Improving Skies: Many Means to an End with in:sync Speed Razor 4.0
by William Davidson & Mickey McKane

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One of the things I have always loved about using Speed Razor is the fact there are several ways to get the same job done. Whichever way you feel comfortable with, and depending on the application, will decide the efficiency of the operation you are performing. Whether it is library-based storyboard editing, timeline trimming, or enhancing your shots, there usually are many ways to go about it. In this tutorial I will show you how to do a specific case of image enhancement and give you a variety of different ways to get the job done -- all while introducing some of Speed Razor's powerful effects.

To get started, download the .tga files used in this tutorial, open Speed Razor and load the Gradient Designer (gradient.vfx) into the Library. You’ll later use the Matte and Fast Blur effects. (This tutorial is designed for Speed Razor 4.0 S or 4.0 RT versions.)

Problem 1: A common complaint many people have with digital video is that the sky it reproduces is flat. This also can occur on any type of acquisition format on an overcast day.

The Speed Razor Gradient Designer effect can be used for far more than generating gradient backgrounds for your corporate videos. It can also be used to enhance your visuals from exterior shots. This is especially important in the days of digital video.

Example shots: A) blue, somewhat overcast sky, B) cloudy sky, C) hazy evening sky