Ten Myths About Digital

Videography created a list of myths surrounding digital technologies. This article stemmed from all the buzz and confusion surrounding the DTV transition and involves misconceptions spewed by those pretending to be in-the-know or those simply uninformed. Much of the confusion is a result of the lack of an official, appropriate, and widely accepted definition of the word 'digital'. The undefined expression has many meanings, applications, and interpretations, many of which the author details, in length, in the article.

The list:
1. On Feb. 18 of next year, broadcasters will have to start transmitting HDTV.
2. Digital is another word for binary.
3. Digital is always perfectly reproducible.
4. Digital is better than analog.
5. Digital is noise free.
6. Digital is new.
7. Digital is more flexible.
8. Bits are bits.
9. Old media are analog.
10. Digital will change everything.

The Article

The Lighting Myth

Student Filmmakers tackles a common misconception among amateur filmmakers -- lighting. Many believe that there is a necessity for advanced technical knowledge in order to properly light a scene, but the author makes the point that one simply needs the vision of how one wants the scene displayed. Once the image can be seen, the ability to properly light it should come naturally.

Link: http://www.studentfilmmakers.com/news/videolighting_MDavidMullenASC.shtml

Chasing Sound

The January 09 issue of digital content producer had an article discussing the challenges faced in accurately capturing sound in chaotic environments, such as reality TV shows like The Amazing Race and 2008 City Chase. Most strongly conveyed was the communication between sound and imagery, creating a vital relationship between cameramen and sound people in this fast-paced environment. Also discussed was the necessity of boom mics and recording ambient sound, with similar points that the Student Filmmakers article on ambiance made.

Ambiance

Student Flimmakers categorizes ambiance as a key ingredient in accurately conveying sound in film. The article suggests to capture at least five minutes of ambiance, regardless of the environment, indoors or outdoors. Infusing ambient sound into a scene makes it more realistic for the audience.

Another plus is that these sounds can be cataloged and saved for later use.

Costumes

Student Filmmakers article, "What is the Role of a Costume Designer on a Historical Film" contains advice from Richard La Motte on appropriately implementing costumes in historical films. As a 35-year veteran in costume design with experience in multiple genres, La Motte stresses the importance of costumes in the interpretation of a film, with consideration for the characters, setting, budget, collaboration, and artistry.