For those of you from my musical era, do I hear you thinking "Doobie Brothers" right now? LOL!~ I recently received my Flip Video Camera from Bob at ActiveRain. I was asked to demo the camera along with an on-line Video editing and production platform called Mixpo, Video Advertising for small and medium sized businesses. This past week, I had the chance to "Take It To The Streets" and use them both in the field.
I was given an opportunity to meet up with a few of the other ActiveRain members, so I wanted to put the camera and Mixpo to the test. This is just one way to use the Flip Video and on-line editing applications to produce many types of Marketing, Advertising, and Educational campaigns. The following is an interview from my new "Flip Video Series" with fellow ActiveRain member and Author, Steve Snyder. Co-Author of "Secrets to Buying a Home with Little of No Money Down". This is my first attempt at using both the Flip Video Camera and Mixpo as new tools for Blogging.
This second video I have added was an opportunity to meet and interview with Steve and Diana Turnbloom from Turnbloom and Associates. (actually, I kind of cornered them into a doorway..LOL!) This one was filmed on the street in front of Biso Ristorante, a quaint little Italian restaurant located in the back streets of Downtown Vallejo. It was recorded at night time to test and demonstrate the quality of the Flip Video in low light situations. This interview gives true meaning to "Taking It To The Streets!"
The Flip Video camera is simple to use. Just pull from your pocket (it's that small) power on, point at subject, push the red button and record. When done, just "Flip" the USB (built into the camera) plug into your computer, drag and drop your video on to your desktop, and you're done! The Video editing at Mixpo is just as easy. More on that later...
Look for future posts in this "Flip Video Series" on the "How -To" and "ways to use video and mixpo" as part of your business marketing and advertising. This is very cool and really fun stuff. Did I mention that "I Love My Job?" :-)
170 Comments on Flip Video - Taking It To The Streets
MAR
30
2008
Now that I have viewed this a couple times, I suggest a small tripod, and making sure your voice is equal distance to the camera. The voices can be edited, but the shaking can only be fixed with a tripod. :-)
Brad, the editing is pretty impressive, and the message is powerful. I already like that Steve Snyder guy and it took, what, 2 minutes to let me see who he is?! What does it cost to be able to use the Mixpo editing? Never mind, I'm going to click on the link above! I just love your new roll!
Besides a good post, you've put a great song into my head!
You don't know me but I'm your brother. I was raised here in this living hell. You don't know my kind in your world. Fairly soon the time will tell
You, telling me the things you're gonna do for me. I ain't blind and I don't like what I think I see. Takin' it to the streets, takin' it to the streets, no more need for runnin', takin' it to the streets.
Take this message to my brother. You will find him everywhere. Wherever people live together, tied in poverty's despair.
Brad - This is so cool. A friend of mine who is a professor is also testing this product. So far she loves it also. I'd really like to hear more about mixpo.
Missy and Natalie - For some reason AR is not completely compatible with Safari. Missy - you can download the Firefox browser to use with your mac and you should be set. Natalie - I don't know if you can change browsers with the phone, I don't think so.
Hi Brad -
I was really hoping you, or another guru, would spend some time exploring the capabilities of the Flip camera. I bought mine about a month ago, and so far, am impressed with the quality of videos for the price of the camera (I got mine online from Target - $150 for the one with 60 minutes of video.)
The problem that I have is that it seems to take over 20 minutes to save a 5 minute movie when editing in MS Movie Maker. Also, when I uploaded my first one to google video, it took something like 4 hours to get it done (I have a high speed cable connection)! I must be missing some compression tricks or something!
HELP!
Vicki
Steve - you're 2 weeks ahead of me! haha! I just shot another video of some members I met at a Jazz Club last night, I may mixpo it and throw it up on this post! :-) (time permitting) LOL!~
Barbara - you can learn so much here from so many great people, it's the best place to Blog, grow your business, and build authentic and sincere relationships. There's no place like AR I always say! :-)
Brad, is there a cost to use the mixpo website? I went to it and they ask for my info... do you know of any site that provides similar material but for free?
Great post... i get a lot of ideas from you. great work.
Natalie - I'm not quite sure the plan to incorporate mixpo to AR members. I think we are just testing right now, but as soon as I found any more information, you know I'll be posting about it!
Missy - Maureen said it. I had some issues with Safari, so I installed Firefox on the MacBook. Problem solved! Thanks Maureen for your help, I was at the store with the Family.
AJ - so far so good. I haven't really run into any glitches or bugs... they are certainly great tools for marketing and advertising. People just love video. You can really get to know someone in just a few minutes. It's hard to do that with just text and a photo.
