DVD* Author
DVD* Authors work in companies that are at the forefront of DVD technology. These can be stand-alone DVD facilities, Post Production or Replication Houses. The content and success of DVD creation begins and ends with authoring. This is more than simply transferring a programme onto a disc. The process involves generating and integrating the interactive features that make DVD so versatile. DVD Authors utilise the necessary tools and systems to author DVD productions in accordance with the requirements, quality and timescales outlined in the project specifications.
What is the job?
DVD Authors work with appropriate authoring systems to programme DVD titles in response to agreed project specifications. For example subtitles may be imported, chapter points and transfer functions introduced, multi-story or multi-angle links created, and various menus and buttons designed to accompany the programme.
Ninety per cent of an Author's time is spent programming the project they are working on. In addition they participate in Project Specification meetings, and contribute to creative concept development and implementation where required. They document and file all information relating to specific authoring techniques, equipment evaluations, training, technical support, and any other documentation relevant to the continuous efficient management of their projects or departments, reporting any related project information, e.g., Author Check Lists, etc., to relevant Producers or Project Managers. They work closely with Technical personnel to ensure that authoring systems are fully functional and operational.
Sometimes DVD Authors contribute to design, including carrying out screen grabs and other ancillary design and audio work. They support Operations Managers in troubleshooting authoring issues, and research and develop more complex authoring projects. They ensure that all work is backed up and stored securely.
A senior Author must be aware of developing technologies, and prepare reports for relevant senior personnel about possible new directions for their work. They may also train and support other members of the authoring team.
Typical career routes
DVD Authors may begin their careers as a junior within a DVD, Post Production or replication facility. However more commonly they have trained and gained experience in IT or programming backgrounds
Essential knowledge and skills
DVD Authors will have an IT programming background and be familiar with all creative and technical aspects of DVD production. They should be able to author projects templates as well as create new ones. Ideally they are able to work on more than one professional authoring platform; to troubleshoot and to resolve authoring issues especially at senior level. They are expected to advise upon, develop and implement both innovative and proven existing authoring solutions.
Key Skills include:
- advanced Computer and IT programming skills (Languages: Visual Basic, VB NET, Java, J2EE, C, C++, C#, ASP, ASP.NET, Peri, JavaScript, Web Services, XML, PHP, Cold Fusion, .NET, Framework, HTML and Python);
- a high level of organisational skills and a precise attention to detail;
- initiative and problem solving skills;
- ability to work effectively under pressure;
- ability to motivate self and others;
- effective team working skills;
- diplomacy and sensitivity when working with clients;
- excellent oral and written communication skills;
- awareness of developing DVD authoring technologies;
- knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures .
Training and qualifications
DVD Authors are expected to have an educational background in Computer Sciences, Web Design, Programming and/or IT. A thorough understanding of DVD production processes is essential.
Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for Creative Media. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.
Websites
- UK Screen Association is the trade body for Post Production;
- BECTU, the trade union represents Post Production personnel;
- BKSTS (The Moving Image Society) publishes Image Technology;
- Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication
Publications
- Broadcast, weekly newspaper for the UK TV and Radio industry;
- Televisual, monthly business magazine for the broadcast industry;
- How Video Works - Weynand & Weise - ISBN 0-240-80614-X
- Nonlinear Editing Basics - Steven Browne - ISBN 0-240-80282-9
- Video Editing and Post Production - Gary H Anderson - ISBN 0-240-80337-X
- Digital Editing with Final Cut Pro 4 - Mamer &Wallace - ISBN 0-941188-91-4
- Digital Nonlinear Editing - Thomas Ohanian - ISBN 0-240-80225-X
- Editing Digital Film - Jaime Fowler - ISBN 0-240-80470-8
All books available from: http://www.focalpress.com/
Glossary
Linear : Editing in formats where it is not possible to move sections around within edited material, e.g., VHS, u-matic or BETA, etc.
Non-Linear : Editing in formats where it is possible to move sections around within edited material, e.g., film, AVID, Edit Pro, etc.
*DVD means here: Standard DVD, HD DVD, Blu-ray and associated formats
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DVD Author - Post Production
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