By David Hague   Tue, Nov 15, 2011

For a full review of the Kymera Wand and its magic, click here. It's magical! Harry would want one! And Merlin ...

By David Hague   Wed, Nov 09, 2011

I am an enormous fan of the TV show Dragon’s Den. For those that don’t know, it is a BBC UK show that has a panel of self-made millionaires who judge the worthiness of ideas, products and services from aspiring entrepreneurs. If they see one they like, they bid for the right to invest in it. (an earlier series is being shown on ABC1 and ABC2 at the moment - check it out).

Dragon’s Den is entertaining, inspirational and contains many gems of business wisdom such as make sure you have a business plan, know your numbers, have a marketing strategy and more. The books each of the panel has written (including Theo Paphitis, Deborah Meaden, Duncan Bannatyne and Peter Jones) are worth a read in their own right. They are all available on Kindle, and I confess, along with similar books from Lord Alan Sugar (of UK Apprentice fame), I have used their ideas and advice to form what is the new incarnation of Auscam.

Anyway, approximately two years ago, a product appeared on Dragon’s Den that is an absolute game changer. A pair of technical whizzes had created a device that replaced the remote control for almost any device you’d like to name; it was a magic wand a la Harry Potter!

It could be waved, rotated, flicked, tapped (once or twice), swished, pushed forward or backward and more – 13 operations in total – to replicate the commands from your remote control(s).

I have resisted for a long time to order one, but a few weeks ago caved in. I have just added an XBOX Kinetic to my home theatre system and to perform the basic functions I do, whilst I have a Logitech Universal control and it is very functional, the Wand – called a Kymera– looked far more fun!

It finally arrived today in its elegant display box and instructions on Olde English parchment. Firstly you have to learn the various actions to perform commands, and this takes about 10 minutes. Next, you “teach” the commands you want to assign to each of the Wand’s options.

For example, to turn my Sony 52” Bravia on, I wanted to use the “flick up” command, and to turn it off, the “flick down”. It’s really very easy; you tap the side of the Wand twice while it is vertical to put it in learning mode, perform the required action and then point the sharp end at your remote’s infra red sender and press the button for that action. The Wand will respond with a vibration (every action has a specific vibration code to signify what is has done or it understands) and voila! Done.

In truth, it took me a few goes to get it just right, but this was down more to my ham fistedness than any error on the Wand’s behalf.

Once I had the knack of programming the wand, it was only a short time before I had the whole system setup; the Denon receiver/amp volume was controlled by rotate right and left, flicking between HDMI devices was flick left/right, XBOX options were taps and so on. The piece de resistance – the BIG SWISH was reserved for putting my Sony Blu-Ray player into play mode with something that starts with a bang!

When you use the Wand to perform an action, especially if there are others present, you simply cannot help but to ham it up a little – or a lot! And I confess, when I got the first command working, I burst into laughter. It’s just one of those gadgets that is a must have, for no other reason that it is Great Fun! You’ll want to turn things on and off, switch between devices or whatever you have programmed it for (lights, heating, iPod dock or whatever uses an IR remote) just for the sheer delight of it!

At $79.95 it makes a fantastic present. The Kymera is beautifully presented in its box, the instructions are almost worth laminating and framing and well… what more can I say. They even provide the AAA batteries it uses in the price.

In fact, I am so impressed that I have negotiated that Auscam can sell the Kymera Wand to our readers for AUD$79.95 including freight. Simply click on "STORE" in the menu bar above to order.

Or email us at david@auscamonline.com  and you can call on 08 94675922 or 0413 632286

By David Hague   Fri, Apr 30, 2010

This a list of the hardware, software and other reviews / stories that are upcoming. If you have a request for something specific, please let me know!

• Canon HFS20
• Canon FS306
• Panasonic SDR H85GN-K
• Panasonic HS60GN-K
• Vodburner
• On camera lighting kits
• Microsoft Project (skewed to videographers/film-makers)
• Adobe After Effects tutorials
• AVID tutorials
• Edius Grass Valley tutorials
• Basic compositing tutorial

If you are a vendor / service industry and would like to offer some content (and of course get some exposure on Australia's only dedicated publication for all things camcorder - basics to professional), feel free to contact me!

By Press Release   Wed, Apr 21, 2010

By Press Release   Thu, Apr 22, 2010

LogicKeyboard announces the release of a new premium PC shortcut keyboard for Windows® applications. The announcement includes immediate release of the full range of LogicKeyboards program specific shortcut solutions for; Non-Linear Editing (NLE), Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), and Computer Graphics (CG).

The PC Slim Line shortcut keyboard distinguishes itself with its eye catching chrome finish, the thin design and high quality workmanship. It's a full size keyboard (108/109/113 keys) with navigation and numeric pad, comfortable typing feel, USB connection and built-in dual USB-ports for additional desktop expansions. US, European and Japanese versions are available worldwide.

