January
9
2010
In my infant days of video production – when I first started in the business – I had the opportunity to spend a great deal of time in the studio producing talk shows and special promotions for television broadcast. And one of the tools often used was “Chroma Key.”
Sometimes referred to as the “green screen” (although some prefer blue), the effect is a very convenient method of putting your subject in almost any environment in the universe. Dating back to the 1930s and used quite extensively in movie production, probably the most common use known to most is in weather reporting. When you view your favorite weather meteorologist on the daily news or the weather channel, standing in front of a giant map or video footage of a turbulent weather scene, he or she is really standing in front of a blank screen. Blue or green is often used because it does not normally interfere with the color of human skin or hair (unless your hair, clothing or makeup is green).
When I initially began using chroma effects in the studio we would often utilize a blue curtain as the background matte and sometime faced the challenge of videotaping talent who were wearing the same-color clothing, eye shadow and/or lipstick as the curtain.
I prefer using green (I must remember to remind talent not to wear that color), and for the effect to work best – it is important to make certain that the screen your subject is sitting, standing or performing in front-of or surrounded-by is well-lit. Any fluctuation in material or lighting can cause problems in post-production or on a live set.
Although during the early years of film production the process of creating an effective key or matte effect was quite arduous and expensive, those who mastered the process were in great demand and considered pioneers in the movie industry.
Present-day digital cameras, video mixers, studio switchers and computer-based software have made the process much easier and cost-effective. When an expensive studio set or background is out of the question, and there’s no budget for travel to far-away lands, chroma key can be a very affordable and effective alternative.
Now your favorite super-hero can fly, jump higher and run faster due to the magic of the “chroma key” video.
(c) 2010
American Video Productions has been in the professional video business since 1982 and recently produced a series of customer testimonials for G & A Partners of Houston utilizing chroma key video. Check out the following clip and many others at: http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/.
January
5
2010
Your edited wedding can expand beyond the traditional ceremony and reception chapters. Many couples are adding items such as guest interviews, a love story and photo montage.
A wedding video, in my opinion, should tell a story. Not only should it chronicle the actual wedding day – ceremony and reception – but it should also tell the rest of the story. The wedding DVD is a family heirloom – an historical document that future generations can appreciate and share with their children.
In addition to adding it as an extra chapter on your DVD, the “birth-to-engagement” photo montage can also be viewed during the rehearsal dinner. And many couples will elect to play it on the wedding day – just before the wedding ceremony or at some point during the reception.
Traditionally the photo montage include pictures of the bride and groom, from the time of their birth and early childhood, school experience and throughout the engagement. Its basically a creative “slide-show” (documentary) of their lives set to their favorite music. In addition to photos, the montage can also include mementos of significant milestones in your lives as well as video clips.
The wedding DVD should tell your story – the story of your lives. You’ll be glad you chose to produce the montage and your children and future generations will thank you for it.
The sample clip below is the photo montage of Tracy and William. In addition to utilizing birth-to-engagement photos, it also includes video footage from their engagement photo shoot at Hemisphere Plaza in San Antonio, TX.
December
28
2009
According to The Environmental Protection Agency, Americans dispose of more than 200 million tons of garbage every day. Every day!
Of course I’m not here to preach about recycling and the national trash dilemma. But rather, I would like to share with you a video I recently produced about a friend in Dallas, TX who has the ability to see trash as art. And I’m not talking about the stinky slime you throw against the wall to see what sticks – and refer to it as art (although I also realize that beauty is in the eye of the artist). I speak instead of wood, plastic, metal and dead plants that can be gathered together to form eye-pleasing works of beautiful – abstract – art (sculpture).
As a professional videographer/photographer I’m often paid to capture special moments and gatherings, create marketing videos and document real-life situations. Many of these situations and gatherings are staged and include several months of planning. Some of these assignments are interesting, educational, emotional and entertaining. And they pay the bills (usually).
