You know the saying “making a list, checking it twice”? I finally took the time to write up a process for the documentary. I hate procedures and worse yet I hate taking time to write things down. That being said, it really does make things go much faster. Plus it helps tweak my mind when I suffer from brain fade.
Listed below, I wrote a brief summary of the steps I take after filming an interview. Why is this important for you? One it helps end users understand why it takes so long to publish the final clips. But most important I am counting on someone to read this and say, hey why not try this way? If you have a time saving method or a better way of doing this process, give me a shout. I am planning about 40 hours per 5-7 minute piece at the beginning and by the 15th interview I should be able to knock these out in under 10-15 hours.
I am using a Canon FS-100 and capturing footage on a flash drive. I deeply regret not spending the money for the HD version. But $700 was a big difference on a limited budget. Once interview is done:
- Capture footage on external hard drive
- Burn 2 DVDs and also add folder on my AMC hard drive
- Open MPEG Streamclip and convert files from .MOD to Quicktime H264. (Note: I love the Canon FS-100, extremely lightweight, easy to handle. Its the .mod files that were a pain at first).
- Open QuickTime Pro and convert audio files to .wav
- Open iTunes and convert .wav files to .mp3
- Send .mp3 out for transcription
- Write down 10 memorable quotes from interview
- Create time code DVD
- Start the storyboards using transcript and DVD selects
- Using Final Cut Express, add graphics and transitions
- Finish rough cut and review
- Make final tweaks and export
- Post to Yahoo, YouTube, AMC blog, Blip.TV, Google etc.
- Post note on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn
- Post note on AMC Boards
Lots of steps but this is the way I typically work in the corporate world. Looking for a faster way to storyboard though. The biggest advantage is since I shoot the footage, I am already very familiar with the content.
I am still on track to publish the first 5 interviews (5-7 min. teasers) by end of month. I’ll keep you posted.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Ugh Peg! I do not envy your job. You must be sick of looking at Zoe’s face and hearing my voice with all that editing! It was great to see you today and hopefully you got something you were able to use, otherwise it was nice to just get to say “hi”.
Take Care!
Hi there, I feel your pain! you should check out http://www.portalvideo.com It links your transcripts to video over the internet so you can create your rough cut in half the time!
Michelle–always good to see you, Zoe and Noah. I can never get tired of you guys
girlgamy–thanks for the tip. I did take a look at the site. I will definately give it a try and see if it helps the process. As you know as way to reduce production time really helps in the end.