effect tools. Here are some tutorials to get you started.

Tip #1203: What is OFX?
OFX. Many visual effects tools reference this - but what is it?

Tip #1181: How Color Match Works
Color Match allows fast color matching between clips in Premiere. Here's how it works.

Tip #1189: New Features in Premiere Pro (Nov. 2020)
Adobe has quietly moved to monthly updates for all its media software. Here's what's new in the November, 2020, update.

Tip #1190: Faster H.264 and HEVC Compression
Compression is getting faster due to new chips supporting hardware acceleration. Here's the latest news.

Tip #1191: Create Watermarks That Move
We are all used to video watermarks that identify the source of the video. But, did you know those watermarks can move? If you use the right watermark, they can. Here's how.

Tip #1192: What Are Compression Artifacts?
Compression artifacts are caused by a data rate that is too low. But what do they look like? Here's an example.

Tip #1187: Using Quick Export
Quick Export is new with the Nov. 2020 update to Premiere and provides a fast way to create H.264 files. Here's how it works.

Tip #1188: Keyboard Shortcuts for Pasting Clips
Here are six handy shortcuts that move clips from where they are to where you want them.

Tip #1194: Sometimes, a Gap is More Than Black
This is a simple thing, but I find myself using it in almost every project: adding a gap in my timeline. Here's why I use these and how to create them.

Tip #1160: The Secret History of Clapperboards
Most of the time, the tips for this Tip Letter focus on production. Mostly. Recently, I came across a fascinating article on the history of clapperboards that fits right in. Take a look.

Tip #1183: Make a Film Using Zoom
This article, by Paula Goldberg, explores how to create a successful short film using Zoom.

Tip #1184: Music Videos, Point Clouds & LiDAR
The video for Andy Shauf’s “Clove Cigarette” has unusual visuals and complex workflow due to using Unreal Engine and photogrammetry. The creators discuss how they created it here.

Tip #1175: Apple Updates Motion to v5.5
Last week, Apple updated Motion to version 5.5 to support macOS Big Sur, along with the upcoming switch to Apple silicon. But there's more to the update.

Tip #1177: First Look: The New Motion
The Motion 5.5 interface is virtually identical to the prior version - with a bit more content in the library. Here is a first look.

Tip #1178: Colorize a Gadget
Here's how to create interesting custom colors for animated Motion gadgets.

Tip #1176: New VFX in DaVinci Resolve 17
DaVinci Resolve 17 - over 100 new features and 200 improvements - include visual effects. Here's the list.

Tip #1185: What Does LiDAR in an iPhone 12 Do?
LiDAR measures the distance between objects. This has benefits in photography, but even more in AR, games and shopping. Here's an overview.

Tip #1186: BorisFX Releases Mocha Pro 2021
Mocha Pro's world-class tracker just got better meshes, tracking & scripting. Learn more.

Tip #1170: Free Media Compression Webinars
Many editors have questions about media compression. Here are two upcoming free webinars that can help answer them.

Tip #1173: What is ProRAW?
Apple announced ProRAW, a new still image raw format coming to the iPhone 12 Pro and Pro Max later this year. Here's what this means to photographers.

Tip #1174: Apple Updates Compressor to v4.5
Last week, Apple updated Compressor to support Big Sur and the upcoming switch to Apple silicon. Here are the details.

Tip #1179: Double-click & Mouse Tricks
Hidden in Adobe Premiere are some interesting double-click mouse tricks. Here's what I've discovered so far.

Tip #1180: Color Tricks for Surreal Effects
I generally want my colors to look "real." But, what if you want them to look "surreal?" Time to meet the Channel Mixer.

Tip #1182: What Does Clamp Signal Do?
The Lumetri Scopes have a "Clamp Signal" checkbox. What does this do and how does it affect your video?

Tip #1149: Audio Effects Stacking Order is Important
When adding effects to audio clips in Final Cut Pro X (or Motion), the order in which those effects are applied makes a difference. Here's what you need to know.

Tip #1152: Tips for a Better Chroma-Key
Green-screen keys replace a green background with something more interesting. However, hidden inside Final Cut is a tool that makes selecting the background color a lot easier.

Tip #1171: Light Wrap Makes Keys Believable
Buried in a folder at the bottom of the Keyer effect is Light Wrap. This makes the edges of a key look more organic by blending them with the background. Learn more.

Tip #1172: Apple Updates Final Cut Pro X, et al.
Last week, Apple updated their suite of video applications to support Apple silicon, as well as Big Sur. Here's what's new.

Tip #1151: Rescue Your Storage Using Recovery Mode
There's a new way to keep your Mac running smoothly - it's called "Recovery Mode." Here's how it works.