Prices start at AUD$169 inc GST and can be purchased from Corsair Solutions

By Press Release   Mon, Apr 19, 2010

Panasonic Australia announced today that it will release a Full HD 3D Camcorder -the AG-3DA1 - in October 2010.

Mathew Alexander, Product Manager Broadcast, Panasonic Australia, said: "We believe the availability of this new 3D camcorder will help to accelerate the amount of 3D content being created for broadcast and distribution on new 3D Blu-ray discs."

"It offers an easy to use, flexible system for videographers to capture immersive content on the fly - ideal for documentary and lifestyle film-making projects as well as some sports.  We have already had interest locally from TV networks and documentary makers, and our reseller partners also see potential in the rental market."

At under 3kg, the AG-3DA1 is equipped with dual lenses and two full 1920 x 1080 2.07 megapixel 3-MOS imagers to record 1080/60i, 50i, 30p, 25p and 24p (native) and 720/60p and 50p in AVCHD. It can record for up to 180 minutes on dual 32GB SD cards in Panasonic's professional AVCHD PH mode, and offers professional interfaces including dual HD-SDI out, HDMI (version 1.4), two XLR connectors, built-in stereo microphone and twin-lens camera remotes. 

This Full HD 3D camcorder will offer the following core benefits:

Easier to Use

Current 3D systems are component based systems in which two cameras are fitted to a rig in parallel, or vertically intersect across a half-mirror. Often separate recorders are also required. In the AG-3DA1, the lenses, camera head, and a dual Memory Card recorder are integrated into a single, lightweight body.  The camcorder also incorporates stereoscopic adjustment controls making it easier to use and operate.

The twin-lens system adopted in the camcorder's optical section allows the convergence point (the point at which the left and right-camera lenses' optical axes converge) to be adjusted. Functions for automatically correcting horizontal and vertical displacement are also provided.  Conventional 3D camera systems require these adjustments to be made by means of a PC or an external video processor. This new camcorder, however, will automatically recalibrate without any need for external equipment, allowing immediate 3D image capture.

More Flexible

The solid-state memory file-based recording system offers greater flexibility to produce Full HD 3D videos reliably in more challenging shooting environments. The AG-3DA1 is lighter weight and smaller than current 3D rigs, while providing the flexibility of handheld-style shooting. Setup and transportation is simplified, making it ideal for some sports, documentary, filmmaking projects and live event recording (such as rock concert or product release).

Solid-State Reliability and Workflow

Right and Left Full HD video streams of the twin-lens 3D camcorder can be recorded and distributed as files on SDHC/SD Memory Cards, ensuring higher reliability than tape, optical disc, HDD or other mechanical-based recording systems. This solid-state, no-moving-parts design will help significantly reduce maintenance costs.

Users will enjoy a fast, highly-productive file-based workflow, with instant, random access to recorded content; easy plug-in to both Mac and PC-based platforms; and longer recording capacity.

More Affordable

Using a standardised, fully integrated design, the AG-3DA1 is a cost-effective alternative to traditional 3D rigs. Transportation expenses for this handheld unit will be less and faster setup times reduce labour costs. It also offers the convenience of using standard, re-recordable SDHC/SD Memory Cards available already everywhere.

Panasonic will also release the BT-3DL2550, a 25" professional-quality 3D LCD monitor for field use, and the AG-HMX100, a professional HD digital AV mixer for live 3D event production. Panasonic will offer professional production equipment to allow video professionals to efficiently create 3D content, so consumers can enjoy 3D video using Panasonic 3D home theatre systems.

AG-3DA1 Key Specifications:

• Twin-lens Full HD 3D camcorder
• Power Consumption: 16 W - main unit only
• Weight: Under  3 kg - main unit only
• Recording Media: SDHC/SD Memory Card
• Pricing will be announced closer to October launch date

Development Background

Movie companies and content producers are eager to produce more 3D content. 3D video is set to become a mainstream motion picture technology. In response to the resurgence of 3D movies, in September 2009, Panasonic proposed the world's first 3D Home Theatre systems, based around 3D-enabled Blu-ray Disc players and Plasma TVs (announced and exhibited at CEATEC 2008). In February 2009, the company established the Advanced Authoring Center (within Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory) - at which 3D movies are authored for replication on 3D Blu-ray Discs (announced at CES 2009). Currently, producing 3D movies is a painstaking process. Panasonic intends to promote the creation of high-quality 3D video content by accelerating the development of 3D video production systems designed to boost production speed and efficiency.

