Videographer Journals

Sporting a reddish hue

2009-05-06T12:14:00.010+08:00

Of our team, I was the sole sun-burnt Videographer.

The marching band put on an inspiring show, the perfect finale to a successful sports day.

We got the call from Efficient E-solutions to cover their inter-group sports day at Panasonic Stadium. More than 1,000 staff including their families and participants from around the country would be at ground zero.

Registration would start at 7am, just as the sun began its daily climb. The entire event would last the entire day, right up to dusk. Games comprising badminton, futsal, and bowling were held indoors. Athletics, 100M and relay 4 X 100M took were the last event and took place outdoors, when the afternoon sun was blazing down.

Which is why wearing sunblock was important.

Of our team, I was the sole sun-burnt Videographer. Thankfully my Videographer vest has a high collar and it saved my neck from sporting a reddish hue like my hands.

We were all impressed by how our client organised the event. Especially since by corporate standards the head count was a daunting figure. They rented the stadium, hired professional referees and even mass produced corporate t-shirts for everyone.

While our client kept up with their schedule, we tried to grab as many shots as we could through a break in the netting and prayed a stray futsal ball wouldn't hit us in the face!

Part of the WolFang Digital photography and videography team covering the futsal event.

The 100M race was interesting. I managed to get a good spot to capture the race- in the middle of the track. No one paid me a second glance as the revolver's shot sent the runners hurtling towards me.

The marching band that strode smartly onto the field during the closing ceremony left us awestruck with both the epic feel and the synergy portrayed.

To date we've presented the first draft of the video to our clients. We hope to upload it by the second week of June. Stay tuned!

In an Absolut World, Videographers own the night!

2009-04-05T21:52:00.003+08:00

The new Absolut Vodka is unveiled. Glittering in a red sequin jacket, the world famous Swedish vodka is featured in this event titled "In an Absolut World, Every Night is a Masquerade".

While the main camera is being readied, the Glidecam is being balaned.

The brief from our client seemed as exotic as the brand itself: Three concept rooms, 1 lounge, 2DJs, 3 performances, a host of costumed characters roaming a two level venue. Guests get to mingle freely, there will be no speeches, no product unveiling, no launch gimmicks.

Invited guests were to mingled freely in three concept rooms. Each were designed especially for the launch and appropriately named, 'Absolut Dice', 'Absolut Jigsaw' and 'Absolut Cocktail 101'. Each room was unique and featured its own alluring elements.

Truth be told, I have been personally watching Absolut Vodka for quite some time, wondering when we would get the opportunity to shoot for the world famous Swedish brand.

Videographers enjoying a short breather by taking in the event from the audience's point of view.

Last month, we finally got the chance. The new Absolut Vodka is unveiled. Glittering in a red sequin jacket, the world famous Swedish vodka is featured in this event titled "In an Absolut World, Every Night is a Masquerade". The venetian carnevale style event deserved an equally alluring date and Friday 13th had no equal.

Our work as Videographers became a pleasure as we were inspired; inspired by the magical ambiance and enchanting characters and inspired by the venetian escapade. A delightful setting for the launch of the eminent Absolut Vodka.

We deployed the Glidecam to get smooth sweeping views of each room and provided Photography services which complimented the video nicely. We also introduced our new product: 360 VR. This item allows the user to interactively view the rooms in 360 degrees, to see everything in all directions.

The performance from 'Bian Lian' thrilled us to bits with his 'King of Masks' act. This ancient art from China awed audiences for centuries as generations of performers slip from one face mask to another literally in the blink of an eye.

Our Video Editing team had a blast completing the video. We used 'time remapping' to dramatise the Glidecam footage. This effect is made popular by the Matrix trilogy. We're sure you will enjoy watching it when we upload the completed video within the week, so stay tuned :)

Amongst Haute Couture

2009-03-31T23:38:00.007+08:00

Well, it's been a busy year for us thus far but I'm not complaining. Juggling deadlines is a neat way to kill time, considering the global scenario.

I've just recovered from a flu (so long, weekend) in time for another Videography session.Tonight marks the eve of the finale for GH Mumm F1 Celebration Party.

The cocktail parties offering renowned french champagne GH Mumm and featuring premium fashion labels Coach, Giuseppe Zanotti, Shanghai Tang and Chloe draw to a close. Despite shooting twice a week at Pavilion for the past 3 weeks, I'm still going to miss the runway style fashion shows where the female models tower above me flaunting their haute couture apparel.

I'm also going to long for Miss Jeannie Lee's melodious voice serenading us with her songs, most notably Rosemary Clooney's 'Mambo Italiano', The Carpenter's 'Close To You', Michael Buble's Sway and even a charming french rendition (which I have already forgotten the name). That's right, she took the time to memorise an entire french song in a week's time.

Dunhill was across, next to Rolex. Max Mara was down the road. I could've sauntered over to Gucci if I wanted to. Prada was closer to me than the stage was. We were in the middle of high fashion. The pretty faces, the nice dresses will still be there but after tonight, we won't be dropping by anytime soon. No thanks to Pavilion's astronomical parking fees.

