Customer Reviews

Final Cut Pro 4 Editing Essentials (DV Expert Series)

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Tom Wolsky's book is an excellent resource for getting started with Final Cut Pro 4. By the time you finish the book, you'll have the skills you need to handle the vast array of tools the FCP4 has to offer.

A little over a year ago, I bought Mr. Wolsky's Final Cut Express book AFTER I had already spent several frustrating weeks with the manual Apple provided. When I decided to step up to FCP, I made the smart decision and STARTED with Mr. Wolsky's book.

The best part of his books is that he speaks in plain english making it easy for non-professionals to understand. For example, early in the book he discusses all the steps and options for getting set up (which can be a daunting task). But then he'll add something like, "If you're working from a mini DV camera, just do this . . ."

WOW! Rather than spending hours trying to figure out all of the intricacies of NTSC and PAL, I can just jump to the chase and get started.

I highly recommend this book anybody that is new to FCP--whether you're completely new to video software, or simply new to FCP.

Tom has written a very thorough guide to FCP 4. I paticularly enjoyed his approach in applying the context of editing terms/techniques in the process of getting more comfortable with FCP. As a FCP user of several years, I wasn't sure what to expect from this but, pleasantly found that Tom brought many tools and techniques to my attention that I was not previously aware of. This is a thumbs up from me.

I am a new FCP user and this is the first book I purchased after looking through an assortment at Borders. It's written in a manner that is understandable and interesting for the first time user. My only recommendation would be to spice up the DVD tutorial a little. I found the supplied footage to be dull.

Compared to the other FCP books at $50 and up,FCP:Editing Essentials is a must buy for the new user!

Wolksy dives straight into the nuts and bolts. From capturing footage, to editing it, to outputting it, and to working with Final Cut Pro's new multicam functions, "Final Cut Pro 5 Editing Essentials" rockets you through the basics. After tackling all the technicalities of titles, transitions and sound, Wolsky pauses for a moment to discuss the creative editing process. He covers the rhythm of cutting, the dangers of cutting too much, the Rule of the Line, and the different demands when cutting dialogue, documentaries and music videos. The book includes 8 real-world lessons, including a multicamera shoot, Japanese kabuki, and a scene from an indie feature starring Hilary Swank. Cutting footage of a two-time Academy Award winner? Now that's a nice tutorial.

If you want a fast and mighty way into the basics of editing on Final Cut Pro, this is the book for you.