Customer Reviews

Producing 24p Video: Covers the Canon XL2 and the Panasonic DVX-100a DV Expert Series

5 star:		(0)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I waited and waited to purchase this book because I had recently bought a Canon XL2 and wanted to know how to get that "film look" by shooting in 24p. After several months of delays, the book was finally released and I bought it. When I read through it I realized that this book was not what the title said it was. 95% of this book talks about the basics of film making; use of wide angle and telephoto lenes, continuity, lighting, etc. While helpful in its own right, this is not why I bought the book. There are maybe two chapters that talk about getting the film look for digital video. I probably could have gotten more detailed instruction off of message boards and newsgroups.

If you're looking for a "how to" when it comes to 24p, pass on this book. Save the money and do some investigating on the web. I'm sure you'll find a number of sources that will be able to walk you through the process and you may even get individual instruction.

I purchased this book assuming that it would cover 24p, as in the book would be about 24p and the process from camera to screen. I had to spend 90% of my time going through the book and identifying which parts were about 24p and which were rudimentary and simplistic overviews of film making. I was very disappointed when I went through the entire book (skipping a lot of sections because I didn't buy the book to show me all the different 'amazing' kinds of dolly's are out for rent). The book is also RIDDLED with spelling errors and mis-edits such as; meaning to say "The most important thing about shooting on 24p is to make sure you're shooting with a 24p camera" and having it written "The most important thing about make sure you're shooting with a 24p camera". That line is not in the book of course, but it's an example of how, even as an experienced filmmaker I am just confused and have to pause and think about what I just read and what the author Mr. Skidgel was trying to get across.

For the high school or college student who has never made a film before, this book is a good starting point. However, for the author to claim the audience includes "...documentary filmmaker who has purchased a 24p camera and does not know where to begin...creative professionals who... want to take their skills to the next level." I mean, just WOW, what a statement. This book seems like it was written in spare time or over a spring vacation.

The title of the book should have been something closer to "Making Your First Film: Shooting with digital cameras." And with a subheading of "Includes how to use 24p!"

But, if you know little to nothing about film, the book might be worth it, except that in the store the price is near 50$ (insane to ask that much, even despite all the pretty color). The Amazon price is even asking too much.

Before you buy this book, ask yourself why there are SO many people selling their books through amazon as used? This is not a book that someone who has made their share of films or shot plenty of video needs. And it is certainly NOT for a creative professional. If you want to learn about 24p, use the internet, I guarantee you'll find it more helpful.