Final Cut Pro 6 - JumpStart Series (Video Training)
Produced by: DMTS
Instructor: Jeffery Morse
Review by Michael Sacci

This is a basic learn by watching instructional video. It is a flash based program that can be run on a Mac or PC. As stated in its introduction the idea behind the JumpStart Series, “is to get you up and running on the newest software quick and easily with a focus on the new features.“ To this end, it does it and it does it extremely well. If you are upgrading from a previous version of FCP you can jump to Section 4 where the new features start. If you are new to FCP the first 3 sections cover all the basics.

The video is all screen capture and Jeffery Morse going the teaching, Jeffery keeps everything moving at a good pace. The entire length is just over 1:30 so it is very easy to sit through the entire title in one sitting. In doing so you will definitely be able to jump in and use FCP6 how that you are familiar with the new features. Of course it can also be used as a visual manual that can be referenced any time you need a reminder on how a feature works.

It should be noted that this is not an in-depth look into everything that can be done in FCP, just the basic, the basics are the most important. This is definitely a must for people that do not read the manuals or don't like to work through project books that you edit as you read. If you visit any FCP forum you will quickly see how many people need a resource like this. For $59 and an hour and a half of your time you will be well on your way to knowing the power of the application you have in front of you. There is no better way to get up and running than by using a tutorial such as this.

One thing to note is Section 10. Color Correction, has how to finish audio, the only thing I could think of was this select was originally named Finishing: Audio and Video. No big deal just a shock the first time you play the section.

You can check it out on their website:
http://www.digitalmediatraining.com/products/jumpstart/fcstudio2/fcp6/index.html

Michael Sacci is a coordinator of the Nashville Apple Pro Video Group and an Apple FCP 6 Certified Trainer.