I can't wait to watch the completed video after the Video Editing team has compiled the hours of footage we shot. I'll write a follow up post with the video soon :)

An Equine Experience

2009-03-03T20:59:00.002+08:00

The stars arrive and debark. Their rumps are then marked with the product logo.

One of my earliest and most unpleasant experience with horses was during my mid 20s. I spent a few days in Cameron Highlands taking in the sights and engaging in my hobby, photography.

Out in a field, I spotted a pony grazing some distance from a larger horse which I assumed to be its mother. Thinking the pony to be a photogenic subject, I approached it and from the corner of my eye, I saw the larger horse approaching. I thought of the great shots I would get from the pair.

The horse closed the gap in seconds with only a trot and by the time I realised the error of my assumption, I already knew I could never outrun an over-protective mother. Thankfully, the horse did not pursue me further after I distanced myself from its foal. Disappointed at not snapping off a shot, I was stupid enough to do it again.

When our client Pernod Ricard told us that horses were involved in a project, I wasn't exactly jumping with joy. Accordingly, the horses were part of Chivas' new campaign launch titled 'Live with Chivalry'. Based on the theme of an ancient ethical code of honour, its riders would be 'knights' carrying banners which served as branding vehicles.

I was amazed at the power the horses displayed by just shifting their weight. It also made me wonder how they kept track of what happened behind them... it's a long way to the back, there might be a Videographer caught unawares!

4 horses would march down a busy street lined with pubs. Under the supervision of police outriders, the horses cantered and we walked, briskly, as the slender promoters handed out leaflets to passersby.

It helps to walk surely and with no sudden movements amongst animals. We don't want to startle them. A slight nudge from an adult horse would surely send me flying a few feet. Having a video light attached to my camera had already made them nervous.

Horses... don't get in their blind spot!

One horse in particular got my attention. Lovely Boy, as he was known, was agitated by the slightest of things and moved unpredictably. It was challenging enough that I had to look out for shots of opportunity and busy street traffic, I also had to make sure 'Lovely' Boy wasn't about to trample all over me!

It's pretty hard to get all horses lined-up, thanks to 'Lovely Boy' at right.

It was a fun project. We accomplished giving out all the leaflets. I got great shots of the girls interacting with passersby. Lovely Boy prevented me from framing all the horses in formation simply by staying out. Despite this, I still managed to get shots of the majestic horses ferrying their knights against the busy night scene.

Spin Doctors: PR Media Training

2009-02-27T18:40:00.006+08:00

'...thorough preparation and testing must be performed to ensure that we have total control over our team and equipment at least.'

You're a leading international shipping company with 3 decades of history. What do you tell the journalists at the press conference when one of your maritime transports collides with a cruise liner?

Yesterday's project was an interesting departure from the norm. Our first project for multiple award winning PR agency Fleishman-Hillard (HQ in St. Louis) was a success. We were privileged to attend a training for one of their clients, japanese multi-modal bulk shipping company, Mitsui OSK Lines.

During the training, we listened in on how to diffuse a crisis scenario such as mentioned above. The techniques of blocking a tough question and bridging to accepted 'proof points' is a trade secret that will always remain in our minds.

The focus of our project however, was to record a mock press conference held between FH staff (as aggressive journalists) and MOL managers. 4 groups of 3 underwent the session lasting a white-knuckled 20 minutes each.

Trainees are given the 'inquisition' treatment and required to respond to tough questions.

Each team's performance would be recorded on camera (which adds to the already tense atmosphere) and then played back for critique and reflection.

The video is played back right away, giving a whole new meaning to 'video-on-demand'

Our services were required for only half a day so we arrived during the participants' lunch break. We set up our main video camera on 8th floor of Le Meridien hotel while the playback video camera was on the 6th. We hardly had time to test the playback before the trainees came striding in. There was little time to even test the audio volume of a test recording we did on the 8th floor.

As soon as interviews with all the teams were over, we had to rush the tapes down to the 6th while the participants went for a short (very short) coffee break. The FH trainer was kind enough to stall for us while we rewound the tapes and tested the plasma TV's (belonging to the hotel) volume.

Overall, everything went as planned. The plasma TV did not backfire on us, the elevators were on their best behaviour, as were our equipment (which we triple checked the night before).

In scenarios like these, where we aren't given time for contingencies, thorough preparation and testing must be performed to ensure that we have total control over our team and equipment at least.

Of course, it goes without saying that prayers and God's grace before every project is essential.

Long Distance Driving Survival Guide pt. 2

2009-01-10T12:40:00.004+08:00

In my Long Distance Driving Survival Guide pt. 1, I wrote about the various techniques to Staying Awake and Focused at the wheel. In this article, I write about Arriving on Time.

It is crucial to portray a professional image of ourselves by arriving on time, all the time for a Videography project. Driving for hours on end makes being punctual a challenge. Here are some tips to help you Arrive On Time.

1) Know the Formula.

Speed (Km/H) = Distance (Km) ÷ Time (Hour)

The formula tells you the speed you must be traveling to reach your destination within a certain time. Use this formula to help you plan your journey. Take into consideration traffic jams when you hit town.

