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Digital Video Production Cookbook: Create Stunning Shots with Digital Filmmaking Recipes

November 18, 2005

Sebastopol, CA--In 1975, Steven Spielberg put a 17-foot mechanical shark named "Bruce" in the water and called it "Jaws." Thirty years and three Star Wars prequels later digital imaging has become a way of life for most filmmakers. While digital technology greatly simplifies the filmmaking process, there are many tried-and-true production tricks that only the pros working in the world of high-budget film production get to know. The truth is that setting up a car chase, making a realistic-looking alien, staging a fistfight, creating atmospheric lighting, and using special effects are often not as difficult to master as you might think.

Digital Video Production Cookbook (Kenworthy, O'Reilly, US $29.95) will show you how to create sophisticated-looking visual effects, dramatic shots, and powerful sequences using low-cost methods adapted from high-end professional techniques. Author and award-winning filmmaker Chris Kenworthy explains how you can use a digital video camera and basic editing software, to create high-end production values with household equipment and a little imagination.

Digital Video Production Cookbook includes easy-to-follow recipes for:

  • Creating bluescreen effects
  • Simulating rain, snow, and other types of weather
  • Working with backlighting, simulated candlelight, and special lighting effects
  • Shooting day for night
  • Staging safe stunts, chase scenes, and fistfights
  • Makeup techniques for aging, bruises, and serious injuries
  • Shooting at night
  • Working with camera movement
  • Adding special effects such as laser bolts, holograms, and explosions
  • "I love that this book is part of a Cookbook series," states author Chris Kenworthy. "Because digital imaging is much like your favorite recipe--you follow the basics, adapt old techniques, and mix with new tricks. In that regard, this book is a serious building block."

    Digital Video Production Cookbook features clear, step-by-step instructions laid out in a stunning, easy-to-follow format. This book is a master class for amateur and independent filmmakers working in the digital medium.

    O'Reilly's Digital Media Resources
    The world of digital media continues to expand with possibilities. Digital technology is becoming more accessible and is sparking creativity in a broader audience. Digital media artists--from the hobbyist photographer to the graphics designer and digital video producer, or the DJ to the songwriter and composer--can find a wealth of informative and instructional articles, books, guides, and media content at O'Reilly's Digital Media site.

    Additional Resources:

    Digital Video Production Cookbook
    Chris Kenworthy
    ISBN: 0-596-10031-0, 192 pages, $29.95 US
    order@oreilly.com
    1-800-998-9938; 1-707-827-7000

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