Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Online Video Production
Got a Message? We Can Help!
Video Labs Online Video Production
We all know how quickly an entertaining video can makes its way around the web. Effective online video marketing is fast becoming the premiere advertising vehicle, thanks to high-speed connections, no cost hosting sites like YouTube and the popularity of social networking sites. Smart marketers are taking advantage of these cost effective methods of spreading their message - now you can too!
Check out the latest statistics:
> In effectiveness, online video beat TV ads in both product recall and brand awareness by more than 35%. Experts believe that online viewers are more actively engaged than TV viewers. So, product demos and information pieces tend to have a better response online.
> Compared to other forms of web ads, viewers click video ads twice as often. And, click-through rates are 4-5 times higher than ads with traditional text and images.
> Viewers tend to watch a video two-thirds of the way through - so, keep the message short and keep it up front.
With the right presentation, online videos can entertain, inform and ultimately bring visitors to your website. Whether you've got a product or service to demonstrate, a branded corporate presentation to post or a training seminar for your employees, Video Labs can help you plan, produce and shoot an effective web video. Contact your Video Labs Account Representative today!
(800)800-8240
(301)217-0000
sales@videolabs.net
www.videolabs.net
Video Labs Online Video Production
We all know how quickly an entertaining video can makes its way around the web. Effective online video marketing is fast becoming the premiere advertising vehicle, thanks to high-speed connections, no cost hosting sites like YouTube and the popularity of social networking sites. Smart marketers are taking advantage of these cost effective methods of spreading their message - now you can too!
Check out the latest statistics:
> In effectiveness, online video beat TV ads in both product recall and brand awareness by more than 35%. Experts believe that online viewers are more actively engaged than TV viewers. So, product demos and information pieces tend to have a better response online.
> Compared to other forms of web ads, viewers click video ads twice as often. And, click-through rates are 4-5 times higher than ads with traditional text and images.
> Viewers tend to watch a video two-thirds of the way through - so, keep the message short and keep it up front.
With the right presentation, online videos can entertain, inform and ultimately bring visitors to your website. Whether you've got a product or service to demonstrate, a branded corporate presentation to post or a training seminar for your employees, Video Labs can help you plan, produce and shoot an effective web video. Contact your Video Labs Account Representative today!
(800)800-8240
(301)217-0000
sales@videolabs.net
www.videolabs.net
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Captioning for the Web
It's moving fast - very, very fast. Can you imagine the world without the web? It's easily the most important invention of our time. And, it's changed our industry for good. But, for the hearing and vision impaired, web sites present all kinds of new challenges - consider how many times you need to click a mouse, read a monitor or listen to instructions just to navigate. And, according to the US Census, close to 20% of Americans have some form of disability that may require specialized technology for ease of use. Video Labs can help you navigate the world of Captioning and Alternative Media Description so that all users have access to your video and ultimately, your message.
Closed Captioning - One "Size" Does Not Fit All
Most of us who work with the federal government are familiar with the 1973 Rehabilitation Act (Section 508) and the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 that requires accommodation for the hearing and vision impaired (www.section508.gov). With this legislation, the government ruled that all televisions 13" or larger be equipped with devices that capture and decode the closed captioning on Line 21 of the broadcast video signal (www.videolabs.net/multimedia/captioning.htm) and this is still the industry standard for broadcast media.
For web video, it's a whole new ballgame. Government agencies must be compliant for Section 508 for all video posted on the web, but this can get a little tricky. When planning your project, it's best to find out in advance what format best suits the needs and standards of the web site administrator.
Compression Session
Unfortunately, when you digitize and then compress from video tape with captions, the caption signal is not consistently recognized by software used for viewing (like Windows Media Player, for example). So, specific data files are used depending on multimedia programming software being utilized. Someone using Flash to create a website may need a file called .xml in pop-on style, while Windows Media video files can be closed captioned using a data file called .smi. Some prefer English subtitles or open captions that cannot be 'turned off,' ensuring ease of use. For high quality videos with a frame size of 720 x 486, it's possible to preserve standard captions from Line 21 in a Quicktime or Windows Media files for posting on some websites.