Technical information

Differences from conventional 3D camera systems:

Conventional 3D camera systems are built from two off-the-shelf film or broadcast cameras. Normally, the two cameras are installed horizontally and side by side, with the right and left camera axes approximately 6.5 cm apart - equivalent to the distance between the human eyes - to create binocular parallax. This can be done with small cameras, but broadcast or film cameras cannot be installed side by side since their bodies and lenses are too large. They must be installed vertically using half-mirrors, or mounted on metal frames called rigs, using prisms. This results in a bulky system that must be carefully adjusted to prevent the right and left cameras from going out of alignment before image capture. In addition, if the system is moved, the shock or vibration inevitably puts the cameras out of alignment, making frequent re-adjustment necessary.

In the AG-3DA1 that Panasonic has developed, the two lenses, camera head, and memory card recorder are incorporated into a single compact housing. Unlike large 3D camera systems, this camcorder allows video shooting with greater mobility and from all angles; significantly reducing the time required for set up and adjustments, thereby leaving more time for creative activities.

Convergence Point Adjustment

The convergence point is the point at which the left and right cameras' optical axes converge to produce 3D images. To take natural-looking 3D video, the convergence point needs to be adjusted to match that of a human's eyes, whose convergence point varies according to the closeness of the objects being viewed. Panasonic's new Full HD 3D camcorder adopts a newly-developed twin-lens system that realizes convergence point control with its integrated design. 

The AG-3DA1 will be available from Panasonic Professional Broadcast dealers.  For more information call 132 600 or visit www.panasonic.com.au

By Press Release   Tue, Apr 13, 2010

Watch a Demonstration

Boris Continuum Complete 7 AE will bring over 200 filters to Macintosh and Windows versions of Adobe After Effects and Premiere Pro CS5, CS4, and CS3. Version 7 features 11 new filters including a 3-way color corrector with built-in keying and masking tools, a new video noise reduction tool, a spline-based warp filter, an audio-driven keyframe generator, a new OpenGL particle engine, and still and video morph technology. Each BCC filter has been re-engineered to take advantage of 64-bit processing and OpenGL acceleration.

Read About the New Filters in BCC 7 AE

Boris Continuum Complete 7 AE will be available in May 2010 for $995. Owners of previous versions of Boris Continuum Complete AE will be able to upgrade for $295. Customers who purchase Boris Continuum Complete 6 AE as of April 12, 2010 will be eligible to receive a free upgrade to Boris Continuum Complete 7 AE.

By Press Release   Tue, Apr 13, 2010

NAB 2010, Las Vegas, USA -- April 12, 2010 -- Blackmagic Design today announced UltraStudio Pro, the world's first broadcast quality SD/HD capture and playback solution for USB 3.0 computers! UltraStudio Pro combines the latest broadcast technology into an attractive ultra-thin design that fits into modern client friendly post production environments.

UltraStudio Pro will be demonstrated on the Blackmagic Design NAB 2010 booth at #SL 6020.

UltraStudio Pro includes the mind blowing speed of the new USB 3.0 interface, which is ten times the speed of regular USB, and runs at a massive 4.8 Gb/s speed. USB 3.0 easily has enough speed for the highest quality uncompressed 10 bit HD video with the maximum real time effects possible!

UltraStudio Pro's innovative design looks great on the desktop while hiding the cables behind the unit. With dozens of audio and video connections built in, the new style of design is critical to keeping cables hidden and editors can keep their studio neat and clean! UltraStudio Pro's chassis is machined from solid metal with high grip silicon feet, so it's strong enough to withstand harsh broadcast environments and won't move around when heavy cables are connected. UltraStudio Pro also includes audio level meters for accurate audio level calibration.

UltraStudio Pro provides a massive number of video and audio connections including 3 Gb/s SDI, HDMI, analog component, composite, s-video, 4 channel analog audio, 2 channel AES/ EBU audio, genlock/tri-sync and RS422 deck control connections. UltraStudio Pro even includes a broadcast quality 7 foot/2 meter breakout cable, so users will save hundreds of dollars because they don't need to purchase expensive professional video and audio cables!

An independent SDI output is included that is down converted for simultaneous HD and SD monitoring. A new built in hardware up, down and cross converter lets you edit in one format, and then output to any HD or SD format! Now its easy to edit in one format and then deploy in either SD, 720HD or 1080HD while leaving all CPU time dedicated to real time effects. Selection is possible between letterbox, anamorphic 16:9 and pillar- box 4:3 video formats!

"With USB 3.0 becoming more common on computers, we are excited to be able to completely rethink how broadcast products are designed! This new upright design really shows that high technology broadcast products don't need to be ugly! I am so excited by how much leading edge technology we have been able to build into such a thin design", said Grant Petty, CEO, Blackmagic Design, "I think UltraStudio Pro will help make high quality editing more exciting because with USB 3.0, we have more freedom to be creative in how we design products, and the result is a wonderful solution that looks great, hides the cables, works as an audio level meter and is incredibly compact and portable. I have dreamed of being able to make products like UltraStudio Pro for many years, and it's one of the most exciting products we have ever built!"

