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Providing a Window Burn for Reference
When providing a review copy to your client, it can be extremely useful to add a timecode
window burn to the video. A timecode window burn superimposes the program’s run
time over the visuals of the program, in order to provide a consistent timing reference
that your client can use to identify the exact moment referred to in each note he or she
gives you. You can add a timecode window burn to your program in several ways:
• You can add a window burn to your program within Final Cut Pro, using the Timecode
Generator or Timecode Reader filter.
• You can add a window burn to a Motion project using the Timecode generator.
• You can add a window burn to media you create with Compressor, using the Timecode
Generator filter.
• If you’re having a review session using iChat Theater Preview, you can turn on a
timecode reference that the remote viewer can see.
For more information, see the Final Cut Pro and Compressor documentation.
Local Review Methods
It sounds obvious, but if you need the maximum communication while you work, with
minimum preparation and the highest-quality playback, there’s no substitute for having
your client in the room with you.
Review locally for quality control
It’s especially important to have the client with you if you’re performing finishing tasks
such as color correction or audio mixing where quality control is essential. During the
finishing process, it’s critical for your client to be looking at the same monitor and listening
to the same speakers, in the same environment, that you are. Otherwise, you risk getting
feedback that has more to do with the quality and calibration of the client’s remote
equipment than it does with your actual adjustments.
Even if you’re routinely delivering copies of your program to a client for remote viewing,
it’s a good idea to arrange for at least one face-to-face review session of the entire program
at your suite, to make sure that all video and audio adjustments are definitively approved.
Review via Final Cut Server
If you’re in a facility that uses Final Cut Server to manage the various assets of your
program, you can use the Review and Approve feature of Final Cut Server to notify
reviewers of the availability of a program on the server. You can then track the status of
the review as the program is checked out and in from different suites of a multiple-room
facility. Final Cut Server is also capable of keeping a record of all editorial feedback from
every invited viewer. For more information, see the Final Cut Server documentation.
62 Chapter 4 Client Review