Larry Jordan's Newsletter: Oct. 30, 2023

October 30, 2023

Later today, Apple is launching - if rumors are true - a series of new M3 Macs. Since I'm writing this the day before Apple's event, I have no idea what their plans are. But, I feel safe in saying that they will be the "fastest Macs yet." But what do these announcements mean for those of us who work with media for a living? The answer is both "everything" and "nothing." Why? Just because new gear is announced does not make our existing gear stop working. It works just as it always did - and will for years to come.

But, that doesn't stop people from asking this question I get everyday.

Link: Hey, Larry! Is My Computer Fast Enough For What I Want To Do?

The Final Cut community lost a major resource last week - FCP.co closed its doors. It's twelve-year run benefitted all of us.

Link: Requiem for FCP.co

In the news:

Synchrimedia announced a new version of MovieCaptioner which adds an Oral History Metadata Synchronizer. This is a powerful web-based application that allows oral historians to organize and put metadata into oral history interviews.

Link: https://www.synchrimedia.com/scc_caption_decoder.html

Frank Reiff, developer of "A Better Finder Rename," has created a YouTube channel filled with tutorials for his products. I'm a big fan of A Better Finder Rename and use it each week for my newsletters.

Link: https://www.publicspace.net/ABetterFinderRename/index.html

FXFactory released Overlays, for Final Cut Pro. These contain animated graphics, light leaks, particles and effects ready for compositing.

Link: https://fxfactory.com/info/overlays/

Marshall Electronics highlighted a range of its cutting-edge, PTZ cameras, miniature and compact high definition POV cameras, including the new CV620-TBI/TWI auto-track and follow PTZ camera as well as its latest high bandwidth model, the CV730-BHN/WHN.

Link: https://marshall-usa.com

Just a quick heads-up - webinars will return next week - Nov. 8. I'm still deciding what to cover, so if you have a subject request, please email me.

Last week, I asked readers of my newsletter to describe how they are using ChatGPT in their work. Their replies ranged from “Not using it at all.” to “Using it extensively.” However, I got two replies that I want to share. Both are excellent.

Link: Is ChatGPT Ready for Video Editing?

I'm now interested in your opinion on something else. Clayton Moore asked: "Given the higher cost of everything, I know we here are feeling the pinch. We bid on State contracts which still tend to be a race to the bottom in terms of their choosing the lowest bidder. A bid that worked 3-4 years ago doesn't work now. How are other editors balancing endless client requests for lower budgets with the pressure of rising cost of living expenses?"

Email your answer and, if I get enough, I'll compile the results into an article. (Also, please let me know if you want to be anonymous.)

I'm really curious to see what Apple announces later today. If rumors are correct, we may see a continuation of the move to ever-smaller chips; faster performance is a given but what else? Keep in mind that Apple's job is to continue pushing the bounds of technology. Our job, though, is using that technology to tell stories. New gear is always fun and exciting - but not always necessary. As you consider whether to upgrade, first consider what in your current workflow needs improvement - then find the gear that best resolves those issues. In any case, I'm looking forward to the announcements and sharing what I learn with you.

Until next Monday, stay healthy, stay hopeful and edit well.