iMovie
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iMovie, other non-Apple QuickTime components updated
Hot on the heels of yesterday's Aperture 3.0.2 update, Apple has released iMovie 8.0.6. The update improves reliability when working with videos from Aperture and requires Mac OS X 10.5.6 or later and iLife '09. The update weighs in at 35.84 MB and is available via the download link above or Software Update. In other movie software update news, Flip4Mac WMV has updated its free player to version 2.3.2. Flip4Mac is a QuickTime plugin that lets you watch WMV files in QuickTime Player. The new update fixes problems playing back files and streams with MP3 content and corrects problems launching QuickTime Player under Snow Leopard. Finally, Perian has been updated to 1.2.1. Perian is a QuickTime plugin that allows you to play virtually any kind of media through QuickTime Player. This update adds Indeo 5 decoding and fixes several bugs. Both Perian and Flip4Mac require 10.4 or higher.
Aperture 3 gets a bushel of fixes with update 3.0.2
Apple has pushed out an update to Aperture 3 that appears to fix a slew of little irritants users had been reporting, including upgrading from previous Aperture library versions, adding names and matches in Faces, adjustments using the Curve, Straighten and Retouching tools, and a number of other bug and stability fixes. iMovie has also been bumped up to 8.0.6, primarily to give it better compatibility with Aperture. You should check your Software Update under your Apple menu, or go here to grab the fixes. Detailed information on the changes is available at this Apple support page. [Thanks Eric!]
TUAW Tip: Get your animated slideshows to MobileMe
For all the things Apple does right, there are some strange decisions in the integration of iPhoto and MobileMe. iPhoto has a wonderful way to create animated slideshows with music and professional looking transitions and you can look at them all day on your Mac, or send them to your iPhone or AppleTV. But things get ugly when you want to post them on the web for family and friends using MobileMe. It's baffling, but there is no direct way to upload an animation you've created to MobileMe, even though you can easily send stills or even iMovie videos to the web. Well, it can be done, but it's a non-intuitive work around. First, create your slide show in an iPhoto folder the usual way. Then hit the "Export" button on the lower right of the iPhoto screen. From there, you can determine the size of the QuickTime movie you want to make. If it's for the web, I'd suggest the large size. The movie will render, and then be placed in your iPhoto Slideshows folder inside the Pictures folder. From there, you have a couple of options, none of which are well documented: One way is to open your newly created movie in the latest version of QuickTime. Then from the Share menu, select "MobileMe gallery" from the options presented (you'll get the screen you can see in the thumbnail above). Another way to go is to is to import the movie into iMovie first, and then export it out to MobileMe from there. You can also drag the movie back into iPhoto (and yes, I know this is nutty) and then click the MobileMe icon to upload it there. Why can't you do this directly from iPhoto? Search me. It should be there -- maybe we'll see it in the app's next version. If you have another method to do this let us know.
Backup or copy your iDVD home movies
If you've ever used iDVD to burn your own home movies then chances are pretty good that you've had a family member request a copy. And since your iDVDs are yours to share and duplicate, then you are more than happy to pull up the project and whip out another copy. Lo and behold, as fate would have it, the iDVD project has vanished (or in my case, was eaten by a recent HDD failure). Luckily for you, savvy OS X user, there's still a way to get a copy of that holiday montage onto a disc for Grandma to use. Over at MacFixIt, there is a pretty simple tutorial for making a backup or copy of an unprotected DVD. In the past, TUAW has covered some methods of using downloaded software to back up DVDs that you don't own. The MacFixIt tutorial provides handy information about how to copy unprotected DVDs that you do own, using the software that is baked right into OS X. The basic process involves inserting the DVD, firing up Disk Utility, and making an image file using the DVD as a source. From there you can either retain the image file for future use/backing up or you can burn it to disc and pass it off to any friend/relative of your choosing. This method will work for any unencrypted DVD, not just iDVDs made on a Mac. That means you can work with discs created by your Windows-loving cousin who swears that Windows 7 is not going to have any of the problems that Windows Vista had.
iMovie 8.0.5 available for your downloading pleasure in Software Update
It looks like another day with another update from Apple. This time, iMovie has been updated to version 8.0.5. This updates fixes some minor issues, as well as improve compatibility with the 5th generation iPod nano and some camcorders These fixes include: Improved compatibility with camcorders using the iFrame video format Improved compatibility with importing video captured on the iPod nano Fixed problems with resizing the iMovie window during playback This update available and recommended for all users of iMovie '09, it's around 36MB, and it's available through Software Update or the Apple Support Downloads page.Thanks Mike for the tip!
Apple posts iMovie 8.0.4 update
Apple has just released an update for iMovie '09. The new version, 8.0.4, improves overall stability and fixes a number of other minor issues. According to Apple, these issues include: • Fixing a problem with incorrect rotation when working with video created by iPhone 3GS. • Resolving instability when adding multiple beat markers in some languages. • Correcting an issue where iMovie could become unresponsive after using fine-tuning controls beyond the stabilized portions of a clip. To download this update, open Software Update (Apple Menu > Software Update) or visit the download page on the Apple support website.
