October 2009 Newsletter
VIDEO NEWSLETTER
IS ANYONE SAFE?
Written by Cynthia Kay
Recently I had the unique opportunity to interview some very brave women. These individuals were victims of domestic abuse and they shared their stories in a raw, uncensored and very public way so others can begin to understand this community issue.
This was not a new topic to me. I had heard the statistics before.
Every 15 seconds a woman is battered in the U.S.
275 million children worldwide are exposed to domestic abuse in the home.
As a reporter years ago, I did stories on domestic assault programs. So what was different this time? Why did I find myself crying along with these women as they told of their journey from victim to victor? I think the answer is complicated. First, it made me sad to know that this is still a huge problem. But, I was also touched to see firsthand that women and their families can find a safe place and rebuild their lives. In our community an amazing organization that helps shelter women, as well as prevent and educate the community, is Safe Haven Ministries. CK & CO is honored that they let us help them tell their story. You can hear it by watching the video. If you are touched by what you see, consider supporting them or an organization in your community that does this important work.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. But, it will take a year-round effort to create a safer community.
WINDOWS® 7 FOR DUMMIES®
Teaming up with Wiley Publishing has taken us across the field. From algebra to poker, we've created more than 125 how-to videos for the For Dummies® series. Our latest task? Produce a step-by-step DVD tutorial to accompany the book "Windows® 7 for Dummies®"
The new Windows® 7 boasts a number of contemporary features, and maybe even does away with some of those you couldn't stand using on Windows® Vista. We picked apart the new operating system, before it was even released in stores, and here's what we've found: Windows® 7 shows-off a new and improved desktop with bigger icons and easy options to personalize your computer. It also makes it simple to safely link up computers, printers and other hardware in your home or office. New features called "Jump Lists" help you access those documents, pictures or songs you use daily with the click of a mouse.
If you've ever tried to learn a new software system, you know how hard it is. And, looking at a tiny little screen and trying to follow along with a tutorial doesn't help. That's why we developed a new two step process that utilizes cutting edge capturing software and After Effects®. The result, we can zoom, pan, tilt, and otherwise manipulate computer screens so that you see the action up-close. Check it out for yourself! It's in bookstores now. Or to browse other videos for dummies, visit www.dummies.com. And, if you're looking to spread the word about your new software, or other new things happening in your business, give us a call or shoot us an email to see how we can help!
Q & A WITH OUR V.P. OF PRODUCTION
Vice President of Production, Bryan Parris, is moving away from the edit suite, and out to meeting with all of you! As he makes the switch, we thought it'd be fun to sit down and sort of reflect on his 9 years as Senior Editor at Cynthia Kay & Company.
Q. What do you love about editing?
A. When it's done! Seriously though, like any creative project, I get the most satisfaction from the end result, knowing we've taken all these elements and cut and tweaked and sometimes pulled our hair out, but we produced a very cool story that helps clients with their goals.
Q. Where do you get your inspiration from?
A. Often the music gives cues about pacing and even what the graphics should look like and how they should move. We always look at the client's branding so we can create something that fits into the bigger picture. I also like to keep up on what editors and graphics guys are doing all over the world to get ideas. Or just peek in the other room and see what Johnny's working on!
Q. How do you push the edge of the latest technology?
A. Well, we can't possibly keep up with ALL of it, but we're always looking for cool new tools to help us work better or add sizzle to our productions. We read industry magazines, participate in online forums, go to tradeshows, and ask our equipment resellers lots of questions.
More on Bryan:
Bryan has 13 years of experience in production. Before joining our team he was in broadcasting (like so many of us here!).
MOVING UP
he fall season is bringing some exciting changes. If you have worked with Bryan Parris in the edit room, you'll understand why he has been promoted to Vice President of Production. In that role, he'll be overseeing many varied elements of the work we do to make your final product a definite standout! John Cuevas moves up to Senior Editor – he's been editing and producing graphics with us for six years now. No one knows After Effects® better!
We've also got a new addition to the team. Janelle LaLonde is our project manager and producer, coming to us from the world of broadcasting, working as a producer and reporter at both ABC and NBC affiliates. Stop by our place to say hello!
To keep up on the latest happenings at CK & CO check out our website, www.thinkck.com.