LED lighting panels added to kit
December 2014 Upgrades
A pair of LED lighting panels have been added to the inventory of lighting gear. These two units from Cool Lux are daylight balanced and can be operated with v-mount batteries. Each have a set of filters to correct to tungsten when used with traditional kit lighting. They can also spread the beam if there’s a need to cover a wider area. In certain conditions these can be used to light subjects outdoors or areas with a mix of lighting. This brings the LED inventory to four instruments and six daylight balanced lights.
Mid-term election night for Yahoo
November 2014 Recent projects
One of the two bars was reserved for the event. Five cameras, including one on a jib arm and another on a Steadicam, along with the crew were working in the “intimate” space. Alt Gobo’s Peter Roof provided expert support, along with grunt support, to the production’s technical manager.
Fallen Firefighters receive final salute
October 2014 Recent projects
The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend returned to its home this year. The weather also cooperated and a solemn candlelight and memorial service was held outdoors. The services were in front of the permanent memorial on the campus of the FEMA training facility in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
The above photo is a video frame grab from Peter Roof’s hand-held camera during the service’s recessional. “Mosquito One,” the remote controlled quadcopter was used to gather some pre-show aerials around the campus. One shot made it into the highlight clip (view below) played to the audience at the end of the service.
Every October, the Foundation sponsors the official national tribute to all firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. Thousands from around the nation attend along with many of the families who lost a loved one in the previous year. This year was significant since a few major incidents in Arizona and Texas in 2013 took the lives of large teams of firefighters all at once.
This is the sixth year that Peter Roof was operating a hand-held covering the two memorial services. The program was shown on a large screen at the venue plus sent live on two satellites and streamed on the web.
Military prototype lands at National Airport
September 2014 Recent projects
Alt Gobo was contacted to record video of the jet’s arrival. The crew was given access to various parts of the airport closed to the public. The vantage point that was used is currently the observation deck used for the weather station on top of the old terminal.
The Scorpion is a sub-sonic aircraft that seats two. The multi-mission flexibility of the aircraft will feature a variety of multi-spectral sensor and high-definition video camera packages engineered for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. It can be armed with several wing-mounted munitions representing a typical array of air-to-surface and air-to-air weapons preferred by the US and partner nations.
Ebola epidemic public service announcemt
August 2014 Recent projects
Ebola is a virus that kills most of its victims within a month of contracting the disease. The western Africa nations of Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia have been seriously hit with this outbreak. At the time this PSA was recorded more than a thousand people have died with the death toll doubling every month.
The interview recorded was with Dr. Roseda Marshall, a Liberian pediatric doctor. She explained what is known about the disease and precautions for citizens and health workers. The program was made in English in hopes of reaching a broad audience of people living outside the affected countries but in contact with their relatives in danger.
New YouTube channel launched
June 2014 Upgrades
“There is still a desire for people to learn more about their community,” says Roof. “And here is now a place they can experience a small piece of their world.”
SInce local broadcasters no longer have a place for this type of material we hope we have provided a new home in a new media age. Please subscribe and watch here.
Live streaming of candidate forum
May 2014 Recent projects
The forum was hosted by George Mason University’s School of Public Policy. Production resources were from Arlington Independent Media. Streaming functionality was provided by Kathi Overton of Doppler Shift Productions.
The event was well received. Officials from GMU were delighted that they were able to get this level of exposure.
“We wanted to demonstrate that we can do high-profile events,” said Peter Roof of Alt Gobo MediaWorks LLC. “I am confident we are ready for projects large and small.”
The event can be seen here up to the June 10 primary election.
Aerials for weekend film project
May 2014 Recent projects
Building systems orientation videos
April 2014 Recent projects
Mobile phone upgrade
January 2014 Upgrades
Alt Gobo joins remote controlled aircraft association
December 2013
The AUVSI is the world's largest non-profit organization devoted exclusively to advancing the unmanned systems and robotics community. Serving more than 7,500 members from government organizations, industry and academia, AUVSI is committed to fostering, developing, and promoting unmanned systems and robotic technologies. AUVSI members support defense, civil and commercial sectors.
