Customer Reviews

Macworld Final Cut Pro 2 Bible (With DVD-ROM)

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Normally I find the "Bible" series of books to be cumbersome and difficult to extract meaningful information. Not so for the Final Cut Pro 2 Bible. This book is a joy to read because all of the topics are thoughtfully separated and self contained. The use of cross-references gives you a complete treatment of any subject. The wealth of information is amazing. I am learning something new each day. Like the manual that comes with Final Cut Pro, this book also provides many examples of information helpful for using the program in the context of DV production. In reality it is two books in one: a book about Final Cut Pro and a book about digital video production.

This is a really good book. What makes it one you won't outgrow is it's breath. It's not only a really good book about Final Cut, but a good book about the full range of professional DV video editing. If you want to build your own system or just feel comfortable in someone else's suite this is it.

As with any software there's using it, using it well, and getting it to play well with others. It's this last level that's the real working environment that we all need to learn about. We used to be happy just to learn how to use software, that's no longer enough; we're looking for real insight into the workflow of editing. We no longer think just one application will solve all problems. So if it can't how do we get out, fix something, and get back. Finally, distribution is now in multiple channels: web, tape, DVD - how do you get there from here. If I were trapped in an edit suite with only one FinalCut book this would be it.

I also see that the authors wrote an AfterEffects 5 Bible. When it comes out I think I'll get that too.

This is a much better book than the Visual Quivk Pro book. At least you don't get the manual just reprinted...but with less detail.

My problem with this book is that it's not for a beginner. Doesn't anyone do a book that's not for Oscar winners? I got FCP2 as a present and just want to edit my DV footage and add some titles and effects. Macworld has some neat ideas but theres just too much inbetween what I need.

I guess I'll just start on the manual again... :O(

Zed Saeed has made brilliant short films, and won many awards for them. This book reflects his expertise as a filmmaker, and THEN his expertise with computer systems and applications. To take a mind, eye and heart which is trained in cinema and its esthetics, and to combine those assets with computer genius, is to provide experienced and would-be filmmakers with just the guide they need. What a gift!!!