Wasn't sure where to post this... I have never worked with a control surface. It is a dream to one day be able to do this. There are so many options out there, some very expensive, some less so. -What's your preference? -What's a good control surface that doesn't cost an arm and a leg? -Is it much faster to grade using a control surface? -Is it worth it for a freelancer to invest in a control surface, or is it better to spend money on a good screen? -Are there any courses (preferably in Europe) where one can practice on a control surface? Lots of questions. =o) Have a good day!
It all begins with the software you'll need to use. Since panel support has to be built into the software, that will generally determine the options you have to choose from. Also, if you're looking for an overview, this might be helpful... http://www.liftgammagain.com/forum/...stos-colorcast-episode-9-control-panels.1019/
Listen to the podcast, Tine. It's very good. I use a Tangent Wave. It is very affordable and works great with Resolve, Color, Scratch... Grading with a control surface is way faster than using the interface alone. Not only can you operate multiple controls simultaneously, but because you have physical controls you can also do it with a lot more precision and speed than with a mouse/keyboard. You'll also develop some muscle memory, so you'll automatically reach for the right buttons whenever you need them. You'll keep your eyes on your grading monitor and scopes longer. Using a control surface also feels like painting. I don't know... Maybe something to do with the way our brains interpret physical contact with tools. It's a completely different experience. As a freelance, owning a control surface offers a few extra advantages. First, your clients will usually take you a lot more seriously because you have a piece of gear that they usually don't. A surface, even the simplest one, looks pretty impressive. And it shows that you are serious about your craft. Second, most affordable surfaces are pretty portable. The Wave, in particular, only needs a USB connection so it is very easy to set up. So, if you are hired to work in a client's suite, you can take your own surface and get to work very quickly. Third, if you grade with a surface on a daily basis and you are hired to work in a suite that already has one, you can get to work right away. Otherwise, you'd have to use just the regular interface. Once you learn one surface, it's very easy to learn others.
I will listen to the podcast, seems like great stuff! Have listened to a couple of their shows before and am working my way through all of them. Thanks Paulo!
