The above video--a random collection of some of my fave pix from the history of Pow! dancing to the music of Misportrayed (my son Aidan's old band)--was put together in about 3 minutes by an ingenious Web applet called Animoto.
Yeah, I know I can accomplish the same thing if I play with iPhoto or Nero or whatever for a bit, but Animoto actually did this for me. In no time.
Essentially, all I had to do was choose the photos, choose the music and push play. The learning curve was non-existent, a vertical rocket; I literally went from discovering the site to final product above in five minutes.
Now, for a maestro of PowerPoint who's called upon to give countless visual presentations throughout the year, this is a Godsend. I can use it for intros, for extros, for summary Sizzle Reels...the possibilities are endless (well, they will be when Animoto releases its Biz version early next year).
I also know the above ain't exactly great art. But it's more than good enough for my needs. And with its automated effect generator, Animoto can remake and remix your presentation over and over until you're satisfied--or fed up--with it.
No, this won't replace professional tools or editors or high-end video presentations, but Animoto does for pictures what Typepad and Blogger did for writing--provide a simple, foolproof tool that democratizes visual communication.
Check it out here. And for a real treat, take 60 seconds to watch its inspired "Learn More" video.
Domo origato, Animoto.