TechTV's Guide to Creating Digital Video Like a Pro

TechTV's Guide to Creating Digital Video Like a Pro is the ultimate guide for anyone interested in the field of digital video. Readers learn what digital video is and how it differs from and surpasses analog video; what kind of digital equipment fits their needs from camcorder to computer; how best to shoot their videos; what software to use and how to use it; best output options; and the future of digital video editing. The book is packed with real-world projects for the reader to practice. The CD contains actual footage from techniques used in the book, and footage from the book's projects for readers to see what their finished products should resemble.

Table of Contents

Introduction.

I. DIGITAL VIDEO: THE BEAUTY OF ZEROS AND ONES.

1. The History of Video: From Analog to Digital.
2. Digital Video Basics.
3. The Future of Digital Video.

II. HARDWARE: CAMCORDERS AND COMPUTERS.

4. Digital Camcorder Basics.
5. Choosing the Right Camcorder.
6. Camcorder Accessories.
7. Shopping Tips.
8. Camcorder Maintenance.
9. Computer Hardware Basics.
10. Upgrading or Choosing a New Computer System.
11. Computer Setup and Maintenance.
Project 1. Researching Your Camcorder Purchase Online.
Project 2. Researching Your Camcorder Purchase Locally.
Project 3. Checking a Retailer's Reputation.
Project 4. Getting Familiar with Online Support Resources.

III. SHOOTING VIDEO: CAPTURING THE BEST QUALITY FOOTAGE.

12. The Limits of Auto Mode: When and How to Go Manual.
13. A Primer on Lighting.
14. Camcorder Sound.
Project 5. Mastering Low-Light Environments.
Project 6. Mastering Brightly Lit Environments.
Project 7. Mastering Fast Action Video.
Project 8. Selective Focus/Exposure.

IV. EDITING VIDEO: TURNING YOUR FOOTAGE INTO A MOVIE.

15. Advanced Primer on Video/Filmmaking: The Science Behind the Art of Capturing Good Footage.
16. Consumer and Prosumer Video Editing Software Options.
17. Consumer Video Editing Basics.
18. Basic Overview of Adobe Premiere.
19. Basic Editing in Adobe Premiere.
20. Advanced Movie Output and Distribution Options.
21. Advanced Video and Sound Editing Techniques.
22. Advanced Special Effects.
23. On Being a Filmmaker.
Project 9. Controlling Your Camcorder Via Your Computer.
Project 10. Making a Short Movie.
Project 11. Encoding a Movie in Multiple Formats.
Appendix A. A Tour of TechTV.
Index.