Our New Dog

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The iPad Unboxing

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Here is a short unboxing video shot when I decided to be an early adopter

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Social Media for You

So it is really fun to teach social media and really how to manage it better. Thank you all for the class.

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A picture from a social media class at COCC

Drakes week part 1

So I sit here on the couch at 9:50 pm needing to edit the Hacker Memorial video. This piece is in honor of the late Tom Hacker who embodied what truely great creativity as well as striving to do your best is about. The problem I am having tonight is my eyes are not cooperating with my brain and yet I have to push forward to get it done. 

This is the struggle that we as creative producers must overcome. Sometimes we have a short deadline that must be hit! We push forward onward ad upward to achieve the best we can. Not only is a piece like this important it is what Tom was about. To hear some of the past award winners  it is important that the greater AdFed of Central Oregon community understand what this award is about. So sleep will be elusive over the next few nights as this piece must be completed by Thursday!

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Suntrack Sound sound checking for Taste of the Town

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On our way to our location.

We are off early and on our way to the location for our project for the day. Beautiful sunrise!

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Live from IgniteBend 4

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that's how it happened (Great showreel of green screen effects from...)

via howithappened.com

Amazing video demonstrating some current effects done by Stargate Studios! Very enjoyable to watch.

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REALMS Kids working on this year's project

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Jeff Munson is being interviewed by the students at REALMS for this years video for Commute Options.

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The future of content

I started this post well over 6 months ago and I just could never get myself to finish it. With the release of the iPad it is time to share my thoughts on how we will get our content.

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Much has been said recently about the iPad and how this is a device destined to fail. First let me say I do think it is a terrible name, but we will eventually get over that. People think Apple should have added a camera and a USB card reader, it should have flash, a swiss army knife, and a blender. What Apple has made is an appliance. They are trying to change the way we get content. The market is not the netbook or even “slate” form that most people want. Apple has created a device for the consumption of content and a very good one at that.  The iPad is the first device really built on creating  good experience for in your hands content consumption. An “appliance” that will allow us all to get our content the way we want it.

Content creation as it sits today is the easiest to produce at an affordable price. In fact most cell phones have cameras in them that are capable of delivering decent video. Most of this video ends up on YouTube. So much that in fact, every minute, 20 hours of video is uploaded to YouTube. This stat is incredible because in the time it takes you to read this post you now will have to go watch almost 2 days worth of video on YouTube. We as a society have become used to shaky cam as I call it and the down and dirty talking head. YouTube lacks production value, but what it lacks in production value it makes up in authenticity. This authenticity is important for the future of content. We want the content that makes sense to us. The content that is spoken in an authentic voice. Yet where does that leave the mainstream media in this future of the content the way we want it.

The truly successful mainstream media has been trying to niche itself in this authentic communication with some success, but mostly failure. Here is where they are going to need to learn a few tricks from the non traditional media. Case in point Leo Laporte and the TWiT network. On most days Leo sits in his studio which is a room in his rented office house and broadcasts at least 4 hours of original authentic content. This is nothing more than live streamed talk radio, but he has syndicated his content in the form of podcasts in audio and now video form as well as he is posting to YouTube. This shows what content delivery should be about. Why do we have to go to a newspaper or television site to get the content? What if I could get the content delivered to me on a local level? While I know that some are doing this they all should be doing this. Most media on a local level has somewhat an authentic voice, but they are going to need to get more authentic.

Wether we like it or not content is delivered faster now then ever before. I even did a live feed for my Dad of my daughter’s band concert from my phone. This content is moving around quicker and traditional media needs to move to accelerate their own speed of delivery to the end user as well as get more local and authentic.

The iPad is an appliance to allow this to happen time to start developing content.

#private

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The future of content

I started this post well over 6 months ago and I just could never get myself to finish it. With the release of the iPad it is time to share my thoughts on how we will get our content.

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View this on posterous

Much has been said recently about the iPad and how this is a device destined to fail. First let me say I do think it is a terrible name, but we will eventually get over that. People think Apple should have added a camera and a USB card reader, it should have flash, a swiss army knife, and a blender. What Apple has made is an appliance. They are trying to change the way we get content. The market is not the netbook or even “slate” form that most people want. Apple has created a device for the consumption of content and a very good one at that.  The iPad is the first device really built on creating  good experience for in your hands content consumption. An “appliance” that will allow us all to get our content the way we want it.

