Videographer Journals

We've Moved!

2010-01-03T17:01:00.005+08:00

Dear readers,

Thank you for your interest and support for our blog. On January 2009, We have moved to our very own blog space :)

By hosting our blog on our own website, we get to manage our own images and videos so we can offer you more interesting topics regarding our involvement in the video production industry.

We look forward to seeing you in our new location :)
Visit our new blog: Videographers Journals at WolFang Digital

Baron,
Video Director, Edius Silver Level Trainer,
WolFang Digital

Videographers' playground

2009-10-13T16:43:00.016+08:00

Thanks to Panasonic, I was able to point the camera at various well lit subjects, make various adjustments to exposure, shoot and actually review my shots.

I was privileged to be invited by the distributor of Edius video editing software, Graphics Vision to participate in their joint exhibition with Panasonic titled 'Panasonic Power of Innovation Exhibition '09'

Our official status as certified Edius trainers gave me the opportunity to contribute some of my knowledge to the public. Since the exhibition was held in one of our largest malls, Mid Valley, the public would be out in force and so would we.

Chilling out with Graphics Vision's MD, Benedict Yee

Ironically, Edius' booth was located right next to Final Cut Pro. I took the opportunity to explore FCP a bit. So although I was meant to help man the Edius area, I was spending time chatting up the FCP people instead. It's always a good move to know the competition.

Panasonic's mock sets provide a good videographer's playground.

I was most impressed with Panasonic's concept. They had painstakingly set up a mock TV studio next to a mock lounge complete with a bar and snooker table. Surrounding these in a semi-circle were tripod mounted video cameras, giving visitors a chance to actually test out the equipment. Next to each video cam were a large LCD display or a broadcast monitor so the use could see what was shot.

Panasonic was kind enough to give us freedom with their video cameras

It was truly remarkable- their P2 and AVCHD video cams were pointed at actual sets so we would not want for a better shooting environment. I occupied myself with their AG-HPX300, a shoulder mounted P2 camera with a long lens and hence a very shallow depth of field.

It was truly amazing. Although I still prefer the ergonomics of Canon's video cams, I was able to point the camera at various well lit subjects, make various adjustments to exposure, shoot and actually review my shots. It was like having a slice of videographer heaven. When I left the exhibition, I was able to discover and recall each of the buttons that contribute to a good video shot. Giving visitors such degree of freedom and flexibility is a great way to boost video camera sales.

Back to the Edius VS FCP debate, now I can clearly understand that Edius holds the advantage over FCP in terms of workflow speed and execution, realtime functionality and multi format support. One of their guys remarked that telling the story is most important, having realtime effects won't help you tell a good story. Clearly he's just consoling himself over the edge Edius has over FCP. Having realtime support simply means Edius can craft out a great story from a great script AND do it faster too!

I had fun at the exhibition. I got to show off Edius and mess around with Panasonic's best of show. My thanks to Panasonic for organising this excellent event and to Graphics Vision for getting our participation.

Surreal: 40 works of art in 30 days

2009-09-17T21:32:00.002+08:00

A surreal day- we went on location with Chin Yew, the founder of the '30 Day Artist' movement. We recorded him painting with acrylic on canvas and then grind chinese ink on an inkstone to draw a comic strip. These guys are famous for creating 40 works of art in 30 days.

I always thought artists required some time off in the woods to clear their minds and get some inspiration. Nowadays, it's all found on the internet! Chin Yew assures me that he still takes trips to go up north to experience the simpler life. He listens to conversations for the spark to get him going on his next piece of work.

I had a room like Chin Yew's when I was at college rushing artwork assignments and burning the midnight oil. His room was so cramped that I'm sure if I stretched out my leg, I would've broke a lamp! With all due respect, we creative folks need a cosy place to roll out that masterpiece. Large spaces make us feel alone but large spaces give videographers more room to maneuver! What a trip :)

Sze: where warmth meets beauty.

