A Tip and a Tribute Thanks to Don LaFontaine

By Propulsion Media Labs Talent #34 Jim J.

The Voiceover Legend:
Don Lafontaine

I remember early in my career being obsessed with equipment.  If I just got "the right gear" my sound would match the big movie trailer guys.  I constantly spent money (what little I had at the time) on the latest and greatest gear but never got "that sound".  After a tip from a book,  I wrote a letter to my voiceover hero Don Lafontaine just to tell him how much I loved his work and how much I admired him.

I never really expected a reply but a few weeks later, a panicked front desk receptionist transferred a call to me one day and yelled, "I think you need to pick this one up Jim!!!".   I picked up the phone nervously and heard,   "Helllooo  Jimmmm!!!"   Don said it in his full out movie trailer voice which floored me in my tracks.  

He was one of the nicest guys.  So humble and talked to me for over 30 mins.  I finally asked him, "Don? What equipment do you use? What microphone?"  This was it!!! I was about to find the missing secret to make me sound more  like him. His reply said it all, "Let me tell you Jim.  It's not about the equipment, it's about the delivery.  I could come right to your tiny radio station studio and sound , more or less, exactly like I would sound in my ABC session that I am about to walk into in 2 mins.  Dont worry about the equipment, worry about delivery"

I will never forget those words from "the man" spoken back many years ago.   While I still highly suggest getting a clean and nice quality studio setup, I no longer worry about having my gear MAKE my sound as much as having my gear TRANSFER my natural delivery and sound.

Thank you Don and may you continue to rest in peace,   Jim.

(For more on LaFontaine's work, check out this youtube video!)

Best Audio/Visual Apps for the iPhone

With many people carrying around iPhone’s or some sort of device in their pocket, the world today is fast moving and on the go. There are never ending possibilities to what can be done on that four inch screen; including the things we love to do here at Propulsion Media Labs. Listed below are just a few of the best Audio/Visual apps available on the iPhone.

Gorillacam

Gorillacam: This is a great extension to the iPhone’s camera. It has many options Apple should have included and some that you would not expect, but prove to be very useful.  Gorillacam isn’t just a camera app for fun, but every available setting is one that can be very helpful. Price: FREE

Flixlab: Flixlab is a fun and easy video creation/editing application that can be linked directly to Facebook. You can shoot or use a previous video on your iPhone to make some cool and unique creations. Overall, Flixlab is great for putting together simple, enjoyable slide shows or videos that can be shared with family and friends. Price: FREE

CineCam: CineCam is a great easy app to shoot video with. While you cannot edit video with this application, it has some great shooting features. You can choose different lenses, films, and filters.Nevertheless, the video shooting combinations with CineCam are endless. Price: FREE

CineCam

Splice: Unlike CineCam and Flixlab, Splice is a much more sophisticated video editing application for your Smartphone. Splice may take a little bit of time to get the hang of, but when you do you will be making great videos in the palm of your hand. Splice works great with videos that are filmed with CineCam. Price: FREE or there is an extended version for $3.99

Splice

Monle: This last app, Monle, is special for our audio guys here at Propulsion; Tom and Scott. Since they hate leaving the office everyday…they can now do what they love whenever, wherever. Monle is a four track, non linear portable audio recording and editing studio. It is truly unbelievable what this app is capable of. Price: $9.99

All of these apps are a great way to get started in the Audio/Visual field or just a fun tool to use on the go.

Written By:
Justin Kaufmann
Fall 2011 Intern
Temple University