Journey to the Geekside (how I survived to tell the tale)

... I was a geek and I liked it (in best Katy Perry voice).

I'm no 'techspert', but faced with the option of buying a new Apple Mac Pro system or upgrading my current can of chips to make the most of Blackmagic Design's Davinci Resolve software. After comparing budgets, £2800 plus versus £700, the upgrade won.

Arts and media creatives are becoming ever reliant on technology, either to produce their work or distribute it. The myriad of apps and software they use with ever increasing complexity requires equally intricate hardware that comes at significant cost. To keep budgets under control many are learning the ways of 'the geek'.

My own journey was inspired by Redsharknews. It seems there are all sorts of hidden Apple Mac secrets out there and similar customisations to discover.

An online search revealed my current 4.1 Intel based system, released in 2009, could have an upgrade using an Accelsior PCIe solid state drive (SSD), some more memory (ram), USB3 slots (Macs only started shipping with this from 2013) and a graphics card. All fairly standard, but, this would not increase my machine's performance sufficiently. With a 5.1 system, like that released in 2010, upgrade options increase.

Much to my surprise a firmware utility change could achieve this for my machine. Apparently the same motherboard architecture was used on both models and it was just a matter of telling the older sibling you have the same genes. Installing the files and locating relevant "packages" (Mac app installation folders) involved a little more dark science. I tried this reversible modification before any of the bits I ordered above arrived. The successful change to 5.1 indicated a noticeable difference in stability and speed to my OSX 10.10 (Yosemite) set up. I also gained confidence to tackle further changes!

I ordered a 6 core 3.33GHz processor from Mac-Factory in Germany who specialise in mac parts. Installing this chip was fairly straightforward. Here's one of the many installation instructions available. 

 

Given the risks of total wipe out should things wrong, I was ultra pleased that on the first boot up after installation the machine sprang to life, with a slight but non the less disheveling pause. Here's the overview of my machine now. An early 2009 model but with perfectly workable 5.1 2010 specs.

  

Where I really earned my tech stripes was configuring the systems and applications folders to work on the SSD. The incumbent boot, systems and applications drive needed to be cloned to the new SSD. SSD's are a lot faster than normal hard disk drives (HDD) but are quite limited in capacity. Default OSX settings must be changed so that whilst critical applications are retained automatic saving of larger document files and the like are off loaded to the HDD. This involved creating a USB boot disk plus extensive use of Disk Utility and Terminal, an application I'd never paid much attention to until now. In my last post I referenced Matt Gemmell whose guidance in this regard was quite helpful. I even worked out an improvement that simplified the task!

I managed the upgrade, as outlined below, and my machine matches and, in some instances, out performs the latest 6.1 base cylinder model as shown in the comparison table below. Some specs of interest for aspiring geeks include the system bus (see CPU) and L2 cache both of which improve speed. I also understand that the PCIe boards in these machines allow for so much more expansion possibilities. 

Mac Upgrade Comparison

I've learned a few lessons ofcourse. I purchased RAM (32GB 1066mhz) for the 4.1 model too early, only to realise later I could have had optimum performance from 5.1 spec'd 1333mhz memory. Had I only read about that firmware utility sooner! I'll consider a return and exchange with the guys at OWC. I'm also using a 1GB Radeon graphics card due to be replaced with a used 3GB GPU that cost £125. I've since learned that Nvidia GPUs are a better option due to their Cuda acceleration driver. The reason I opted for a budget used card was to enable 4k monitor use in the short term until further funds allow the preferred option. I aim to get the Nvidia GTX 980ti 6GB or better at a later date. Modern GPUs boost processing speed significantly. This is where many 5.1 systems may continue to have some life yet and even rival the latest 6.1 incarnations.

Here are three separate benchmark tests I conducted in 64bit mode on my machine after the upgrade which confirm the speed levels expected can be attained, even with below spec memory.

And so the adventure was indeed worth it. Not only from a budget perspective but the knowledge I gained through research and hands on practice. A six year old computer has been stimulated for a few more years service. Until now, except for OSX upgrades and replacing full HDDs, I had only ever added 16GB ram and the 1GB GPU.

The greatest respect must be given to all the dedicated independent techies who invest time, experiment with their machines and share knowledge which guides many like me on such quests. Whilst a lot more personal development is required before I even consider diploma, let alone degree, I've got my geek certificate of attendance for the day and I'm proud of the achievement!

Tony

Why rude people succeed!

"The primary form of courtesy is to be considerate of others’ time. Excessive verbiage isn’t courtesy; it’s just waffling. Get to the bloody point". Matt Gemmell, July 2011 "Courtesy suicide"

Why do rude people succeed and others don't?