Content creation as it sits today is the easiest to produce at an affordable price. In fact most cell phones have cameras in them that are capable of delivering decent video. Most of this video ends up on YouTube. So much that in fact, every minute, 20 hours of video is uploaded to YouTube. This stat is incredible because in the time it takes you to read this post you now will have to go watch almost 2 days worth of video on YouTube. We as a society have become used to shaky cam as I call it and the down and dirty talking head. YouTube lacks production value, but what it lacks in production value it makes up in authenticity. This authenticity is important for the future of content. We want the content that makes sense to us. The content that is spoken in an authentic voice. Yet where does that leave the mainstream media in this future of the content the way we want it.

The truly successful mainstream media has been trying to niche itself in this authentic communication with some success, but mostly failure. Here is where they are going to need to learn a few tricks from the non traditional media. Case in point Leo Laporte and the TWiT network. On most days Leo sits in his studio which is a room in his rented office house and broadcasts at least 4 hours of original authentic content. This is nothing more than live streamed talk radio, but he has syndicated his content in the form of podcasts in audio and now video form as well as he is posting to YouTube. This shows what content delivery should be about. Why do we have to go to a newspaper or television site to get the content? What if I could get the content delivered to me on a local level? While I know that some are doing this they all should be doing this. Most media on a local level has somewhat an authentic voice, but they are going to need to get more authentic.

Wether we like it or not content is delivered faster now then ever before. I even did a live feed for my Dad of my daughter’s band concert from my phone. This content is moving around quicker and traditional media needs to move to accelerate their own speed of delivery to the end user as well as get more local and authentic.

The iPad is an appliance to allow this to happen time to start developing content.

#private

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You too can have a piece of the internet...

via youtube.com

Put this on the shelf and all will be impressed. Courtesy of the "IT Crowd"

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From today's FaceBook event

What a great day. We handled all of the av services including producing a package for television stations that could not make it over. Here is a picture of Roger Lee, Executive Director of EDCO. Look for the video that we are working on editing later in the week hopefully on FaceBook.

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What we are working on right now.

This is a fascinating disussion of health care and what should be changed about the system.

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The quest for the 12' experience

This week brings CES to Las Vegas. I can only imagine halways filled with pasty geeks wandering around looking for the next great geek device. Well I guess I would count myself amongst them and I would be able to see this device.

This is the Boxee box built by D Link and powered by Boxee. I have been using the Boxee software for almost 18 months now on a Mac Mini, and it truly is a wonderful experience. It looks like judging from their website http://boxee.tv that they have radically changed the interface for the better.

Why this is important is that you will be able to search for a show and Boxee will find it online. Boxee the software will even allow you to watch Netflix What really changes things is the applications you are able to install. These applications are a way of providing the experience you want for your viewers of your content. This is where the next area of content distribution will change by allowing you to provide the experience you want.

The other advantage is that the Boxee box is easy to install and once you have it hooked up, I hope, it will just come up with the ability to start watching the content you want. This will allow anyone to plug and play. Very exciting.

They are hoping to have it available the first half of this year for around $200. I want one.

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Trip to Portland -- timelapse by iPhone

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Here is an interesting vantage point of going from Bend to Portland throughy iPhone taped to the windshield. This is a timelapse and it would appear the recording stopped somewhere near Detroit where I restarted it. I will try another coming home and see what happens.

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Our Christmas snuggie

I may not let Jo Ann use it.

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The move...

So it all is on here. Now what to do with it all.

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The move is hapening

So after 2 days of packing we are ready for Professional Moving Services to haul our stuff to the new space. Tired and excited.

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The before of the new space.

I know I am supposed to build intrigue except I can't help but feel pride. This is a picture of the before move of our new space.

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The keys to the castle.

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3g test in Bend Oregon for iPhone

3g test

Test Date: Dec 20, 2009 3:42:02 PM
Connection Type: Cellular

Download: 1935 kbps
Upload: 235 kbps
Ping: 350 ms

A detailed image for this result can be found here:

Matthew Hand
Media Head
Pinnacle Media Inc.
(o) 541-633-7476
(c) 541-788-0336

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/vdeoguy
Sign Up For Our Exciting Newsletter: http://www.pinnaclemediainc.com/newsletter.html
Blog: http://mattsgrandadventure.blogspot.com

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The secret

via AudioBoo

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The moving of cats

via AudioBoo

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Currently working on. . .

Here is a still from a great event being put on by Partnership to End Poverty on fundraising. This is a great event based on helping to find funding for non profits. We are providing av support with the help of our outstanding team.

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What we are working on right now

Here is a photo of a location shoot that we are working on for Commute Options. This is footage which will be used in a student directed piece that we are working on later in the year.

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Finishing up Bend Venture Conference 2009

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Enjoyable in so many ways. Great presentations and will look forward to the awarding in the next couple of hours.

