Sony PDX10 Workshop Handbook page 22

Post-Production Planning
The Logging Process
A log is a written record of the images and sounds recorded during production. The log should include
descriptions of the video, a transcription of the audio and a reference to where the images exist on the
tape. This reference is noted (when ever possible) by recording the time code appearing at the sequence
beginning and end ("Time In and Time Out"). The In and out times will give you the overall duration
of the sequence. This is helpful when you are trying to calculate the total running time of your program.
If you have recorded an interview, an excerpt of the interview should be placed in the Audio column of
the log sheet. However; when logging b-roll or non-interview footage, the sounds recorded simultane-
ously with the image of the tape should be placed in the Audio column. The time you spend making a
detailed log is time liberated for creativity in the editing process. The following log is an example from
a shoot with an interview. You will see transcription excerpts in the Audio column.
Sample Log
Time In Time Out
00:00:00;00 00:02:15;15 Jose's dance class warms
00:02:15;15 00:05:40;10 Jose demonstrates "Running
00:00:00;00 00:08:04;10 Class executes "Running
00:10:09;15 00:12:22;08 Jose walks room corrects
00:12:38;05 00:15:25;10 Interview with Jose Joaquin Our group has been fighting with that
The Edit Decision List
The Edit Decision List or EDL (also known as a Paper Edit) is your post-production road map. You
begin to sketch out the ideas, which will come together in the editing process. Using paper and pen (or
computer) you write out what images and sounds come first, second, third and so on. Referencing
your tape logs, the elements you will be using to create your EDL will be transcripts of your inter-
views, shot descriptions, CD audio and graphics. This process enables you, the editor to find the struc-
ture and tone of your project. The purpose of the EDL is to collect and arrange all program elements to
effectively communicate your message. The EDL also makes the digitizing process more efficient.
Determine and place the concepts in the order that is most logical for presentation of your idea. Do not
include anything that does not directly relate to the concept under development. Whenever any idea is
raised, or reference made, viewers assume that it is part of the main argument and that the program is
now headed in that direction. Search your log to find ways to eliminate all verbal distractions. The
first and last sentences of a passage are the most influential and memorable. Viewers expect the first
sentence to introduce the concept and the last sentence to encompass it in the whole. Look for material
to end each passage with something concise and poignant.
Video
up
Man" choreography
Man"
mis-steps
SONY PDX10 Handbook page 22
Audio
Sounds of feet tapping,
people talking
Feet tapping, hands clapping, people
chanting "one, two, three"
Feet tapping, "one, two, three"
People talking, clapping, "one, two,
three"
use of "Hip-Hop theater." As opposed
to American Theater. That's basically
what it is.