Keith Dobie
Forum Replies Created
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I’m really questioning whether or not the Chamber of Commerce membership is worth it… and I’m not sure that I’ll renew next year. Membership isn’t cheap. I belong to two of them, and go to meetings when I can, but they are lunchtime meetings and often I’m busy and can’t go. In addition to the approx. $200 a year membership, they charge $22 per meeting as they provide a lunch buffet. The meetings give very little chance to network as people seem to be in a big hurry to get back to work. There’s a bit of time before the meeting but people tend to clump together and talk and catch up with people they know rather than use the time for networking. The speakers/program are interesting but don’t usually apply very directly to what I do. Part of the membership benefit is getting listed in their directory in print and online. In two years I’ve had one call, and I’m the only one listed in my category. They have started some separate networking sessions recently so I’m going to try that. It just seems like a lot of money & effort for very little return. There has to be a better way to spend $400 a year.
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Hi Mitch… this isn’t answering your question, but have you considered having a bookkeeper/accountant do your books? I started out planning to do it all myself. I looked into getting Quickbooks, I bought some bookkeeping supplies, took a workshop, but in the end I took some advice and decided to work with a bookkeeper. I am very glad I did. It’s a lot less worry, I get everything submitted on time, and she even does my taxes. And it’s really not very expensive at all. I figure I am better off concentrating on what I know than learning a whole new thing. I still keep close track of everything and have a good handle on where I’m at.
keith
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I’ve been trying to find a good USB input device for FCP. I already had a Griffin iMic and tried it but I find it is too noisy (but it’s good for web chat, etc.) and wouldn’t recommend it if you’re trying to capture clean audio. To do my voiceovers for stories I’m editing I have to set up my camera beside the computer, hook up a mic to it, record the VO, then capture it. It’s a real hassle. FCP has the voiceover tool, and just looking for a good USB interface so I can just use a mic and capture directly to the timeline.
Good luck.
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Chris — I’m curious what kind of news shoots allow you the time to set up that kind of lighting. I shoot freelance news (both breaking news and background interviews) and just rarely have time for anything. I have a mini softbox on my on-camera light (ultralite) which improves the look a lot, and makes it easier on the subject. If I have a bit of extra time I’ll just put up an umbrella with a tota. Never seems to be either the time or space for more (although I’d like to get a Rifa) and the interview subjects seem to always be in an incredible hurry (not to mention the news room wanting the tape ASAP). Good thread BTW, I hope to see you post after you get your gear and get a chance to evaluate the look.
cheers
Keith