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Kousefly rocking Ignite Bend 3

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"Overbrook Brothers" Video by Kyle

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Currently screening for the final time at BendFilm right now... This was taken after their showing on Saturday night.

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D-Tour

If you are not an organ donor be one. Don't just commit, but do the paperwork or get it on your license. Just watched a fantastic film about organ donation and how it changes peoples lives. This picture is from the question and answer after the film.

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Day 2 Video by Kyle and Sam

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Here is a glimpse of the start of this morning. Thanks Kyle and Sam!    

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Friday Night Video Posting Late

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This is a video shot by Kyle on Friday night. A little late, but still a glimpse at the festival.

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BendFilm final day coming in the am

Another day under our belt. Five techs with over 75 films played out today. I was amazed at how well the day went. The team was outstanding today. I started the day with a screening of my sons film for the Future Filmmakers block and concluded it with producing the awards show. Amazing day that brought some great films out with the big winners tonight being "Over Brook Brothers" and "The Attic Door". The playback system works well with problems more related to the venue than our gear. Tomorrow is the final day. And with that I say goodnight and leave you with this picture

Matthew Hand
Media Head
Pinnacle Media Inc.
(o) 541-633-7476
(c) 541-788-0336

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/vdeoguy
Sign Up For Our Exciting Newsletter: http://www.pinnaclemediainc.com/newsletter.html
Blog: http://mattsgrandadventure.blogspot.com

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After the awards

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Awards show

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Final thought of the night.

As the evening winds to a close the final venue of the day is winding down at McMenamins, and I am struck with what an amazing crew we have. The crew has all given it their all and today was truly a testament of how good they are. Everyone pitching in allowed us to take a step back and see how well the festival is run from an av standpoint and I appreciate all the efforts of the team.

Tonight I was priveledged to have a wonderful conversation with a filmmaker on how we handle the festival. The filmmaker was so glad that there was no tape or DVDs. He was so excited that we are doing this digital. It may require more work upfront, but once the festival is running it goes so much smoother and this filmmaker wanted to make sure that he definetly appreciated it.

Matt

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Playback systems . . .

So the intersting thing about the way we run this festival is the sheer amount of data we move around. A few years ago I would have never dreamed of having a drive with over 120 gigs of films on it.

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Stealing Second Filmmaker Interview.

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A great short that is being screened here as well as in Eugene currently.

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Buck and Keenan right now.

The final stages at the last venuse we can get into. Meanwhile three other venues are going on.

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Meet The Crew - Yancy

This is Yancy,

Yancy has been with us every year. He is our resident musician and if you can’t get a ticket to the awards dinner rumor has it that he is playing a gig at JC’s in downtown Bend on Saturday night.

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Meet The Crew - Sam

This is Sam,

Sam is joining us for the first time this year, but has worked with Pinnacle in the past on different projects. We are glad to have him on board.

 

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Regal playback systems

Amazing to think it fits in a back pack.

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Final QC

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Here is a quick video of Jo Ann and Buck doing final qc for the festival.

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Meet the crew - Keenan

This is Keenan,

Keenan is in his second year with us as a tech, but has been “working” with the festival since 5 years ago. He is our floater and darn good at it. He makes sure that the guys are getting their breaks and does some of the grunt work for me when it comes to tech set-up. Say hi to him if you see him around.

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BendFilm 5:00 update

via AudioBoo

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7:00pm update

via AudioBoo

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Meet the crew - Kyle

Here is Kyle

Kyle has been with us for every year that we have run the festival. He is the lead tech at McMenamins. He makes sure that the filmmakers have a wonderful experience.

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Meet the crew - Phil

This is Phil.

Phil has been with us as the Mac specialist since before the festival last year. He helped prototype the system as well as provides our crack IT support. If you see him during the festival be sure to say hi.

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BendFilm 12:00 update

via AudioBoo

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10:30 production update

via AudioBoo

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Here is what we are up to right now...

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So a little live update... Well almost live.

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The Science of BendFilm

Well I am not sure it is science, luck, or experience, but this year we are trafficking over 100 films for BendFilm. This truly is an undertaking and we could not be doing it without the front end staff of BendFIlm as well as our trusty traffic guy Buck. Buck and Jo Ann single handily have made sure that all of the films are on there way and will arrive with just enough time. It really is amazing what we are doing in the background. Jo Ann wanted me to talk about it last year and I really should have so here is what is going on right now.

Jo Ann is making final DVD copies of films for the judges to watch to pick the winners.
I (Matt) am typing this post while making sure a crucial part of the process is working.
Buck is taking a well deserved break after a long day of hammering through an exhaustive Google Doc on Google Apps for your domain making sure all of the films are in route.

