Tape Logging

Tape Logging

Professor Monkey knows just how tedious Tape Logging and creating an Edit Decision List (EDL) can be. He has tried to take some of the drudgery out of this process by supplying you with the proper forms. To better understand this process, continue reading about tape logging below.

Tape Logging

You're done shooting. Now you need to go back and log your footage. This is called tape logging. The more footage you shoot, the more critical this becomes. As you are reviewing the tape, write notes in the log. Notes can include; the scene name, time code or control track numbers, and comments (is the footage useful, sound problems, bad take, etc.) To start logging your tapes, print out a blank tape log found here. After logging the tape, you will be able to review the footage. This leads us to our next step, creating and Edit Decision List.

Edit Decision List (EDL)

After you have completed your tape log, review it and select the shots that will be used. Then write these selected shots in your Edit Decision List. When you are finished, you will have created an EDL similar to the one on the right. This EDL is a paper representation of what the final edited video will look like. Using the EDL will enable you to make the appropriate edits, such as: Cuts, Dissolve, Wipe, which tapes to use, the in and out for each edit, and what kind of edit to take: Video, Audio, Both. A blank Edit Decision List can be viewed and printed here.

Editing

When making an edit, avoid using similar shots. Editing shots that have similar content, framing, or angles often looks unnatural or jarring to the viewer. This is commonly referred to as a jump cut. An example of a jump cut can be seen here. To avoid creating jump cuts vary your shots. The general rule is: the more contrast between the two shots, the less you have to worry about creating a jump cut.

Depending on the type of piece you're putting together, your EDL will flow differently. For example, if you are trying to get the high energy feel of a rock video, you could include lots of edits to keep your shots changing to create a sense of excitement. A variety of video effects such as wipes, chroma key, and dissolves, can also help generate a feeling of excitement. Click one of the below links to view a rock video starring your tutor, Professor Monkey, that incorporate both quick edits and multiple video effects. After completing your EDL you can begin creating, titles and graphics.

Monk Rock

File Type	Size	View
Real Player	419KB	Here

	Please continue on to GRAPHICS
Post-Production		Graphics