Covers the essential fundamentals of digital video: from video principles, to conversion, compression, coding, interfaces and output.
Written for television professionals needing to apply digital video systems, equipment and techniques to multimedia and /or digital TV applications, as well as for computer system designers, engineers, programmers, or technicians needing to learn how to apply digital video to computer systems and applications. The text is based on the acclaimed industry bible' The Art of Digital Video, but covers only the essential parts of this larger reference work.
It starts right from the basics from what a digital signal is to the how digital video can be applied.
John Watkinson is an international consultant in Audio, Video and Data Recording. He is a fellow of the AES, a member of the British Computer Society and Chartered Information Systems Practitioner. He presents lectures, seminars, conference papers and training courses worldwide. He is author of many other Focal press books including MPEG2, Art of Digital Video, Art of Digital Audio, Art of Sound Reporduction, Introduction to Digital Audio, Television Fundamentals and Audio for Television. He is also co-author of the Digital Interface Handbook and a contributor to The Loudspeaker and Headphone Handbook.
new edition has more on the computing aspects of videoincludes extra material on digital video broadcasting and video principlescovers more basic colorimetry and picture principles as well as progressive versus interface scanning

This book moves beyond the basics of "pushing the buttons"; explaining the most efficient and effective ways of using Xpress Pro to tell the story. Readers develop a working knowledge of the application with lessons and tutorials that cover every essential method and technique. An excellent resource for students and professional editors new to Xpress Pro, this book and downloadable resources combo provides valuable hands-on practice with an extended example that demonstrates the edit of an entire sequence. Project media and plug-ins are provided on the downloadable resources.

As more images and videos are becoming available in compressed formats, researchers have begun designing algorithms for different image operations directly in their domains of representation, leading to faster computation and lower buffer requirements. Image and Video Processing in the Compressed Domain presents the fundamentals, properties, and applications of a variety of image transforms used in image and video compression. It illustrates the development of algorithms for processing images and videos in the compressed domain. Developing concepts from first principles, the book introduces popular image and video compression algorithms, in particular JPEG, JPEG2000, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, and H.264 standards. It also explores compressed domain analysis and performance metrics for comparing algorithms. The author then elucidates the definitions and properties of the discrete Fourier transform (DFT), discrete cosine transform (DCT), integer cosine transform (ICT), and discrete wavelet transform (DWT). In the subsequent chapters, the author discusses core operations, such as image filtering, color enhancement, image resizing, and transcoding of images and videos, that are used in various image and video analysis approaches. He also focuses on other facets of compressed domain analysis, including video editing operations, video indexing, and image and video steganography and watermarking. With MATLAB (R) codes available as a download from the CRC Press website, this book takes you through the steps involved in processing and analyzing compressed videos and images. It covers the algorithms, standards, and techniques used for coding images and videos in compressed formats.

Apply universally accepted cinematic techniques to your Flash projects to improve the storytelling quotient in your entertainment, advertising (branding), and educational media. A defined focus on the concepts and techniques for production from story reels to the final project delivers valuable insights, time-saving practical tips, and hands-on techniques for great visual stories. Extensive illustration, step-by-step instruction, and practical exercises provide a hands-on perspective.Explore the concepts and principles of visual components used in stories so you are fluent in the use of space, line, color, and movement in communicating emotion and meaning. Apply traditional cinematography techniques into the Flash workspace with virtual camera movements, simulated 3d spaces, lighting techniques, and character animation. Add interactivity using ActionScript to enhance audience participation.

From iMovie to Final Cut Pro X offers an accessible, introductory guide to those taking up video editing using Final Cut Pro X, especially users making the transition from iMovie, Apple's free video software, helping aspirational and mobile filmmakers develop the skills needed to take their career to the next stage. Written by award-winning former Apple Education trainer and Final Cut Pro expert Tom Wolsky, this full-color book illuminates the key differences between these two applications and teaches users how to produce first-class results using the professional application. Wolsky also covers best practices for those working with iMovie on an iPhone or iPad and looking to move to a more advanced desktop program. Downloadable Final Cut Pro X project libraries included with the book offer readers hands-on examples of the techniques and practices discussed. Covers Final Cut Pro X 10.3.1.