So what technology did we use today:

• Google Apps for Your Domain – the reason is because in addition to Google Docs we have a site within the domain that contains a time sheet and a problem tracker that we use for debrief as well as a few more great tools that I will talk about tomorrow.
• BendFilm is an all digital festival with the exception of 35mm which is handled by a remarkable staff here locally at the Old Mill Regal Theater. Right now a film is going on to a hard drive through a little magical conversion process. Well actually an Elgato turbo.264 HD. This little USB stick will speed up any film that arrives on DVD.
• We also have been getting hard drives that contain the films encoded specifically for us by the filmmakers to take advantage of our unique playback system.
  

Just a small glimpse of what is going on. Tomorrow – The tools of playback.

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I love this app for the iPhone, but...

Take a look at this video-

This is an amazing application. I am very excited about the future of augmented reality and how it may be used for both commercial as well as non commercial applications. 

What really got me is that what could have been a really good product demonstration turns into a shaky rendition of what the application may look like. Will I still by the app? Well probably, but if you do product videos just take the time to at least put the camera on a tripod or better yet just call us at Pinnacle Media and we will make it look exceptional. NO MORE SHAKY YOUTUBE CAM!

You may go about your day now.

now where did I put my augmented reality see into the future app....

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How we watch video is changing. . .

via emarketer.com

Video is not dead it just is changing and you can see how this transition has started to accelerate with the addition of timeshifting as well as the remarkable uptick in watching video on the internet compared to Q2 of last year.

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Giving Back Part 2

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Today was a long and interesting one. Why? Well it began at 8:20 with Jo Ann and I getting out of the car at the Redmond Fairgrounds for Project Connect. The mission of Project Connect is to rally our region to support and create lasting solutions for those experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness here in Central Oregon. Today was their annual event that they hold to allow those in need to find the tools all in one place. Our task was to document the event. Not an easy task.

This event is massive in scale from all standpoints. I overheard numbers that included close to 2,000 people coming through the doors to get help, 300+ volunteers, 600+ medical release forms for people possibly seeking treatment, and at least in my case one heart truly touched. This event is truly a labor of love for a lot of the volunteers with one interview of a volunteer detailing a story about a young family that had very few of their necessities including diapers. Due to this event they at least were given a few of the things that they needed, but they had run out of diapers at the event and due to some kind volunteers they were able to supply the family with some for a few days. Truly a touching moment and realization of us looking out for our fellow humans.

What does this say about the area we live in though? It is a tough area to live with recent stats including possibly being 6th in the nation per capita for homeless including over 700 homeless school age kids. All of us really should appreciate what we have and if there is anyway give back. Give back by volunteering. Give back by donating money. Just give...

Find out more about Project Connect here.
Find out more about Partnership to End Poverty here.

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A quick look at some work that we have recently done

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This is a short sampling of some work we have helped create. In the case of the FireFree spots we provided location production and post production services for this three spot package produced by 14 Hands Agency for their client, "Fire Free". The spots are the creation of Director/Cinematographer Virgil L. Harper, and were shot using Central Oregon crew, equipment, talent, and locations.

Enjoy!

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Amazing Shoot!

We love great clients and this is one of those.

Ruff Wear!
We got a chance to tape a new product demonstration for the double back harness that will be for sale very soon. This video is so that the owners as well as dealers understand how to properly use the harness. The harness is for those climbing enthusiasts that want to bring their dog with them. Look for the video after the first of October at http://www.ruffwear.com

What are you doing tonight?

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WhatAreYouDoingTonight.MP4 (22778 KB)

Here is what we are working on for tomorrow!

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Giving Part 1

~ I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver. ~
Maya Angelou

As individuals we all have to determine what we feel we should give to. What is the value we place on the organization for us.

As a business right now it seems even tougher with potentially dwindling margins and profits. What if we were to change our thought process. What if instead of looking at it as a burden we look at it as an opportunity. While we all must run our business to profit (the true definition of business) we begin to loose the human side of business. We as business owners should reach out and engage with the organizations that matter within our community which in turn keeps us in touch with the human side.

Engagement is something different than just giving money. In fact engagement has nothing to do with money at all. Engagement is more about time. Engagement is about giving of yourself through your experience and expertise. What if we all took 1 hour a week to truly engage with a local group that is working to make a difference?

I feel strongly that we all should be doing this as business owners. Engage with an organization that needs help. Share your time, your expertise, your passion, and truly begin to understand who the organization is and why they do what they do.

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To Blog Again!

So it is time to get down to business and get serious again about my blog. This time I am blasting the world.

Why?