I just need to work on my interview skills and questions... Just being better prepared will help I think! :-)
Natalie - I saw your comment at the store, I used my iPhone to test a comment and it worked just fine. You might want to make sure you have the latest Firmware and Software on your iPhone. Just plug it into the Mac and do a software update. Mine is using Safari, but you'll see above that I wasn't logged in. It still worked fine. :-)
Matt - you noticed the "Shakey" thing I see. Still, not too bad for a phone sized video camera that fits in your top shirt pocket eh? I'm posting another one on this post in a few. Still no tripod, but a really fun interview with some great AR members! :-) Yes...Very Cool!!
Monika - you can win one for FREE! Just enter the Video Contest that Bob Blogged about earlier. You'd have a great chance. Just think, you could take it to Germany when you go to see "Family"! (Big Smile) :-))))))
Elaine - that was nice. I never thought to place the words, I wonder if anyone is even clicking on that video link to the Doobie Brothers. I love that song, thanks!! :-)
Maureen - Mixpo is very cool. I'd be happy to share what I know and can. Also, Sarah Cooper just did a post about it too. You'll be hearing more about it as things unfold here in the near future. I'll be doing some trainings and possible webinars later on but shhhhh...I'm not sure how many the webinar will host.
I was really hoping you, or another guru, would spend some time exploring the capabilities of the Flip camera. I bought mine about a month ago, and so far, am impressed with the quality of videos for the price of the camera (I got mine online from Target - $150 for the one with 60 minutes of video.)
The problem that I have is that it seems to take over 20 minutes to save a 5 minute movie when editing in MS Movie Maker. Also, when I uploaded my first one to google video, it took something like 4 hours to get it done (I have a high speed cable connection)! I must be missing some compression tricks or something!
HELP!
Vicki
Vicki - there could be a few reasons this is happening, but the most likely reason may be the format. Flip Video put the movie in an .avi format by default. I'm not too sure about Movie Maker, but it only took seconds for Mixpo to upload it. Call me, maybe we can walk you through it over the phone. It's much quicker when I can see what you see on your computer. Here if you need me! :-)
Brad, I've had my flip video for about five months now and absolutely love it. I've been using it in my home inspection business to record the details that I don't want to forget. And also as a way to better inform the customer of issues. I've done a couple of interviews with it and I definitely need to work on my interview skills, but I think that will also grow to. I found it to be a real benefit to my business.
Tina - just go win one for FREE!! Go to Bob Stewarts post about the Video Contest! They're giving away 2 flip video's for 2nd and 3rd place in the contest! You need to enter that contest, go check it out. It will be very fun. First Place gets a trip to New York, and some other very cooool stuff! :-)
Lisa - ActiveRain will give you one! That's right, Give you one for FREE!! But, there's one small catch, you have to enter the video contest and place either 2nd or 3rd. I know you can do it. Use someones video cell phone to create an entry and then go submit it. You CAN AFFORD to do that, who knows, you may be one of the winners!
Freddy - I'm not quite sure if, or what the cost will be, but I know it will be reasonable and worth every penny. Keep checking back with me. As soon as I know, the whole Blogosphere will know. :-)
David - thanks for the confirmation and your approval and blessings. I wish I had mine months ago. There have been some great opportunities I would have loved to get on video. Not ALL of them could've been shared here, but most of them could! haha! Thanks my friend! :-) Have a great week!
Brad, this is the first time I've heard of this "flippin" thing! What's different from that of an ordinary digital camera, other than the USB port? How much are they? How many megapixels, etc? Thanks for the post!
Great job, Brad! Very well done. You are a natural with a camera - be it still or video. It looks like you have found your niche. I'm very happy for ya!
Don - what's different in my opinion is the ease of USB, the size, (same as a phone) 640x480 pixels, 2 Gigs for 1 full hour recording, 2 double AA batteries, quality video and decent audio for about 130 bucks.
Pick, Flip, Point, Shoot, Drag, Drop, Post and Submit! That should pretty much sum it up! LOL!~
Denise - If you don't like the camera, you can always return it. What have you got to loose. It will fit in your purse and it's easier to run than a camera or camera phone. (OMG - Listen to me, you'd think I had stock in the company or something..which I don't LOL!)
Carol - there you go again, buttering me all up!! :-)) This is just a great way to use video as a tool for marketing or advertising and promoting yourself, your business, your neighborhood, homes for sale, events, etc. I think my niche is really just the "Having Fun With It" part! LOL!~
Hi Brad, This is all so exciting and I can't wait to see how all this is going to work. But work it will, I am sure of it. I check out the other posts to see what insight they have as well. Many Thanks for all you doing for us. Ever hear of Web 3.0? Sounds like it is upon us.
