Dec 30 2007
Are you looking for very brief pointers on which tech equipment to buy or how to use it? CNet Tips & Tricks has great information, including video tips. Two of the most useful are:
I found these videos through Bill Myers Online. If you want to learn about video, there is no better place to start than Bill Myers Online
Dec 26 2007
USB microphones give consistently better audio quality to podcasts and screencasts. So what sort of USB microphone should you use? I’ve been very pleased with my Samson C01U USB Microphone
Earlier this year, Samson introduced a new version, which incorporates a switch for both multidirectional and unidirectional recording. This is a great feature when you have more than one speaker - for instance during interviews or podcasts. The new microphone, the Samson Multipattern Condenser microphone, will enhance any screencast.
These are both large-ish desk mics, and they may be a bit unwieldy for everyday use. If you are looking for a headset/microphone you can use with Skype or other VOIP services, the Plantronics DSP-400 may be the headset you need.
Dec 25 2007
The Conversations Network has posted a great tutorial on getting top quality audio podcasts using Skype. Take a look:
http://www.blogarithms.com/index.php/archives/2007/12/23/skype-for-interviews/
This tutorial will walk you through changes to both Skype and firewall default settings. There is a lot of detail, but it is very easy to follow.
The two most important steps to getting good audio are quite simple:
Dec 24 2007
Do you want your videos to stand out? Nothing gets attention and adds a professional touch faster than a soundtrack or a motion background. These elements can cost a lot of money, depending on the source. One invaluable resource for videographers is Digital Juice - and they have a deal for you.
Digital Juice offers animation, sound, and motion libraries for your video productions. Plus they have a fabulous series of tutorials.
Now DJ is also offering free samples of royalty free music, animated backgrounds, and Juice Drops. All you have to do is register (which is free) to download. This is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in producing better videos.
While you are there - check out the 12 Deal Days of Christmas. There are some great bargains.
Dec 21 2007
One of the most knowledgeable product developers and marketers on the internet is Bill Myers. His Site Bill Myers Online is an endless wealth of information.
He also has a series of DVDs explaining different aspects of product development. If you are still looking for a late Christmas present, any of these would make great gifts
Marketing How-To DVDs with Bill Myers
Producing How To DVDs for Profit
Dec 14 2007
For a limited time, you can get a free copy of DviX Pro.
Go here for the Windows version or here to download the Mac version
Enter your email address and the registration number will be mailed to you. That’s it! Another great offer from another company that believes its product is so good, if you use it, you’ll want more.
Why should you buy (or - in this case - get for free) DivX Pro? Here’s what DivX says:
“Unlike too many things in this world, the answer to that question is pretty simple. If you want to create (awesome, awe-inspiring) DivX videos, you should consider buying DivX Pro for $9.99. If you are primarily interested in just watching (awesome, awe-inspiring) DivX videos, you should download DivX for Windows, and then, if so inclined, use the trial versions of the DivX Converter and DivX Pro Codec to create your own videos and decide if you want to upgrade…
“So, the primary reason to buy DivX Pro for Windows is to get full versions of the DivX Converter and the DivX Pro Codec, two things that let you easily create DivX videos. What are these two things, you ask, and why should you care? Read on, kind friend, read on…
“The DivX Converter is the official DivX video creation software application. It lets you:
“The DivX Pro Codec is the top of the food chain, codec-wise. It includes the most advanced version of the DivX video encoder so you can create the highest-quality DivX files in combination with DivX Converter or another third-party encoding application. DivX Pro gives you:
“There you have it. DivX Pro for Windows gives you everything you need to create DivX videos. And once you’ve done that, the real fun begins. With your videos converted into DivX you can burn them to CD or DVD and watch them on your TV with a certified DVD player or transfer them to certified handheld or portable devices. You can also post your home movies online, email videos to friends or store your whole video collection on your computer while saving valuable hard-drive space.”
Dec 05 2007
The previews for the Video Webinar 4 Disk set are now available on You Tube
Don’t forget - until Christmas, this great series includes a 5th Bonus CD - and there is a Christmas Bundle which includes all 4 CDs from the Seminar plus the Bonus plus the best selling DVD, Adding Video to Your eBay Auctions, plus the popular DVD, Everyone’s Guide to PhotoStory It’s a great deal at a real savings.
Dec 04 2007
eBay is sponsoring a Shoot Share Win video contest to celebrate the way eBay users have contributed to charity through Giving Works.
As eBay explains: “Did you know that, since 2000, more than $118 million has been raised for charity from listings sold on eBay worldwide? … Through the Shoot. Share. Win! video contest, the eBay Giving Works team wants to celebrate the wonderful ways in which members have made a difference. …
Share your stories with us and you could win $5,000! Just shoot a 30 second to 1 minute video and a 100-word essay describing “How eBay Giving Works helped you make a difference.” Then send it to the eBay Giving Works team before December 21st (extended from the original date of December 5th!). You’ll find all the details on the Shoot Share Win contest rules page.”