For Low Vision and Vision Impaired - Let's "Hear" it for Alternate Audio
We're receiving more requests than ever about Alternate Audio for web site videos - it's a sign of the times. But, how do vision impaired users navigate a computer-based environment where a mouse click is so necessary? Computers are outfitted with specialized screen reader software and refreshable Braille displayers so that the users can find their way. For web programmers, it means allowing for keyboard short cuts for a Braille keyboard user. Alternate audio embedded in the website can help a vision impaired user to navigate through a web site by sound. For more on this subject, Utah State University has provided an excellent website to support and explain these technical standards (www.webaim.org) for compliancy.
For video, Video Labs provides 'media description' services (aka - "alt-audio" or "audio description") so that actions on screen are included as an additional track of audio. For disc media like DVDs or CDs where a menu is used for navigation, our authoring specialists can include extra audio files that, when engaged, instruct the user on how to access the content. Alternatively, a "Read Me" file can be included so that screen reader software installed on a computer can explain needed information. For more information on these enhanced interfaces, check out the article about 'talking menus' pioneered by the Media Access Group at WGBH in Boston. (http://main.wgbh.org/wgbh/pages/mag/services/description/).
To view samples of the different types of web videos in this newsletter - http://www.ada.gov/videogallery.htm
Please view our new brochure which depicts Video Labs multitude of media solutions. You may also want to follow us on Twitter as our staff has much to say and you may even find some of it valuable.
Closed Captioning - One "Size" Does Not Fit All
Most of us who work with the federal government are familiar with the 1973 Rehabilitation Act (Section 508) and the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 that requires accommodation for the hearing and vision impaired (www.section508.gov). With this legislation, the government ruled that all televisions 13" or larger be equipped with devices that capture and decode the closed captioning on Line 21 of the broadcast video signal (www.videolabs.net/multimedia/captioning.htm) and this is still the industry standard for broadcast media.
For web video, it's a whole new ballgame. Government agencies must be compliant for Section 508 for all video posted on the web, but this can get a little tricky. When planning your project, it's best to find out in advance what format best suits the needs and standards of the web site administrator.
Compression Session
Unfortunately, when you digitize and then compress from video tape with captions, the caption signal is not consistently recognized by software used for viewing (like Windows Media Player, for example). So, specific data files are used depending on multimedia programming software being utilized. Someone using Flash to create a website may need a file called .xml in pop-on style, while Windows Media video files can be closed captioned using a data file called .smi. Some prefer English subtitles or open captions that cannot be 'turned off,' ensuring ease of use. For high quality videos with a frame size of 720 x 486, it's possible to preserve standard captions from Line 21 in a Quicktime or Windows Media files for posting on some websites.
For Low Vision and Vision Impaired - Let's "Hear" it for Alternate Audio
We're receiving more requests than ever about Alternate Audio for web site videos - it's a sign of the times. But, how do vision impaired users navigate a computer-based environment where a mouse click is so necessary? Computers are outfitted with specialized screen reader software and refreshable Braille displayers so that the users can find their way. For web programmers, it means allowing for keyboard short cuts for a Braille keyboard user. Alternate audio embedded in the website can help a vision impaired user to navigate through a web site by sound. For more on this subject, Utah State University has provided an excellent website to support and explain these technical standards (www.webaim.org) for compliancy.
For video, Video Labs provides 'media description' services (aka - "alt-audio" or "audio description") so that actions on screen are included as an additional track of audio. For disc media like DVDs or CDs where a menu is used for navigation, our authoring specialists can include extra audio files that, when engaged, instruct the user on how to access the content. Alternatively, a "Read Me" file can be included so that screen reader software installed on a computer can explain needed information. For more information on these enhanced interfaces, check out the article about 'talking menus' pioneered by the Media Access Group at WGBH in Boston. (http://main.wgbh.org/wgbh/pages/mag/services/description/).