UltraStudio Pro Key Features

• 10 bit 3 Gb/s SDI for capture and playback, supports both SD and HD.
• 10 bit HDMI 1.3 for capture and playback, supports both SD and HD.
• 10 bit analog component capture and playback, supports both SD and HD.
• S-Video capture and playback, down converted when working in HD.
• Composite capture and playback, down converted when working in HD.
• Dedicated SD-SDI output for down converted SD output when in HD, or SD key channel out.
• Hardware up, down cross converter selectable Letterbox, Anamorphic 16:9, center-cut SD and more.
• Built in internal SD keying, or select to output both fill and key via SD/HD-SDI and SD-SDI outputs.
• 8 channels of SDI audio capture and playback in HD and SD.
• 2 channels of AES/EBU audio capture and playback with sample rate converter on input.
• 4 channels of XLR professional analog audio capture and playback.
• Genlock/Tri-Sync reference input for locking to large systems.
• RS-422 remote control for broadcast decks.
• Includes 2 meter or 7 foot breakout cable.
• Includes developer SDK for custom development.
• USB 3.0 computer connection at 4.8 Gb/s speeds for maximum real time effects.
• Includes Media Express software for real time capture and playback of media.
• Real time effects in Adobe Premiere^TM Pro, supports After Effects, Fusion, Photoshop and more.

Availability and Price

UltraStudio Pro will be available in late April for US$895 from Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide.

By Press Release   Tue, Apr 13, 2010

Sony Creative Software, a leading provider of professional video and audio editing applications, today announced Vegas^TM Pro 9.0d software, the most recent update to its award-winning nonlinear HD video and audio editing (NLE) application. The updated Vegas Pro 9.0d software now features superior closed captioning support for broadcast editors, in addition to multi-layer PSD file support and timeline burning to DVD for enhanced editing flexibility and efficiency for creative professionals.

"As professional video editing workflows are in constant evolution, the Vegas Pro 9.0d software update provides new tools that allow editors to efficiently produce outstanding results across a wide range of targeted delivery platforms and formats," said Dave Chaimson, vice-president of global marketing for Sony Creative Software. "With the significant additions of closed captioning support, enhanced PSD support and timeline burning to DVD, along with enhancements to the Device Explorer, Vegas Pro 9.0d software provides maximum user control for creative production."

Vegas Pro 9.0d Feature Highlights

• Closed Captioning Support
  All new closed captioning support in Vegas Pro 9.0d provides broadcast editors with a workflow that enables the importing, editing, and exporting of CEA-608 captioned data in high definition Sony XDCAM MXF material.
• Multi-layer Adobe Photoshop Document (PSD) Support
  Multi-layer PSD support in Vegas 9.0d provides a highly flexible model for professionals to quickly create complex animation and professional results from a single PSD image. This new feature enables more creative compositing when working with PSD files by providing individual control over the separate file layers.
• Enhanced Device Explorer Support
  Improvements to the device explorer in Vegas Pro 9.0d significantly increase support for additional cameras and devices, including hard disk and memory recording devices. The extra support provides customers with a more powerful and adaptable system for unparalleled video editing.
• Burn Timeline to DVD
  Timeline burning to DVD, like the current Vegas Pro "Burn to Blu-ray" process, allows editors a more seamless final output method for their video editing projects.
• PreSonus FaderPort Control Surface Driver Support
  The PreSonus FaderPort control surface offers additional flexibility for controlling and automating Vegas Pro 9.0d via hardware other than mouse and keyboard. The touch-sensitive device is perfect for controlling volume and pan parameters, as well as play, stop, start transport functionality and managing markers for fast and easy audio and video editing.

Price and Availability
The Vegas Pro 9.0d software update is available now for download online at www.sonycreativesoftware.com and is free for existing registered Vegas Pro 9 users, or $389 U$ inc GST for owners of Vegas Pro 8 or prior. Vegas Pro 9 software is available in English, German, Spanish, Japanese, and French. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for Vegas Pro 9 is $819.00 AU$ Inc GST.

By Press Release   Sun, Apr 11, 2010

Matrox Video Products Group today announced the Matrox Multi input/output cards which bring a new level of channel density to Mac Pro and Apple Xserve systems. In a single PCIe slot, a Matrox Multi card provides up to four independent inputs or outputs with up to 16 embedded audio channels per SDI stream.  User-selectable combinations of 3G, HD, SD, and Dual Link are supported.  The Matrox Multi cards are designed to let users get the most from the valuable expansion slots in Apple systems and eliminate the expense of multiple systems in many applications. The innovative features of the Matrox Multi cards make them the ideal choice for capture/playout servers, clip and still stores, character generators, graphics/production servers, and automation/master control units. The Matrox Multi cards are supported by the Matrox Software Development Kit (SDK) for Mac.