But as a digital artist who actually “enjoy” his work, I often have the unique opportunity to videotape people, places and things – with only a moment’s notice – just for the fun of it. This is just one case.
My Dallas friend has been blessed with an eye that can see art and treasure in trash. And while I am in no manner a professional art critic – I can certainly appreciate the beauty of an artist’s hands at work – even in the middle of a pile of common rubble.
Eric has the ability to take old chairs, plastic cups, washer and dryer parts, old headboards, table parts and even dead plants and create art that is worthy of public display – even at the DFW airport.
And on one recent Sunday afternoon I had the opportunity to meet this master of trash (he and his family are personal friends of my son). My wife and I were invited over for Sunday lunch. After entering the modest, but well-decorated home, you can’t help but notice the magnificent works of art that hang from the walls, compliment the fireplace and adorn the various corners of this home-turned-museum. My first thought was that this young family spent all of their fortune on fine works of art-sculpture. But to my amazement I soon discovered that I was breaking bread with a modern-day Picasso, Monet or Michelangelo.
Of course the next reaction (naturally for me) is to run to my car, grab my trusty video camera and push “record.” It’s moments like this that money can’t buy. If I was officially hired and paid to create a short video documentary about these various works of art, I would have brought in a professional lighting and sound crew with all the television-production accessories, etc. But capturing it this way – at the spur of the moment – when I’m feeling like a kid in a toy store or a tourist gazing in amazement at the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel – it brought much more satisfaction than any paycheck or major video contract ever could.
It was fun. I enjoyed it. And once again, I was reminded of why I do video and photography (for over 27 years) – I enjoy it. I started on this quest in 1982 – not to make a bundle of money or to become famous – but because its fun and I enjoy sharing the beauty and wonder of friends, events, nature and those special moments in time – with the rest of the world. Enjoy!
For more information about his art you may contact Eric at: ericgar@tx.rr.com.
Bruce Blackwell, author, is the owner and founder of American Video Productions. (c) 2009
December
12
2009
In our constant quest to achieve excellence with every production, no matter the size or budget, we sometimes find ourselves faced with limitations beyond our control. If it was my decision, I would probable assign 2 to 5 cameras to every production, especially when it involves producing sporting and other action-filled events.
Whenever a potential customer approach me with a production idea or project, I always recommend, at minimum, 2 video cameras with 2 operators. And when it comes to sports and other action shoots I prefer to work with 3 to 5 cameras. Since I started shooting photography and producing video in 1982, my desire has always been to achieve “excellence” in every respect. I would like for every photo to pass the National Geographic test and each video to look as good, if not better-than the CBS Evening News. To obtain that level of quality requires experience, close attention to details and very high-quality equipment.
We never like to compromise on quality. However, we must provide the best output possible based on the customer’s vision, shooting environment and budget.
Tam Thompson, 2007 USA Women’s Kayak Polo Team Athlete & Team Manager, recently hired us to produce a short video of her kayaking skills in San Marcos, TX. She was basically producing the video for family and friends and had a limited production budget. Thus, we only used one camera. But after shooting from several different angles, view points and with some post-production magic via Final Cut Pro, we were able to produce a piece that she was completely satisfied with.
Of course if it was left up to us, and budget was no concern, we would’ve utilized at least 3 cameras and shot the video from both sides of the river and possibly place a camera and operator inside the water as well. We do the best we can with the tools provided and the environment in which we operate.
When you plan your next shoot think about all of the possibilities that a multi-camera production will do to enhance your final-edited DVD. And if you don’t have the up-front budget, perhaps you can work out a payment plan with the production company or some other arrangements which will allow for a most-excellent video.
American Video Productions, owned by Bruce and Candice Blackwell, operate throughout the state of Texas and produce all types of videos, including sports, weddings, marketing videos, training tapes, memorials and special events.
American Video Productions – 888-433-6554 – info@AmericanVideoProductions.net.