Well I recently spoke to Kent Lewis (Twitter – Anvil Media President) and what really I stopped doing is talking about what I am passionate about. I stopped telling the world about myself and our company. I stopped because I have gotten caught up in the day to day business of running the business, and yet I have been helping others tell their stories and leverage new distribution forms through the net. I have not been doing what I have been preaching with one exception Twitter. Twitter is not a replacement for real thoughts and ideas being translated into action. It is a good distribution method of getting the links to the information, but it isn’t the information. So it is time to change and really start screaming my thoughts and ideas to whomever will listen.

How?

Through the process of helping others with their distribution of their stories and listening to some great people (see list at the end for links) I have found dissemination of information across multiple platforms is even more possible today then even Two years ago. I am therefore determined to make it happen. When I update a post it will show up in multiple blog sites on my Twitter feed and also FaceBook. I am not doing this to bombard my followers on Twitter or my friends on FaceBook, but to show up in Google and perhaps be seen in Twitter streams that go so fast these days.

So here it goes and as always follow, friend, share your ideas!

Matt

People to follow-
Guy Kawasaki - Twitter, Blog
Seth Godin - Blog
Leo Laporte - Website, Live Stream
Pinnacle Media Inc. on Twitter - Twitter

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Fire Free 2009 Ads

Here is one spot from a series of spots that we recently completed for The Shop for their client Fire Free.

The Ignite Bend Experience

If you had five minutes on stage what would you say? What if you only got 20 slides and they rotated automatically after 15 seconds? Around the world geeks have been putting together Ignite nights to show their answers.

Intriguing? Terrifing? Both?

For a lot of the presenters they had nerves and judging by some of the tweets there was almost a level of panic by some. This can be terrifying because for most of these people they are not public speakers, and yet we had 10 presenters that were all passionate about what they presented. This passion showed through in every way and by the end we all were better off for it.

In reality this is what all presentations should be about. These people last night cared deeply about their topic and engaged the audience through their enthusiasm. I am not sure how many presentations we have sat through that the fire and spark are gone. The "love" of what we are presenting is gone. This lack of emotion unfortuneatly finds its way into a poor presentation. I will admit that last night it was all about persuasion and less about pure facts, but within each of our presentations we are trying to persuade people through the use of facts. So we can learn a lot about an experience like this.

Try it out and see what you think... Ignite Bend

Ignite Bend #ib1

If you missed it here is the stream we produced for Ignite Bend. I am really excited about the opportunities of doing more streaming. Got an idea of something you would like streamed?

Video Production on the cheap?

I have run across a blog post with the title "What Expensive Video Production Companies Don’t Want You to Know" and I have to admit it is quite frustrating to read. I thought about not putting in the link, but the rational of the author is not very sound so go take a look.

In this YouTube era anyone CAN do a video and post it online. This is no different than anyone can build a webpage, anyone can be a mechanic, or anyone can be a high rise window washer. Okay so I admit the last two are a bit of a stretch, but the point I am trying to make is just because you can doesn't mean you should. What the author is trying to get from you is to buy their products. He is trying to illustrate how easy it is without giving all of the information so let's break this down bit by bit.

1. Video production companies don’t want you to know about hosting companies who can store these large files online for you. I am not sure who he is talking about here as all of our clients I either recommend them place their videos out on YouTube or other video sites or host themselves on their sites. The trick to doing this is compression and we want you the client to succeed on the web.
2. A video ad marketing campaign requires a good camera to do the job. These cameras are not required or only held by expensive companies but can be rented at local camera shops for a small percentage of what you would pay the company. Good cameras are required for this however you can't go down to your Joe's camera shop and rent one. Good cameras are only really obtainable from a rental house and you can assume $250 plus a day.
   
3. There are cheap editing packages out there you can find to edit your videos for free or even at a very low cost. Yes there are, but how much time are you willing to invest in learning the package.
   
4. They also don’t want you to know that your video is compatible with other platforms and sites. I think I stated this before... You need to be successful
   
5. One of the major costs of a video marketing production company is usually the costs of marketing. I think the author is talking about "large" groups, but ultimately the true cost of a lot of business is marketing. We feel differently about marketing and do not invest large sums into print and online.
   
6. The number one thing a video marketing or production company that is expensive does not want you to know is how easy it really is to make your own videos.
   

This last item is where we all should learn an important thing. Easy = cheap. While the costs of equipment have dramatically come down in the past few years experience with lighting, audio, compression, and scripting go to how your product looks on camera. This is the true cost of hiring a professional. The first video you do personally can take hours if not days. A professional video production company digs in knows what you as a client really needs and gives you a product you will be proud of for years to come not just until the next great internet marketing idea comes around.

