One of the most common questions I receive via my YouTube account is 'what kind of equipment do you use'? I always take this as a compliment, however indirect, because it means that someone liked what they saw and now wants to know how to do it for themselves. I also have to take pride in this because I've never considered myself overly technical about filmmaking - instead I approach things from the creative side, concepts and such.
My use of equipment has thus been fairly diverse and made up of what ever was easiest at the time. Starting back in late 2001 I experimented for the first time with digital editing software on the computer, but I had already put in ample time with VCR editing and even had a few cracks at professional dubbing and studio editing equipment thanks to communication technology classes in high school. It makes me feel old to think that I was just starting out on the cusp of what has now become the digital revolution - hello YouTube.
In any case, the equipment I use to day is a personal mix, a hybrid of programs that help me achieve an idea that I often already have in my head. For editing software I bounce between Pinnacle (an Avid program) and Adobe Premiere and Photoshop and shoot with either my small Samsung MiniDV or my larger Sony HDR-FX1 HDV cam. Pinnacle, along with my small Samsung camera, are both inexpensive and versatile tools that allow me to push the boundaries with their user friendly options. Pinnacle especially has been a convincing addition to my arsenal with a long list of customizable options and upgrades that rival the far more pricey pieces of software.
Ultimately I've always believed that it's not so much the equipment you use as it is the story you want to tell. Some of my best projects were shot on D8, a lesser digital format, but it really had no bearing on how the movies were received. Weaknesses can also be strengths when framed correctly - take the Blair Witch Project as an obvious example of getting the most out of very little (from a Hollywood perspective anyway).
I've used the adage many times that anyone can buy a pen and paper but that doesn't mean they'll write a great novel - the same is becoming true for videos. The equipment is becoming more and more affordable, but high resolution doesn't hide a lack of story or concept. Find out what you want to do and find the equipment to match. Part of the challenge is figuring out how to make due - even the big time directors have to learn this lesson.
All this in mind, take advantage of the low cost options available. Like I said, if you've got a great concept or story to tell you can attract just as many interested viewers whether your camera cost $500 or $5000.
Day job and social obligations aside, I've still got a lot to do before the end of 2009. I'm referring of course to my independent video projects. Yes, these are entirely personal pressures like completing Indio Outio, maybe even a final Chico Bandito episode, and getting my new site ready for January 1 - but given my state of mind these days, this checklist of projects feels more significant and essential than most have before.
The shift this year in my available time is notable more than ever because I've been so calculated in making sense of my transition through my final years in film school to this point - to making a living. The reality is that investing time in personal projects has started to come at a greater cost. It's largely what's fueling my shift to start 2010 with a new focus - less mini projects in exchange for a couple ambitious ones and a fresh and efficient online framework that allows me to stay connected without feeling the need to micro-manage my networks. You could even say that's what's started to happen this year, at least with the time being spent on Indio Outio, the completion of uploading and writing about my early work on Editing Luke, and an attempt at bringing new content/articles/columns to the table from like-minded writers/friends, etc.
I'm hoping to have another 2007 this 2010, meaning just a fresh sense of approach. I can already see parallels in that this blog kicked off that new chapter in '07, and the new site launching will do the same for 2010. On a personal front I'm trying to close the gap between video work as a hobby and as a professional showcase - I want these two things to blend, serve a dual purpose in fulfilling my creative whims and showcasing my individual skills (in many cases this is already true of my work, but the potential is there to grow). In my mind 2010 is going to symbolize the end of my post-uni transition and hopefully mark a fresh step up with a move to the city (to be determined) mid-year.
It's exciting, but I can't help but feel pressured by the things I've told myself I need to complete to make this feel like the fresh start it ought to be. At least the goal is clear and I still have the ability to productively challenge myself. I suppose the ticking clock is one of the best motivators - one month to go.
In any case, the equipment I use to day is a personal mix, a hybrid of programs that help me achieve an idea that I often already have in my head. For editing software I bounce between Pinnacle (an Avid program) and Adobe Premiere and Photoshop and shoot with either my small Samsung MiniDV or my larger Sony HDR-FX1 HDV cam. Pinnacle, along with my small Samsung camera, are both inexpensive and versatile tools that allow me to push the boundaries with their user friendly options. Pinnacle especially has been a convincing addition to my arsenal with a long list of customizable options and upgrades that rival the far more pricey pieces of software. 