OHHH this is so cool! I can't wait to have a break from all these spring contracts to find the newest toy to play with. Is the best place to buy it online? Seriously, Brad, 4 contracts this week & 3 still in the works. Hanging around this site is, in it's subtle manner (just like you can't watch a flower grow), allowing my vision to expand and my confidence to grow. Success is not a ladder... it is a field of rain.
William - I do think Web 3.0 is coming! haha! It will be some kind of hologram and implant chip! Just think it, plug into the matrix, and it shall all be yours! LOL!~ Thanks for stopping by, it's always great to see hear from you my friend! :-)
Mara - you are BUSY!! That is a beautiful thang! Success in not a ladder, it's a field of "Active"rain! :-)))
Remember that the woman on top of the mountain, well, she didn't fall there.... Have a great week and congrats on all those contracts and clients! Well deserved for all your efforts!
hey, April 1st is around the corner... can you imagine creating a movie that could open up on your screen & look like cnn.news or something? Do it at the office when lot of people are around... Make the announcement loud & in total disbelief; top story,!breaking news! the presidential race is being halted as how we interact and receive information is about to be altered forever!!! the biggest technological advancement of the new millenium (all this would be broadcasting in the background as people are scurrying over to your station). THIS WILL CHANGE THE WORLD FOREVER!!!!
"Web 3.0 is coming! It will be some kind of hologram and implant chip! ....Plug into the matrix, and it shall all be yours!" NO ONE will need agents. THE MATRIX WILL GUIDE YOU. Finally, everything is free!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now wouldn't that be some fun? Goodnight everyone!
Denise- If you don't like the camera, you can always return it. What have you got to loose. It will fit in your purse and it's easier to run than a camera or camera phone. (OMG - Listen to me, you'd think I had stock in the company or something..which I don't LOL!)
Actually, Brad, I was wondering if you had a purse! Just kidding. I don't have a Mac, just an iPhone, so I'll see what pops up when I sync my phone or try to comment without signing in. We can't make a video on our iPhones, can we?
ALSO - I'm a little confused on this flip cam. Is there a specific brand/model or are we talking about or is this generally a generic term?
Brad - I would like to hear more about the editing process with Mixpo. I uploaded something from our "old' camcorder yesterday just to the software on the mac we have just to play and get a feel for that side of it and I have to say the editing took longer than I expected. Perhaps that is part of the learning curve. I was editing clips though as I suppose we would do for a longer home tour or neighborhood profile so that may have added time to it. I would enjoy seeing you demo something with editing clips like that and reporting back on that process if possible with Mixpo or whatever else you may use. But overall, I am very impressed and appreciate you testing the waters so to speak.
Mara - you have such a creative and fun imagination. Hmmm..... WEB 3.0 on CNN, that might be a good idea for you to do for the ActiveRain video contest. :-)
Debbie - I am glad you're convinced. Sarah and Desiree are two awesome bloggers I respect and appreciate. The benefits of these tools in our business today is probably taken a bit for granted with all the other Web 2.0 technology and tools out there. I for one, don't want to miss an opportunity to help others grow business through a channel that has become the most widely used marketing tool in the world. Television, and now Internet Video. This really is a huge movement that will change the world of FREE Marketing as we know it today.
Natalie - I do kinda have a purse, or at least it looks like a purse, I carry it over my shoulder like a purse, but it's my Laptop case with my MacBook Pro!! hahaha!!
I have only had my iPhone for a week and I love it more than any phone I have ever owned. Might be time for a post on that one too. My iphone only has a camera, but maybe the next firmware update will include video. Let me know how your phone is working with AR, mine seems to work just fine.
The Flip Video Camera is a Flip Brand. Here's a link that will give you everything you need to know. I also placed a few links in the comments above showing where you can get one online, or if you prefer, just walk into any Target, Wal-Mart, BestBuy etc. There are two models I am aware of, the 30 min. or the 60 min. models. That's it.
Brad, Geez! What am I to do? Now I have to do video blogs before I'm even comfortable with written posts? You just keep pushing the envelope. How about a break to breathe? I need help!
Steve - great to see you diving into the world of Video. The editing process does get streamlined and it is a bit time consuming in the beginning. You are correct in saying that it is just part of the learning curve. I will post instructions on how to use templates created with editing software to reduce the time factor in Video editing. It does get easier and faster as you go. I just added a second video to this post which only took me about 10 minutes to edit then post. :-)
Tony - great to hear from you my friend!! I am very excited about my new role at ActiveRain. It's a blessing to be able to share and support something I am very passionate about... :-)
Mike - that's great, it will give you some time to practice before I get there. By then, I should have a lot more information I'll be able to share. Have a great week Mike! :-)
Brad, have you guys all bought stock in Flip Video? My wife uses video in her dance business and has purchased 7 or 8 video cameras in the past few years for her teachers to use to film their dance students. I wonder if the Flip Videos would make things easier -- they're certainly lighter than lugging around a camcorder -- though even those are tinier than the camcorders from back in the day.
