The Logging Process
You then review the window dubs, becoming familiar with the footage. When you see something you are interested in using, write down the reel name and time code where it starts and ends. Notes about the subject, action, where it belongs in the finished video are important. If you have a number of similar shots you are going to choose from, it's a good idea to grade each one A, B, C, etc. If you are working with a script, you may want to write down a shot and take number. Be sure to write down not only the time code of the start of your shots, but also the end. If you are not sure exactly where to begin and end write a start time a little earlier and an ending time a little later than you think you need.

This is a very time consuming process, but you do it on your own time. It is absolutely essential for you to know your material, so it is time well spent. Most important, it saves much more time later- time that otherwise would be spent with an editor in our edit suite at an hourly charge.

When done reviewing your window dubs, make an edit list of all the shots, in the order you want them in the finished video. Each shot in the list should include all information, especially time codes, reel names, and descriptions.

Editing
Once the edit list is complete, you can e-mail, FAX, or bring it to us. First, we type your reel names and time codes into our computerized editing system. The edit system then retrieves the shots from the master tapes and copies them to the large hard drives of the editor. When this step is complete, we can assemble your video or you can work directly with an editor in our edit suite to finish the project.

While there is no short cut to becoming familiar with your footage and figuring out what you want to use, window dubs permit you to study your footage and make your edit decisions without pressure on your budget.