HIGH DEFINITION WORKSHOPS

This page is for anyone in need of an in-depth High Definition workshop. Below, you will find a list of suggested topic areas. Each of these topics is illustrated with an accompying "Power Point Presentation" computer slide show. The general focus is on the Sony CineAlta 24p HDW-F900 camcorder system, but other HD camcorder models can be covered if required.

Each segment can last from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the depth, complexity, and level of detail required. They can be combined into a workshop structure lasting anywhere from half a day to seversal days in duration. This means the sturcture and subject matter is rather flexible in meeting your particular needs and requirements . The workshop can incorporate a more hands-on, practical component, depending on the time and facilities available.

Depending on your budget, these workshops can be done with or without specialized equipment such as HD camcorders, HD monitors, HD decks, HD waveform monitors, and HD projection equipment. The most basic requirement for a simple presentation is a black board or white board, a computer with a CD-ROM drive, and a digital projector to dispaly the PowerPoint computer "slide shows".

To give you an idea of the structure of a possible workshop or presentation, here is a very brief outline of the topics I can cover.

(1). Digital Basics:

Introduction to digital image making in terms of formats, data rates, compression, codec, etc. (describes all the digital formats from mini-DV to High Definition, including all the new 24p formats).

(2). Broadcasting HDTV:

History, standards, and technical issues to do with broadcasting HD Television.

(3). Overview of HD Equipment/Systems:

Illustrated overview of HD systems from different manufacturers. Shows the range of High Definition equipment and related accessories currently available.

(4). Comparison of Digital and Film Imagery:

Examins the fundamentals of digital image making, and compares that to film. Focuses on the key issues of quality and cost. Looks at production cost comparisons in detail.

(5). Introduction to the HDW-F900 camcorder system:

General overview of the new camcorder. Examining the significance of 24 fps and progressive scanning, and looks at other new aspects of this system.

(6). New Features of the HDW-F900 camcorder:

Both physical and electronic......how this system differs from earlier Sony HD cameras.

(7). All About CCD's (Charged Coupled Devices):

The "film stock" for Digital Videographers. Detailed introduction to how CCD's work, and their various features and characteristics.

(8). Panavision:

An overview of the Panavision line of High Definition cameras and lenses. The Panavision modification of the HDW-F900 (.....the so called "Star Wars" camera), and their line of Primo Digital HD lenses.

(9). HD Digital Signal:

Special features in dealing with the HD digital signal in terms of monitoring and adjustment in the HDW-F900 camcorder.

(10). HD Monitor Set Up:

The correct way to set up HD monitors as a standard reference.

(11). HD Lenses:

Looks at the range of lenses designed for High Definition cameras, and compared that to 35mm cine-lens design. Also covers manufacturer naming conventions, and the advantages of the cine-style design, etc.

(12). HDW-F900 Physical Layout:

Where all the knobs and switches are, and what they do.

(13). New Features and Set Up:

Special characteristics of the CineAlta camcorder system.

(14). Menus:

A detailed look at the entire menu system in the HDW-F900. Examines all 46 menus. How to set up, adjust, and maintain the camera through the menu system.

(15). Downconversion Issues:

Problems and issues to be aware of in downconverting HD to analog video.

(16). Double-system Sound:

The range of options for recording double-system sound with 24p and 23.976p.

(17). Role of the HD Engineer:

Role of the HD Engineer in shooting film-style drama and feature films.

(18). Multi-camera Setups:

Overview of various multi-camera setup options.

I also have experience doing High Definition workshops in Asia, including the DigitalEZ Expo in Pusan, and for MITAK (Motion Image Technology Association of Korea). I can work with a translator as required.

Peter Gray
(near Los Angeles)
P.O. Box 5132
Pine Mountain Club, CA 93222
United States of America
telephone: +1(661) 242-1234

dp@petergray.org