Character traits that society often perceive and label as rude may be misdirected. Those of us seeking success may be lacking some simple yet key qualities that can improve our chances.

There are so many definitions of rudeness but I'll stick to those regarding etiquette when interacting with fellow humans, especially our ability to communicate and maintain networks.

A quick definition of a successful person for me would be one who has achieved a goal or task or something desired, planned, or attempted, etc. by legal and (generally) moral means within a defined time-frame.

Time is a very precious commodity and it is often what persons can achieve within a limited period that defines success. 

To explain my point, how many of us would define someone on £40k per year as a millionaire? Well within 25 years someone on that average annual salary band would have earned a million. We don't often hear them being branded as models of success. If however, one created an app which generated revenue of £1m within say a year or two we would be reading about them in Forbes' 'ones to watch'.

So time is precious. Yet, it is often in saving this commodity that successful persons are branded as rude. 

Being expedient by getting to the point quickly or by asking direct questions are tools in their armoury. Specifying how long a meeting should take based on time they can afford is another. Taking recommendations from a proven expert rather than making decisions by committee consensus indeed another. 

Time management may just be the most sincere form of courtesy there is. And, "rude" people are even sharing a vital part of their success.

So what's this got do do with video and film stuff?

View your next gig, whether it's business or fun, in project terms and you'll appreciate the value of time.

I'm also upgrading my MacPro 2009 4.1 Nehalem 2.66ghz Quad core via 5.1 firmware switch to 2010 Westmere 3.36 ghz 6 core specs. with SSD drive and 48GB ram from 16GB and 4gb graphics card with 4k as well as esata and USB3 ports. All this to improve the operation of Davinci Resolve 12 and review Ultra HD footage. This speed boost should save me time on rendering and saving video files.

Matt Gemmell's solution to managing OSX using the SSD led me to his site. I've resolved the technical issue. I'm working on being succinct whilst remaining polite.

Tony

p.s. Success!

I posted the above when I installed 32GB ram, ssd drive and USB ports. Definitely boosted speed across all applications. However, the six core 3.36 chip arrived yesterday (12/12) and was duly fitted. All apps continue to work and surprisingly FCP7, which I still sometimes use in the initial stages of my work-flow, seems to have an extra speed boost. The graphics card should arrive soon.

I'll post a summary of my experience on this technical journey once the final change is made.

The best hand-held camera stabilising system?

One of the accessories that many film and video makers use that helps add value to their productions is the Glidecam. It allows a camera to follow action or movement without resorting to zooming or in-camera stabilisation and avoids jerky shots from direct handling.

I purchased the HD 4000 a few years back having waited for Steadicam's Merlin (what I believe was the first commercially available hand-held stabiliser system for the masses) to reduce in price. As with most market leading products, this did not occur and thus gave Glide-cam some traction among the budget concious.

Lately I've been pondering one of the new digitally controlled stabiliser systems. Having seen some of the enticing Freefly Systems movi footage 2 years ago, the ability to have more control over camera direction has always been at the back of my mind. Again Freefly were the first to introduce the system to the wider market but it's cost was somewhat prohibitive. Enter the DJI Ronin. A system nearly as capable at an affordable price point. But reminding myself of the "Scratch rule" I had to convince myself that this would add significantly greater value to my productions.

Fortunately, I came across this comparison video recently by Stefan Czech "Glidecam DGS vs. DJI Ronin 3-Axis Stabilizer" . Stefan concludes that both systems have their pros and cons.

Personally my view is that the added value's not as significant for me to invest in the Ronin at this time. As a single shooter or working often with small crews some things I would have to consider include:

• with the camera positioned at chest height would this result in the viewer experiencing a lower than normal view? Especially in facial shots would they be staring up the talent's nose?
• the jogging of the camera from the walking/running of the cam. op. does not appear to be totally removed.
• an independent operator is required to monitor and control the unit to ensure the shots are framed on the move.
• Additional monitor and remote equipment would be required based on that point.

Furthermore, being self critical, I've got to ask myself ... have I mastered fully the equipment at my disposal? One of the attractions to the Ronin is the ability to shoot low - e.g. following feet closely, etc. But this is achievable with the Glidecam by flipping it with the camera upside down and closer to the floor. A simple "flop" correction in post to rotate the clip would  achieve the desired result.

Maybe I'll rent the Ronin at some point and try it out myself but until then I've got lots to still master using the Glidecam and great shots are still achievable.

So the best camera stabilisation system for me is the one I already have.

Thanks Stefan.

Tony

It's the little things that matter

Producing content? It's the little things that matter.

A few years ago I undertook an intensive course in project management which was the most beneficial investment I've ever made. It not only helped with my career development at the time, manoeuvring through obstacles and mapping a pathway to the management level which I aspired. This course had an effect on my approach to most of my personal objectives too. I adopted a structured and organised approach to most things from my sideline to voluntary work and freelance efforts.