2) Keep vehicle in good condition.
If you are driving a seasoned car (above 5 years old), make sure:
a) Your engine oil and engine filter are fairly new.
b) Ensure your tyres are not getting bald.
c) Fill up your radiator tank with water.
d) Keep a bottle of water handy in case your car overheats.
e) Check that your spare tyre is still in good condition.
f) If it's rainy season in your area, make sure your windshield wipers can still keep the rain away.
g) Check that your car drives straight. If it doesn't, send it for wheel re-alignment/balancing.
h) Your brakes grab the tyres when you need them to.

2) Plan your route.
If you have not been to your desired destination, never assume you are familiar with the roads. Look up GoogleMaps for help or check out a map. Don't just depend on friends for directions.

3) Drive at a cruising speed.
Don't race with other vehicles. It will raise your blood pressure and your fuel consumption too.

4) Equip a GPS Navigation System
These are very handy tools that save you time and anxiety. Garmin produces affordable yet reliable navigation devices for use in car, motorcycles, on the sea and in the air. I personally own the Nuvi 205W purchased for about $229 USD. It even warns me of potential speed traps and road block areas.

Another neat feature of having a navigation device is being able to adopt a more relaxed driving attitude. My Nuvi 205W helps me recalculate a new route to my destination on the fly when I've made a wrong turn.

Allocate time for parking.
Finding the place and actually rolling the cameras are two different tasks, especially within city limits. I suggest debarking the team at the venue's entrance before going off to find a parking space.

Professional videographers don't arrive on time for a videography session. We arrive early so we can work out contingencies which so often put a crimp into our plans. No event's programme goes according to plan, there will be unforseen incidents or overlooked issues to contend with.

Hopefully, my entries, taken from the field and based on first-hand experience, will help you. So drive safe and plan ahead.

Your comments and suggestions on this topic are most welcomed. Happy driving!

Long Distance Driving Survival Guide pt. 1

2008-12-22T11:16:00.000+08:00

All it takes is just a few seconds of shut eye and your world will be spinning out of control. Fortunately, falling asleep at the wheel is an avoidable mistake.

Our services as professional videographers are required by businesses far and wide. Sometimes we fly in but we are all too aware of the restrictions and inconveniences we face at airports. Compounded with the hassle of arranging public transportation after touchdown to send us on-location, we are putting our team at risk of a late arrival.

Long distance driving is more science than art. There are many ways to fight fatigue and remain focused on the road. Many of these techniques are also useful to the vacationer. The key ingredient in staying fresh at the wheel is research and planning.

Whenever we can, our Videography team would rather drive ourselves. With our own vehicle at our disposal, we can come and go when we please, maybe do a little sightseeing after work.

Long Distance Driving Survival Guide:
These techniques are intended for drivers who have to traverse at least 300KM in a vehicle and spend more than 3 hours behind the wheel. REMEMBER, the safety of your team is in your hands so, Drive Safe!

The toughest part of long distance driving is Staying Awake. Here are a few tips to help you remain focused at the wheel:

1) Grab a bunch of sour-flavoured candy.
Somehow, sour tid-bits seem to banish the drowsiness. When you start to nod off, deploy these candies.

2) Grab a bunch of peanuts.

Biting and chewing tid-bits help to get your blood pumping. You'll want to keep these snacks for when you really need them. Don't go on a free-for-all binge.

3) Chat (verbally)
Talking about various topics with your team will ease the mundane task of staring down endless highways. Keep in mind passengers may not sacrifice their nap time to converse with you.

4) Stretch
Periodically, very carefully and with both hands on the steering wheel, rock your head from side to side. Swing your head up and down. With one hand on the wheel, stretch your hand behind your seat as far as you can go. Rock your pelvis from side to side. Doing these will help alleviate pins and needles. To a small degree, it will help improve your blood circulation.

5) Smile
Clearly not as effective as chomping on a peanut but even a forced smile helps when you're fresh out of candies. Smile like it's going out of fashion, with teeth bared and facial muscles flexed for a few seconds. Repeat as many times as necessary.

6) Extreme Measures
I don't encourage this method but if all else fails, touch a hot surface. Some cars have a parking brake that is not upholstered where it extends into the car's exterior. After some time on the road, this metal part heats up. Touching this surface for a short span of time is sure to send a surge of adrenalin up, dissipating any thoughts of sleep.

In my Long Distance Driving Survival Guide pt. 2, I will write about Arriving On Time.

Wódka Wyborowa -Product Video-

2008-10-16T22:15:00.003+08:00

Videography of Wódka Wyborowa Exquisite proved to be a challenge because of the highly reflective AND transparent nature of the bottle.

Polish 'wódka' makes its debut with their premium offering, the Wódka Wyborowa Exquisite. Famed architect Frank Gehry also played a role in the bottle's design.

Our concept of this Product Video was to recreate Wódka Wyborowa's facade: clea, clear, savoury creaminess with a smooth, elegant finish.

Videography of Wódka Wyborowa Exquisite proved to be a challenge because of the highly reflective AND transparent nature of the bottle. The wódka and the bottle are both transparent thus negating the use of a coloured background. The risk of overexposure during shooting also increased the difficulty of this project.