If you are not doing video on the web drop us a line at info at pinnaclemediainc.com and discover the benefits in working with a company with the experience in this form of production.

The story of the day....

BACK UP YOUR HARD DRIVE TODAY....

Sorry for the yelling. I have been unfortunate to have been in contact with two drives in the last week that are nothing more than bricks. In one case the person had their life's work on it. In classic "Sex in the City" fashion the comment was made no one ever told me to back up my hard drive.

How easy is it? Well if you are on a Mac first start running Leopard and go down to Best Buy and get yourself a 500 gig hard drive and plug the drive in. I prefer firewire for speed, but USB will work. You will be greeted with a box that says do you want to use this drive as a Time Machine backup and you will choose yes. That is as simple as it is for us Mac users.

If you are on a PC I have been told that Acronis True Image is quite good.

The other option is to sync your files into the "cloud" for truly safe backups, but you will only want to do selective backups as the time required even over a fast connection is lengthy. Examples include Amazon S3 (paid) and Mozy (Free for a small amount).

The important thing is just do it today.

PLEASE NOOOOOO

Okay so this may be the worst thing. Production value no! He is reading off a prompter and I really wonder if he knows what is going on with the digital transition. Did he "partner" with them or did they pay him. Talk about a bad choice for a spokesperson. I shouldn't post, but it just is so bad to not.

iTunes losing DRM?

So I was reading my news feed tonight and came across this post in regards to iTunes and DRM. It looks like the record labels may be finally allowing Apple to sell their songs without the blasted DRM that causes so much frustration when moving the files. I have gone in and checked my songs and was greeted with the the following screen.

So maybe we can cross DRM off for good on iTunes? I certainly hope so.

BendFilm Press Release

I realized I never did post this so for your enjoyment... or maybe shameless self promotion.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For more information, contact: JoAnn Hand, Pinnacle Media (541) 633-7476

BENDFILM WORKS WITH PINNACLE MEDIA ON NEW DIGITAL SCREENING
Pinnacle Media Enhances Viewing Experience for Bendfilm Attendees

(Bend, Oregon) BendFilm recently announced a unique partnership with local film production company Pinnacle Media to offer the for all films shown during the upcoming festival. This technology will significantly enhance the viewing experience for all moviegoers.

Putting BendFilm ahead of the curve, this partnership is also particularly timely as digital theaters are a growing national trend supported by an October 1, 2008, announcement by five major studios – Fox, Disney, Paramount, Universal and Lionsgate – to transition to digital theaters across the U.S.

Specifically for the 2008 BendFilm Festival, Pinnacle created a digital system that allows high definition playback as well as digital playback of standard definition films to vastly improve the overall viewing experience.

“We’ve spent the last few months testing and re-testing the system to ensure it will withstand the rigors of a four-day festival,” says Matt Hand, Pinnacle’s Media Head. “We worked locally with Regal Cinemas – one of the national partners in the digital cinema transition – to ensure the playback will be seamless.”

In addition to testing work with Regal, Pinnacle designed the playback system to work with the editing systems that are in use by the majority of independent film editors. To save time and money, filmmakers can also send their films directly to Pinnacle in their native digital format. Approximately a quarter of the filmmakers have already taken advantage of this service and Hand expects more to do so in the days ahead.

“Why not bring the newest, in-demand technology to Bend right now?” says Hand. “Video and film production is the heart and soul of what we do at Pinnacle, and I am so excited that we will have the best quality possible at our own festival.”

With over 15 years experience in Central Oregon, Pinnacle specializes in work that gets results. From one-camera documentaries to multi-camera, complex productions, Pinnacle provides guidance, creativity and solutions in partnership with small and large businesses.

For more information, call (541) 633-7476 or check out www.pinnaclemediainc.com

# # #

Link to the pdf is here

Better presentations... PLEASE!

Seth Godin has a great rant the other day about presentations. He is really very correct. As a person who hates bad presentation it is important that you take the time and energy to make your impressions remarkable. Rehearse and then do it again. Always make sure you know what the venue is like or hopefully they have someone that can help you when you get there. Just make it worthwhile.

MBSEF Schlorship Video

Here is a piece we just did for MBSEF to raise awareness on the benefits of donating to their scholarship program.

The state of YouTube

Watch and enjoy.... This isn't real.

YouTube Contest Challenges Users To Make A 'Good' Video

Production in the video world is changing

I am really excited because I think that the new crop of DSLR "Video Cameras" is changing the way we look at video. While RED did it a couple of years ago we are seeing Canon and Nikon adopt this thinking.

Here is a new clip from AkiHabra News

Tokyo Reality ( Canon EOS 5D Mark II )
by lejapon

While the video could definitely benefit from the use of a tripod for some shots the imagery is absolutely stunning. The list of lenses used is at the link above.