Create complex composites with Blackmagic Fusion. Learn the basics of node-based compositing and get up to speed quickly so you can undertake your own compositing projects. In Digital Compositing with Blackmagic Fusion: Essential Techniques, industry veteran Lee Lanier covers the most important components, tools, and workflows any serious compositor needs to know. Practice your knowledge and skill as you read the book with the included mini-tutorials and longer chapter tutorials. An accompanying eResource features video image sequences, 3D renders, and other tutorial materials, allowing you to immediately practice the discussed techniques. Critical topics in this book include: Tool / Node networks Color space and color channels Transformations Masking and rotoscoping Keyframing and animation splines Green screen keying The Fusion 3D environment Color grading and color manipulation Filter tools Motion tracking Particle simulation Stereoscopic workflow

Create complex composites with Blackmagic Fusion. Learn the basics of node-based compositing and get up to speed quickly so you can undertake your own compositing projects. In Digital Compositing with Blackmagic Fusion: Essential Techniques, industry veteran Lee Lanier covers the most important components, tools, and workflows any serious compositor needs to know. Practice your knowledge and skill as you read the book with the included mini-tutorials and longer chapter tutorials. An accompanying eResource features video image sequences, 3D renders, and other tutorial materials, allowing you to immediately practice the discussed techniques. Critical topics in this book include: Tool / Node networks Color space and color channels Transformations Masking and rotoscoping Keyframing and animation splines Green screen keying The Fusion 3D environment Color grading and color manipulation Filter tools Motion tracking Particle simulation Stereoscopic workflow

Lighting for Animation is designed with one goal in mind - to make you a better artist. Over the course of the book, Jasmine Katatikarn and Michael Tanzillo (Senior Lighting TDs, Blue Sky Studios) will train your eye to analyze your work more critically, and teach you approaches and techniques to improve your craft. Focusing on the main philosophies and core concepts utilized by industry professionals, this book builds the foundation for a successful career as a lighting artist in visual effects and computer animation. Inside you'll find in-depth instruction on: * Creating mood and storytelling through lighting * Using light to create visual shaping * Directing the viewer's eye with light and color * Gathering and utilizing reference images * Successfully lighting and rendering workflows * Render layers and how they can be used most effectively * Specific lighting scenarios, including character lighting, environment lighting, and lighting an animated sequence * Material properties and their work with lighting * Compositing techniques essential for a lighter * A guide on how to start your career and achieve success as a lighting artist This book is not designed to teach software packages-there are websites, instructional manuals, online demos, and traditional courses available to teach you how to operate specific computer programs. That type of training will teach you how to create an image; this book will teach you the technical skills you need to make that image beautiful. Key Features Stunning examples from a variety of films serve to inspire and inform your creative choices. Unique approach focuses on using lighting as a storytelling tool, rather than just telling you which buttons to press. Comprehensive companion website contains lighting exercises, assets, challenges, and further resources to help you expand your skillset.

A rare look at the role of special effects in creating fictional worlds and transmedia franchises From comic book universes crowded with soaring superheroes and shattering skyscrapers to cosmic empires set in far-off galaxies, today's fantasy blockbusters depend on visual effects. Bringing science fiction from the studio to your screen, through film, television, or video games, these special effects power our entertainment industry. More Than Meets the Eye delves into the world of fantastic media franchises to trace the ways in which special effects over the last 50 years have become central not just to transmedia storytelling but to worldbuilding, performance, and genre in contemporary blockbuster entertainment. More Than Meets the Eye maps the ways in which special effects build consistent storyworlds and transform genres while traveling from one media platform to the next. Examining high-profile franchises in which special effects have played a constitutive role such as Star Trek, Star Wars, The Matrix, and The Lord of the Rings, as well as more contemporary franchises like Pirates of the Caribbean and Harry Potter, Bob Rehak analyzes the ways in which production practices developed alongside the cultural work of industry professionals. By studying social and cultural factors such as fan interaction, this book provides a context for understanding just how much multiplatform storytelling has come to define these megahit franchises. More Than Meets the Eye explores the larger history of how physical and optical effects in postwar Hollywood laid the foundation for modern transmedia franchises and argues that special effects are not simply an adjunct to blockbuster filmmaking, but central agents of an entire mode of production.

