Software programs for video effects

[WAVE]

I'm curious about which programs people are using to do their special effects. My program is an old one and doesn't work on hi def video. I'm specifically looking for a paint program like the old Ulead program.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Gary

[Nyghtfall]

PC or Mac?

[JohnM]

I ran into the same problem as well a few years ago. I made the switch to After Effects. It does everything. The rotoscoping with paint/clone has some issues to work around depending on the application, but they also bundle it with a program called Mocha, which is a film industry level match-movie/rotoscope focused application. Also, the green screen in AE is beyond comparison. Using that, coupled with some of the packages Video Copilot provide and you will have a special effects power house.

As far as a simple program that can do all that, I have not found one--especially with the roto-paint-clone effects that works well. Though, I think Red Giant might have something. But they think so highly of themselves, that the unbunded version of the product is crazy over-priced.

I have found nothing so far that will do that in a consumer-based, reasonably prices product.

AE over all, by far, one of the best tools to have.

One other thing. AE is not meant to be an editor. You would export your short lossless clip that you are applying effects to, then bring it back into your project. Also, a 8-12 core computer and 16gig or more ram would be ideal. Also, I recommend at least a video card with 1-2gig onboard memory.

Finally, I offer editing/effects services. I do them for several clients at competitive rates. The other day, I turned a hi res still photo the client gave me of a castle, to a scary, dolly tracked night shot with torrential rail, dark rolling clouds and beautifully rendered lighting courtesy of AE.

JohnM

[WAVE]

Thanks for the info. I have a PC. After Effects seems like a complicated program to have to learn when all I really need for what I'm doing is a paint program. But I will look into it and see what I can learn.

Thanks again.

Gary

[JohnM]

The real question then, is what are you trying to paint? If you email me with specifics, I might be able to find you a cheaper application. I am familiar with most of them.
johnm@pkfstudios.com

JohnM