AVCHD: What is it?

AVCHD a new video format that seems to be popular in many of the new digital camcorders this year.

We’d like to share a little insight on this new video format, the benefits, challenges and what it means to you.

First of all, AVCHD stands for Advanced Video Codec High Definition, developed by Sony and Panasonic, and is an designed to be an extremely disk-space efficient video format based on an efficient specifications used for video compression/decompression (codec).

BENEFITS: AVCHD offers very impressive clarity and detail in high definition formats. It maintains these desired qualities at extremely efficient disk-space sizes. This allows for more recording time on hard-drive based camcorders, and less disk space consumption during storage and editing on a PC.

CHALLENGES: Because AVCHD is such an intricate compression, it presents some notable editing challenges. Thankfully, many of the newer editing software suites have complete AVCHD support and are unique in their abilities to easily import and edit the AVCHD format.

The AVCHD format provides great looking HD video at lower disk space costs, which is always a welcomed thing.

AVCHD is a very difficult codec to work with but by the time nexgen comes out, that may have changed. It is capable of making good quality images although not as good as HDV currently but that too could change.

Looking Your Best On Camera

Many times we are asked how to prepare for the best "on-camera" look.

OK, so you’re scheduled to appear on camera and you want to look your best. Well, here are a few simple rules . . .

Before you go looking in your closet to select your "favorite" outfit, bear in mind that the digital camera and the video camera "sees" color, pattern, and contrast differently than the human eye.

So, it's important to dress for the way the camera sees you.

The most important rule to follow in selecting your on-camera wardrobe is to keep it simple, plain, and low-key. You want the shoot to focus on you: your face and what you have to say, not what you're wearing.

Here are some things that are not recommended while "on-camera"

Do not wear any "loud" patterns like plaids or checks.
Do not wear any "glittery" material like sequins, or anything that is very shiny and reflects light.
Do not wear shiny jewelry that may catch and reflect light.
Do not wear anything loud or distracting; for instance, a sweater with a large picture embroidered on it, or a brightly printed T-shirt.
Do not wear any pin striped clothing. Narrow stripes cause serious problems for cameras.

Here are some suggestions that will improve the "on-camera" presence.

Select your wardrobe in medium colors: medium blue, green, maroon, wine pink, dark grey, purple, etc.
Consider your hair color when choosing your outfit;
If your hair is light (blonde or all grey) then wear ligher colors such as: beige, light grey, pink, light blue, and most pastels are fine.
If your hair is dark, stick to the medium range to dark colors.

Men: Follow the same rules for choosing a tie: a non-shiny plain tie, which complements your suit is best.

If you have any questions, check with the photographer and videographer prior to production day for help in selecting your wardrobe.