This book examines distributed video coding (DVC) and multiple description coding (MDC), two novel techniques designed to address the problems of conventional image and video compression coding. Covering all fundamental concepts and core technologies, the chapters can also be read as independent and self-sufficient, describing each methodology in sufficient detail to enable readers to repeat the corresponding experiments easily. Topics and features: provides a broad overview of DVC and MDC, from the basic principles to the latest research; covers sub-sampling based MDC, quantization based MDC, transform based MDC, and FEC based MDC; discusses Sleplian-Wolf coding based on Turbo and LDPC respectively, and comparing relative performance; includes original algorithms of MDC and DVC; presents the basic frameworks and experimental results, to help readers improve the efficiency of MDC and DVC; introduces the classical DVC system for mobile communications, providing the developmental environment in detail.

* An essential resource for anyone who wants to get up and running with this popular video-editing application, from amateur and hobbyist filmmakers to professionals who want to explore the possibilities of editing on a PC* Explains how to shoot good footage, get digital video onto a PC, set up a Premiere production studio, edit clips, add effects, work with audio, and output the finished product or share it online* Released day and date with the new software version, the book covers the latest Premiere features and improvements* Keith Underdahl, the author of Digital Video For Dummies (0-7645-4114-5) and other books on digital video, has broad experience as both an amateur videographer and professional video producer

Shadow Algorithms Data Miner provides a high-level understanding of the complete set of shadow concepts and algorithms, addressing their usefulness from a larger graphics system perspective. It discusses the applicability and limitations of all the direct illumination approaches for shadow generation. With an emphasis on shadow fundamentals, the book gives an organized picture of the motivations, complexities, and categorized algorithms available to generate digital shadows. It helps readers select the most relevant algorithms for their needs by placing the shadow algorithms in real-world contexts and looking at them from a larger graphics system perspective. As a result, readers know where to start for their application needs, which algorithms to begin considering, and which papers and supplemental material should be consulted for further details.

Award-winning Vegas guru Douglas Spotted Eagle takes readers beyond the mechanics of Vegas, teaching them an industry-tested professional editing workflow. Packed with all the necessary materials, including raw video footage, sequences, and detailed instructions, this book and DVD combo lets readers gain a working knowledge of Vegas including its exceptional audio features and the DVD Architect toolset. Woven into this Editing Workshop are hands-on tutorials covering a complete range of essential tasks from installing the application to outputting. Novices learn the basics, and experienced editors get practical techniques with real-world examples for working more efficiently and making better media. This edition has been updated to include changes to both the Vegas 10 and Vegas 11 software releases.

Updates and addendum for the new version of FCPX (10.0.3) are available on the companion website, fcpxbook.com. Are you an iMovie or Final Cut Express user ready to make the jump to Final Cut Pro? If so, look no further. Take your movies to the next level with this easy-to-follow, hand-on guide from one of the preeminent Apple trainers in the world today. Author Tom Wolsky starts with the basics of Final Cut Pro X, allowing you to easily make the leap from Final Cut Express or iMovie, then gradually introduces you to more complex techniques with step-by-step tutorials. Tom specifically shows you how certain techniques and concepts you utilized in iMovie and Final Cut Express translate to Final Cut Pro. More than a button-pushing manual, this editing workshop gives your firsthand experience with the art and technique of editing with Final Cut Pro. It includes in-depth information on the application's features, interface elements, and tools. You will develop a working knowledge of the principles and methods taught in film schools with tutorials that covers the essentials: . Nuances of system set-up to ensure smooth operation . Getting your tape-based and file-based AVCHD and DSLR media into Final Cut Pro and getting it organized . Editing to build and trim a sequence of shots . Working with audio, split edits, back-timing and level control . Adding transitions . Final Cut Pro titling tools . Color correction, image animation, and special effects . Compositing to enhance your projects . Outputting your material