And how much is it for MIXPO? I have the flip on order from newegg but now I'm wondering how much I want to invest for the flip, the program etc. I have a beautiful mini sony cam....how does all this compare? I know my Sony videos come out beautiful but wanted something easier to use.
How interesting is that. Ive heard alot about it. The only thing that seems like would be better if it had a stand so it could be steady. DOes it have a way of being steady?
Brad!
Fabulous din din, entertainment and I got to feel like a movie star for a few minutes! Thanks for sharing this technology with my hubby Steve and me. Think I'll pick one up and bring it to the car races in two weeks! I want to record the look in your eyes as you get into the car to race with Steve! Har! Har! "Welcome to My World!" Diana
I saw the flip phones, but the people I asked at the store said the quality isn't really very good. I'm not sure wh use a flip camera instead of a handheld or a video camera on my point and shoot. Is the lense better, what resolution is it. The only thing I see is it's easy to see th big red button and it flips out a usb, but those things are on every camera, as far as a record button and ability to connect to a computer. But th pics video looks good. Lets see a side by side with a point and shoot video and a small handheld.
Hi Brad, I have a question. While you and ActiveRain are working on adding the ability to post the videos, will the posts also require the old rule of a minimum of 50 words for the post to count? Since there may and likely will be voice, will it also be necessary to have the written words? It would be my opinion that there should be no requirement for writing in this format. Thanks again. I hope I answered my own question,lol
Nice post!!! Odd they named it 'flip'...And Realtors are going crazy over it...I understand they're coming out with two other versions...'the predator' for mortgage guys...and 'the affiliator' for title people!!! :^), Thanks, Fran
Brad -{Bob here} Glad you posted this. I only have one question, actually 2. Why not just use the MPEG functions on digital cameras that most have these days. I have done a few of these and the quality seems to be alright but I am guessing you can only upload to Utube to utilize them on the web right? Also I see the flips are recording in AVI format I believe from what I've read so far. How did you get them embedded into the blog? Was it using Mixpo that made it easy to do or am I missing something. Debating whether to invest in one of these cams. Still undecided but I do like the quality for sure.. Thanks and hope your well.
Nice videos B-Rad. I have seen a lot of people using the "Flip" video cameras. I think you are right that a tripod is a must. I am still looking to make the move into video. Maybe the Flip with be the gadget that makes it happen?
Brad- I was just getting up to speed on podcasting and thought I'd be on the cutting edge with it, should I be shifting gears and take a hard look at video? Do you have more specifics on the camera you used?
This is the second mixpo video that I have been unable to view. First Sarah Cooper's and now yours. Is there a reason for this? Is there something I need that I may not have? I've never had trouble viewing videos before so thought you may have some advice. Thanks!
Bill - no worries, take your time and advance at your own pace and comfortable speed. I know this stuff is over-whelming to some, but it doesn't mean you have to do it, just having the knowledge it's out there can be helpful too. :-)
Brad, have you guys all bought stock in Flip Video? My wife uses video in her dance business and has purchased 7 or 8 video cameras in the past few years for her teachers to use to film their dance students. I wonder if the Flip Videos would make things easier -- they're certainly lighter than lugging around a camcorder -- though even those are tinier than the camcorders from back in the day.
Brian - No stock! LOL! Your wife may find the flip video camera very useful and convenient in her Dance business. When is her birthday??? :-)
Sally - any video works with Mixpo. I think the fact that the Flip Camera is small and easy to use is what makes it very attractive to many of us. Not sure yet of the pricing on Mixpo, I'm sure that information is being reviewed and will be released soon.... Aloha to you and the Fam.. :-)
Dave - that was my feeling too. For an interview, a stand works well, for a virtual tour or a community event, you want to be mobile. I have a portable tripod I used today at a "Real Rain" meeting we had, and the tripod made all the difference in the world.
