I have worked, slept, eaten and loved every frame of the past 9 years. Why? I'm driven by an appetite that consumes the digital revolution as fast as it has been evolving. Although mostly self taught in Adobe after effects, Photoshop, encore, flash, illustrator, Final Cut and a basic practical level of 3D studio max, I have pushed them just as effectively as any other schooled professional out there. Thanks to the seasonal nature of Cape Town's film industry (my cash cow at the time) I was able to spend serious time learning over the forums, help files and "bibles" (a very comprehensive 'help file' for advanced users). I spent 5 years freelancing as a video assist to film technician on over 100 international commercials and feature films. It gave me an opportunity to grow and learn amongst some of the best in the world while learning to use after effects, Photoshop and Premiere. Soon I started taking on small video jobs. I went video 'bizzirk', shooting on the Sony PD150 and editing for the likes of AVIS rent a car, Old Mutual, and Castle Lager (SA Breweries). I was able to sustain a decent living off my favorite thing to do... create videos. Keeping up with unlocking the full potential of the software and needing new programs for a more professional DVD and web delivery, took up every moment I wasn’t shooting or strategizing (this could very well be why I’m divorced now...mmm?). The rewards? Well I know more about video than just pushing buttons on a computer, I know why, how to if x, y or z, and if that doesn’t work or suite you we could always use Q! I am "fluent" on PC and MAC, can edit with any system out there, author animated DVD menus that includes games and quiz, grade, composit and create endless visual effects, credit rolls and logos in Adobe Photoshop and After Effects (my favorite software by the way). Occasionally I call on 3D studio Max to create some basic 3D objects and movement, like dancing yogurt tubs on a fully lit stage I created in after effects. Every project I undertake is a new experience that delivers rewards for my clients as well as sense of fulfillment for me. I don’t really do websites but I have built 3 flash websites and 1 in Dreamweaver. This gave me a tiny peek into that world so that I could offer a better video service for the internet. I started learning Dreamweaver and PHP but I felt that it would be more than I could chew. Besides, I'm a video guy and I'm happy to draw the line there and leave the coding to the guys 'n gals in IT. I did however get stuck on flash (almost my favorite program) and can neatly enrich existing sites with movement, colour and a life that is video. After all, 5-8 years ago I was shooting video and burning to DVD, where now, the majority of my work only sees the web. My objective in a nutshell- To share my video experience with clients, colleagues, friends and family. Not only for advertising, training or financial gain but as well as the look on peoples faces when they see a great video or funny animation, the memories that videos keep in vivid colour for and of family, the potential it has to touch and communicate. Video is by far the best way to do all these things. Being able to produce video professionally and effortlessly was once an objective that has now evolved into a lifestyle that is rich with creativity and passion. The objective is to maintain, grow and appreciate what I already have!
.. and finally, a more structured look at my skills.
8 years experience in professional video production
6 years experience editing Adobe Premiere and Final Cut
6 years VTO experience in international feature and commercial industry
Well experienced using professional grade cameras
Panasonic, Sony, Canon for shooting on miniDV, HDV and HD video
Experienced with P2 and tape less HD equipment
Solid knowledge of logging footage electronically
Have a creative eye for on the go shooting
Have a talent to find and shoot unique footage
Proficient using and installing / rigging the following
lighting systems, skateboard dollies, jimmy jib, wireless mic systems, fluid-head
tripods, projectors and vision mixing consoles
Wireless, on board helmet and pencil camera systems
Experienced in shooting action based footage:
interviews, scripted (on set), product walk-around and live feed footage
Able to develop and deliver videos as per project requirements
Able to follow a production outline/schedule
Able to maintain a professional demeanor and communicate well with clients
Understand and practise the proper etiquette when on shoots
Strong motion graphics experience using Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, Flash, and 3D Max
Intermediate Dreamweaver skills
Production and coordinating experience