 "Leading developers of Mac-based live production and broadcast solutions are now focused on porting their applications to the Matrox Multi cards," said Wayne Andrews, product manager at Matrox. "We expect a spate of partner announcements at NAB 2010 and in the months following."

The Matrox Multi cards will be demonstrated at NAB 2010 in booth SL3920.

Key features of Matrox Multi cards for Mac

• Single-slot, ¾ length PCI-e x8 card fits into Mac Pros and Apple Xserve systems
• Video inputs: up to four multi-rate 3G/HD/SD SDI or two 3G level B, or two Dual Link, or two video + key
• Video outputs: up to four multi-rate 3G/HD/SD SDI or two 3G level B, or two Dual Link, or two video + key
• 10-bit hardware scaling engine supports up to four HD streams or eight SD streams
• 16 embedded audio I/O channels per SDI stream
• 4 unbalanced analog audio channels for monitoring
• Support for SDI ancillary data - ATC, AFD, CC
• Analog blackburst reference input (tri-level or bi-level) with loopthrough
• Automatic video bypass and A/V watchdog support
• Auto-detection of input video resolutions
• Onboard live video mixer with zero frame delay
• One analog LTC input
• RS-422 port for device control

Availability

Matrox Multi is available in three different versions: Matrox Multi-Ingest - four-channel 3G/HD/SD input card, Matrox Multi-I/O - simultaneous, independent two-channel input and two-channel output 3G/HD/SD card, and Matrox Multi-Playback - four-channel 3G/HD/SD output card. Matrox Multi cards along with the SDK are available to developers now.  Shipments to end users will begin in June 2010.

By David Hague   Sun, Apr 11, 2010

The ShuttlePRO V.2 ($109.95 USD) and ShuttleXpress ($59.95 USD) multimedia controllers are now available in silver or black models.

ShuttlePRO V.2 is designed for ergonomic integrity and maximum productivity, allowing one-handed access to 15 fully-programmable buttons, a jog knob, and a spring loaded shuttle wheel. At the head of the ShuttlePRO are nine programmable buttons complete with crystal clear removable keycaps for labeling and ease of reference. The inner ring or 'jog knob' at the center of the ShuttlePRO rotates a full 360° to provide precise frame-by-frame control while the outer black ring or rubberized 'shuttle wheel' facilitates fast forward and rewind. The jog and shuttle can also be configured for many other purposes including scrolling, volume control, and sequencing.

Modelled after the award-winning ShuttlePRO, ShuttleXpress offers a professional multimedia controller at an attractive price. Packed with five buttons, a jog knob, and a shuttle wheel, the ShuttleXpress is a full multimedia control surface in a compact design. Use it alone or with a ShuttlePRO for enhanced cooperative control.

By Press Release   Sun, Apr 11, 2010

Sony Australia has announced that its entire 2010 range of digital imaging products will be capable of using SD and SDHC memory cards, in addition to Sony's proprietary Memory Stick range of memory cards. Sony is also introducing support for SD and microSDHC memory cards across its full line of media offerings. Sony's new SD memory card products will be available in sizes ranging from 2 to 32 gigabytes.

"It's all about providing consumers with choice. The new SD and SDHC cards will complement Sony's existing Memory Stick range satisfying the needs of a broader range of users, and strengthening Sony's position as a full line media supplier," said Maurice Satya, Product Manager, Digital SLR Cameras and Memory Cards, Sony Australia.

As new editions to its Memory Stick product line, Sony is introducing five SD/SDHC memory cards and two microSD/microSDHC memory cards offering class 4 data transfer speeds. The new cards will provide users with stable high definition video recording and more than enough speed to cope with the advanced functions of compact digital cameras and high-end camera phones.

Sony's SD cards also feature File Rescue software, available as a simple, free download. This software enables quick retrieval of photos, videos or music that has been damaged or deleted by mistake[1]. In addition, x-Pict Story, also available as a free download, allows users to combine music with pictures to create dynamic slideshows. This easy-to-use software features a sharing function ideal for posting slideshows to YouTube, or alternate video sharing services.

Both File Rescue and x-Pict Story are also available as free downloads for existing Memory Stick customers.

All of Sony's new SD memory cards are shock resistant and can withstand temperature extremes from -25⁰C to 85⁰C.

[1] Except for files that contain Digital Rights Management (DRM), game data and/or AVCHD files. Sony cannot guarantee the data restoration of all files.