To view samples of the different types of web videos in this newsletter - http://www.ada.gov/videogallery.htm
Please view our new brochure which depicts Video Labs multitude of media solutions. You may also want to follow us on Twitter as our staff has much to say and you may even find some of it valuable.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Video Labs Welcomes the DTV Evolution
Despite setbacks, the latest industry news predicts that the DTV 'big switch' will be flipped on June 12, 2009 (www.nab.org). High- quality digital television will be more readily accessible across the country and, at the same time, broadcasters will have more High Definition capabilities. While many are already accustomed to the optimal viewing experience of digital television, this transition still presents a milestone in our industry. At Video Labs, we're here to help you be ready for the "Evolution" of broadcast delivery.
SpoTTrac DigitalCertified for Nielsen Tracking Services
Video Labs has added a Nielsen-certified SpoTTrac Digital encoding system to its host of broadcast services, replacing the outdated analog Sigma encoder. Producers, advertisers and broadcasters have long relied on Nielsen Tracking Services to verify audience exposure to its messages. With SpoTTrac Digital, we'll help you make the transition to TV's next big milestone. SpoTTrac Digital features the latest tracking mechanism for PSAs and commercials - an embedded watermark in the audio that transfers to all formats including broadcast tapes, DVDs and even digital video files (like Quicktime files for the web). During the real-time encoding process, SpoTTrac Digital embeds Nielsen's patented ID into both the video and audio content and does not affect the quality. As an extra efficiency, Nielsen's tracking information is sent automatically via the Internet for overnite reporting.
High Definition Closed CaptioningIt's an HD World We Live In
What's next, you might ask? You guessed it - captioning and subtitling for High Definition formats. Our new HD captioning encoder has been polished, tested and is presently ensuring broadcast projects are fitted for HD closed captioning. We chose the HDE-3000 from Link Electronics as it meets with the strictest requirements for broadcast while also allowing us to insert slates, bugs, TV rating icons and subtitling. Count on us to support you with captioning services for 1080i, 1080p, 1080sf and 720p HD deliverables as well as captioning services for all your standard definition tape formats, DVD and web-based compressions.
SpoTTrac DigitalCertified for Nielsen Tracking Services
Video Labs has added a Nielsen-certified SpoTTrac Digital encoding system to its host of broadcast services, replacing the outdated analog Sigma encoder. Producers, advertisers and broadcasters have long relied on Nielsen Tracking Services to verify audience exposure to its messages. With SpoTTrac Digital, we'll help you make the transition to TV's next big milestone. SpoTTrac Digital features the latest tracking mechanism for PSAs and commercials - an embedded watermark in the audio that transfers to all formats including broadcast tapes, DVDs and even digital video files (like Quicktime files for the web). During the real-time encoding process, SpoTTrac Digital embeds Nielsen's patented ID into both the video and audio content and does not affect the quality. As an extra efficiency, Nielsen's tracking information is sent automatically via the Internet for overnite reporting.
High Definition Closed CaptioningIt's an HD World We Live In
What's next, you might ask? You guessed it - captioning and subtitling for High Definition formats. Our new HD captioning encoder has been polished, tested and is presently ensuring broadcast projects are fitted for HD closed captioning. We chose the HDE-3000 from Link Electronics as it meets with the strictest requirements for broadcast while also allowing us to insert slates, bugs, TV rating icons and subtitling. Count on us to support you with captioning services for 1080i, 1080p, 1080sf and 720p HD deliverables as well as captioning services for all your standard definition tape formats, DVD and web-based compressions.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Printing Processes
What is Your Color Space? RGB vs. CMYK
One of the leading causes of production delays is working through problems with digital artwork files. By setting up your artwork in the right color space, you will achieve the quality that you're looking for while saving time and hassle. Chroma key work is a function of the RGB Color Space
What is RGB Color?