Also this post from the RedUser.net Recon-
"We are so excited that we can hardly stand it. The whole RED team has been working more than I could have ever imagined on this. Probably because we are so motivated by the program.

We listened. We have found ways to do what many dared to dream. I am sure that some of the requests will not be met. We just cannot deliver things that are not possible. But we are going to announce things that some wished for but were afraid to ask.

Thursday cannot come soon enough. Tell all your friends. I will be very surprised if this is not the single most defining day of RED. The one day in our history that will mark the changing point. Days like this will never be duplicated.

If you are disappointed, we will never satisfy you. If you are blown away, the future just begins.

Know this. The RED team is on fire. I have never been a part of something as exciting as what we will present in a few short days." Jim Janard

I am looking forward to tomorrow.

What this really is showing is a shift in thinking. For years we have been locked into either two schools, one being film with great depth of field or video with decent depth, but a struggle to achieve that depth. Now with the new generation the two schools are combining. This is really a revolution in the way things are being done. My choices for my next camera keep getting a bit harder.

Thoughts Of The Day

I have been going over my status messages from Twitter and find it pretty interesting the highs and lows that I have gone through in the last week when it comes to technology. While all of the computers and to an extent our phones are backed up bad things happen when the phone and computer fail at the same time. I mentally struggle as I try to deal with no information. In a way it is like withdrawls and I really don't like it.

The good news is that thanks to Don at Apple I should be getting my Mac back tomorrow. What started out as a bad experience is starting to get a lot better. We just want to know as customers or clients what is going on.

Posted with LifeCast

I like this picture!

Thanks Buck!!!!!! BendFilm late night at McMenamins.

I Am CORIL

This is a piece for CORIL that we premiered at an event this afternoon.

BendFilm '08 Tech - Volume 1

Monumental undertaking or just plain fun!

This year has been an interesting year in many different ways from the tech standpoint. First we will be playing all films digitally with the exception of 35mm. No tape. No DVD. Second filmmakers are given the option of ftping their films. This is actually a big deal and in many ways represents the future of distribution. We are probably jumping ahead a couple of years, but we have seen a fairly steep adoption curve. If anything this has shown that independent cinema is adopting HD quickly. The requests have all been from filmmakers that have done there film in HD and most have been using Final Cut. The ability to deliver digitally saves money, time, and energy.

Pictures and examples to follow shortly as I want this documented.

Game changer...

Fist watch this video- HD is changing. (I have it opening in a new window or tab)

Now here is the game changer. This was shot with a DSLR. I know there are a lot of people that have known about this for a bit, but I feel this is the first video that shows the capabilities. The capabilities of craft and not technology for a price.

I have posted a few times on how GUI is the barrier between the next generation of media deployment, and for the film/video world it has been the sheer cost and tech driving this HD revolution that we are going through. Canon and also Nikon have a new line of camera in the form of a digital SLR that have broken this technology barrier and in my opinion will enable really great still photographers to be really great cinematographers.

The good still photographers in the world understand light. They understand composition. They understand how to make really good pictures. Combine these people with great story tellers and hopefully you will get really great videos. Film in its current incarnation is a dying breed.

I am excited...

More information can be found at Vincent Laforet's blog.

Battery Frustration...

Being a heavy user of my laptop I figure it should go for a while. Well that while is probably about 4 months ago. I just got off a frustrating call with Apple and was told that my battery is "consumed" their words. I just confirmed it in looking at a couple of boards. I just wish they would say it to begin with or let me know how many charge cycles I should get.

Here is something to live by according to Apple's website when operating 10.4:

Calibrate the battery in your MacBook or MacBook Pro every month or two to keep your battery functioning at its fullest capacity.

To calibrate the battery:

1. Plug in the MagSafe power adapter and fully charge the MacBook or MacBook Pro battery until the light on the MagSafe connector changes to green and the Battery icon in the menu bar indicates that the battery is fully charged.
2. Allow the battery to rest in the fully charged state for two hours or longer. You may use your computer during this time as long as the power adapter is plugged in.
3. Disconnect the power adapter with the computer on and start using it with battery power. When the battery's charge gets low, you’ll see the low battery warning dialog on the screen.
4. Continue to keep your computer turned on until it goes to sleep. Save your work and close all applications when the battery's charge gets low and before the computer goes to sleep.
5. Turn off the computer or allow it to sleep for five hours or longer.
6. Reconnect the power adapter and leave it connected until the battery is fully charged. You may use your computer during this time.

