VeriCorder’s 1st Video App for iPhone, iPad

Tired of lugging around that 30 pound camera? Left your audio kit at home? Grab your iPhone (or iPad) to record and edit audio and video instead.

By using VeriCorder’s 1st Video App, you can ditch most of your gear, and cut down on those trips to the chiropractor.

It’s a suitable option for radio reporters (scroll down to see how one reporter uses it in the field). But if you’re editing video, there are some things you have to consider.

This app is going to take considerably longer to render video versus audio. Plus, most radio segments are about :40 in length, whereas video packages are generally twice as long.

If you plan to use this app for video, time how long it takes to render a typical package. You’ll also want to note that if you edit in HD, you’re video will likely be too big to email to your desk. You may have to set up a YouTube channel, which could be problematic in some shops.

If you are the first reporter on the scene of a house fire, or dramatic rescue, you could easily use this to edit about :30 worth of video and send it back immediately for air or for your station’s website.

Price

$9.99 iPhone
$29.99 iPad
Free 1st Video Net version for iPhone (for certain commercial customers)

How It Works

You’ll want some practice with this app so you can get an understanding of the work flow before you rely on it during a breaking news situation. You’ll also want to order a free copy of the user manual (you can choose to have it emailed to you when you open the app for the first time). Don’t forget to configure your YouTube and SoundCloud accounts in settings (top right on the welcome screen). Here’s a good exercise to familiarize yourself with some of the basics:

1. Record two separate audio or video clip
2. Name the files
3. Open the file manager
4. Create a “New Project”
5. Click either “Audio” or “Video” depending on which type of clips you decided to record
6. Press the “+” button and choose one of your audio or video files
7. Double-tap the timeline (the part that looks like a ruler) to activate the “in” and “out” markers
8. Drag the “in” and “out” to the parts you want edited into your project
9. Press your finger onto the selected portion until you see a small box
10. Drag that box into the gray area (it’s like putting the square peg in the square hole)
11. Press the checkmark
12. Press the “+” button and add your second clip
13. Move the clips around until you like the way they are put together
14. Press what looks like a sideways triangle (known as the “play” button) to see your final project
15. Press the “S” button to render and choose your export quality
16. Label your project
17. Press the “home” button (and save your project)
18. Tap on your final project in the audio or video section
19. Click “send” and upload it to YouTube or SoundCloud
20. Practice over and over until you are comfortable enough to use it in the field

IN THE FIELD: Radio Reporter Neal Augenstein (WTOP in Washington, DC), was the first to use this technology in the field. He sat down with Journalist Apps Founder Lindsey Mastis for a quick tutorial. (This segment was shot using the original camera app included with the iPhone4s, and edited on Final Cut Express) 

External Tools

Buy an external mic. Especially if you plan to record video. You’ll notice poor audio quality in the video below  of Lindsey Mastis’ interview with radio reporter Neal Augenstein. This is because the camera had to be set far enough away that both Mastis and Augenstein would show up on camera. That also meant the built-in mic on the iPhone was far away as well. Plus, a mic with a wind screen would cut down on background noise.

Get a tripod, at least for video. iPhones are extremely sensitive to movement and the image can sometimes appear distorted. If being stationary isn’t an option, there are other handy tools being sold by VeriCorder to help cut down on shakiness.

Helpful Links

VeriCorder’s Apps and Hardware Site
YouTube Video Tutorial of 1st Video by VeriCorder