In preparation for upgrading our animation program, I've spent time exploring Dragon Stop Motion software. Currently, we've been using iStop Motion from Boinx with SD camcorders. In an effort to match the output quality of our animation program to our other classes, we're moving to HD. While iStop Motion is a simple software with a clean interface (one-button-capture/live preview) it's HD offerings were zero and iStop Motion Pro 2 is not much better. iStop has a preference for HDV camcorders and has very little support for other camera systems, specifically no Live View from video capabale SLRs. Live view is one of the most important features during the actual animation process.
I had first encountered Dragon Stop Motion during our Spring 09 semester and decided to give it a try. Everything from the interface options to the camera control was outstanding. Its Cinematography Window allows the user to control shutter speed, aperature and ISO directly from the computer (requires a DSLR). Using one of our Canon EOS Rebel T2i's I made a few short test clips and really got to experience a lot of what the software had to offer. The image below was captured through the Rebel using the test shot feature in the Cinematography Window:
Click on above the image for an expanded view at 5184×3456
Dragon Stop Motion allows for Live Preview by locking the mirror of a video capable DSLR. With clever/intuitive features, a logical file organization system and updated camera support, Dragon surpasses my expectations. I'll continue to experiment with the software, but the love affair has begun - a romance if you will.
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