Tip #1156: How to Organize Editing a Feature
Alan asked: What's the best way to organize editing a feature film? I told him that every editor ultimately creates their own system. But here are thoughts to consider.

Tip #1168: 10 Inspirational Tips from Spike Lee
I first saw these 10 inspirational filmmaking tips from Spike Lee posted to LinkedIn.com. I don't know who compiled them, but I thought they were deeply insightful.

Tip #1161: Create Burn or Scorch Marks
Recently, for a webinar, I needed to create the illusion of a child dragging a light saber across a carpet and setting it on fire. Here, I create a burn or scorch mark on carpet. Here's how.

Tip #1162: Particles Reflect Movement
When you move a particle system, say with keyframes, the particle system amplifies the movement.

Tip #1163: Fill a 3D Object with Texture
One of the new features in Motion 5.4.7 is 3D objects. They are their own category in the Library. Here's a better way to give them texture.

Tip #1165: Different Ways to Use Slow Motion
Slow motion is cool. There’s just something undeniably awesome about the slowing down of time. But there's much more to it than speed. Watch.

Tip #1166: Get Started with Cinema 4D
Cinema 4D is a leading 3D design tool. This series of 20 short video tutorials gets you started in the right direction.

Tip #1167: Learn Maya on "Maya Monday"
Toolfarm.com has created a series of video tutorials on using AutoDesk Maya 2020. Here's the link.

Tip #1132: Not All Thunderbolt Cables are High Speed
One of the most interesting things I learned recently is that not all Thunderbolt cables deliver the same performance. Even Apple's cables have significant limitations. Learn more.

Tip #1150: Audio Effect Order is Important
When adding effects to audio clips in Premiere (or Audition), the order in which those effects are applied makes a difference. Here's what you need to know.

Tip #1154: Options for Converting Frame Rate
Ian asked: I shoot/edit in the UK at 25/50 fps with images up to 4k. At times I have B-roll either from an iPhone or GoPro 8 shot at 30 fps 4K. Should I retime these to 25/50 fps before importing or let Premiere do the job?

Tip #1155: Rescue Your Legacy Media
One of the challenges in keeping up with technology is media that can no longer be played. There may be a solution - learn more.

Tip #1157: Verify Your Audio Meets Spec
One of the reasons I create my audio mixes in Adobe Audition, rather than Premiere or Final Cut, is that Audition has a panel that precisely measures the technical amplitude (loudness) of my finished mix to make sure it meets spec. Here's how.

Tip #1158: File Size is NOT Image Quality
Lane is creating a 30-minute Christmas program. He's also worried about the ultimate file size. Here's why this is a misguided place to worry.

Tip #1147: A Faster Way to Apply LUTs
Normally, we apply LUTs (color Look-Up Tables) to each individual clip. But, recently, a reader suggested a faster and better option. Learn more.

Tip #1148: Adjust List View Columns and Layout
Here are three tricks that make using List view in the Final Cut Browser a lot more useful.

Tip #1153: A Faster Way to Apply Keywords
Keywords are a fast, flexible and powerful way to organize clips in the Browser. Here's a faster way to create them.

Tip #1143: 5 Tips to Make Video More Cinematic
One of the most asked questions that come from beginner filmmakers is, “how do I make my films look more cinematic?” Here are five tips that can help.

Tip #1144: An Excellent Discussion of Plot & Story
This collection of examples and videos explores the fundamentals of story, plot structure and how filmmakers use them to create their own narratives.

Tip #1145: What Every Sound Utility Should Know
A sound utility is part of the production sound team and one of the most important staff on set. Here are some tips to learn more.

Tip #1140: Create a Hold (Freeze) Frame
Here's how to create a hold frame in Motion, as well as how to apply it to the middle or the end of a clip.

Tip #1141: Loop a Video Segment
The Loop behavior loops a portion of a video over and over and... over. Here's how to use it.

Tip #1139: Change the Speed of a Clip
Like anything in Motion that involves movement, changing the speed of a clip requires a behavior. Here's how to create a slow-motion effect.

Tip #1142: Tutorials from Toolfarm
When it comes to effects tutorials for a wide variety of products, there are very few equals to Toolfarm.com. Learn more here.

Tip #1146: 22 FREE After Effect Show Reel Templates
After a year like this one, any good news is welcome. So MotionArray has assembled twenty-two free After Effects showreel templates to kick-start your showreel.

Tip #1120: Free Title Animations for Premiere
These ten free motion graphic templates for Adobe Premiere feature hand-drawn, eye catching animation, with lots of customization.

Tip #1122: HDD RPMs Really Do Make a Difference
In my continuing effort to optimize my network and local storage, I tested to see what difference 7200 RPM drives make compared to 5400 RPM. Here are the results.

Tip #1126: How Much Does Journaling Slow a RAID?
In my continuing effort to optimize my network and local storage, I tested to see what difference journaling makes to data transfer speeds. Here are the results.