Angelica - so what are you waiting for? Get out there and have some fun with it. I know you are creative and can come up with some cool ideas on how to use it. Shoot som Video and then enter the contest, you do know about the contest right? :-)
Christy - you are kidding me. :-) You would be great using video. Think of all the wonderful things you can do with video. Capturing those moments digitally that will last a lifetime. Photo's are great, but video is better! If you need any help, you just let me know!!! :-)
Diana - hope you enjoyed the video as much as dinner! The food was awesome and the company even better! :-) Shoot me an email confirmation about the races, I didn't get it on my calendar. Also, let me know what you find out when you talk to Bob about the Webinars. They just got back from Atlanta, so he may not get to your call right away...poor guy must be exhausted!! :-)
Ross - I like the side by side comparison idea, but if you already have a video camera, and you're happy with it, just use it and start shooting! :-) The flip camera is just a camera, no phone, 640x480 resolution with 1 hr digital recording time. Let me know if you need more information, or you can google it for the specs. Happy to help any way I can. :-)
Hi Brad - From this post and several other Rainer videos it's clear that the Flip is very easy to get started with. I should have mine later this week and am looking forward to seeing what it can do. Who knows, there may be a future Spielberg somewhere in the Rain!
Ross - I am so glad you asked that! I was waiting for someone to catch that! Mixpo allows you to create links, and email buttons and banners etc. I have never seen another video to that allows you to do this. It's one of the "New" cutting edge technologies that Mixpo and AR hope to bring to our members. I have searched for this feature in other video platforms and have yet to find it in any other product besides Mixpo. Good news is on it's way today...more in a bit on Mixpo.... :-))))
William - you bring up an interesting point (no pun intended) I think some text is good to preficit your video or topic, but I'm not sure how this will affect qualifications for points. Not sure if that has been discussed, but certainly will make the topic table now! :-) Maybe give more points for quality content video. Hmmmm..... I know that the TEAM at AR will be reviewing these comments and suggestions. Thanks for bringing this up, great stuff!! :-)
Fran - you forgot the "plunger" for the plumber!! LOL!~ You are one funny guy, can't wait to meet you someday in person. We'll have a Flippin good time!! :-)
Brad - what does this mixpo thingy cost... I looked at their website but couldnt find anything as far as that goes... guess I have to contact them.... can you give me an idea?? Is it a monthly or a yearly rate...I love this and want one today... I am so bad!
Petra - right now, it is the number 1 selling portable video camera. Not sure how many members will purchase one, but I can tell you that video will take off on the internet because of them. Youtube and others are experiencing record numbers of uploads. Maybe my next post...haha! :-) Thanks for commenting..
I just got a camera last night (not the flip, I got the Aiptek A-HD720p). I'm curious about editing. I'm still trying to get the rest of my video idea together so that I can submit it.
Brad -{Bob here} Glad you posted this. I only have one question, actually 2. Why not just use the MPEG functions on digital cameras that most have these days. I have done a few of these and the quality seems to be alright but I am guessing you can only upload to Utube to utilize them on the web right? Also I see the flips are recording in AVI format I believe from what I've read so far. How did you get them embedded into the blog? Was it using Mixpo that made it easy to do or am I missing something. Debating whether to invest in one of these cams. Still undecided but I do like the quality for sure.. Thanks and hope your well.
Hey Bob - nice to hear from you. The Flip video is in .avi format which can be converted to whatever format that works best with whatever program you are using. Mixpo works with multiple formats, so the finished product comes from their site and the embed code is provided for your blog posts. I think a post is coming out later from AR that will explain the interface in more detail. Watch the AR Feature dashboard for more details. If you have a camera you like already (.mpeg) it's up to you as to what you want to upload and which camera to use. I know some cell phones have video too, but if it's for readers, subscribers, and consumers, quality should be an issue and definitely compared. Mixpo is so easy, some limitation, but as you can see from these samples I did, it works pretty good, especially since I am no movie producer or a Walter Cronkite! LOL!~
Say Hi to Lisa, hope we can jam someday soon...we could do a video post of the event! haha!! :-)
I don't normally hijack someone else's post but here is a new announcement around the video editing software and when it will be available for everyone
Kristal - yours is the first comment saying you can't see the video. Not sure why? Are you using Firefox or Explorer as your browser? I just checked this post using both browsers and it works fine on my computer. Let me know so we can get this fixed or figured out for you. Thanks!! :-)
Cynthia - it really isn't as high tech as it may seem. Video has been huge on youtube and google for quite some time now, it's just that we are trying to make it easier for members to jump on this powerful marketing tool. You can use any video camera, it's just nice that flip has come out with something so user friendly and compact but still delivers decent quality video and sound. Combined with a product like MIXPO, this will be a huge member benefit in the "Rain":-)
Hi Brad - From this post and several other Rainer videos it's clear that the Flip is very easy to get started with. I should have mine later this week and am looking forward to seeing what it can do. Who knows, there may be a future Spielberg somewhere in the Rain!
John - I think that future Spielberg might just be YOU! I think you'll love the camera, and MIXPO even more.
