Manley Creative Team

Caution: Shiny New Video Technology Ahead

April 26, 2017

The biggest convention and trade show in the production industry is the annual NAB show in Las Vegas. It’s huge and exciting with all of the newest toys. It’s happening at the exact same moment I’m writing this. The first show was in 1923. Technology has changed a lot since then.

Technology has changed a lot since last year.

And, man, do I love new technology. I’ve never been to NAB and I will probably never go. I don’t trust the impulse buying side of my brain. It’s the same reason, as an amateur musician, I have temporarily barred myself from Guitar Center.

My impulses aside, I have a method to ensure the Manley Creative & Media team and our clients are equipped with relevant, cutting edge technology. Simply put, the Manley Creative Team researches the latest and greatest “toys,” price shop, make a prioritized wish list, then present that list to me monthly.

They can get frustrated with the time it takes me to make a decision. I can’t blame them. There’s some really cool stuff out there. But, I always keep in mind that, ultimately, we’re spending our clients’ hard earned dollars. That means I have to adhere to a responsible checklist.

Will this new technology save our clients time and money?

In 2016, we invested in four new Mac edit stations capable of easily handling 4K video. This speeds up edit times on all of our projects. Our clients benefit because this not only saves them time, it saves them money.

Will this new technology improve the overall look of the final deliverables?

In 2016 and early 2017, we added several Xeen cine lenses to our equipment list. These lenses are expensive, but they are well worth it, in my opinion. The quality they help deliver on all of our projects is obvious to us and, most importantly, our valued clients. I know this because they tell me. Keep in mind, it took me about 8 months to make the decision to buy these. And it turns out, that was a good move. When I was finally convinced this was a good purchase that would be helpful to our clients, Xeen had a huge sale on their lenses. Sometimes good things come to those who wait.

Will this technology be relevant in 12 months?

This is a perfect time to talk about our drone. The Manley Creative Team pitched drones to me for two years. I could tell the technology was almost there, but not quite where I wanted it…for the price. Then, DJI released the Inspire 1 with the XenMuse 4K camera and dual controllers. The technology was exactly what I was looking for and the price was right. Furthermore, it was no secret that drone video was here to stay. It will be relevant in 12 months. It will be relevant in 12 years.

Again, the most important part of all of this, our clients have drone aerials at their disposal. I haven’t done a formal poll, but I’m pretty sure this is their favorite piece of equipment.

Will we be able to sell or upgrade in two years or will this technology be obsolete?

I’m typing this blog post on a Macbook Pro laptop I’ve had since 2009. Even back then, it took me a long time to make a decision to invest in new technology. This computer has been a workhorse for me and it paid for itself in the first two months I had it. That being said, this computer hasn’t cranked out an edit for a client in many, many years. But, we do still use it for bookkeeping, creating storyboards, writing blogs, and other Manley “paperwork.”

If I’m being completely honest, I’m attached to it like Linus is attached to his blanky. And, I guess that’s what good technology is. It’s reliable, there for you when you need it, built to last, and a source of comfort.

Give me call (602.312.2988), send me an email or stop by Manley Creative HQ. I’m interested in hearing from you and your thoughts about technology or any other video production, still photography, or marketing topics. We can also talk about guitars, if that suits you.

Are you one of our valued clients? We’d love to hear from you. Leave us a review on our Facebook page.

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