VFX

OmniMount VFX Fixed Low-Profile Wall Mount for 42" to 63" Displays (Black)
$119.95
With a single wall plate, installing the VFX flat panel mount is quick and easy. 0.75-Inch (19mm) low profile design; Includes universal rails and spacers; for greater panel compatibility; Steel construction for durability and strength; Sliding lateral on-wall adjustment; Single wall plate allows for quick installation; Small footprint provides ample room for power and A/V cutouts behind panel; Lift and Lock for easy installation; Locking system for added safety; Anti-theft security feature; Includes end caps for a clean side view; Includes complete Grade 5 hardware kit. Fits most: 42-inch to 63-inch flat panels; Supports up to: 200 lbs (90.7 kg); Mounting profile: .75-inch (19mm); Mounting: Double-stud; Universal and VESA compliant: 100x200, 200x200, 200x400, 300x400, 400x400, 400x600, 400x800; Color: Black.

The Visual Effects Arsenal: VFX Solutions for the Independent Filmmaker
$49.95
My Review:
I found The Visual Effects Arsenal to be a very well put together book and well thought out. In fact it's organization reminds me very much of the way an advanced effects course is taught, with small/short tutorial type lessons grouped together based on theme or similarity. Many of the techniques are very similar or exactly like questions I have been asked by students in the past. Is this book designed to teach you every aspect of After Effects or the other applications Bill talks about? No, it isn't and I wouldn't recommend this work alone if you have never used the applications before. This book seems intended to provide specific solutions to real world problem that have been presented to the author at one time or another. As the name says it is an arsenal of techniques that you can use to improve your overall After Effects/Visual Effects toolkit. I think the sub-title to the book is really accurate, what you have is a book of solutions designed to help the independent filmmaker or for that matter the independent creative professional create more polished, slicker looking projects.
I myself have used After Effects and other graphics programs for several years (well over a decade) and I can say that some of the techniques that Bill shows in this book were new even to me and some were well known. I think the greatest strength of this work is the way in which he organizes such a wide range of techniques and collects them all into a single location. As with any tutorial or project based book what you will find is that not every techniques is applicable to the type of work you are doing, but I believe that there are enough of them and a great enough variety to keep everyone happy.


In the interests of full disclosure:
My name is Jerron Smith and I formerly worked with Bill Byrne (for a while about 3 or 4 years ago I think). I am in fact one of the people interviewed for the professionals spotlight section in this book (at the end of the scifi section I think). In my professional life, I declare myself an animator - editor - educator. Currently, I am working with a variety of training companies and at MTV networks in the NYC area. I have no financial stake in the success of this book. If you want more detail into the agenda of the person writing the review you can google me.

Shoei VFX-W Motorcycle Helmet, Scimitar TC-6 White XL
$478.09
For forty-three years, Shoei has been manufacturing, testing and using advanced aero-space development methods to create a technologically advanced helmet. Because of these advanced techniques, Shoei helmets are unmistakably one of our leading performers. Shoei uses high performance fiber materials to create each helmet with a shell structure that is ultra-lightweight, rigid and resilient. Shoei helmets are designed to perform under real, intense riding conditions and are not a conglomeration of mere plastic pieces that have been slapped together. Shoei holds true to the philosophy that comfort and safety combine to produce a superior helmet. Shoei motorcycle helmets have been a leading seller in the motorcycle market for a good reason! They are a solid product with a reputation for quality and performance. Helmet City enjoys selling Shoei helmets and hearing the wonderful feedback from our satisfied customers. Most people who buy a Shoei come back for another one!

The Visual Effects Producer: Understanding the Art and Business of VFX
$39.95
I am very impressed by the thoroughness of topics covered in The Visual Effects Producer. Nothing has been left out. Over the years, many of us veterans have adopted the same methodology of tracking, managing and disseminating information and finally there is a book that accurately documents and illustrates it for generations to come.

While there is no shortcut to experience, this book is a must have for all aspiring visual effects production people and everyone on my team will be getting one for the holidays.