Kim - go get one! You deserve it! You may sell more homes because of it!! Thanks for the compliment, and I am jealous of me too! LOL!~ I'll try not to let you down in my new role here in the "rain", no pressure right? :-)
Linda - thanks! It has been a whirl, but a fun whirl at that. I am trying to do one video per day to better my skills as a camera man, an interviewer, and to just increase my creativity on how to use this tool to assist YOU in growing your business and knowledge here. I'll have to come by your office....you might just be my next interview!! :-O
640x480 might be less than a megapixel, but to put this in perspective, the current "standard" for web video is 320x240. The higher the resolution, the more data that has to be pumped across the Internet -- bandwidth is a big factor for streaming video. A low resolution vlog that plays without interruption makes a better impression than a higher resolution vlog that stutters and pauses.
Michael - entertainment is a great way to put it. You should see some of Broker Bryant's videos. Now that's entertainment tonight! I am always looking for new ideas, feel free to share if you have some things in mind! :-)
Brad - what does this mixpo thingy cost... I looked at their website but couldnt find anything as far as that goes... guess I have to contact them.... can you give me an idea?? Is it a monthly or a yearly rate...I love this and want one today... I am so bad!
Kim - here's a link that just came out not more than an hour ago. Looks like they are ready to roll this thing out based on the response and feedback we are getting! Here you go:
Lane - just by the sound of it's name, it must be a really nice camera. It will work great too. There are many editing programs out there, the one I used tested for these videos was Mixpo online. It's easy for beginners who don't have a lot of video editing software or experience. At home I use Movie Maker, Pinnacle Studio, and iMovie on the MAC. It really depends on your level of expertise. :-)
Anthon - an awesome and most excellent point my friend. Mixpo allows you to create 640x480 or 320x240. So regardless of how it goes in, you can control how it comes out and the final mix and production. I agree that it's better to have smaller glitchless video than to have bigger stuttering and "froze up my computer" videos. Thanks for pointing that out my friend. You will be a great asset to the testing and success of this new platform.
Brad: This is awesome. Thank you for sharing. I have been kicking this around for a while this gives me the encouragement to try it. What are you using for editing?
Brad - I'm using explorer..Not really sure why it isn't working. Like I said, I've never had trouble with video before so this is a new one on me. When I click on the video, it shows "Loading 100%", but the video never starts.
Don't ask me what I did, but after I made the last comment, I decided to try it one more time and it worked. That's really wierd, because I've done nothing different, and I had tried several times before giving up earlier..
Brad - This is just way too cool! I immediately went to the Flip camera web link you provided. It seems pretty neat and looks like the quality is pretty good. I've been thinking about buying a digital video camera for a while so this might be it.
Which flip camera do you have? When you shot the video - did you use a tripod? What about the sound. Did you plug in a good microphone into the camera or does it have a good built in one?
Love it! I wonder how it stands up to other camcorders on the market..it certainly seems to deliver good quality for the price. I am checking out the website next. Thanks for this Brad.
Ray - thanks for stopping by yesterday, it's always great to have you over to my Blog! :-) Gotta keep up with all this stuff now a days, there's so many cool tools and marketing services that I think we take for granted, this being one of them. Great to see you, stop by anytime... :-)
Alan - I'm glad this got you excited. I used MIXPO.com, but DON'T go to their website, you can only get it through ActiveRain. Go back up this post and in the comments you will see a dancing FROG! That link will take you to the post that explains how to get MIXPO as your video editor. Very cool program and worth the small time and investment. Let me know if you have any questions or need any support. Thanks! :-)
Which flip camera do you have? When you shot the video - did you use a tripod? What about the sound. Did you plug in a good microphone into the camera or does it have a good built in one?
Jessica - I have the 2 gig model (1 hour recording time) I didn't use a tripod on this one, I think I will in the future depending on what I'm shooting. The sound is great! No mic needed, just point and shoot. I did use Mixpo to do the overlays, links, intro music and animations. Very cool application that's all online so you can use it from anywhere. It's a new platform being offered to AR members at a very reasonable price. Let me know if you need any help or support with this stuff!! :-)
Ryan - let me know what you find. I read here on AR somewhere that it is the #1 selling Video Camera right now. I think it's because of the size, price, quality, and ease of use, especially with the USB "Flip". Would love to hear what you discover, however it's too late for me, I already have one! LOL!~ :-)
Team Wright Realty - Putting this one to the field test, it seems to be passing my own personal tests. Not sure how it stands up against the competition, (not sure there is any) but I am happy with it so far. For all the reasons mentioned in the comment just above, I am very satisfied with the Flip Video. Still testing the battery life on it, but other than that, I do recommend it if you don't already have a decent method for recording video.