Computer and TV monitors emit light in a color spectrum known as RGB color (short for Red/Green/Blue) named for the primary colors of light. Video cameras, scanners and digital photographers all capture images using this color spectrum - and computer monitors use the same. RGB color space allows for special effects techniques like chroma key compositing or "green-screening" (see this month's cartoon) where one image is layered over another by manipulating aspects of color and light - so, an actor in front of a green screen can be superimposed on a different background for visual effect.
"But why don't they match?" -- The CMYK Color Space
We're often asked this question -- why doesn't my printed wrapper match what I see on my monitor? It's simple - inked paper absorbs or reflects light, rather than emitting light, so the range of colors is not the same. Thus, when you see color on your computer monitor (RGB) and a then see a printed version, a variation is seen.
Graphic design for offset printing uses a color scheme known as CMYK (Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Black "Key") or PMS so color matching between these two environments is often needed. In printing inks on paper, transparent pigments are used to filter out the RGB wavelengths in proper combinations to create the desired color. These filters are known as CMYK or four-color process printing.
Tips and Suggestions
Because offset printing, silkscreen printing and most digital color processes use CMYK as a reference, digital artwork that is created in RGB (like still images, screen captures, or digital photos) should first be converted to CMYK prior to printing. Color-matching, when needed, is much easier when working in CMYK color space.
Adobe's website has an excellent tutorial that discusses how to convert RGB to CMYK for use in a design. (RGB convert tutorial - click here).
For short run projects, our high-quality thermal disc printers use RGB color. Submit your artwork as a .bmp image with a resolution of 300 dpi.
Submit matching artwork for packaging elements in CMYK color with text and lines as vector graphics.
Offset printing (four color process) calls for CMYK with Pantone for spot color. This type of printing is best if photo images have a lot of detail and the colors are soft in tone. The end result is a smooth finish on the disc face.
Silkscreen printing is an excellent choice for solid and vibrant colors, but the end product is textured and photo images can sometimes have a coarse appearance. However, it is much easier to match colors between the disc face and packaging elements using silkscreen printing.
Whenever time allows, request a hard copy proof if you need to check for color matches. We offer this for all of our printing processes.
Our website (www.videolabs.net) includes templates for preparing your artwork for submission and helpful tips for graphic designers.
One of the leading causes of production delays is working through problems with digital artwork files. By setting up your artwork in the right color space, you will achieve the quality that you're looking for while saving time and hassle. Chroma key work is a function of the RGB Color Space
What is RGB Color?
Computer and TV monitors emit light in a color spectrum known as RGB color (short for Red/Green/Blue) named for the primary colors of light. Video cameras, scanners and digital photographers all capture images using this color spectrum - and computer monitors use the same. RGB color space allows for special effects techniques like chroma key compositing or "green-screening" (see this month's cartoon) where one image is layered over another by manipulating aspects of color and light - so, an actor in front of a green screen can be superimposed on a different background for visual effect.
"But why don't they match?" -- The CMYK Color Space
We're often asked this question -- why doesn't my printed wrapper match what I see on my monitor? It's simple - inked paper absorbs or reflects light, rather than emitting light, so the range of colors is not the same. Thus, when you see color on your computer monitor (RGB) and a then see a printed version, a variation is seen.
Graphic design for offset printing uses a color scheme known as CMYK (Cyan/Magenta/Yellow/Black "Key") or PMS so color matching between these two environments is often needed. In printing inks on paper, transparent pigments are used to filter out the RGB wavelengths in proper combinations to create the desired color. These filters are known as CMYK or four-color process printing.
Tips and Suggestions
Because offset printing, silkscreen printing and most digital color processes use CMYK as a reference, digital artwork that is created in RGB (like still images, screen captures, or digital photos) should first be converted to CMYK prior to printing. Color-matching, when needed, is much easier when working in CMYK color space.