By David Hague   Fri, Apr 09, 2010

For those interested in such things, GFK, a company that makes its dollars by counting things, has revealed some interesting stats on camcorder and dSLR sales in Australia for January 2010.

Seems that the number one vendor was Sony with the budget priced DCR SR47 (average price $453). The top dSLR was the Nikon D3000.

Brand share was a different story though with Canon dropping 5% to 28% while Panasonic rose by the same margin to 12%. Figures strictly for the camcorder market show a different picture though, with Sony at 38%. Bottom of that pile was Samsung with 5%.

Stand by for a swathe of new models from all vendors; NAB, the big US trade show is running and this is the time that the big guns bring out their new toys. We already have advance information on some Sony models, and will bring that story to you shortly.

By Frank McLeod   Thu, Mar 18, 2010

Adobe Premiere Elements has been quietly pushing into the entry level non-linear editing market for some time now, but it seems to have taken a giant leap with version 8 now available.  It seems that once a function is introduced into Adobe's major NLE, Premiere Pro, has been picked up by its competitors, Adobe passes that feature down to Premiere Elements and lets the amateur reap the benefits while it seeks to lift the bar higher for its lead product.

To underline this, think back to when multi-track non-linear editors became available as entry level software, that keyframing was restricted to the leading products of major players and that Chromakeying was an arcane mystery not permitted to your average punter. It ain't that long ago! Some of these features are a bit like power steering - if you've never had it, you don't miss it. However once you have experienced the benefits of using more sophisticated features, you would be hard pressed to go back to earlier times - or less advanced tools.

So when I had the chance to have a look not only at Premiere Elements 8 but also the associated

Adobe Premiere Elements has been quietly pushing into the entry level non-linear editing market for some time now, but it seems to have taken a giant leap with version 8 now available.  It seems that once a function is introduced into Adobe's major NLE, Premiere Pro, has been picked up by its competitors, Adobe passes that feature down to Premiere Elements and lets the amateur reap the benefits while it seeks to lift the bar higher for its lead product.

To underline this, think back to when multi-track non-linear editors became available as entry level software, that keyframing was restricted to the leading products of major players and that Chromakeying was an arcane mystery not permitted to your average punter. It ain't that long ago! Some of these features are a bit like power steering - if you've never had it, you don't miss it. However once you have experienced the benefits of using more sophisticated features, you would be hard pressed to go back to earlier times - or less advanced tools.

So when I had the chance to have a look not only at Premiere Elements 8 but also the associated Classroom in a Book by Jan Ozer on this program, I took it in a heartbeat. 

First the program:

Premiere Elements 8 (PE8) comes as a 2-DVD pack, with Disk 1 containing the program, as well as Adobe Photoshop Elements, the light version of its flagship photo editing and paint program, Photoshop. Disk 2 holds more content in terms of themed templates that can be used for movie and DVD production. Installation takes a surprisingly long time especially if you add in the additional contents of Disk 2 but it is worth the wait. There is no printed User's Manual, but from within the program pressing F1 will take you to help on the web, or, if offline, it will open up a variety of help documents, not least of which is a full PDF file which can be printed at will.

Having followed the bouncing ball, entered in the required key and opened the program, the Welcome screen appears, with a invitation to go for a tour of the product, to choose how the program opens (that option is tucked quietly behind a small icon in the top right of the Welcome Screen) or to start a New Project, open an existing project or go to the Organizer (USA spelling).

This new Organizer reminded me of Adobe Bridge, a component of the Adobe Creative Suite among other suites of that company's software, which enables the organisation, access, classification and tagging of media assets for your project. It also holds the 'Instant Movie' button which makes it all very simple from media selection to final output by following the simple work flow and the series of short instructions and 'Next' buttons. There is a number of features in this section where you can as well automatically analyse and 'fix' videos in terms of colour correction, sharpness, contrast and brightness, so that correcting minor imperfections in either still or moving images is made that much easier. You can also link directly from the Organizer to the editing section of either Premiere Elements or Photoshop Elements which is handy all round. In fact the more you delve into the Organizer, the more help to the editing process it becomes and it could be the subject of a review just by itself. However, let's move on to more of the editing and DVD authoring sides of the package.

The Interface

By selecting a New Project option, the program defaults to the USA TV standard of NTSC so local users need to alter the project settings according to the type of video input.  PE8 gives you this option each time you start a new project but suggests the last setting you used. You have the choice of a wide variety of input formats, certain to encompass all consumer-level cameras.

SPECIAL NOTE: If you shut down PE8 and then later in the same session wish to reopen it, occasionally, this might fail to happen. Go to the Task Manager (CTRL-ALT-DEL) and delete Adobe Premiere Elements.exe from the Processes and try again.