Steve - happy to do it, the ability to add associates here on AR has more benefits and value than meets the eye. Your associates page is your list of references and affiliations that help build credibility to other viewers here on AR. Take a look at some of the members associates page, you can get a good sense of what others feel and think about them, their contributions, and their overall presence as a member here. I use it as my referral and references source. Love it! Thanks! :-)
Brad - {bob here again} thanks for the info. I certainly appreciate it and your time. Wow you sure got a lot of comments. This post alone is going to keep you busy. ha ha I'm going to look into this flip camera. You sure you don't own stock in this company? lol Yeah I'd love to jam w/you one day. A coast to coast jam. :-) Now that's networking! Take care and keep up the great work. We are all not worthy. LOL
Bob - Did I hear someone say "AR Band Tour" Why don't we do a post calling in all musicians on ActiveRain, we can create a Virtual Studio over at Imusicscene.com, and put together a CD that could push the whole TOUR idea out there. It's not out of the question you know, I'd love see what and who would come out of it. :-)
I'm working on a new song with my wife right now called "All I Need", just preproduction, but it's coming along and would be a great tune for the "AR TOUR"
We could call ourselves "An American Band!" :-) I'd even bring my Flip Video and do the MTV video production! LOL!!!
Natalie - my login name on most sites including AR is "Band"ersohn! So I like Active Band! It's got a nice ring to it! :-)))) You crack me up when you crack up! LOL!~ No worries...no one cares, you're always loved here! :-)
Bob - no problem! Let me know what you think after you view it. When I make it over to your area, you can test out mine if you like, I'd be happy to let you borrow it when I'm in your area! :-)
Brad - this is the flip camera I know as the Point n' Shoot that I picked up at Costco and also Target. They have a 60 minute camera now and originally it was meant to be a disposable cam for on the go. If you recall last Sept/Oct we spoke about me writing for the Technobabble blog, well this was little surprise gadget! I have bought them for sisters and other friends and it has been a huge hit, especially for young moms with kids, trips to the zoo or anything around town!
I myself have recorded a few things and have not been able to fine tune the outcome to my liking, however I thought a little tri-pod would help it some if I did it from my desktop...I just never cared for looking at myself. Sooooooo now that it seems to be a hit and all my friends are brave enough, you might see me go forward with a video too. I hate being the last in the crowd ya know! Btw, I could not get the video to load and your page takes forever...are you still loading tons of widgets? However, might I ad your blog is well worth waiting for it to load anyway! Take care, greetings from Arizona!
Brad - I'm in firefox and couldn't see it either. top one - nothing the bottom on the two faces a little music then nothing - but gotta say LOVE IT - this is SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOo Exciting. Hope you keep me in the loop (no pun intended) - keep up the good work!!!
I finally saw the top one also. I was just thinking about MIXPO... maybe I should ask my brother for some feedback on this, maybe it will be interesting...He's been doing video assist, editing and production over 20 years for the film industry (currently working on another Star Wars, and just finished working on the animation movie called "Avatar", out this summer). I'm ordering one this week and can't wait to actually try it!
Brad - {Bob Hammerstein here} just wanted to specify that. lol too many bob's on here. Sounds like a cool idea to do a recording. I have done many recordings using Ftp sites to get the tracks. We could do wave files and add our stuff as it comes along. Question is who's gonna do the final mx? I'm getting a little to ahead of myself of course. Let talk in twitter later this day or evening. I'm up for it. I'm currently working on our 3rd childrens/adult album right now along with Real Estate of course, but this sounds like a great idea. Looking forward to hear how we can do this. I'm gonna check out the Imusicscene.com site. Cool Talk later have a great day!
Hey Brad! Thought I commented on Monday but looks like it never posted! Thanks for a fabulous din din on Saturday and the interview! I'm sure everyone understands that I did not have my hair and makeup people with me nor a teleprompter. But I think it turned out well in any event! I'm going to pick one of those doohickeys up so I can record your face when you get into the race car with Steve in a couple of weeks! Har! Har! "Welcome to My World!" Diana
Candace - two words.... STOP USING INTERNET EXPLORER! Firefox is the best Browser on ActiveRain. I only have 5 widgets and the rest are just graphics. It may be all the video's loading that is slowing up your windows 98 - 286 computer. LOL!~ Let's also try to get you off your dial up modem!! :-))) You know I luv ya!
