EntriesAfter neglecting my sad Blogisphere for so long I thought I would finally get back to posting some interesting items for those of us who are new to the film creation/post production industry. It seems as though there will finally be an After Effects User group for Portland! I am particularly excited about this because it gives me a chance to get connected with a large group of Portland Natives who are interested (and may actually have paying work with) the motion graphic industry. The first meeting seems like it’s going to be amazing with several amazing speakers from this area and there is rumored to be beer there. Who doesn’t like discussing after effects and drinking? My two favorite things. Which leads me to an interesting topic: As an amateur, getting involved with User groups or any sort of group is the best thing an inexperienced compositor/editor could do.
As a sophmore at the University of Oregon I had a bit of luck stumbling into the UFO (University Film Organization - http://www.youtube.com/user/UFilmOrganization ). There I met some friends, learned about alot of interesting facets about making films and actually got to experience a wide variety of post production. Best part about getting involved in a group is that you get to constantly find and discuss new things your learning and hear from people who have something to teach you. There is nothing more frustrating then sitting in front of your computer, by yourself, spinning your wheels, trying to come up with a creative and visual stimulating solution to a problem. Sure you could ask Google. But the inspiration and innovation you can gain from listening to how other solved the same problem is the best way to learn and grow in whatever industry your interested in.
Here is an amazing video by Vincent Laforet, Stu Maschwitz, and David Nelson using a prototype Canon EOS 1D Mark IV cameras and only the available light. For anyone who has tried to light a scene can understand the awesomeness of this video.