One of the key learnings was placing into perspective smaller tasks. All objectives are broken down into: tasks and actions; effort and resources, time required, etc. Risk of any item failing which may hinder the final product or service is analysed. Mitigations are developed to avoid or reduce the impact of failure. And in this process the little things are considered just that. Little. And, therefore afforded lesser priority.

In the arts, outlook on the small and seemingly insignificant is magnified. The risk of ignoring detail is exaggerated by the creative. Observations of the minuscule that the audience in everyday life would take for granted or ignore are given a platform. These little things are used to arouse the subconscious, to subliminally attract attention. To create continuity and fluidity. Twisted and flipped to divulge some different secret. The creators of film masterpieces thrive on such detail to tell their stories.

This video essay by Rishi Kaneria on "Why Props Matter" better explains what I'm getting at.

Project experience has taught me that whilst little things should not usurp your resources,  attention to detail is important. Sometimes small signals are indicators of big risks.

Life experience has taught me you ignore the small things at your peril. Ever forgot to send mum a birthday card?

Tony

Misery loves company

Anyone who has used Sony cameras since the Sony EX1 will be familiar with Alister Chapman. If not, you've just been introduced. As he is somewhat of an authority on XDCAM™ I tend to reference his web and blog sites fairly regularly.

A recent experience I had with a client led me to recall one of Alister's blogs "the cost of being a freelancer". As a mere upstart to the great man I cannot compare. What I took from the post is that it happens to the best and their reactions are no different than how we would feel. Most important though was that he did not embarrass his client by naming them but used the piece as an educational tool to inform that his time is equally as valuable as any organisation's.

In my spectrum of the industry I work with a fair share of new 'starts-ups' across various professions and services.  Variations and amendments in service requests occur frequently. It's part of the business. Would some advance notice not be the minimum one should expect to allow diaries and travel arrangements to be reorganised?

What's that other idiom? Time is ... !

Be good.

Tony

Hidden London - Golden Square (BMCC Test)

Back in April '15 we acquired an original Blackmagic Design Cinema Camera (BMCC).

Despite all the advice to the contrary - not suitable for run and gun, dodgy reflective monitor screen, black spot, poor battery life, etc. ... we brought one! Why? The discounted new price to £1k plus VAT and the full Davinci Resolve 11 software packaged with it. A 'no brainer' really.

This video is the first test of the camera back in April. To say I was rather pleased and pleasantly surprised by the results would be an understatement. This camera rocked! So much so that when I saw the 4k version in June with a similar price point I nabbed me a bargain too.  Albeit that Resolve™ wasn't enclosed in the "customer returned goods" package. (Never mind the guys at Proav did good and sent version 10 which I stuck to a promise and presented the software and dongle to a collab colleague).

The clip you see here s only processed with the native BM rec709 LUT and some additional exposure curve in Resolve™.

 

We shot a budget music video with the 4k using the 422 (HQ) setting. In comparison I must say that the 'creaminess' of the 2.5k's footage and being able to readily use the raw files with current hardware tips the balance in its favour for me.

Both cameras are the EF mount versions and work well with all the lenses I have. Canon 24mm and 35mm primes work well with the cropped sensor 2.5k as do the the Tokina 11-16mm and Canon 16-35 and 24-70 zooms. Love the 50mm 1.4 on the full frame 4k and the 85mm gives the most amazing DoF. All lenses work well with the focus assist.

Tip for these cameras - external monitor, external battery adapter and ND filters make these good to go and all accessories anyone who rigged out their Canons should have to hand.

The Ursa mini seems to be a major improvement over both.  Watch this space.

Davinci Resolve itself is amazing and I am not sure why I've taken this long to adopt it. That being said as soon as I get to grips with v11 out comes v12 upgrade and some of the familiarity has been lost. But I'll stick with the learning curve as it's well worth it.

New Camera ... New Workflow with XDCAM Essentials

So what to do when you break an ankle in a freak motorcycle accident knowing that you will be immobile for some 8 weeks? Well back in early December '14 I bought myself an early Christmas present in the form of the Sony PMW200.

Not that I've got out to use it much, but I've been reading up and watching lots of information videos to ensure once I'm back on my feet we hit the ground running.

Unfortunately I will not be taking it on test to Trinidad's Carnival. For obvious reasons I'm missing the festival. It's taken me a while to get mentally adjusted to that reality. 

I've been thinking that the only way I'm going to get over this is .... the cash I've saved contributes to a budget 4k camera - either a PXW-X70 with upgrade or BMCC.

Just off the crutches but limping ... thanks for asking.

#bigboystoys