How to make iPhone videos sparkle with iMovie
If you read my recent post about taking movies with the iPhone 3GS, you probably noted that I talked about the lack of editing capabilities on the iPhone with the exception of trimming the beginning and ending of your videos. What if you want to edit your movies, add titles or effects, or combine a bunch of short iPhone video clips? Several of the comments left by TUAW readers asked the same question, and it's so easy to do that I decided to whip up a quick tutorial showing how this works. You probably have a tool on your Mac that can do the job for you with just a few clicks, drags, and menu selections. iMovie is the perfect easy tool for creating full feature films (just kidding) from individual scenes shot with the iPhone 3GS video camera. Here's how to do it.
First Look: Roxio Easy VHS to DVD for Mac
Those of us who are old enough to remember the VHS versus Betamax wars are also old enough to have a box of VHS cassettes stored somewhere, filled with memories of vacations, birthdays, and weddings. In the jump from the analog media of VHS to the digital world of DVD, many of those tapes were put away and forgotten. Today, Roxio announced a way to bring those old memories to life on your Mac. The Roxio Easy VHS to DVD for Mac kit (US$79.99) includes a USB 2.0 video capture widget that gets plugged into any USB 2.0 port on your Mac, then connected to your VHS deck or analog camcorder. The Easy VHS to DVD software provides step-by-step prompting for connecting video and audio cables to the capture device, records the video onto your Mac in either standard (4 Mbps VBR) or high-quality (8 Mbps VBR), and then offers you the choice to either edit the movie in iMovie, send it to the included Roxio Toast Basic DVD-burning software, or view it in QuickTime Player. If you already have an Elgato or Blackmagic video adapter, you can use those to achieve similar ends, without the straight-to-DVD option of the Roxio product. I think it's finally time for me convert and burn the VHS video I shot back in 1980 in the U.K. with a 21-pound "compact" Panasonic VHS recorder and separate video camera. What old VHS tapes would you want to burn to DVD? Leave a comment below.
Video iPhone to feature iMovie App?
Apple rumors seem especially rampant in this year's run-up to the Worldwide Developers Conference. While all the recent fuss has focused upon a rumored 10-inch device that fits somewhere in between Apple's MacBooks and iPod touch, these poor ol' iPhone rumors just can't get any attention. Riiight. The latest has BusinessWeek offering further testimonial that video recording will be heavily featured in the summer release of the 3.0 firmware and presumed third generation iPhone. According to a source familiar with Apple's plans, the next iPhone will make shooting video super simple and feature an iMovie App that enables on-phone editing and uploads direct to YouTube. If true it would certainly be a welcomed update for first and second gen iPhone users and something we'd expect Apple to tout loudly as a major new feature on a new device or two sporting beefier cameras. [Via MacRumors]
Aperture, iMovie, Server Admin Tools updates available
Yesterday Apple pushed out three updates via Software Update. According to Apple, iMovie 8.0.2 "...fixes an issue with projects having a size of 0 KB." That's a problem all right.Aperture 2.1.3 is also available now and "...addresses minor issues in a number of areas, including the display of thumbnails on import and image rotation." Finally, Apple has also pushed out Server Admin Tools 10.5.6v1.1 which is required to administer Mac OS X Server version 10.5.6 from a remote Mac client. These updates weigh in at 24.1MB, 48.11MB and 92.7MB respectively. The interesting thing here is that Apple was actually a bit forthcoming with exactly what these updates address. Not totally, mind you, but better than the "bug fixes" we usually get.
iApp updates ready for download
Earlier today, Apple released updates for iWork '09, iWeb, iMovie, iPhoto and iLife Support. As usual, the cryptic descriptions of each disclose very little about their contents. Along with the usual "...overall application stability improvements," the iWeb update fixes FTP issues (what those are we don't know) and iPhoto fixes issues with Faces, Places, photo sharing, and slideshows.You can grab them now via Software Update. They range in size from 1.4MB (iLife Support) to 88.8MB (iPhoto Update). A restart will be required. As usual, let us know if anything goes wonky after installation.Thanks to everyone who sent this in!
iLife '09 ships tomorrow
Apple issued a press release first thing this morning, noting that iLife '09, announced at Macworld, is shipping tomorrow for $79. We covered iLife '09's major features, including face detection and geotagging for iPhoto, guitar and piano lessons for GarageBand, and another re-imagining of iMovie. If you purchased a new Mac on or after January 6, you can upgrade to iLife '09 for $10. iLife is also available in a family pack: five licenses for $99. A box set that includes iLife, iWork, and Mac OS X is $169, and individual music lessons are available separately for $5 each. iLife '09 requires Mac OS X 10.5.6 or later. It's available for purchase (among many locations) in the Apple Store online, at Apple retail stores, and Amazon.com. Thanks to everyone who sent this in!