Despite the challenges, we managed to produce an awesome piece of work, we incorporated subtle camera movements and added delicate lighting and exposure control.

WOLFANG DIGITAL used 3D animation to spice up the video. The animated text were given a glassy, reflective blue hue, in line with Wódka Wyborowa's corporate identity. The text danced over its own reflection, as in on a frozen lake.

WOLFANG DIGITAL is proud to introduce to you another Product Video. If you have a product or service you'd like to highlight to the world, we welcome you to get in touch with us.

Here's a little history on the origins of Wódka Wyborowa Exquisite:
Wyborowa Exquisite is single-estate quality, produced exclusively from a single variety of premium rye, grown on a single estate around the village of Turew (near Poznan in Western Poland), an area long associated with the production of high quality grain and vodka. The highest levels of quality control and a unique production process ensure Wyborowa Exquisite is truly exceptional vodka. Wyborowa Exquisite boasts an elegant mouth-feel on the palate with delicate notes of fresh rye bread, Brazil nuts and growing savoury creaminess, with sweetness well-balanced by lightly toasty dryness. The finish is lightly spiced, with a sweet-dry nutty finish and a hint of sesame

Videography Footwear

2008-10-13T14:34:00.012+08:00

'On rocky ground, it saved me from some painful sprains a couple of times'

Good Videography doesn't boil down to what you wear or what covers your feet. It does however, dictate your level of comfort during a videography session and how long you can function effectively and creatively as a Videographer.

Depending on the project on hand, Videographers may be required to walk briskly, run, jump, kneel or squat. Some projects require Videographers to shoot in the jungle, in the desert, in the middle of traffic, in rocky or muddy terrain.

How does the practical yet fashion conscious Videographer transition from a wedding shoot to a corporate shoot without spending too much on shoes (and instead, spend it on the next video camera). A trendy and rugged Timberland will set us back by about $120. You surely don't want to see another scratch on your precious Timberland shoes.

Original SWAT tactical boots are a boon to Videographers.

Do safety shoes qualify? I think not. Most safety shoes are inflexible, restricting movement and heavy. How about Camel Active? You're getting warmer but they aren't as durable as we want them to be.

So what's my choice for footwear? I suggest a pair of boots. Not just any pair of boots but tactical boots- the kind that SWAT teams strap on for a mission.

After trying on various footwear including Bata, Converse, Nike, Reebok, Adidas and Puma, I'm elated to find the perfect pair of footwear that meet these requirements:

1) Lightweight (your camera and gear are heavy enough)
2) Durable (if it's good enough for the military, it's good enough for me)
3) Reasonably priced
4) Fashionable (like it or not, guy handling video camera stands out)
5) Flexible (for us to move with precision)
6) Cusions footfalls (great for Glidecam operation)
7) Traction (do the shoes 'grab' the floor?)
8) Comfortable (to enable us to walk in them for hours on end)

For about $99, a new pair of Original SWAT tactical boots paint a cool picture of us in our video gear and more importantly, helps us get our job done.

I've used them in various surfaces and it helps me keep my footing. On rocky ground, it saved me from some painful sprains a couple of times. On questionable terrain where grass tend to grow taller than my waist, I'm confident my feet are protected from insects and reptiles.

When using the Glidecam, the soles help make my footfalls softer, reducing camera shake even further. The boots give me a high degree of flex and movement. Foot placement become accurate and firm.

I pay no heed to every jagged rock that glances off my boots, unlike my expensive Timberland. The more nicks my boots suffer, the more rugged it looks, like a good pair of jeans.

There is a disadvantage to this setup: boots are hard to come off!

Your virtual salesman: The Product Video

2008-10-07T13:29:00.009+08:00

'The Product Video is a tireless sales promoter.'

This video exist for one main reason: your products and/or services. It's a video designed to showcase your product, its strenghts and features, installation instructions and your promotions.

A comprehensive product video will usually come with voice overs and video titles to help your customers understand your products' unique selling point. Animated graphs and diagrams will help to dispel any doubts about your products' integrity.

The Product Video's main focus is to highlight your products' features

For demonstrations that are too complex, 3D Animation combined with live action videography will get the most difficult points across to the simplest of minds.

Imagine your product video being played repetitively in your showroom, displaying your products and its features. The Product Video is a tireless sales promoter. It's the first impression your customers get of your brand and often, it's one of your most effective sales tool.

To produce a Product Video, WolFang Digital provides the following services:

1) Scriptwriting
2) Videography (Full day)
3) Video Editing (approx. 4 to 5 days)
4) 3D Animation
5) Motion Graphics
6) Video Titles

Duration of video:
approx. 5 to 10 minutes

This Video is most suitable for use in:
Product Demonstrations
Showrooms/Retail Outlets
Exhibitions/Trade Shows

To view more Product Videos, visit:
Product Videos from WOLFANG DIGITAL

Videography: Purchasing your Video Camera pt. 1

2008-09-18T17:55:00.006+08:00

Canon's most recent high-end, high definition offering: the glorious Xl H1S

Your first steps in becoming a Videographer will obviously be an exciting adventure and no less expensive either. One of the main reasons all Videographers are passionate about their work is because Videography equipment is expensive. When he or she decides to turn from amateur to professional, they are already committed to purchasing costly equipment.

