Fortunately for the new generation video producers, all non-linear edit suites come with built-in graphics/title generating software. All we need to do is click on the titling icon in the software and another window opens up, enabling us to create graphics. Some of them even facilitate production of animated titles. We can add a number of attributes to our titles too. What is more" we can roll up and down or scroll right to left the titles we produce in the software. However, there are a few points to be kept in mind when creating graphics.
All titling software comes with what is known as the safe-text area (Fig. 8.19). Remember that when you design graphics on a computer, much
Fig. 8.19 The Safe-Text Area
of what you see around the edges of your composition will be cut off by the frame around the TV display during telecast. The safe-text area indicates the area that will be cut off during telecast. Ensure that all titles stay within the safe text area, vertically and horizontally.
Avoid using borders (boxes) surrounding your titles. If you have to include one, ensure it is within the safe text area.
Do not use highly saturated colours for your text. They are likely to 'bleed' on television.
When composing titles always keep monochrome (black and white) monitors in mind. Prefer dark backgrounds for light coloured titles, and vice versa; see Figs 8.20 (a) and (b). In other words, use high contrast between background and the text. If you are able to see the graphics well on a black-and-white monitor (reduce the colour on your colour monitor to zero and check), you have created appropriate titles.
If you have to key in text on video (names, sub-titles, etc.), make sure the text stands out from the varying background. One of the best ways to do it is to have a black edge for the title. You may also want to use a drop shadow.
Do not use thin lines on video. They end up as flicker on television sets and cannot be read.
On the timeline, leave the title long enough to be read at least twice. The thumb rule is-run the title at least for 2 sec. if you can read it in 1 sec.
In terms of composition, use the rule of thirds that you used to compose shots. Make sure the title does not interfere with the message.
When creating sub-titles, do not translate every word. Ensuring that the essence of the interview is sub-titled is good enough.
Do not use plain text. Try and make the title as interesting as possible, looking for associations, etc. For example, for a programme on car races, you may want to reverse text on racing cars. Cars racing within titles adds dynamism to the signature. However, do not use weird fonts (a common mistake committed by amateurs) and colours and a variety of effects all at the same time. It confuses instead of facilitating reading. A font-size of 80 for main titles, 30-35 for names, and 25-30 for sub-titles is normally used.
Add depth wherever possible. Try overlapping elements, shadows (see
Always fade in and fade out all titles. They add elegance to the video. You should knowledge following terms when working on titling software:
HSB stands for hue, saturation, and brightness, and is used to identify a colour.
Fig. 8.21), and skew (a 3D effect) to show depth.
Leading is the spacing between two lines.
Kerning is the space between individual letters. You can use this for interesting results.
Tracking is the spacing of an entire group of letters.
Anti-aliasing is smoothening jagged edges of titles. You can switch it on or off. Using this option is always better.
Care of N LE Systems
Follow these tips to ensure smooth functioning of your NLE systems.
Install the system in an air-conditioned environment. If you feel cold, wear warm clothing
Keep the edit suite connected to an uninterrupted power SUPply (UPS) system.
Do not connect the non-linear system to the Internet, as this is a SUre way of inviting viruses.
Understanding the software well is the best way to make it work efficiently for you. Read the software manual and go through the demo CD supplied along with it before working on it.
Do not load any software on to a non-linear system without consulting the technician.
Do not store too many files on the desktop. It can slow down the performance.
Check out what video formats your software can work with before importing them.
If your software requires effects to be rendered, wait. Do not rush with other commands.
Once you are through with a film, and have burnt it on a CD/DVD and have secured approval, remove its files from the machine.
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