These are some great programs for filmmakers trying to develop projects on a budget. There is something here for everyone. From Scriptwriting and planning to basic editing and 3D modeling. The great thing is that all this stuff is free. I really mean free, legal, and on the up and up. Top notch stuff. I like some of these programs better Continue reading “Free Software for Indy Filmmakers”
Wireless networks and security
One of the ladies I work with was talking about how she set up a wireless network in her house. She was very pleased with herself until her son made her nervous by pointing out some of the security issues surrounding wireless networks. I had to agree with her son because I had just gotten some information back on a hacking conference I had attended last year. I wouldn’t be able this year so I figured I would finally get around to writing up some guidelines for some of my students. It was scary how easy some people can penetrate a wireless connection. I pull out some of my old reseach on how to harden up my wireless security. I rediscovered a few important facts Continue reading “Wireless networks and security”
The Second Annual LaGuardia New Media Conference
The Second Annual LaGuardia Community College New Media Technology conference was held on May 16th 2007. The conference was big improvement over last year. That is not to say that last year was bad. Far from it. However this year we had alot more support from industry leading companies like Avid, Apple, Adobe, Microsoft, and Prentis Hall. As a result the overall conference had much greater attendance. Plus the breakout sessions Continue reading “The Second Annual LaGuardia New Media Conference”
Star Wars Fan film: Dark Vengeance Lightsaber test
This is an effects shot that I worked on to test some new software that we are using in New Media Technology program. I shot this test video on the roof of the LaGuardia computer building. I am planning on shooting a Sci-Fi fan film with some of the students in our program so I figured that I would try out my Jedi skills. I think the shot turned out pretty good for my first attempt.
The software I am using in this test shot is called EffectsLab Lite and it was developed by FXHome.com. The program is a visual effects tool that is in many ways very similar to After Effects, but with not as steep of a learning curve. The entry level package is pretty affordable at about 110 bucks. The more advanced versions, Effectslab Pro and Visionlab Studio, run from about 150 to 500 bucks.
My main problem with the software is that there is no current intel-mac version. As a result Winona, my Macbook Pro, runs Effectslab slowly. The company says an intel version is on the way but I think they won’t release a universal binary until the next full release. They software currently is available for Windows XP and Power PC based macs. I am not sure if a Windows Vista software version is ready. I haven’t paid much attention to that because if someone is using Vista chances are that they have more pressing issues.
