Perhaps you need to convert a PowerPoint presentation to video or just want to use some PowerPoint slides as part of another video. Many production companies either refuse to use PowerPoint material or strongly discourage it.
At Kern Video Productions, we are committed to serving our clients. Like other professionals, we recognize that PowerPoint is not designed for video and has some limitations. We also recognize its value. Let's begin by looking at PowerPoint's value for clients.
Why Use PowerPoint?
First, let's acknowledge that some clients simply want to do their own graphics. It's a way of expressing ideas and stimulating thought. We can grasp the client's visual concept much better from a PowerPoint slide than a written note or crude sketch.
Sometimes the PowerPoint presentation is an integral part of a company communication, product launch, etc. The video project is often an integral part of that package. Using some of the PowerPoint material can help that integration.
One of our clients taught us a very good use for PowerPoint- as a container. It's a single file that can contain all needed text, graphics, layouts, and even storyboard. There are no loose pieces to get lost. Their file used actions/transitions to demonstrate how an animated logo should look, builds should progress, etc.
In any case, PowerPoint is quick, easy , and an inexpensive way to create visual content. Regardless of its shortcomings, it will almost certainly be better than a talking head you never cut away from.
PowerPoint Video Display Limitations
PowerPoint's limitations center around the fact that it is designed for computer presentation rather than video presentation. These limitations compromise appearance. First, PowerPoint text is not anti-aliased, so it has jaggies. This is especially noticeable in letters with straight diagonal lines such as the letter A. Shadows can be done with PowerPoint but they are very limited. The common video trick of using a colored letter with a contrasting outline and dark shadow cannot be done with PowerPoint. This is an essential technique for making text stand out over photographic or other backgrounds that have both light and dark areas.
Colors are much more limited in scope in PowerPoint than in PhotoShop or Inscriber (A professional video character generator program). PowerPoint will often generate colors that look good on the computer screen but simply cannot be reproduced in video.
There may be single pixel horizontal lines or high contrast elements that "buzz" in video. This problem can be eliminated electronically, but sharpness of the image is compromised slightly.