As more images and videos are becoming available in compressed formats, researchers have begun designing algorithms for different image operations directly in their domains of representation, leading to faster computation and lower buffer requirements. Image and Video Processing in the Compressed Domain presents the fundamentals, properties, and applications of a variety of image transforms used in image and video compression. It illustrates the development of algorithms for processing images and videos in the compressed domain. Developing concepts from first principles, the book introduces popular image and video compression algorithms, in particular JPEG, JPEG2000, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, and H.264 standards. It also explores compressed domain analysis and performance metrics for comparing algorithms. The author then elucidates the definitions and properties of the discrete Fourier transform (DFT), discrete cosine transform (DCT), integer cosine transform (ICT), and discrete wavelet transform (DWT). In the subsequent chapters, the author discusses core operations, such as image filtering, color enhancement, image resizing, and transcoding of images and videos, that are used in various image and video analysis approaches. He also focuses on other facets of compressed domain analysis, including video editing operations, video indexing, and image and video steganography and watermarking. With MATLAB (R) codes on an accompanying CD-ROM, this book takes you through the steps involved in processing and analyzing compressed videos and images. It covers the algorithms, standards, and techniques used for coding images and videos in compressed formats.

Matchmoving has become a standard visual effects procedure for almost every situation where live action materials and CG get combined. It allows virtual and real scenes that have been composited together to seamlessly appear as though they are from the same perspective. This authoritative step-by-step guide from one of the best matchmovers in the business allows you to master this technique that has been called the foundation upon which all VFX work stands. Author Erica Hornung (sr. matchmover for Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, Matrix: Revolutions, and more) imparts her techniques, tips, and wisdom from the trenches that will have you matchmoving like a true professional in no time. Lessons in the most popular matchmoving software (Maya, Boujou, and others) are included, as well as tips and techniques for surveying on set, dolly moves, and operating nodal cameras. Individual chapters dedicated to object and character matchmoves show you how to matchmove for shadow casting, adding weapons and other objects, focusing on center of gravity, as well as complete CG character support. The downloadable resources include Quicktime examples of techniques shown in the book, as well as project files that allow you to master these techniques yourself by working alongside the lessons featured in the text.

Apply universally accepted cinematic techniques to your Flash projects to improve the storytelling quotient in your entertainment, advertising (branding), and educational media. A defined focus on the concepts and techniques for production from story reels to the final project delivers valuable insights, time-saving practical tips, and hands-on techniques for great visual stories. Extensive illustration, step-by-step instruction, and practical exercises provide a hands-on perspective.
Explore the concepts and principles of visual components used in stories so you are fluent in the use of space, line, color, and movement in communicating emotion and meaning. Apply traditional cinematography techniques into the Flash workspace with virtual camera movements, simulated 3d spaces, lighting techniques, and character animation. Add interactivity using ActionScript to enhance audience participation.

This book tells you how, why, and when you should perform certain audio postproduction tasks within Soundtrack Pro while editing your video in the Final Cut Studio suite.
Intertwining video editing workflows with audio editing workflows for video editors using Final Cut Studio, it also describes in-depth the audio postproduction process as well as the specific tools used for editing and mixing audio within Soundtrack Pro. The final section is designed as an audio postproduction "cook-book," describing typical audio post scenarios with detailed workflows for dealing with them.
The book provides real-world workflows and step-by-step instruction on the basics of audio editing in STP, implementing sound effects, spectral tools and much more. Also included is a DVD containing both video and audio files, demonstrating surround sound, mixing procedures, and other audio editing processes. Included as well are project files with which you can refine techniques learned in the book.

The DVD is not included with the E-book. Please contact the publisher for access to the DVD content by emailing [email protected]

Audio/Video (AV) systems and Information Technology (IT) have collided. IT is being leveraged to create compelling video systems and AV workflows. As a broadcast, multimedia, video, or IT professional, you have expereinced the wave of hybrid systems and challenges assoicated with these. Video Systems in an IT Environment has help thousands understand how to work with these convergent technologies and systems. World-renowned educator and speaker Al Kovalick adds his witty style to this text making the book an enjoyable learning experience for you.
Now in it's second edition, this book includes: IT integration, AV networking, storage systems, file and metadata formats, SOA and Web services, ROI review, transcoding examples and workflow, software platforms, reliability, element management, security, AV technology, transition issues, real-world case studies and much more. Each chapter weaves together IT and AV techniques providing the reader with actionable information on the issues, processes and principles of seamless AV/IT systems integration.
* New updated edition contains: Web 2.0, more on SOA and Web services, storage update, ROI review, JPEG 2000, transcoding examples and workflow
* Packed with over 225 unique industry illustrations and diagrams
* Supported with 11 Appendixes covering interesting and diverse topics