So what are some of the features that you should look for when purchasing a camcorder? Here are some of the most important features:

1) Depth of Field
One of my most important criteria is the length of the camera's lens. The longer the lens, the more shallow the depth of field. A shallow depth of field renders both the foreground and background out of focus, bringing the subject into clear focus.

2) Preset and Custom White Balance
Some cameras allow the user to keep more than one White Balance setting. This feature lets Videographers easily switch settings when under different light temperature (sunlight has a higher colour temperature than tungsten light). Not having to set the White Balance each time the camcorder shoots in a distinctly different lighting is a time saving advantage.

3) Full Manual Exposure Controls
The ability to control your shutter speed, aperture and gain independently of each other is crucial as you will end up in situations where fine tweaking these settings yield the best results

I will cover more important features you should consider in a Video Camera. Here's a short description:
4) Full Manual Audio Controls
5) Video and Audio inputs
6) Manual Zoom and Manual Focus Ring

Look out for my next article, Videography: Purchasing your Video Camera pt. 2

Martell VSOP Rising Personalities Awards 2008

2008-09-02T17:38:00.007+08:00

'Prior to the award night, WOLFANG DIGITAL produced Biography Videos of each of the award recipients...'

Martell VSOP hosts the 2008 'Rising Personalities Award' an extravagant gala dinner to honour 10 of the most promising personalities from various industries.

The Rising Personalities Awards recognises individuals who have risen above the competition, life’s challenges and more importantly, their own expectations, in their pursuit of career advancement and life as a whole.

WOLFANG DIGITAL captured the nuances and ambiance of the gala dinner as it unfolded. Our Videography team provided Live Video Feed which transmitted video of the Rising Personalities as they arrived, each chauffeured in a Mercedes. The video was played live to guests already lounging in the reception area.

Prior to the award night, WOLFANG DIGITAL produced Biography Videos of each of the award recipients. These videos were played for guests before each personality walked onto stage to receive their award.

A fashion show titled 'Birds of the Amazon' by Fashion Stylist Cris Yong, jointly produced by DJ Blink dazzled us with flamboyant haute coutour accompanied by exotic tunes. Grand Prize winner Joanne Yeoh also entertained us with her mastery of her violin, mesmerizing us with renditions of classical tunes. Malaysian Idol Jaclyn Victor also got into the act and presented us with choice songs.

WOLFANG DIGITAL projected the activities on stage onto colossal screens so guests could fully experience the awards ceremony regardless of their seating location.

We deployed two video cameras for this event: one to provide Live Video Feed while another mingled with guests, capturing choice close up shots. As before, this year's Gala Dinner was a fun experience for us.

Cutting It Right: Video Editing pt. 3 of 3

2008-08-29T15:03:00.002+08:00

This is the conclusion to my 3 part series of 'Cutting It Right: Video Editing'

Read Cutting It Right: Video Editing part 1
Read Cutting it Right: Video Editing part 2

8) Colour Correction
This process involves a pair of sharp eye and a sensitive heart. Colours bring about different emotions- orange may mean energy and give the time of day as evening. Blue may indicate a high-tech feel. Purple could mean insinuate elegance or romance. Colour Correction is an important, creative and exacting process.

9) Presentation
The completed Video is then presented to the Video Director who makes the necessary amendments based on his intimate understanding of the product. If the Video Director doesn't give the green light, the Video will not be seen by the client. That simple.

The Video that ends up being viewed by our clients have gone through the exacting scrutiny of our Video Director's eyes. Since we write the script, we know the product almost just as well as the client.

10) DVD Encoding & Mastering

It takes many years of action before a fresh graduate evolves into a finely honed WolFang Digital Video Editor. Our Video Editors have the innate skill to combine various Video Footage into a seamless video for various purpose, be it a fast paced Event Video or a more informative yet state of the art Corporate Video.

The Video Editor keeps track of hundreds of Video clips that may amount to thousands if he is working on more than one project. His eyes are sharp- his brain is able to discern good takes from mediocre ones, he can discern the right colour for any scene and he is able to evaluate music for the various projects.

Cutting it right is just one of the disciplines within the world of Video Production but nevertheless, it is an important and challenging one. Becoming a good Video Editor takes years of practice. Becoming a good Video Editor makes one more sensitive to the world around them, it is a rewarding experience.

Read Cutting it Right: Video Editing part 1
Read Cutting it Right: Video Editing part 2

Background Support

2008-08-29T00:22:00.010+08:00

'There are situations when setting up a tripod or even a light stand will indeed pose a threat to the environment...'

In our line of work, I meet with many decision makers and business owners who are admired for their passion towards their products and services. They are the same folks who award us projects and sign our cheques.