Tip #1131: Thunderbolt 4 = Thunderbolt 3 (Mostly)
Thunderbolt 4, which is announced but not yet released, is causing a lot of confusion in terms of performance and capability. Here's what you need to know.

Tip #1136: New Features in Adobe Premiere Pro
With the October, 2020, update, Premiere Pro adds several new features - most revolving around color management. Here's the list.

Tip #1137: Set vs. Scale to Frame Size. Which to Pick?
When I add still images to the timeline, I need to decide between using Set to Frame Size or Scale to Frame Size. What's the difference? Quite a lot, actually. Here's what you need to know.

Tip #1138: Quickly Change Clip Speed
There are three ways to change the speed of a clip... well, OK, four. But here's the coolest.

Tip #1133: Adjust the Pitch of a Musical Clip
Ed asks: "I have a karaoke song and want to lower the pitch. I know I use the PITCH in audio, but how do I know what numbers are a half step lower?" Here's the answer.

Tip #1134: Use EQ to Enhance Voice Clarity
Vowels are low frequency sounds, which give a voice its character, warmth and sexiness. Consonants are, generally, high frequency sounds, which make speech intelligible. Here's what you need to adjust.

Tip #1135: Boost and Smooth Dialog Levels
Probably the most powerful audio filter for dialog is the Limiter effect. Here's how to use it.

Tip #1119: Free Hand-Painted Animated Fonts
Free hand-painted animated fonts painstakingly painted frame by frame to give your titles and design a fun, energetic feel.

Tip #1121: 5 Hacks for Film & Video Lighting
Shooting a film or video without thinking about lighting is a recipe for disaster. Here are 5 lighting hacks for film and video that you can try when you need a few tricks to get the job done.

Tip #1123: Basic Camera Technique Tips
If you've just started learning how to operate a camera, this is the video for you. Camera operator Oliver Cary breaks down different shooting methods and how they impact the story.

Tip #1116: A Design Thought on Depth
In other tips, I used Y-axis rotation to create the illusion of depth. However, sometimes, adding a design element can help sell that illusion even more. Here's an example.

Tip #1117: Adjustable Grid, Guides and Ruler
Inside the Motion Viewer are an adjustable grid, moveable guides and customizable ruler bar. Here's how to display and adjust them.

Tip #1118: What is Ease In / Ease Out?
Most Motion effects that involve movement have a Speed setting that determines if and how the speed of that movement changes over time. Here are the options.

Tip #1124: Dozens of Free Cinema 4D Tutorials
GreyScaleGorilla.com is a website with dozens of free tutorials for Cinema4D artists. Here's the link to view these and learn more.

Tip #1125: Free Red Giant Tutorials
Red Giant is an industry leader in creating software for visual effects with a dedicated website for tutorials. Learn more.

Tip #1127: Re:Vision Effects Wins an Emmy
Re:Vision Effects wins an Engineering Emmy for its visual effects work. Here are the details.

Tip #1110: Multicam Keyboard Shortcuts
Last week I presented a webinar on Multicam Editing in Adobe Premiere. As I was researching this, I discovered several little-known keyboard shortcuts that make multicam editing more fun. Here's the list.

Tip #1111: Adobe Sneak Peaks
Last week, at Adobe MAX, comedian Chelsea Handler co-hosted Sneaks, a preview of the futuristic tech Adobe engineers and researchers are exploring. Here's the full list.

Tip #1113: Mixed Frame Size Multicam Clips
Premiere has a secret trick that allows it to easily create multi-camera source sequences (multicam) that contain clips of different frame sizes. Here's how.

Tip #1128: Apple Wins Engineering Emmy
Apple won an Engineering Emmy from the Television Academy for it's ProRes family of codecs. Here are the details.

Tip #1129: What is the Alpha Channel?
Invented in the 1970's, and used daily today, the alpha channel is an indispensable workhorse for visual effects. But, what is it?

Tip #1130: Not All Proxy Files are the Same
Not all proxy files are the same size, nor perform the same. Here are some things you need to keep in mind.

Tip #1109: Oversize Your Compound Clips
There's no rule that says compound clips need to be the same frame size as your project. In fact, there's a benefit when they aren't.

Tip #1114: A Simple Way to Add Depth to Text
Hidden in the Text Inspector is an easy way to add depth to text. Here's how.

Tip #1115: Add a Cast Shadow - Manually
We can use the Drop Shadow effect to create a variety of shadows, but sometimes, it's more flexible to create one manually. Here's how.

Tip #1099: The Challenge of Perfect vs. Good
My wife has a saying: "The perfect is the enemy of the good." Nowhere is that more true than in technology; and it is driving us all nuts.

