Final Cut Pro

Introduction to Final Cut Pro 3

Apple's Final Cut Pro 3 is a program that allows producers to edit videotape shot with a digital video camera. Final Cut allows video producers to isolate specific clips of video from tapes or digitized files, put them in order, create transitions between scenes, add special effects and audio voiceovers, and print the finished video to tape or to a digital file for online viewing.

This tutorial focuses on the basic concepts and skills needed to create videos using Final Cut Pro 3. Short videos will be the focus, but the same skills can be applied longer forms.

Module I
Input discusses the process of importing digital video to Final Cut Pro. It includes an exploration of the Final Cut Pro system for capturing digital video as well as an explanation of how to import already digitized files.

Module II
Let's see it covers basic editing skills such as putting scenes in order, creating basic transitions and cuts, and other kinds of editing to pull a project together.

Module III
Let's hear it discusses how to add and enhance audio for the video. Besides the sound captured on the video, this can include importing a digitized audio clip or recording a voiceover.

Module IV
Output shows how to get the finished video ready for viewing. This includes printing the project to regular tape or exporting the file as a digital film for viewing online.

Most modules in the tutorial provide sample video files for use with the tutorial, which can be downloaded at the beginning of each module. Directions will be given for those that require video that the user has shot.