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December
9
2009
In addition to videotaping weddings, quinceaneras and other events, we also videotape formal photo shoots. Our partner site – Candi’s Photography – provide excellent wedding photography services and we often tag along on bridal and engagement shoots. These are informal sessions, usually out doors, where brides and grooms take time to pose for the camera. Many of the shots are staged and several are impromptu.
When we partner with Candi we often include a video of the photo shoot. Including a video of the photo shoot as a chapter in your final-edited wedding DVD is a treasure that you and future generations will enjoy for years to come.
We recently had the opportunity to videotape a Quinceanera photo shoot near Herman Park in Houston. Our journey started at a local hair salon near Rice University as the young lady was preparing for the shoot. With hair perfectly styled and makeup carefully applied the shoot started with some staged shots inside the salon. After about 45 minutes we moved to the Mecom-Rockwell Colonnade & Fountain. Having the freedom to shoot outdoors, without many limitations, and on a bright sunny day is a great treat. And if you ever travel to Houston, TX take time to visit the Herman Park area – you’ll enjoy it.
Bruce Blackwell
American Video Productions – Since 1982
888-433-6554
December
8
2009
The Quinceanera is a Latin American celebration of a young girl (age 15) becoming a woman. It is often compared to a Sweet 16 celebration or a debutante’s coming out party.
This 4-minute video represents over 8 hours of total video coverage that started at 10:30 am at the young lady’s home and concluded in the late afternoon at her reception. After taking a few video shots at home the young lady and her court arrived at the Catholic church in Round Rock, TX via limousine. It is customary for Spanish-speaking Roman Catholics to hold a ceremony at the church before moving on to the reception for additional festivities, dancing and eating.
At the reception the young lady’s first dance is with her father. The celebration (this one took place at the Marriott) resembles a wedding reception in many respects.
December
2
2009
We had the opportunity to videotape a wedding at the 35th Annual Texas Renaissance Festival in Plantersville, TX (45 miles northwest of Houston) recently. This particular festival covers the English Renaissance period (Henry VIII – circa 1540) and is open each weekend during October and November. While there are several Renaissance festivals operating throughout the country, the Texas Renaissance Festival of Plantersville is the nation’s largest and most acclaimed Renaissance theme park, according to its promoters. This particular festival is a re-creation of a 16th century English village on a 53 acre park.
In addition to a grand procession in her horse-drawn carriage, the bride’s arrival to the wedding ceremony is accompanied by bagpipes, a sword arch and a variety of festival characters (all dressed in Renaissance-period costumes).
This particular YouTube clip is a condensed version of the wedding ceremony produced by Bruce Blackwell of American Video Productions: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQSxRA3BRT4
November
25
2009
More couples are investing in video to chronicle their special day than ever before. And many are going the extra mile by adding a Love Story to their final DVD.
The Love Story is basically “your story” – a short and meaningful account of your lives together as a couple. It’s like a mini-documentary – told in your words (on-camera) – about how you met, your favorite moments together, most memorable events and your vision of the future.
We recently produced a Love Story for Christina and Ray where they shared some of their funniest and memorable moments as a couple. The initial interview included the two of them together as they shared some of their favorite past-times, how they met and what their most immediate plans were for the near future. We later interviewed them separately so that they would have an opportunity to talk about their deepest feelings for the other partner and their own personal vision for the long-term.
Additionally, Christina and Ray, also added coverage of the bridal shower, parent, family and friend interviews, video coverage of the wedding rehearsal, a birth-to-engagement photo montage, wedding-guest interviews, the wedding and reception. Their final video package, in full-non-compressed quality consists of 3 DVDs. The package they chose (Our Ambassador Package) comes with 12 DVDs. Thus – their final package will consist of 36 total DVDs.
If you have time and the opportunity – creating a Love Story can be a very valuable addition to your wedding DVD. Including components such as the Love Story, parent and guest interviews, etc – can go far beyond the usual wedding video – its like having your own wedding movie – a “comprehensive” and detailed account of your life. And your children, grand children and future generations will thank you.
