How-to video for newbie

[elibenton]

I'm a newbie with a Vetrano and stepless Macap on order. For the past several months I have been reading articles and following forums and have developed a wealth of esoteric knowledge. Prior to my equipment arriving, I was hoping to visualize the innumerable steps to a "god shot" by way of video. I am happy to purchase or preferably download.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[HB]

I liked Advanced Barista Training - Extreme Pours, but can't recommend any newbie videos. Bellissimo lists a number of videos (e.g., Espresso 101, Espresso 501). David Schomer also sells Techniques of the Barista. They're pricey.

Anyone seen these or other videos? Are they worth the premium price?

[ciordia9]

I've seen just about every video produced and they all sell the same how-to type froth/foam/extraction spiel with a little change on what ever belief/exacting methodology they have. Then they get to the latte art (or etching) section and it's all <15m for the most part. The new Bellissimo tape is a good one for just hitting up the pours but realistically we should produce something and just stow it on google video. The prices for the videos are so high when you get really so very little. Pouring art is nothing but practice and getting the hang of it. Having someone who knows what they are doing giving you even minor critiquing in person would just about set you on track for life. A good free video would be great for the community.

Maybe I can get the DV cam and we just start a reel of nothing but pours and discussion and do just that. Make it Free (as in beer) to all who wish to improve.

Just did a quick check and it looks like google video is starting to have more of a query to Latte Art.

-a

[HB]

Thanks Andy for the skinny on production videos.

On a related note, with all the endless pictures of bottomless portafilter extractions, I'm surprised few take the time to videotape them. That would be a lot more educational, especially if the videos included flawed extractions with commentary suggesting what went wrong (e.g., diagnosis of an espresso extraction with the Elektra A3). Even the mundane tasks like the proper cooling flush are rendered obvious (e.g., normal cooling flush of an Elektra A3). Setting up the google video account is a minor pain, but once it's done, there's no limit to what you can store and the replay speed is excellent. My only excuses for not doing them more often are (a) my digital camera has limited video capability, (b) no experience with video production, and (c) our household is rarely calm enough to actually MAKE a video without recording background chaos.

[ciordia9]

Sometimes we overshoot the obvious, common failing in my troubleshooting ("It must be something complex, it couldn't be as simple as memory" ). I will make a point of it to start setting my tripod up and getting the DV rolling. Dump that quickly to the mac, a quick 1/2hr of cleanup and post it up. I've thought about taking this to the Charlotte Cupping and starting some feeds from our reviews. Of course live audiences get squeamish being recorded so my mileage will vary. Wish you were local Dan hehe.

Well I'll get that setup after I get my machine back online hehe. Must understand faster!

Ok, sorry for hijacking.

-a

[onemoreshot]

I'm a newbie with a Vetrano and stepless Macap on order. For the past several months I have been reading articles and following forums and have developed a wealth of esoteric knowledge. Prior to my equipment arriving, I was hoping to visualize the innumerable steps to a "god shot" by way of video. I am happy to purchase or preferably download.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I am going to try and capture some video for you. I have obligated myself to it by stating it on my blog http://shaundoreenevankeegan.blogspot.com/ at the very least friends and family with get to confirm I am truly beyond hope. When I get something rolling I will post back up about it. I'm sure you are tired of looking at photos but I did take some this morning of Macap and Brewtus II stuff if you are interested.

[elibenton]

I appreciate the info on espresso videos. From your feedback, I gather that Schomer's video is pricey for what you get in return. Thanks Dan for your video links on Google video. I also noted the nice latte art videos- they make it look so easy. I look forward to some home grown Home-Barista productions.

When will the Vetrano arrive? Time to get started!