It comes as no surprise that during our meetings, they are reluctant to stop production for Videography sessions. Factories continue operations, banks will continue to serve customers, showrooms display and sell, hospitals treat patients. The success of a business depends on maximum operational time. Taking an unscheduled break will add a crimp in their bottom line.

WOLFANG DIGITAL's Videography team have adapted to this environment by working efficiently- our equipment set-up and deployment drill is constantly rehearsed and improved upon.

We are able to work on-location without having to interrupt our client's operations. Sometimes, this means using the environment to our advantage. Where sunlight is available, we deploy our video cameras in positions that leverage on natural light.

As a part-time lecturer, I used to tell my students that to produce professional looking looking videos, a tripod is a video camera's best friend. There are exceptions, however.

Whenever a video camera is detached from a tripod, we collapse and hide it. What's worse than having a 'stray' tripod being captured on tape is a tripod being a hazard to the client's workforce.

There are situations when setting up a tripod or even a light stand will indeed pose a threat to the environment, such as a busy factory floor where forklifts are zipping along, where colossal robotic arms bend red-hot metal daily.

WOLFANG DIGITAL's team are trained to use objects in the background for camera support. A banister, a chair or table, a railing, a stationary car, walls, the world is littered with 'tripods' that can help us get a stable shot. We are trained to be aware of our surroundings.

Oftentimes we aren't allowed the luxury of deploying our equipment whenever or wherever it pleases us. Producing videos for the corporate world puts us in a situation of constant change. As professional Videographers, we have to assess the situation quickly, improvise and roll with the flow.

Royal Salute 38 'Stone of Destiny'

2008-08-23T22:42:00.000+08:00

WOLFANG DIGITAL documented the noteworthy launch of the Royal Salute 38, Stone of Destiny. An elegant and royal setting, a room filled with ancient treasures, a 38 year-old scotch whisky.

The finely superior Royal Salute 38 year old was unveiled to privileged eyes and sampled by distinguished, discerning palate. WOLFANG DIGITAL was honoured to be in the company of his excellency, the 13th Duke of Argyll, Torquhil Ian Campbell who graced us with his presence all the way from his native Scotland.

On display are his excellency's magnificent collection of treasures on loan from his expansive castle, Inveraray in scenic Scotland. WOLFANG DIGITAL did not hesitate to capture these rare wonders that helped shape a nation's history.

The Royal Salute 38 made its grand entrance escorted by a pair of bagpipers in full highland regalia. Scenes from the movies Braveheart and Rob Roy played in our minds amidst the bagpipers' melancholic yet majestic melody.

Cutting It Right: Video Editing pt. 2 of 3

2008-08-21T12:34:00.003+08:00

This posting is part 2 of 3 from my Video Editing series, 'Cutting It Right: Video Editing'

View Cutting It Right: Video Editing part 1

4) Editing
This is a creative process where the Video Editor, ususally guided by a Storyboard or Script, crafts the story. The Video Editor lenghtens or shortens a take and inserts them into his edit chronologically or randomly as required by the Script or Storyboard. Videography aside, Editing is the most crucial part of Video Production.

5) Editing with Music
Oftentimes, a Video Editor is required to edit his Video based on the beats of a music track. He takes great care to increase or slow down the pace of his videos based on the cresendo or low points of the track. If the script requires random Video clips, his creativity is needed to insert the most attention grabbing ones into appropriate segments of the music track.

6) Motion Graphics and/or 3D Animation
The Video Editor collaborates with the animation team to create Motion Graphics/3D Animation based on the Video Director's guidelines. The Video Editor inserts these clips as required by the script/storyboard.

7) Voice Over Synchronising
The Video Director is always present during Voice Over Recordings to ensure that the Voice Over Talent gets the pronunciation and intonation right. Attention is given particularly to names and slogans. When the Voice Over Recording is complete, the Video Editor faces the thankless job of inserting the appropriate Voice Overs into position. He will need to make adjustments to the video based on the speed of the Voice Over reading.

View Cutting It Right: Video Editing part 1

B. Braun Product Video

2008-08-19T12:47:00.001+08:00

'The clean layout, the subtle use of its corporate colours and even our choice of Voice Over Talent were complimented.'

In May, WolFang Digital completed a Product Video for B. Braun Avitum. This video features the Nexadia Intelligent Data Management System, a software that manages a network of dialysis machines.

Each Nexadia Monitor is able to remotely control, monitor and document treatment procedures for a host of networked heaemodialysis machines, allowing nurses to spend more time with their patients and significantly improving the efficiency of the nephrologist's administrative tasks.

Videography was done at Penang Adventist Hospital's Renal Care Centre. The video was premiered at the 11th Asian Nephrology Congress at KL Convention Centre, which WolFang Digital also provided Event Photography services.

During one of our final but poignant video presentations to a packed room of sales, marketing and technical managers including its General Manager and a representative from Germany, our video was previewed to a round of applause and compliments from all. The clean layout, the subtle use of its corporate colours and even our choice of Voice Over Talent were complimented.

This is a testament to WolFand Digital's versatility in undertaking various projects from different industries.

When the classics do the twist

2008-08-15T21:43:00.009+08:00

Here is a short video clip of an artiste par excellence at work.

