I was intrigued when I first read the New York Times article about online video editing websites like Jumpcut, Eyespot and Grouper. But, I became immediately intimidated and overwhelmed when I checked out the first one, Jumpcut. It’s definitely for the patient, creative and/or technically-inclined, unless you are familiar with video editing software, in which case you probably wouldn’t be using one these sites. I uploaded some short video clips from my digital camera, which was pretty time consuming, and went to town. Unlike video sharing sites like Youtub, this site allows you to string together video clips, add music (which you must upload), titles, transitions and unusual visual effects. My first attempt was pretty pathetic but it showed me that with a little time and patience, I could probably produce something fun. Jumpcut could definitely use a more elaborate and helpful help section or tutorial. My second attempt earned me a complement from Jason Voorhees (“Good movie!”), a talented video mixer on Jumpcut.

According to the New York Times article, “Mr. Kaskade [founder of Eyespot] refers to the process as ‘mixing,’ however, saying he believes that the term ‘editing’ may sound labor-intensive to the amateur videographer.”

Eyespot was a lot easier to use but not as complex, which was fine by me. Not sure if it was easier to master because I had already cut my teeth with Jumpcut, but I put together a video fairly quickly. I won’t bore you with it. Eyespot has the added bonus of allowing you to upload videos from your cell phone and also has video and music you can use on your video for free.

I see these new video mixing sites serving a few purposes. For one, they are like the Kodak photo sharing site for video enthusiasts – uploading family or goofy videos to circulate among friends. Videos, in other words, which are of (mild) interest to the video makers’ friends and family. But even more importantly, the can help creative and technically savvy types, create interesting and compelling videos (to share with friends and family, or other creative types). I am not one of those types. But, as a mother to be, I can definitely see the appeal of, eventually, uploading new videos of baby butterball (what we’re calling him/her for now since she/he is due on Thanksgiving) and adding subtitles and music – something more interesting than those Kodak picture slides my sister emails me once a week. It’s also about community -a community of likeminded visually gifted creative types sharing their work, tips, materials and feedback.

Nick adds: Joelle, I LOVE your videos! Don’t give up on this, you could really have a future as an online video “mixer”

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 27th, 2006 at 10:07 am and is filed under General, Finds.