Use color to improve your storytelling, deliver critical emotional cues, and add impact to you videos. This book shows you how to analyze color correction problems and solve them- whatever NLE or plugin you use.
Experienced editors and colorists in their own right, the authors also include the wisdom of top colorists, directors of photography, and color scientists to deliver this insightful and authoritative presentation of the theory and practice of color correction.
The book provides technical insight into how to effectively color correct your video, also delving into how color can impact storytelling and deliver critical emotional cues. The new edition also includes 2 new "Quickstart Tutorials," a new chapter on how color impacts storytelling, information on the impact HD has had on the correcting process, and updated application specifications. The companion DVD features new and more robust tutorial media.
* Application agnostic, step-by-step instruction for an array of color correcting concepts and solutions
* Effectively use color to improve your storytelling, deliver critical emotional cues, and add overall impact to your media
* Companion DVD contains tutorial media for hands-on exercises

Go beyond the mechanics of Final Cut Express 4--learn how to edit with it! More than a button-pushing manual--this workshop give you firsthand experience with the art and technique of editing. You develop a working knowledge with nineteen tutorials that cover each and every essential, including:
* setting up your system and understanding the interface
* ingesting and organizing your material including drive-based and disc-based camera data
* slicing, dicing, and organizing clips
* editing to build and trim a sequence of shots
* adding transitions
* using sound to refine your edit
* titling with FCE and Photoshop
* animating images to create engaging scenes
* adding special effects filters
* compositing to enhance your projects
* outputting your material
The companion DVD contains project media, demo software, and free plug-ins for your use.
* Nineteen tutorial lessons give you firsthand experience with the art and technique of editing
* Covers every essential activity from system set-up to outputting your material
* The companion DVD contains project media files, demo software and plug-ins

Software packages are complex. Software books don't need to be. Simplify your life with The Focal Easy Guide to Final Cut Pro! This concise, full-color book lives up to its name by paring down the software to its essentials. You learn the key features and essential workflow to get you up and running in no time. With this book you can start cutting immediately, whatever you edit, whatever the format. This is an ideal introduction whether you are a professional moving over to Final Cut Pro from another package or system, a new user, or just someone who wants to get the best results from Final Cut Pro, fast!

Go beyond the mechanics of Final Cut Express HD 3.5--learn how to edit with it! More than a button-pushing manual--this workshop give you firsthand experience with the art and technique of editing. You develop a working knowledge of this powerful editing application with eleven tutorials that cover each and every essential, including: * setting up your system and understanding the interface * getting your material into FCE and organizing it * slicing, dicing, and organizing clips * editing to build and trim a sequence of shots * adding transitions * using sound to refine your edit * titling with FCE and Photoshop * animating images to create engaging scenes * adding special effects filters * compositing to enhance your projects * outputting your material The downloadable resources contain a video introduction to FCE that is especially designed for iMovie users. It compares and contrasts the two applications to ease the transition. The downloadable resources portion contains project media, demo software, and free plug-ins for your use.

The On the Spot series delivers immediate solutions to the reader with a concise presentation of over 350 expert techniques for working proficiently with the respective application. Avid Xpress Pro and DV On the Spot provides experienced editors with complete coverage of both applications' capabilities, and less experienced users get tips and tricks to enhance their productivity and creativity.
Packed with more than 300 techniques, this book delivers what you need to know-on the spot.

An essential guide to all aspects of video technology for sound technicians wishing to broaden their knowledge. It explains in a highly readable and engaging way, the key technologies and issues, as well as the terms, acronyms and definitions. Although intended for the sound professional, this book will also appeal to anyone involved in working with video.
Everything is covered: from how television and video cameras work to digital video recording, electronic news gathering, nonlinear editing, video effects as well as telecine, widescreen technology and the home cinema. The book also takes a look at the impact of digital technology on production methods and examines the technology and rationale behind digital television, High Definition Television, and DVD. It concludes with the use of video in multimedia and the internet.
Based on a series of popular articles in Audio Media magazine, this a vital introductory work for students and professionals wishing to broaden their knowledge of video.
*Covers all aspects of video; from television production technologies to digital television, HDTV, widescreen, and DVD recording.
*Easy to read and a fast way to broaden your knowledge