Tip #1100: What is a Showrunner?
The show-runner is the lead producer on a film or video project who oversees every element of the project’s creation, from the initial pitch to the final edits and marketing. Learn more here.

Tip #1101: Breaking into Documentaries at 40
Filmmaking can be a tough industry to break into. And in her case, she thought it would be especially difficult in her 40’s. But, at 40, Jia Wertz did just that. Here's what she learned.

Tip #1093: Audio is Motion's Achilles Heel
Audio is Motion's Achilles heel. The audio controls in Motion are terrible. However, here's a trick that can bail you out when you are in a hurry.

Tip #1094: Secret Spinning
Spin is a very popular Behavior that gets elements in a Motion project to spin. What you may not know is that there is a hidden keyboard shortcut that helps you make the most of this move.

Tip #1095: Playful, More Effective, Colors
Coloring an element is something we do all the time. But, it is often much more interesting to color using gradients. Here's how.

Tip #1106: Share Your Favorite Tutorials
With so many effects packages out there, and so many website providing tutorials, I'm curious about which tutorial and web sites you find the most helpful.

Tip #1107: Boris FX Tutorials
I was exploring the Boris FX website and discovered a gold mine of video tutorials for 22 different host applications and spanning more than 23 categories. Here's the link to learn more.

Tip #1108: Beginner's Guide to DaVinci Resolve
Earlier this year, Paul Saccone and Dion Scoppettolo co-authored the "Beginners Guide to DaVinci Resolve." Here's how to get your free copy.

Tip #1096: Select the Right Proxy Format
Premiere continues to improve its proxy workflow, most recently by adopting ProRes codecs for both Windows and Mac. When it comes to creating proxies, we can now choose between four different codecs. Here are the options.

Tip #1097: Creative Color Tints
There's an unlimited range of looks and emotions we can evoke with the color tools in Premiere. Here's a technique using two tools I haven't worked with before to boost the emotion in a scene.

Tip #1098: Move Clips Faster!
OK, I confess, this is a long-time feature in Premiere that I've never used: Lift and Extract. Sigh... so much to learn. Here's how these work.

Tip #1102: What is a Render File?
We create them all the time, but what, exactly, is a render file? And can we delete them?

Tip #1104: Generate More Viewers on YouTube
The reason we post videos to YouTube is that we want people to watch them. Here are six tips you can use to help viewers find your videos.

Tip #1105: What is Sharpening?
We have all heard the term "sharpening." But what is it and how do we apply it?

Tip #1090: An Even FASTER Way to Zoom
There are keyboard shortcuts to zoom into the timeline - but this trick is faster than all of them.

Tip #1091: What are Color Looks?
Looks are a very fast way to change the color "look" of a clip without requiring you understand how the color tools in Final Cut work.

Tip #1092: View Proxy vs. Proxy Preferred
Proxy Preferred is a new feature in the 10.4.9 update. What does it do and when should we use it?

Tip #1078: Discover PostPerspective.com
If you haven't explored the PostPerspective.com website, you are missing a treat. Learn more.

Tip #1079: How to Get More YouTube Subscribers
If you've tried all the obvious things, but your subscriber count is still low, take a look at these seven tips.

Tip #1080: Filmmaking Fundamentals: Blocking
When watching amazing cinema, there are many elements to watch. But blocking, though often ignored, is often the most important. Learn more.

Tip #1084: Effects Playground: Time Tunnel
Ever wanted to travel through a worm hole? Now you can - and Motion creates it. Here's how.

Tip #1085: What's a Replicator?
A Replicator creates a pattern from a single object or a group of objects. Traditionally, we think of a pattern as a rectangle, but, with Motion, we have a lot more options.

Tip #1086: Turn on Motion's Grid
Motion has a grid you can use to align elements. Here's how to turn it on, then configure it for your next project.

Tip #1087: Get Started with DaVinci Resolve 16
In recent years, DaVinci Resolve has steadily gained interest from professionals and hobbyists alike. Whether you are new to video editing or looking to jump ship from other software, this tutorial shows how to get started.

Tip #1088: Animated Titles in DaVinci Resolve
If you’ve spent time with DaVinci Resolve, you may be curious about different ways to create animated titles. DaVinci Resolve Fusion titles are a great way to build your own animated title sequence. Learn more.

Tip #1089: Learning Fusion in DaVinci Resolve
Fusion, in DaVinci Resolve, is different from many other effects systems in that it is node-based. This requires a different way of planning and executing an effect. Here are some tutorials that can help.

Tip #1072: Preserve Your Projects - Long-term
Looking for ways to archive your project for the future? Here's what you MUST do.

Tip #1075: Adobe Beefs Up Learning
Adobe continues to improve its training and tutorial access inside Premiere. If you haven't seen what's available lately, here's where to look.