WoW Machinima: The basics
(Dell is holding a machinima contest, which we'll discuss shortly. They asked me to write a tutorial to help new machinimators get their start.)Every day, I feature a video by some brave soul that dived in head first into the world of machinima. For those that aren't familiar with the term, it stands for machine and cinema. The literal definition is movies made in a 3D gaming platform. Using this basic guide, as well as the other tutorials and resources available to you, you'll be creating your first project in no time!Here is what you'll need if you want to make a machinima for free: WeGame camera - A free capturing program GIMP - A free image editing program Audacity - A free audio editing program Windows Movie Maker/iMovie - Free video editing programs that should have come with your appropriate system [Thanks for originally suggesting this, Bryan!] Read on for optional and advanced tools, plus additional resources ...
RAmos T8 iMovie PMP: 32GB, .4 inch thick, $219
RAmos tends to tease us with slick product photos / renders all the time and then pump out shoddy, derivative crap, so we're not going to get too excited about the new T8 iMovie (sigh, terrible name), but here it is looking pretty slick on video -- and the specs are solid for $219. That's a 4.3-inch 480 x 272 touchscreen in a 10mm (.4 inch) thick case, with 32GB of storage and decent codec support, TV-out, and micro speakers. Too bad we don't know if it's coming Stateside, but if you're headed to the Olympics, it's probably worth checking out. Video after the break.[Via PMP Today]
iMovie 7.1.2 and iDVD 7.0.2 updates
Apple just released updates for iMovie and iDVD. According to Software Update, the iMovie update "addresses general compatibility issues, improves overall stability, and addresses a number of other minor issues."The iDVD update "supports general compatibility issues, improves overall stability, and addresses a number of other minor issues."You can download both of these updates via Software Update (Apple menu > Software Update) or download the installer packages by visiting Apple's Support Downloads website.
Apple Camp '08 schedule posted
Today Apple posted the schedule for Apple Camp. Apple Camp is held at Apple retail stores for kids 8-12 to go learn about creative things like: making presentations with Keynote, taking and managing photos with iPhoto, creating music with GarageBand, and making movies with iMovie. Each sessions lasts about 3 hours and is available at all Apple retail locations. Kids attending will receive a DVD or CD with their creations on it, field guide, t-shirt, and will be able to get other giveaways. Best of all, Apple Camp is free though registration is required.Kids under 13 must have a parent/guardian present; otherwise, you'll have to bring an Apple permission slip (PDF link). You can now register on Apple's Camp registration website.
iMovie 7.1.1
Today, in the midst of total Macworld 2008 mayhem, Apple slipped-in an iMovie update. This update is for iMovie '08 (version 7). Here's what Software Update tells us: This update addresses issues when publishing movies to a .Mac Web Gallery, improves overall stability, and addresses a number of other minor issues.I am personally looking forward to this update, as I have experienced some bugs in the user interface that has caused me to restart occasionally. You can download this update for iMovie 08 by visiting the Apple downloads website, or by checking Software Update.
Remove iTunes DRM easily and quickly with iMovie HD
The thing about DRM is that there are always exceptions to the rules-- while Apple has released lots of DRM-free music, lots of it is still bogged down by DRM, and if you're like me, you disagree that any music you purchase should be limited in the ways that you use it.Fortunately, as long as you can hear the music you buy, there'll always be a simple way around the DRM, and 5thirtyone has put together this simple writeup explaining how to break iTunes DRM with a tool you've already got on your Mac: iMovie. Essentially, you load the DRM-ed file as a soundtrack in iMovie, export it as an .aiff file back into iTunes, and then convert it in iTunes back to AAC. Simple enough.This makes you question why DRM is there in the first place. Sure, the record companies might be pushing it on Apple, but if it's this easy and simple to do, exactly what leg are they standing on to justify it in the first place?
Wes Anderson premieres new short on iTunes this week
The Wall Street Journal is reporting that before director and filmmaker Wes Anderson releases his new movie The Darjeeling Limited (it's typical Anderson, which isn't a bad thing if you liked The Life Aquatic or The Royal Tenenbaums as much as I did), he'll release a short film called Hotel Chevalier later this week at Apple stores across the country and for free on iTunes.It sounds pretty awesome-- the new short has a few connections to the upcoming movie, but is a film on its own more than just a teaser or trailer. I'm in Chicago, just a mile or so from the Michigan Ave. Store, so I may head down there on Tuesday night to check it out.And there's one more interesting note in the article-- Anderson says he shot the movie in 2 1/2 days and edited it on his own computer in a week. What kind of computer was that, Mr. Anderson? Could Apple be able to pick up someone to finally defend iMovie?
iMovie '08: It's not that bad
iMovie '08 has gotten a bad rap lately so I decided to put it through its paces and see what all the fuss was about. Now, I'm not a professional video editor -- just your average Josephine -- but, frankly, I think the new iMovie kinda rocks.
