More fxguidetv – download ep02 now

fxgtv2a.jpg

As you know we like to blog the production aspects of fxphd and fxguide here and this last week we have been busy, getting ready for our amazing new term at fxphd + doing fxguidetv

fxguide started podcasting in the the same week Apple first added podcasts to Apple’s itunes store over a year ago, and similarly we started netcasting in HD to co-incide with the release of AppleTV, although we think that most people watch their 720P HD netcasts on their computer and not yet on their televisions.

The production pipeline is interesting. These programs are primarily recorded in Chicago and Sydney. We use HVX200 Panasonic P2 cameras. The cameras use the FireStore attached hard drive. This allows us to skip digitizing, furthermore the latest version of the Firestore software allows the production to record directly in Final Cut Pro compatible quicktime files, without any quality loss. The studios use kinoflo diva light kits, allowing the crew to work without worrying about heat from the lights. The lighting designs were done by DOP Peter Coleman who also sources the various dolly tracks and studio set ups. Audio is recorded directly to the Camera.

Our host of the show, Angie Richards has previously worked in late night television on the traditional Networks and is now producing as well as acting. She records in the Sydney studio, while John records in Chicago and also on the road. Recently for example John recorded interviews at the VES (Visual Effects Society) conference in LA. fxguide and VES are actively working together and fxphd filmed the entire VES conference in addition to doing interview for stories on fxguidetv.

Once the programs are recorded, the files are directly copied and edited in the new Final Cut Studio. The program is shot and edited at 720 P 24fps. We like the 24P format, since it is a lower frame rate hence less data for downloading, but also as a future proofing strategy. 24P can easily be converted to PAL with a 4% speed change and made into NTSC with 3:2 pull down should it ever be needed in the future. The styling and wardrobe is handled by the brilliant Genevieve Everingham, She makes us look good – and makeup and hair is handled by the nicest makeup artist working in the industry Chris Chrisato Arai. We have the luxury of only working with crew we know and like. It is a really fun set, Angie cracks everyone up. It is so great to only work with senior professionals who are just really relaxed nice people. DOP is either Peter Coleman, Pete Holland or our own Jimmy Shen – who works hard ! Directing is handled jointly by John and myself. The shows are scripted as we try and keep the production tight and lean – small crew – all exceptionally good people. We will do a full class on Behind the screens in an coming classs for fxphd where we will discuss gamma curves, special white balance and shooting tricks.

fxguidetv works with a variety of editors mainly Jimmy Shen and the talented Angelica von Helle (ESP Sydney -and another Angie). The lowerthirds and graphics have all been designed by our creative director Mr John Montgomery who used After Effects primarily but rendered in both Sydney and Chicago. fxphd runs a virtual network over the web, this allows both primary offices to work as one but also it allows students in fxphd to access a whole host of production software for learning. fxphd will be offering VPN copies of NUKE, PFTRACK, MAYA, TOXIK, and the full set of Imagineering Systems software Motor, Mokey, Monet and Mocha this coming term.

Interestingly fxguidetv has dispensed with the notion of offline. All material is edited full resolution and output full resolution before being archived. The data is stored on Apple XRAIDs and Bright Systems Servers. Once the edit is completed and reviewed, the program is compressed via H.264 to something suitable for downloading on the net.

In fact all of fxguidetv is made using Apple Computers, from script to compression.

Well that is it for this week, today is pre-production for our next fxphd shoot on Monday – a joint venture with the Australian Cinematographers Society, and more planning for our RED event in 2 weeks time with Ted Schilowitz from RED.

Mike