Arranged Delirium

iMovie continues to improve, which is a considerable relief to me. I use the application extensively when first teaching students about making digital films, so its imperrative that the tool work effectively. Otherwise I have to change software. This happens frequently enough in my classes, and I’ve had to move to FCE in the past to avoid issues that iMovie has created. But since the debacle of ‘08 the software has continued to improve. Now, I am extremely pleased to say that the Timeline is back! Without the timeline, it’s been more difficult to use the software - especially for novice users. Audio editing is also improved and a minimal storyboarding feature is “meh” but I’ll likely incorporate it in class because I still struggle to incorporate effective storyboards into the class projects. There’s also a much touted trailer feature, but I don’t see the value until I can think f an effective way to incorporate it into the class projects.

Overall though - its nice to have a strong update to the software that has been such a valuable tool for teaching neophytes about digital film editing. Here’s a link to the MacWorld review with more details.

I’ve been watching with interest the introduction of the new Apple Macbook Air. Primarily because I’m interested in the iPad and what it means for the future of computing, but also because I’m struggling to figure out how (or why) to use my laptop now. I like the idea of an integrated keyboard, but I think I’d prefer the mobility of the iPad itself. But I could see how the Air would be a nice option for some. Regardless - we can see how the iPad and its corresponding Android contemporaries are going to shape the future of what our computers will be like.

Here’s a link to Walt Mossberg’s review which I think is pretty good. For myself, I’m still planning on migrating away from my laptop and working with the iPad to day-to-day stuff and my desktop (with a huge screen) for imagery, film, web development, and programming work. But, I could do a lot with a little laptop like this. If I had the money and inclination to replace my laptop, I’d do it with this one and would recommend it to others as long as they aren’t doing development work.

In the summer of 2006, I took a few students for a hike along this gap between the South and West Mesas of Chaco Canyon. I remember it being a pleasant day, and cool. Afterwards, we enjoyed refreshing beverages and a well-prepared picnic! Ah, the memories…

This image was actually taken the day before from North Mesa above Pueblo Bonito. It’s my favorite image of the day. You can see more images of Chaco in my online galleries.

Given the prominence of Facebook and the number of folks who use it - I ask you - how much do you know about the history of Facebook and Mark Zuckerberg? I’m not talking about the drama surrounding the movie, although that has created an opportunity to learn even more as folks look into the reliability and validity of the lore behind Facebook. Robert Wright has written a piece published in the NYTimes that does a good job of analyzing the contributions (or not?) that Zuckerberg has made. In many ways, Zuckerberg is very reminiscent of Bill Gates. Smart? Sure! Lucky? Undoubtedly! Brilliant? Not so much…

I’ve had to do a fair bit of network installation at home and on campus over the years - primarily wireless. It’s invariably frustrating and a lot of trial and error, which is why I have a lot of respect for folks that do networking as a career. But if you are struggling with any wi-fi issues at home (our neighbors are all impinging on our radio waves) Lifehacker has a very accessible article to help you find your way through potential problems. I personally have an old house made of chicken-wire as well as neighbors on various channels so it took a bit of work to get things working well!