OMG, already having issues with this website. I just typed out a looooooooong post with questions and when I clIcked "Post", it said that my post required tags - AND DELETED MY WHOLE MESSAGE :(
Here we go again. New member here. My name is Joe. I am currently using a Flip HD Ultra and I absolutely LOVE this little camera. Stunning images for it's size, lightweight, portable and easy for a newb like myself. Here's the problem...
When I upload my footage to youtube it looks HORRIBLE. Almost like it was shot on a cheap, SD camcorder. I've tried everything. I use quicktime to upload and have tinkered with MANY options. Settings; H.264, etc. Quality; DVD, Full Quality, Expert Settings, etc. Nothing seems to work. My video does NOT come out looking like what my camera films - or even close. Sooooooooo...
Can anyone tell me what I'm doing wrong? Can someone provide the EXACT settings to use to get that clear, crisp, sharp look all the videos on youtube seem to have. Many people complain about youtube compressing video and I agree. But, how can others get such spectacular looking vids? Also, I know it's not my camcorder. The Flip HD shoots stunning footage when used correctly (lots of light, tripod, etc.). If it helps, I am using the old imovie HD to edit in. Just because I'm comfortable with it and have it down somewhat. Could imovie or the older version I'm using be one of the problems??
Finally, my Flip shoots in 60 FPS. When I go into expert settings, do I need to change the frame rate to 60FPS - it's currently set to "current" & I have Key Frames set to 24.
Any help is greatly appreciated. If I cannot get clear videos using a HD camcorder something is wrong. Or, maybe I'm just a complete idiot :) Just need to learn it once and I'll be good from there.
One of the reasons I became a paying member here was for the assignments. I've only gone through a few of the lessons so far and am dismayed by the lack thereof. What gives? And why no lesson on how to achieve good quality videos when uploading ones work??
I've included a link to a video I just made of my son. Nothing serious. Just fiddling around on imovie. However, I want you to see the TERRIBLE end result of the footage I filmed on the Flip after uploading. Link below. Please help. Thanks!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBIwa_yyHOU
michael
Friday Feb 4, 2011 at 6:04 am
VideoNut
Thursday Feb 3, 2011 at 11:26 pm
I'll be performing a few more tests tomorrow concentrating more on angles, shots, etc. Be well...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-t0a-n7X14
michael
Thursday Feb 3, 2011 at 6:06 pm
Also a graded test card for resolution. http://www.scandig.com/accessories/targets/usaf-1951-test-target.html
VideoNut
Thursday Feb 3, 2011 at 6:02 pm
First, I do agree that the video reeks of home movie...becuase it is, lol. As mentioned, I was just fussing around and wanted to throw something up to test the Flip out. So, pay no attention to the shot selection or lack thereof :)
Secondly, I am fully aware that the smaller pocket cams are NOT the greatest in low light. However, the Flip is one of the better ones in low light believe it or not. So, I don't think that's THE problem with the video looking so degraded and fuzzy. I'm guessing it has to do more with the settings I'm using, the older imovie HD program or some other reason. Which is what I need help with.
I will be posting another test video shortly. Let's see if the quality is any better. Your opinion on it would be greatly appreciated again.
If you peruse youtube, you will come across some horrible quality looking videos and some clear, crisp ones that look terrific that were shot on the Flip. So, how are the better videos being put out?
Any other suggestions?
michael
Thursday Feb 3, 2011 at 5:30 pm
I took a look at the video. First, let's deal with the shooting. Go back and take a look at the 5-shot lecture. Hold the shots. Don't move the camera - at all. You are better on the horse part than the dancing part. No camera moves at all. Next, you need a variety of shots. CU, Medium, Wide, etc... CU on feet. CU on face and so on. These are sequences and they help a lot. Third, I think the poorer quality (I have seen worse) of the shoot is due to the lighting. Your primary source of light in both of these is the light from the TV set. This a) flickering, even if you can't see it, b) refreshing frames which probably is causing a kind of wave interference with the frame generation from your camera and c) has weird color issues. If you look at the corner of light from the window you will see that that small square looks a whole lot better. As for an exercise - watch the 5-shot lecture again then take your camera out and do one. Post it and I will be more than happy to take a look. m
michael
Thursday Feb 3, 2011 at 5:26 pm
michael
Thursday Feb 3, 2011 at 5:25 pm
VideoNut
Thursday Feb 3, 2011 at 5:18 pm