BRADLEY CRAVEN

So I am now a video editor. Work required some snatching files from dvd formats to embed in PowerPoint. To some, a few clicks in Final Cut and the job would be done. I was limited to free open-source products.

I decided to use my MacBookPro because it’s faster than my Lenovo T60 and well, more fun. The process began by selecting a program to “rip” the dvd. For that, HandBrake, was selected because it was free AND its ease of use. In two clicks, you’re ripping!

To edit and then export clips into PC PowerPoint friendly *.avi format, iMovie was the obvious choice. It is a robust tool for the amateur that, when fiddled with, can deliver some high impact results - exactly what was needed.

What really stands out is the difference between a Mac and PC. Aside from speed an aesthetics, the software is light years ahead of Windows. It just works. The interface is so simple, so basic, so user friendy - logical.  While the prices are dramatic, it’s worth it. Even in these days, when folks are concerned about income and large out of pocket purchases, an Apple computer is an investment that will last.

Searching the web and email now includes adding your own pictures, taking movies, etc. The built in isight also helps for video conferencing, which is free. It’s all in one package. No more add ons and wires and all that. One box!

James May is best known as one of the tv presenters for BBC’s Top Gear. He has written a great book, “James May’s 20th Century,” which is his personal selection of great achievements in the last century.

you can buy the book here:

http://www.amazon.com/James-Mays-20th-Century-May/dp/0340950919/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217514919&sr=8-1

His wiki is here:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_May

I am enjoying the book because it isn’t boring history. He is able to detail the impact of a particular event in a few paragraphs, while sneaking in some obscure but interesting facts.

Cuil is a new search engine. It was started by ex googlers and the interface is fantastic! When searching for artist Linda Zacks, this is what it returned:http://www.cuil.com/search?q=linda+zacksAt some point, will the masses become tired of the google bland page?The biggest problem is, how do you pronounce CUIL? What does it mean, do we care? But it will be difficult to build a word of mouth - or will it be a conversation piece?