Repeat the calibration process every two months or so to keep the battery fully functioning. If you use your MacBook or MacBook Pro infrequently, it’s best to recalibrate the battery at least once a month.

If you purchased additional batteries, repeat the calibration process with those batteries as wel

A great new mac ap...

I am not sure how many web based services you use, but I have a bunch. I recently came across Fluid and have been using it ever since. Take a look at the included screen cast of the creation of my google reader account. There is also a Flickr group that has been started to create application icons. I highly recommend it as they load quicker and reduce the tab shuffle.

This Morning on Frank Deford

So I have mentioned Frank Deford before. I enjoy his commentary on sports. This mornings cometary was on the costs of sporting events. Interesting thoughts, but what I really enjoyed is his rant about black outs in sports. The theory is black out your local coverage and you force people to come to the game. I actually believe as Frank says in today's rant that you show how much fun it is and people will flock to it.

This is the same with products. Show how much fun it can be and let people talk about it.

I have to remember this

Sometimes all we want to know is that it sucks. I only say that because when it comes to customer service we hear well we have to follow the process.

So here is how the conversation goes.

"Well what is the process?"
"Really aren't sure."
"Okay isn't it your job to know."
"Well they change the process so much that I really have stopped following."
"So I am in this crappy situation and there is really nothing you can do for me?"
"Well sir the process is beyond our control and I really think that you should just call the 800 number."

Just imagine a difference if you could make a difference.
"I am sorry sir that it really sucks. Here is what I know about the process and let me call the 800 number with you and see if I can find out more information."

May build a different feeling about your business.

Clever Marketing???

The Star Wars Geek in Me

One of the things I think I have never talked about is why I got into video. It has to do with 30 years ago. Something clicked 30 years ago with the release of Star Wars. It took a few more years, but I was fortunate enough to have a Super 8 camera that my dad had bought a few years before so my good friend John and I did "Star Wars" films while we were in middle school and started doing short silly films into high school. This evolved into me starting to do videos for promotional purposes. After spending 10 years at the local cable company producing everything from live programming to those same promotional videos. For the last four years I have been blessed to have worked with some great clients and am looking forward to the future.

So what prompted this? Go check out how others have interpreted Star Wars through art.

Joss Whedon's newest

Just go check it out. It is just fun. I admire Joss' writing. Firefly is hands down one of the best series. It should have gone for many years, but unfortunately people discovered it to late. Go have some fun and watch the videos.

2008 Cascade Cycling Classic Day 5 Highlights

Here are some video highlights from day 5 of the Cascade Cycling Classic.

2008 Cascade Cycling Classic Day 4 Highlights

Highlights from Day 4 of the 2008 Cascade Cycling Classic.

2008 Cascade Cycling Classic Day 3 Highlights

We are helping document and capture the action of this years event. This really has been fun!

Quick Update...

Working on Stage 3-4 video of the Cascade Cycling Classic right now. Should be up in about 1 hour.

Cascade Cycling Classic video update

No update tonight as it's late and criterion has just finished, look for the update of day three after tomorrows stage.

2008 Cascade Cycling Classic Day 2 Highlights

Day 2 highlights. Tomorrow will be focused a bit on the time trial, but more on the criterium in downtown Bend. Thanks to my extremely great moto driver Brad.

2008 Cascade Cycling Classic Day 1 Highlights

We are proud to be covering the 2008 Cascade Cycling Classic. This is highlights of today's stage.

Kent Couch after Landing...

So I thought I would go ahead and post this great picture of me taping Kent probably about 15 minutes after landing. Photo credit www.couchballoons.com.

Oh yeah and something else...

There might be one more event to cover this week....

My head made international news...

See the bottom right hand corner... Yep that is my head. Kent made it today all the way to Idaho. Stay tuned for more! (photo was on the AP)

The Chase Begins...

In Prineville! Check out the website!

Kent Couch and His Chair

Here Kent Couch discusses the details of his lawn chair



Video courtesy of Smart Solutions and Pinnacle Media Inc.

Kent Couch Final Preperations

Here is Kent talking about final preparations for tomorrows flight.



Video courtesy of Smart Solutions and Pinnacle Media Inc.

Two more videos coming tomorrow!

We are in the final run up to the launch of Kent Couch and his cluster balloon flight. Tomorrow we are going to sit down and talk to Kent about preparations and more about the chair. Stay tuned as we have made preparations for the possibility of at least 2 if not 3 videos from the road during the chase thanks to Wireless Source here in Bend. If we are not able to get them up during I will post as soon as we have wi-fi coverage.

Proud to be a part!

We are proud to be documenting this historic flight. Kent couch will be attempting to fly to Idaho with his cluster balloons. Head on over to here to find out more.