More glum FCP news from the UK

[Ben Holmes]

Jason – a thoughtful reply. Thanks.

Far be it for me to come across defensive, but I do feel my thoughts on this have been a little misconstrued here. I’m also aware that there are people on here who don’t like “FCP is dead” posts – even though this wasn’t really one. I actually prefer the discussions on here about the future to anything else. As an industry we live and work in small bubbles, and the views of other professionals about the industry as a whole is as valuable to me as edit tips.

Anyway – here’s my point again: I’m not afraid of change. I’m prepared to embrace and use any piece of edit gear to get the job done. All the main platforms are fine products. It’s very interesting to hear that my Mac Pros could run all the available software (although I gather the in/out options for AVID without using their own hardware are limited at the moment). Like you all, I charge a lot more for my time than I do for edit gear – and it still pays for itself many times over. I make a good living and I’m never short of work – I can’t complain.

I think what has taken me aback is the change in the industry over the last twelve months, and the way FCP is becoming marginalised again for broadcast. Why does it bother me, given the above? Well – it’s because I always loved the product, and have had so many great years working with it. I spent a lot of time working with FCP systems alongside AVIDs that crashed constantly, and couldn’t offer the speed of workflow my very time-sensitve job requires (live broadcasts). I had a tremendous belief in Apple supporting updates and features. I defended many “FCP is dead” posts on the Cow. Because for a long time it was just the best tool for the job – for me, not anyone else particularly.

This emotional response has nothing to do with equipment (although future investment is on hold whilst I consult with clients over the next few months) and more to do with that.

I’m not complaining – why would I do that when life is about family and friends, not edit gear. I’m just reflecting. I hope my reflections might give someone else pause for thought about their future. One thing is sure – like Walter and Andy, I’ll be diversify my business to cover demand. I spend a lot of my time in After Effects and other Adobe products anyway. I’m going to upgrade to CS5 and take a look. I’m going to speak to resellers about AVID MC5 and try a demo on my Mac Pros. I love the idea of a $10,000 AVID DS suite (well, the software anyway – I know…) because I’m always looking to step up. Da Vinci interests me as well – assuming it’s something I can use regularly.

Whatever else happens – I know I’ll still work, because I’m good at my craft. It doesn’t mean it doesn’t feel a little bit like the end of an era. Oh- and I’m sure Apple haven’t gone to sleep, there will be another shift eventually – it’s just a little late.

Thanks for a constructive conversation and practical advice – it’s helped me immensely.

Ben

Edit Out Ltd
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FCP Editor/Trainer/System Consultant
EVS/VT Supervisor for live broadcast
RED camera transfer/post
Independent Director/Producer

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