The default view of the general editing interface is uncluttered and intuitive with most of the top two thirds of the screen being taken up with the program monitor. To the right of this there is a line of four tabs which basically are the driving controls of the program - Organize, Edit, Disc Menu and Share. By following the tabs in sequence, you pretty much have it done and dusted.

The bottom one third of the screen is the timeline or sceneline, depending on your viewing selection. Usually, of course, you use the Sceneline (called the Storyboard view in e.g. Corel's Video Studio) to arrange the order of the clips in the movie and the Timeline view for detailed editing, trimming, transition insertion, etc.

In the Timeline view, there are three pairs of Video and Audio tracks shown by default but this can be increased or decreased at will. Additionally, there is also separate Narration and Soundtrack audio tracks displayed. The relative size of tracks on the Timeline can be altered by left clicking on the division between adjacent track headers (far left of the timeline) and moving the divider to suit. This, of course also will make the soundwave more visible.

SPECIAL NOTE: Don't forget the power of the right button. Right clicking on a clip in the Timeline will often show a convenient and extensive array of editing controls.

It is in the Organizer view that you capture/import and arrange the required media. It is also from here that you can use the Stop Motion/Timelapse function either via real time recording of a subject or performing the same function on a saved file.

If the Analyse function has been selected in the Organizer, then when a clip is imported into the Timeline, the user is asked if PE8 should 'Fix quality problems in clips?' even before you have a look at them.  Classy! It is also in the Organizer view that you can opt for the 'Instant Movie' option which when added to the 'fix quality' option is as close to automatic editing as you can get - but that takes all the fun out of it so let's do it the 'hard' way.

Having got your assets into the project, it is time to move onto the Edit phase. When the Edit tab is selected, the Effects subset is presented automatically and a large number of video effect options appear in place of the asset thumbnails seen in the Organize mode. Other subsets available are Transitions, Titles, Themes and Clip Art each selected by its own button under the main section tabs.  Under each of these headings is a large range of choices, including presets and templates depending on the category. Certainly you will not be constrained by your lack of choices and all these tools and options are included with the program with no push selling or later additional costs. There is a wide variety of automatic and editable effects and corrections that can be applied that will more than satisfy the lover of detail and control.

Under Clip Art are a number of drawings, captions, thought bubbles and frames that can be placed on a higher numbered track to affect those visible below it. Effects and transitions are simply dragged into place. Transitions can be moved in time as well as altered in length, and effects can be edited/adjusted to best fit the need.

At the top right of the computer screen there are some more controls. In particular the full screen viewer is very smooth and takes you automatically to viewing the clip under the play head/timeline indicator. The Escape key takes you back to the editing interface. Note the very effective shuttle at the bottom of the viewer panel with which you can control the speed as you scrub back and forth using the controls under the viewer.

Moving around the program is simple and intuitive. Zooming in and out, trimming of individual clips and in general using the tools arrayed on top of the left hand end of the timeline is straightforward.  As a nice touch, the Time Stretch tool is included here as well as under the right mouse button where its use is more precise, and while nowhere near the sophistication of the Time Remapping effect in Premiere Pro, it does allow for speeding up and slowing down of clips for performance or effects.

TIP: Remember, altering the speed of a clip can sometimes minimise camera jerk or panning hesitation and slow motion can be very effective to emphasise an action.

Another nice touch is that when the Effects button is selected, one of your clips in the Organizer is chosen by the program, apparently at random, as a palette on which to display the end result of the various effects to that clip.

There is a comfortable range of audio tools, including a multichannel mixer, a Smart Mixer which attempts to balance ambient sounds with narration, soundtrack and any added audio, beat detection (to assist in synchronising movement with music audio) and SmartSound music (26 tracks provided) and found in many editing packages. Note that you can always add to this library by online purchase and while not cheap, this is a great source for royalty free music. Remember everyone with an editing suite is likely to have the same 26 tracks.

 Menus for DVDs are the next step. Again there is a choice of templates supplied, with the main and submenus there for the taking. There is a range of categories for which menu templates are provided, including General, Sports, Travel, Kids Corner and Weddings. After chapter markers are created on the timeline either by the operator or automatically as you like, you just grab the preferred template and drag it onto the viewer. To add text, you double click on the relevant section, and start typing. There is a cascade of submenus displayed that you use as needed and then you Share.

This is probably the simplest of all steps.  You choose your preferred output type - DVD or BluRay (if your burner supports this format), online, PC, mobile device or DV or HDV tape - and press Share. This brings up the relevant interface and for DVD output, gives you control over your output to disc or DVD folder (if you have a preferred burning program), the name of the disc and its preset for aspect ratio (PAL Widescreen 16:9 or Standard 4:3). It also offers to do the 'bit budgeting' for you and select the various parameters to get your masterpiece onto one disc.

