Final Cut Express is SOOO confusing!

[Bakey]

There's clearly a massive problem here!

It's all very well knowing FCE or P like "the back of your hand" but, and it's a big BUT [heck, lard arse even!] -- and before I say it this is in no way a condescending statement to Lacero or anyone else on these forums!!

But it's all very well knowing the latest and greatest short cuts and what-not but unless you've an understanding of the basic principles of video editing then personally I think you're stuck!!

It's too easy for individuals to learn the programs inside out; but unless you understand the art of the craft at hand there's no appreciation going on!! And with this the idea of NLE for many is a none starter... I started out my production life with a three machine UMatic-SP suite and a couple of Amiga's with genlocks... Happy days!!!

As for the AE vs FC it's a non-starter... I can't believe the two are being compared and certainly not by an academic -- they really should know better!! And by this I mean one is clearly motion graphics and the other is NLE with a bit of motion graphics thrown in for good measure -- as for the academic point I wish to clarify that if this is what lectures, etc., are preaching then we're in for a rough time!!!!

It's okay now kids my rant is over!!!

Feels like I should be apologising in advance, just in case I've offended anyone... hey, 'tis the season to be jolly!!!

 

[emutree]

I switched from Pinnacle Studio (*gag*) right to Final Cut Express when I switched to a Mac, so the transition was somewhat easier although I agree FCE was one of the hardest apps to learn. You really have to be making a video in it to get an idea of how it works, so just film some stuff that isn't important to edit properly and try editing it with one of FCE's multiple editing paths, then see which one clicks with you and stick with it. Just start experimenting really - the best way to learn is to do. I bought a Visual Quickstart guide but didn't really use it all that much in the long run (though it's great for quick reference). But yeah, basically forget everything you learned in iMovie too.
As others have said, once you get used to it the interface is awesome - using FCE feels as natural as using iTunes now.

 

[notjustjay]

You really have to be making a video in it to get an idea of how it works

Actually that's a really good point, and that was my experience as well. I opened FCE up one day just for kicks, and the first time I tried to figure things out it was insanely unintuitive. In fact it scared me so much I closed it again and never touched it for about a year afterward. (And I'm coming from Ulead Media Studio Pro on the PC, so I'm not exactly a video editing newbie either). Anyway, when I finally had a project that would be more than iMovie could comfortably accomplish, I sat down with the intent of learning to tame the beast. I bought a book about it too, which helped at first as I stepped through things.

But having an actual project helps a lot. Just give yourself lots of lead time.

And I agree that ultimately it's the art of the craft and not the ins and outs of any particular tool that lead to success... so know what you want to accomplish and if you're not a pro video editor (I'm not) then find projects to do and practice practice practice