Shoot some video, do your post, and let me know, I want to come see what ya got goin on!! :-)
Cyndee - now that concerns me. 130+ comments and you're one of the first to say you can't see it. I need to figure out what's going on here. First Candace, and now you? Now it's getting serious. Candace logged in and then said it worked fine. I see you are logged in, hmmmmm.... One for the experts back at the ranch to figure out. I'm leaving town for a couple days to decompress! haha! Come back and try again, maybe it was just a glitch in the Matrix! :-)
Mara - you should ask him to check it out, at least these videos I posted. This is no Hollywood Movie Producer Gig, but show him the links embeded in the video, I have never seen any application on youtube or google video that can do that! Let me know what he says, I'd love to talk to him or hear his comments and feedback. Thanks Mara! :-)
Bob (the 5th) LOL!~ I'm out of town for a couple days, let's look into this when I get back. I use to use ResRocket many years ago, I'm sure the technology has gotten way better since then. Take a listen to what we created way back when. These are 4 guys, one in Sweden, one in Germany, one in France, and little ol me! Tell me what you think! :-) http://theescrowguy.com/reunion.mid
Diana - looking forward to being behind the wheel of that race car. Just make sure the roll bar is in place, we can't have anything happen to me, I have to continue my Blog! All my Avatars are on strike! LOL!~ Enjoyed our time, the dinner, and especially the video...did you catch me when I said the "Flip Video Serious"? hahaha! What was in that water??? LOL!~
Brad, OK that was great but now I lost what I wanted to say because I am logged in but it is asking me for my name like as if I am not logged in. I know you know I do not how to do this! Something weird... It happened when I just left a comment on Bob's blog too.
'Must confess I didn't real all the comments (60 so far) , so you may have answered this already. Are you using the basic $119 version or the "Ultra" at $179? Just curious. What's the quality when you plug it into a TV - 'Can't imagine it's very good, but I'll trust you on that.
What a a great thread this little "share" has become. But how was it that you received a Flip Video Camera from Bob at ActiveRain. Who is Bob and will he send me this little handy dandy device, also?
Mara - I did catch up on some much needed rest on the weekend retreat with some really great friends. Took some great video, and enjoyed the mountain air and relaxation. Thanks!! :-)
Bill - great to know you're on board. I'll be doing some flip video instruction posts and some mixpo posts as well. Should be the first part of this next week, just got back into town. Thanks for stopping by my friend. :-)
Katerina - hopefully you got this corrected. If not, let me know when we chat on the phone tomorrow, and we'll try and get that fixed for you too. Call me anytime after 8:00am PST. Hope you had a great weekend, looking forward to helping you with MIXPO in the morning. :-)
Margaret - I am using the Flip Video 2 gig (i hour) video camera. Not sure on the price, they vary from 100 - 150 dollars. The quality on the computer and the TV is absolutely incredible. I have been using it mostly for samples like the above interviews, and mostly on computer. There is an HD setting within the MIXPO platform that really shows the quality of the video from this camera. No need to get one if you are happy with the one you already have. If you don't have a video camera, I do highly recommend the Flip Video for your Real Estate tool box.
To the unknown commenter - Bob is the Community Evangelist for ActiveRain. I'm sure that for the right price, he can get you a camera too, but I suggest ordering it online, or picking one up from Best Buy, Target, Wal-Mart etc. They are very inexpensive, and worth the price for the quality and ease of use. Hope that helps you out. :-) Thanks for being willing to test out some of the technology here, we'd love to see your video contributions. :-)
Brad, Thanks so much for the info on the flip camera. It seems to have great quality and sounds simple enough for even me to use! I'm new to AR, and loving all of the info I'm getting. Thanks again! Elizabeth www.Huntsville-Realestate.com
Elizabeth - welcome to AR and our community. You will find this place to be one of the most powerful and useful resources to your business, at least I did when I first started and I still do. Let me know if I can help you out in any way. Looking forward to your contributions and success stories here as well. :-)))
I've had a FlipVideo camera since December. I love it!! It is with me wherever I go ... well 90% of the time. Haven't used it for real estate yet - but plan to. I have found that the quality is significantly less on full zoom, but it does a great job otherwise. I highly recommend it.
Tina - thanks for sharing that, I haven't used the zoom much yet, but I have only been doing interviews so I haven't needed to. Glad you think the camera is worthy of owning. Can't wait to see what you'll be doing with it regarding Real Estate. Hopefully you entered the ActiveRain Video contest, if not, you should! :-))
What a Rush! Steve Snyder is a friend of mine for over 13 years! It caught me totally off guard to see him pop up on the screen! Great job, Brad and Steve
Steve - that is the power of ActiveRain, once again displayed for the world to see. Call me next week, maybe the three of us can go do lunch or coffee. I think this is so cool. My brother found me here on AR after being disconnected for over 41 years! The power in the rain is unmeasurable!! :-))))
Benjamin - online is cheapest, otherwise I have seen them at Best Buy, Target, WalMart, KMart, Wolfe and Ritz camera, but I would try D&H Photo online. The Largest camera warehouse with the best pricing and no sales tax. Good luck and happy hunting. :-)
For those of you from my musical era, do I hear you thinking "
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