Summary

Adobe Premiere Elements 8 is a great program and it would be a very rare amateur videographer/editor who could say in truth he/she needed more than it offered. While it doesn't 'do' multicamera editing, how often do most people need that? It does provide hand-holding wizard-type assistance for the true neophyte editor but allows much greater control and multi-track editing for those who are passed this stage. However, in keeping with its ability to edit AVCHD footage, there is a pretty sizable amount of grunt under the bonnet so make sure your computer is up to the mark before purchasing. I know of at least one person who had to upgrade his PC having purchased Premiere Elements 8 when his single chip Pentium 4 could not rise to the occasion.

Vendor:  Adobe Systems Inc
www.adobe.com/au/
Phone 1800 614 863

Price:  $137 (basic) to $207 (includes Photoshop Elements)

AusCam Ratings

Performance:                          8

Documentation:                      7

Features:                               8

Installation:                           7

Value:                                    9

Help:                                      7

We liked:  the multiple editing tracks, the Organizer, the Instant Movie, range of effects and transitions, audio mixer and the power of the right mouse button.

We didn't like:  It would have been nice to be able to dock the various windows.

By Press Release   Fri, Mar 26, 2010

SANYO has announced the launch of the new VPC-CS1 Slim Full HD Xacti Dual Camera, the smallest, lightest and thinnest*1 camera in its class perfect for those who want a high quality 8 megapixel portable camera with the latest in-built technology, that is easy to slip in your pocket and take anywhere.

The new VPC-CS1 Xacti Dual Camera is more than just a regular camcorder, easily capturing high resolution photos and video simultaneously. With a simple press of the record button, users can take photos of their friends and family while recording Full High Definition video at 1920 x 1080 pixels, without interruption to the movie flow. 

SANYO has announced the launch of the new VPC-CS1 Slim Full HD Xacti Dual Camera, the smallest, lightest and thinnest*1 camera in its class perfect for those who want a high quality 8 megapixel portable camera with the latest in-built technology, that is easy to slip in your pocket and take anywhere.

The new VPC-CS1 Xacti Dual Camera is more than just a regular camcorder, easily capturing high resolution photos and video simultaneously. With a simple press of the record button, users can take photos of their friends and family while recording Full High Definition video at 1920 x 1080 pixels, without interruption to the movie flow. 

The stylish VPC-CS1 is the perfect companion for weekends away, holidays or when you are just out with friends and family as it can be easily carried in your pocket or handbag. The feather light and sleek, slim design is even more compact than previous models, incorporating a newly developed slim sensor module and a new super slim lens. Plus with two chic colours to choose from - silver and hot pink, the VPC-CS1 will be sure to complement your unique style.

"The VPC-CS1 is the essential accessory for all Australians - it takes beautiful images anytime, anywhere but more importantly, comes in a stunning package; the VPC-CS1 is sleek, compact, light and comes in two great colours, perfect to suit any style," said Bill Crichton, Managing Director of SANYO Oceania.

The VPC-CS1 Dual Camera offers an ultra convenient solution for recording and sharing digital photos and video. Uploading photos and videos to the Web is quick and easy as the cameras record in formats optimised for instant sharing on social networking sites like YouTube and Facebook.  Also featuring an iFrame option built in, the VPC-CS1 records in the same format used for editing with iMovie, dramatically speeding up the processes of importing, editing and sharing movie

Eye-Fi compatibility enables automatic wireless upload of photos and videos to a computer making the VPC-CS1 extremely versatile for easy uploading when out and about. Users can simply enable the Eye-Fi function and effortlessly upload their images and video while travelling for work or even while at home and busy with the kids

A sound zoom function with three microphone modes enables the VPC-CS1 to selectively record crisp and clear sound. The gun microphone mode records stereo sound from directly in front, a wide mode records stereo sound from the surrounding area or you can select a mixture of both (zoom combination mode), allowing sound recording according to the scene

SANYO‟s new range of Xacti Dual Cameras now makes it easier to share captured memories with family and friends. The VPC-CS1 is fitted with a mini HDMI output so users can plug their camera directly into their TV to view footage in Full HD on the big screen.  

The VPC-CS1 is part of a new range of Dual Cameras launched by SANYO and will be available in quarter 2 of 2010. Visit www.sanyo.com.au for more information.

RRP: 

• VPC-CS1TA Slim Full HD Xacti Dual Camera (silver) - $499
• VPC-CS1TAP Slim Full HD Xacti Dual Camera (pink) - $4

*1 For consumer-use Full-HD (1920 x 1080) video cameras with optical zoom lens. Volume: approx. 126 cc; weight: approx. 142 g; thickness: approx. 27 mm; as of the announcement on March 25th, 2010.