New Bird - Post-production Software Choices

For the New Bird edit, it is worth taking the time to consider the options available when it comes to post-production.

Final Cut Pro 7 first comes to mind, as it is available on all Harmer edit stations and I am most familiar with it out of all the available systems. It is well-integrated within a package of software including Apple Color, and perhaps crucially, Motion; interviews may require some motion graphics explaining who each subject is. There is also the potential for an opening sequence using motion graphics, if it seems relevant.

I could attempt to utilise Final Cut Pro X alternatively, although this would require a learning curve before using to its full potential, and may be difficult to gain access to/obtain. Its poor compatibility with Final Cut Pro 7, despite the recent emergence of third-party plugins dealing with this issue, would render any need to transfer to a Harmer edit station near impossible.

Adobe Premier's main advantage is its native compatibility with the H.264 codec. As we will be using the Canon 7D as one of three cameras on the shoot, this could prove to save a great deal of time that would otherwise be spent transcoding files with Compressor, to ProRes 4:2:2. AfterEffects would provide a strong platform for colour grading and motion graphics, reducing the time taken up transferring between three or more separate applications. It would also provide the opportunity for further effects or manipulation if necessary.



Avid Media Composer, while again requiring a learning curve, is a powerful application, and another that I have access to outside of Harmer. Along with the Adobe and Apple systems, this is also available on the Harmer edit stations, making it relatively easy to move between stations if needed for any reason.

Of all these options, I am leaning towards Final Cut Pro 7; although I would like the opportunity to work with each of these systems on at least one project, in this case it seems late to learn any new software fully enough. The abundance of edit stations in Harmer with FCP7 is another deciding factor, due to past experiences moving from station to station frequently due to tutorials taking place or other disruptions.