Adobe's website has an excellent tutorial that discusses how to convert RGB to CMYK for use in a design. (RGB convert tutorial - click here).
For short run projects, our high-quality thermal disc printers use RGB color. Submit your artwork as a .bmp image with a resolution of 300 dpi.
Submit matching artwork for packaging elements in CMYK color with text and lines as vector graphics.
Offset printing (four color process) calls for CMYK with Pantone for spot color. This type of printing is best if photo images have a lot of detail and the colors are soft in tone. The end result is a smooth finish on the disc face.
Silkscreen printing is an excellent choice for solid and vibrant colors, but the end product is textured and photo images can sometimes have a coarse appearance. However, it is much easier to match colors between the disc face and packaging elements using silkscreen printing.
Whenever time allows, request a hard copy proof if you need to check for color matches. We offer this for all of our printing processes.
Our website (www.videolabs.net) includes templates for preparing your artwork for submission and helpful tips for graphic designers.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Living HD in an SD World
Video production professionals have never had such grand and varied options for quality – High Definition (HD) has an enormous visual impact, widescreen functionality and exceptional audio. HD has raised the bar for expectation of quality.At the same time, Internet video sharing has become a norm of American life. For many industries, including advertising, public relations, trade associations and educational media, pre-production planning means you must prepare for video quality of all levels -- HD Broadcast with its 16X9 1080P resolution, Standard Definition for TV and DVD in addition to Broadcast-ready Quicktime files for posting on the web. At Video Labs, we're ready to assist, no matter what planet your project comes from or where it might end up.Here's the question we all face – how might a widescreen image be displayed and how can we plan for it to look great no matter what type of monitor is used? This planner will help you make the right decisions as you think about how the image will appear on a less-than-optimal viewing monitor. Visualizing this ahead of time will go a long way towards maintaining an optimal viewing experience.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Michael Weiss of Video Labs Selected as Smart100 recipient
Rockville, MD, February 3, 2009 – Video Labs announced today that CEO, Michael Weiss has been named to the Washington SmartCEO magazine 2009 Smart100 program, an exclusive group of 100 CEOs assembled by an independent selection committee. The Smart100 are not chosen based on the growth of the organization. A Smart100 CEO is selected for his or her Leadership, Strategic Vision and Character.
“When I added those three letters (CEO) to my title, it was done only because Video Labs passionate staff could support my vision to change and grow the company,” stated Mr. Weiss. “It’s easier to succeed when your co-workers also want the best for its company and clients,” concluded Michael.
As a selected member of the Smart100, Michael’s successes, leadership philosophies and character will be a source of education and inspiration for SmartCEO’s 17,000 readers month after month, year after year.
Smart100 companies represent a variety of industries including government contracting, information technology consulting, travel services, financial services, and video production. The average Smart100 company employs between 10 to 100 employees and generates $10-$50 million in revenue.
“The Smart100 represent 100 of greater Washington’s CEO’s. No other publications in the Greater Washington area have produced a publication of this magnitude with such high-caliber CEOs. The Smart100 embodies 100 CEO’s with incredible business minds who have successfully grown their companies to be the best in Washington,” says Group Associate Publisher of SmartCEO, Jaime Park.
Washington SmartCEO magazine is a regional “growing company” publication. SmartCEO believes that a “growing company” is really determined by the spirit, drive and dynamics of a company’s owners and managers, rather than by the size of its building, the number of its employees, or its sales volume.
Video Labs is committed to investing in technology and media distribution capability. With its recent increase in capacity, Video Labs enhanced solutions now offers its clientele the widest range of Videotape/Broadcast duplication, High Definition cloning, International standards conversion, DVD/CD duplication/replication, authoring, packaging, distribution and digital media delivery. Video Labs continues to offer its clientele 24 hour service every day of the year.
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For more information, please contact Video Labs at 301-217-0000 or reach Video Labs on the web at www.videolabs.net or via email - sales@videolabs.net
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