We're proud to have Joanne Yeoh select WOLFANG DIGITAL as her official Videographers!

WOLFANG DIGITAL was engaged by internationally renowned professional violinist Joanne Yeoh to cover her performance. Joanne worked her bow with passion in the concert hall- thrilling music connoisseur- which was packed to them brim. Some of her fans were sitting on the steps, next to my video camera's tripod!

Knowing full well that music recorded through the on-board camera microphone wouldn't sound good, especially when heard through the tone sensitive ears of a world famous musician, we decided on an alternative plan of action.

Joanne's talented ensemble for that night are acclaimed pianist Dr Lim Pei Sien and cellist Dr Chong Yew Yoong. Music from all three musicians were 'harnessed' and piped into our video camera from specialised AKG microphones installed in close proximity to each of the instruments namely the cello, piano and of course, the violin.

Attached to my ears are a pair of fine enclosed Sennheiser headphones that separates the ambient noise from the music recorded by the video camera. I got to hear the crisp clear sound of music as if I was standing next to the musicians themselves. I was able to enjoy Piano Trio In C Major KV548 by Mozart, Reverie by Claude Debussy, Trio by Charles Ives and La Muerte Del Angel by Astor Piazzolla.

The three masters cooked up a storm, especially Joanne who looked fabulous in her ebony evening gown. Her fingers danced across the strings, she whipped her bow forward and back as she dazzled us with her renditions. We're proud of Joanne Yeoh for winning the Martell VSOP Rising Personalities Award 2007 and having her as our client. We wish her all the best in her next venture!

A Poignant Moment

2008-08-13T12:23:00.001+08:00

During our recce of the Renal Care Centre, the full force of the seriousness of kidney failure had not hit us... yet.

It was an eye opener for us when we visited the Adventist Hospital's Renal Care Centre in Penang. None of my family members or anyone I know of are facing kidney related illness, making this trip a poignant one for us.

WOLFANG DIGITAL traveled to Penang to produce a Product Video for B. Braun Avitum- an internationally renowned pioneer and manufacturer of medical products for treatment of extracorporeal blood treatment (out of body blood cleansing or haemodialysis) based in Germany.

During our recce of the Renal Care Centre, the full force of the seriousness of kidney failure did not hit us... yet. It wasn't until when we started the Videography session when reality descended. We were told that the rows of reclined patients were in various stages of kidney failure.

The head nurse continued to tell us of the three times a week dialysis sessions where each patient had to undergo five to six hours of treatment costing RM 250 a session. It wasn't just the financial aspect of it that disturbed us, it was the abrupt change in lifestyle not to mention the distress each time a needle pierces a vein AND artery. All physical activity had to be kept to a minimum and a strict dieting regime is implemented.

I had to set up the camera in front of the patients although my subject was not the patient but the dialysis machine drawing out their blood, cleaning it and transporting it back to their body. They seemed pleasant enough but by looking at them, I could sense that they had resigned to their fate but always, there was a glimmer of hope.

We all learned that high blood pressure and diabetes led to kidney failure. To anyone out there reading this, take good care of your kidneys. Drink lots of fluids, cut down on your sugar and salt intake and exercise regularly. Being put on dialysis will not just put your life on hold, it will inconvenience your loved ones too.

Photos were taken with my K800i for archiving purposes.

Cutting It Right: Video Editing pt. 1 of 3

2008-08-08T09:25:00.004+08:00

Bar client presentation, Video Editing is arguably one of the most exciting stages of Video Production. There are a few steps taken during the Video Editing process.

I have divided the topic of Video Editing into 3 posts: Cutting It Right: Video Editing parts 1, 2 and 3. In this blog entry, I will cover the first 3 of the 10 steps.

1) Digitising
Tapes that contain Videos shot on-location are digitised into the computer's hard disk. The Video Editor 'captures' only the best 'takes'. NG (Not Good) footage are not digitised. If a Videographer shoots 5 takes, 2 takes out of the 5 are captured to give the Video Director some choice.

2) Music Selection
Royalty-free music is selected for use in the Video. The choice of music depends the Video currently edited. A Corporate Video on medical equipment would require more high-tech music compared to an Event Video for Wine Tasting, which requires a more mellowed, romantic track.

3) Take Selection
When the Video Editor has digitised all the tapes from a particular Videography session, he will select the best takes from from each scene. He will then lay them out onto a 'Program' or his 'Edit' this will be his worksheet and represents the completed Video.

Look out for Cutting It Right: Video Editing pt. 2 which I'll be posting sometime next week.

Classical Twist Gear Up

2008-08-06T23:50:00.006+08:00

Our client, world renowned professional violinist, Joanne Yeoh will be performing at The Actor's Studio tomorrow night. First thing tomorrow morning, we will be on-location for rehearsals.

We will be Official Videographers for Joanne Yeoh's Classical Twist.

Videographers, Gear up!

Hanging in the balance.

2008-08-01T18:16:00.002+08:00

As with all things in life, achieving a balance leads to a successful and fulfilling existence. This too, applies to the proper deployment of the Glidecam.