2009-09-16T20:26:00.006+08:00

Later, she gave each of us one of her famous accessories! Talk about being appreciated! Thanks Sze :D :D

Today, we were treated cordially by Szee Yoong (owner of Sze Accessories) during her videography session. She prepared a nice breakfast spread for us! We were even told where to find the most delicious swiss rolls (Atria, a shop called Bon Bon's)

Recoring Sze crafting her gorgeous accessories was a breeze. Her beautiful home (she will be moving in with her fiance after their wedding), decorated in the modern contemporary style, inspired us to find the perfect angles.

Though it was a little hard for us to move around in her cosy workshop, we still managed to get pretty shots of Sze doing her research and then forming something from nothing.

Sze treated us warmly and we were inspired to do our best for her!

We experienced first hand how she delicately crafted her famous trinkets. It required a balance of meticulous and delicate manipulation of the tiniest strand of material and all the while her mind is working like a sculptor's, seeing her creation taking form in her hands.

Later, she gave each of us one of her famous accessories! Talk about being appreciated! Thanks Sze :D :D

Flows with the pros

2009-09-15T23:07:00.006+08:00

Cecilia was really smooth on the dance floor and I had a hard time 'flowing' with her with our video camera on the tripod dolly.

Flowing with the pros.

The Martell Rising Personalities Award is back for 2009. We've already completed 10 up close interviews with this year's nominated personalities. We're in the midst of videography sessions on location to record the personalities at work in their element.

Today, we were at The Dance Point at Plaza Damas for videography of Cecelia Yong, the champion of the 'So You Think You Can Dance' season 2 competition on 8TV. She was really smooth on the dance floor and I had a hard time 'flowing' with her with our video camera on the tripod dolly.

Watch out for the video. We'll be uploading it sometime next month.

Cecilia looked youthful and nimble. Together with her partner Billy, they worked their magic on the dance floor. Both Cecilia and Billy were very accommodating with me when I asked them to repeat various moves (stunts) from their dance sequence. These 'stunts' were usually physically demanding but they obliged time and again.

Tomorrow we'll be with the founder of Sze Accessories. The adventure continues :)

We've graduated as Edius trainers!

2009-09-01T15:45:00.024+08:00

We are 1 of only 3 companies in the country to offer the Edius Prime video editing course.

Our trainer, Maxim Jago presents me with the coveted certificate.

We are very proud of our video editing software in WolFang Digital because our clients love our work. We share some of the credit with Grass Valley's Edius (our video editing software). We are even more proud to announce that we are now Grass Valley approved and accredited trainers.

We are now authorised to deliver video editing training worldwide for the EDIUS Prime Course. We are 1 of only 3 companies in the country who are approved by Grass Valley to offer this course. We can finally award Grass Valley certificates to our students.

We have an international class from Asia.

We attended the Edius Prime 'Train The Trainers' course at Grass Valley Shanghai to gain our new status. Our class comprised representatives from Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore and Malaysia. We were assessed for our presentation skills, technical knowledge and techniques of video editing with Edius.

Each of us were assessed on our presentation. This was no simple task, we had to lecture our peers, each of them are advanced Edius users

After using Edius for 6 years, we are happy to be given the recognition. We can't wait to teach video editors and college students about the magic of Edius. Students who attend our training and pass the exam will get their certificates delivered directly from Grass Valley. This certificate is recognised worldwide.

Pureen gets her certificate after passing the exam

Our class at Grass Valley, Shanghai comprised of representatives from S.Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia.

To find out more about the Edius Prime video editing course, visit our workshop.

Becoming a lecturer (part-time)

2009-07-30T18:23:00.010+08:00

'Being actively involved in educating the students of Saito College is a good opportunity for us to give back to the community.'

Much has happened since my last blog posting and much has been achieved but Our schedule has once again contributed to the drop in new blog entries.

I mentioned much has been achieved because one my goals for WolFang Digital has come into fruition. Of late we have been seriously considering entering into the training/education industry. So with great pleasure, I'm happy to announce I'm now officially a lecturer with Saito College. The classes that I lecture are Videography and Digital Video Production.

Being actively involved in educating the students of Saito College is a good opportunity for us to give back to the community. Saito College is one of the pioneer education institutes in the country with 20 years of history. I can now instill into the younger generation the skills that are so desired in our industry yet are insufficiently covered by our education system.

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!