Chapter_7_The_Production_Process_-_Postproduction

Chapter 7: The Production Process - Postproduction

Overview of Postproduction

• Postproduction refers to the period after shooting but before final release.

• It encompasses editing, sound mixing, music composition, and visual effects.

• Key components: video editing, audio editing, titling, color correction.

Importance of Postproduction

• Integrates all elements of a film, making it a crucial phase.

• Often the most expensive and time-consuming phase in production.

• Involves complex systems: linear and nonlinear editing.

Steps Before Editing

• File Management:

  • Number all raw footage files for identification.

  • Log each shot, noting duration and essential details.

  • Keep a physical copy of the script at the editing table.

  • Store spare copies of logs and scripts securely.

• Mastering:

  • Prepare blank files for the final cut.

  • Label master files clearly.

  • Have a stock of CDs/DVDs for final video dumps.

Video Production Paperwork

• Example Logging Sheet - Tracks details of each shot:

  • Production Group: Rebecca, James, Emily, Fin

  • Production Title: Jushce

  • Counter Number: Track time and shot description.

  • Shot Length: Duration of each take.

  • Good Take: Indicate if the shot is usable.

Editing Modes

Clip Definition

• A clip can be:

  • Only video.

  • Only audio.

  • Both audio and video.

Types of Editing Modes

• Assemble Editing:

  • Sequentially adds clips in a linear fashion.

  • Each clip follows logically, preventing glitches.

• Insert Editing:

  • Overlays one clip on top of another.

  • Allows for covering existing footage.

Transitions

• Purpose: Transitioning from one shot/scene to another effectively.

• Transition Types:

  • Cut: Immediate change between shots for continuity.

  • Dissolve: Overlapping shots blend into each other gradually.

  • Fade In/Out:

    • Fade In: Transition from black to image, used at start.

    • Fade Out: Transition from image to black, used at end.

  • Wipe: Geometric patterns replace one shot with another, indicating a significant shift in location or time.

Non-Linear Editing (NLE)

Overview

• Involves transferring video to computer for editing.

• Allows editing in any order, with flexibility for changes.

• Enables detailed clip manipulation, including frame-by-frame adjustments.

Capabilities of NLE

• Easily applies various effects and transitions.

• Supports multiple formats for conversion.

• Facilitates saving different cuts and undoing edits.

Popular NLE Software

• Adobe After Effects

• Avid’s Xpress

• Final Cut Pro

• Adobe Premiere

• Ulead’s VideoStudio

• Pinnacle Systems’ Studio

Effects

Special Effects Categories

• Physical Effects:

  • Created during live-action shooting using real props and effects.

  • Examples include mechanized props, pyrotechnics, and atmospheric effects.

• Visual Effects:

  • Created digitally using tools and techniques post-production.

  • Includes Green Screen and CGI.

Visual Effects Techniques

• Green/Blue Screen:

  • A technique where backgrounds are replaced post-shooting with desired footage.

• CGI:

  • Creation and animation of 3D characters, often blended with live actors.

Dubbing

Overview

• Dubbing (Automated Dialogue Replacement - ADR) includes:

  • Re-recording sound or lines to correct errors or improve quality.

  • Matching lip movements, particularly in translations.

Pros and Cons of Dubbing

• Pros:

  • No need for subtitles.

  • Preserves original visuals without obstruction.

  • Provides closer approximation to the spoken language.

• Cons:

  • Words may not match lip movements accurately.

  • Can lead to poor voice acting selections.

  • More expensive than subtitling.

Conclusion

• This chapter concludes with insights on postproduction and additional resources for learning about video production.