Three years ago, I had the opportunity to edit a Product video for Westin Hotel. The Videography was provided by a third party who used the Flowcam from Varizoom. I mentioned in one of my earlier posts that Varizoom's stabilizing products are nowhere near Glidecam Industries'.

After my own considerable practice with it, I managed to iron out the intricacies of my Glidecam. In retrospect, it was very clear from the get go that the Videographer did not consider balancing his Flowcam before applying it on an actual Videography session. The symptoms are an annoying swing of the video camera along the axes (a left-right or forward-backward rocking motion) when then the Videographer alters the speed of his movement.

A well-balanced Glidecam should not deviate much from any of its axes when the Videographer shifts his movement speed or abruptly stops. The Glidecam manual clearly shows us how to test for balance: walk with the Glidecam (camera mounted, LCD panel folded out) and stop suddenly. There should be no noticeable pendulum-like swinging of the Glidecam; this is a good indication of a well-balanced Glidecam.

I have to allocate about half hour to set up and balance our Glidecam. This means being on-location earlier. During our practice runs, it's a real drag packing up the Glidecam knowing full well it's going to be set-up again the following day.

PT19 Residency Product Video

2008-07-30T07:29:00.028+08:00

'We were complimented, of all things for our copywriting.'

On Monday afternoon, WOLFANG DIGITAl presented to Trinity Towers its PT19 Residency Product Video. Among those present are its director, Datuk Neoh, the Financial Director and its Marketing Director.

We completed the project 2 days ahead of schedule which is just as well, giving time for the client to mass duplicate the DVD for export to Dubai in time for a property fair.

We were complimented, of all things for our copywriting. Since our client did not order a full script and a Voice Over Recording, we hadn't thought those few lines of text would stand out.

Photos are taken with my K800i for training and reference purposes.

Videography was first thing in the morning. I wanted to get that soft, fresh lighting only availble during daybreak. Since shooting lasted into the evening, we had to provide extensive colour correction to compensate for the inconsistent lighting. In various parts of the video, leaves had to be made more lush, interiors had to have that romantic yet sophisticated ambience. Without colour correction, the footage would look lifeless and appear too conventional.

We were thrilled to finally use our Glidecam for this project. It didn't quite yield the results I expected considering the time I took to rehearse but it was satisfactory. I now understood the Glidecam better and will learn to compensate for its weaknesses.

As I post this onto my blog, more than a thousand DVDs of the PT19 Residency Product Video are getting off the duplication press and will be shipped off to Dubai for a property expo. We completed this project well ahead of schedule to the delight and appreciation of our client!

TCIE Videography pt. 1

2008-07-26T19:23:00.010+08:00

'The site was dusty, gritty, muddy, rocky and provided various obstacles that hindered shot composition. '

photos are taken with my K800i camera phone for archiving & training purposes.

What was meant to be a simple Videography session left us weary and exhausted by the end of the day. The Videography session for Tan Chong Industrial Equipment (TCIE) started mid morning but I was up at the crack of dawn to avoid the traffic congestion and to get some paperwork done before heading off to TCIE HQ in Gombak.

Our first scene was of an express bus ferrying tourists to an exotic locale. After an enjoyable breakfast with our client, we were told that the bus (huge by my standards) was meant to remain in the workshop for additional service so we headed off instead to a cement processing plant owned by YTL Group.

The site was dusty, gritty, muddy, rocky and provided various obstacles that hindered shot composition. As our subject was the cement mixers trundling in and out of the plant, we were exposed to the hot weather bordered by the colossal structure and cement mixers. The almost stark blue sky wasn't kind to offer enough clouds.

Back at TCIE HQ, we set up for the express bus scene. By this time, it was close to noon and the sun was relentless in searing us with its heat rays. While the Batu Caves (huge limestone caves) provided a photogenic setting, we had too much outdoor light and too little indoor (inside the bus) illumination to correctly expose the bus driver. No amount of redheads (800W lights) could compete with the sun and properly light the driver through the bus' tinted windscreen and compete so we opted to use our mobile video lights inside the bus.

Next in the agenda was a well deserved breather for all of us- lunch break!

To be continued...

Gearing up for PT19 Residency

2008-07-20T23:18:00.006+08:00

Trinity Towers has awarded us the project to produce a Product Video for their 3 storey linked terrace priced at RM 2 million. Videography begins tomorrow morning. From what I hear, the place is going to be in tip-top condition, awaiting our arrival.

As predicted, they will be our first client to benefit from our newest service, our Glidecam Videography. For architectural Videography, it's fitting, considering the house will look great with sweeping views of the interior as our Glidecam gracefully moves in to capture each room and hall.

We intend to arrive early to take advantage of the sun's low angle. The soft shadows and the sun's initial weaker rays ought to make the house look romantic and appealing to high-end buyers.

It's going to be a long day- the client wants a night shot of the facade with the logo illuminated, at night. The following day, we're to head out to shoot various places of convenience- malls, airport, banks, etc. While all this is being carried out, back at the studio, Video Editing and Motion Graphics and Music Selection will have already started. Exciting. We'll be posting photos of our Videography session later.