Yet another warm day in Brisbane! However, the air-conditioning at work seems to be generating more sub zero temperatures once again!
Today’s post is a little be technical, so I first apologise to those who won’t make any sense of it. Yesterday I visited Photo Continental, where I’ve bought a brand new tripod for myself (Velbon CX686). This one thankfully is much more sturdy, with more height and a far more fluid motion. For what I’m after, its more than enough. I’d say a $150 well spent.
I was meaning to get a good chunk of editing done for an upcoming project, but my computer and Premiere CS4 were not in agreement (very, very slow). It comes down to the fact that the file format that my SONY camera saves in (AVCHD) does not work well with Premiere. After a few Google searches, I discovered the best option is to convert the files to MPEG2 first, and then import them into Premiere. So I downloaded a free program called Free HD Converter (making sure I didn’t install the toolbar that came with it). If you have encountered a similar problem, you can check out the post here.
So far the results are MASSIVE. I can actually view the files in real-time, and any loss in quality is not noticeable. If you have suffered similar issues – this appears to be the fix. Just be aware that the conversion process will take numerous hours depending on how much footage you need to convert.
I also need to buy a tripod… doh, I should’ve given you some $ to grab one for me. Oh well. What height do you get on it (roughly) and did it comes with a ‘plate’ to affix to a vidcam (I seem to have lost my tripod plate)?
Thanks
Apparently the Velbon CX 686 reaches 163cm total height, there were cheaper ones but they were just too small.
And yes, they do come with the mounting plate included as well as a carry case
Joel,
As always you are always the editing guru that solves the problems i have before i knew i was even going to have them!
I think this post is going to alleviate a lot of the trouble i’ve been having, my friend. You need to come check out my new toys!! hehe production company is coming along nicely.
Hi Spoons!
Glad I could help!
Can’t wait to hear more about your production company
Hope to catch up soon!