For all of your wedding video needs – American Video Productions.
Christina and Ray – Love Story – at YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPfjGPNdzFU.
November
23
2009
Although we’re based in Austin, TX we serve the entire state of Texas. Therefore, we spend a great deal of time on the road. The cities we visit most often are Houston, Dallas, Corpus Christi and San Antonio – and probably in that order as it pertains to the amount of business done in each.
We enjoy traveling and are always trying to get the best hotel deals available. The on-line reservation system we use most-often is Priceline.com. With Priceline you’re able to name your own price and we’ve stayed at some very nice hotels at a fraction of the regular room rate. For example, we’ve stayed at 5-star hotels and paid only 2 or 3-star pricing. My wife and I take turns when it comes to making reservations and have developed a game or track record on which of us have garnered the best deals. She’s actually in the lead at the moment.
My wife is ruthless with the “name your own price” deals. She always requests the 5-star hotels and usually will start-out offering $20 or less. And believe me – sometimes she’s gets lucky and through constant haggling (with the Priceline.com system) will reserve a 5 or 4-star hotel for less than $50.00 per night. It’s a great feeling to ride down I-10 in Houston or I-35 in Dallas and in route to our $50 Hyatt Regency we pass a Motel 6 with an advertised rate of $69 for the night!
Just recently we acquired a weekend stay at the Corpus Christi Omni Hotel on the beach at $60 a night through Hotwire.com – our 2nd choice among on-line reservation systems. The Motel 6 a few blocks away was going for $79. When it comes to hotels, trust me, the Omni is much preferred over the Motel 6. And when you’re saving $20 – what a deal!
There are no secrets here. If you have a little patience and are willing to haggle – Priceline.com is probably the best deal – most of the time. With Priceline and Hotwire the downside is this – you will not know what hotel you’re residing at until you’ve concluded the transaction and paid the non-refundable price. Very seldom have we received less than what we expected or actually paid for. And although you want always get an Omni, Hilton, Hyatt Regency or Four Seasons – you can rest assured that 90% of the time you will get more than you paid for and occasionally you’ll receive a very pleasant surprise in your search for affordable 4-star and 5-star hotels.
If you’re traveling and not using the on-line reservation systems – you’re probably paying too much for hotel, car rentals and airline travel.
Happy Trails!
November
21
2009
In our 27 year history we’ve had the opportunity to give back to our local community by contributing our services to various nonprofits. This November marks the 3rd year in a row that we’ve had the distinct honor of producing video clips for the TCRP (Texas Civil Rights Project).
The TCRP mission statement:
“The Texas Civil Rights Project (TCRP) promotes racial, social, and economic justice through education and litigation. TCRP strives to foster equality, secure justice, ensure diversity, and strengthen communities. TCRP was founded in 1990 as part of Oficina Legal del Pueblo Unido, a non-profit community-based foundation located in South Texas.
In addition to our statewide office in Austin (TCRP), we have offices in San Juan (STP — in the Rio Grande Valley) and El Paso (PDN). Our VAWA program is active in all these offices and at Midland/Odessa. We also partner with the Innocence Project in Houston.
Since its beginning, TCRP has achieved substantial system gains in ensuring justice for all Texans. TCRP uses education and litigation to make structural change in areas such as voting rights, police and border patrol misconduct, sex discrimination, employment bias, privacy, disability rights, grand jury discrimination, traditional civil liberties (i.e. free speech), and Title IX in secondary education. TCRP also conducts a program under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).”
It gives us great pleasure to be of service to the community by providing professional video production services to nonprofits such as the TCRP.
American Video Productions (http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/) has been producing videos for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and other events since 1982. Visit our web site to view sample video clips, learn more about our services and read testimonies of others who have utilized our services. You may call us toll free at: 888-433-6554.