Portable camera platform
December 2013 R&D Labs
The components are simple with two collapsible 24” stage risers. A folding track supports the tripod. The operator platform is a two-piece 3x3 deck. Under the decks are compartments that holds and protects all the components, including the 24” stool. The rig is easy to cart through doorways when moving gear but is a little heavy at 58 pounds.
“I like the wide platform. It allows me to shift my weight or even sit down which is great when rolling on long speeches,” says Alt Gobo DP Peter Roof. The platform also features an anti-fatigue surface with an easy to see and feel edge. The support for the tripod only needs to support the legs leaving no surface for wandering guests to sit or set their stuff which can unexpectedly shake the camera.
This new tool can provide the necessary vantage point for superior picture quality when covering important events.
Memorial service for Fallen Firefighters held despite Federal shutdown
October 2013 Recent projects
Four days after the Federal Government shut down the annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend was supposed to occur at the FEMA training facility in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The touching event was not going to be cancelled but it had to move. Plan B was to go to the venues on standby for inclement weather. The memorial service was held at the neighboring basilica of the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. The above photo was taken by Peter Roof with “Mosquito One” remote controlled quadcopter. The memorial service was moved to the athletic center of Mount St. Mary’s College, the site of last year’s service since rain moved that event indoors.
Every October, the Foundation sponsors the official national tribute to all firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. Thousands from around the nation attend along with many of the families who lost a loved one in the previous year.
The program was shown on a large screens in the venue plus sent live on two satellites and streamed on the web.
"I Have a Dream" speech 50th anniversary
August 2013 Recent projects
Fifty years ago Martin Luther King Jr. was the final speaker of a rally of civil rights protesters gathered on the Mall in Washington DC. He stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and delivered his now famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Civil rights advocates five decades later gathered at the same location again to continue to press for rights for all people.
The event gained international attention and Peter Roof worked with NBC NewsChannel which provided comprehensive coverage. In addition to the regular customers of US network affiliates the bureau also assisted the new Al Jazeera America news channel with their live shot location on a riser built on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. The setup involved running thousands of feet of fiber optic and telephone lines. During the march following the speeches Pete with with reporter Brian Mooar to get reactions from the participants. In all there was a lot of walking. Pete estimated he walked a total of five miles, two backwards and with a camera on his shoulder.
Peter Roof on the right adjusting an HMI with Mike Broleman on camera and producer Geoff Mason working the phones. (photo courtesy Brian Mooar)
Safer and better cart clips
July 2013 R&D Labs
This modification is safer too since an open hook won’t come snapping back at you if it accidentally released. That’s because these clips have a spring-loaded arm that closes across the open gate.
The inspiration was the fact that the stock hooks would snag on just about everything in the vicinity including cables, the undercarriage, and shoe laces before you could stretch it around your gear and clip it near the top of the cart. Sometimes the hooks wouldn’t stay secured dangerously snapping loose and releasing the cargo. Stories of a flying hook gouging out someone’s cheek were horrifying and this was not to happen to anyone.
Any operation that uses these model of carts should seriously consider making this modification. It is primarily a safety issue but it also makes using such a cart a lot less of a nuisance.
Moving map can now accompany moving video
July 2013 R&D Labs
We now have the ability to include geographical reference information to video captured from most moving vehicles (bike, car, boat, or helicopter). What you see are two windows, one with the video and the other is a map with the route displayed and an icon indicating the current position.
Not only is it interesting but is useful for many commercial and industrial projects. The primary application will be to enhance aerials to allow clients to identify subjects. The positioning data indicates where the helicopter is positioned so it can be easy to find what objects on the ground are being recorded. Other data is displayed such as speed and elevation.
This can also be useful for industry applications such as surveys for utilities, water management, mining, forestry, and other surface features.
In this example two cameras were positioned on a bicycle as it went past many of Washington DC’s most famous landmarks. The total trip was about 20 minutes but you can position the pointer anywhere on the route to see what is in view.
Not only is it interesting but is useful for many commercial and industrial projects. The primary application will be to enhance aerials to allow clients to identify subjects. The positioning data indicates where the helicopter is positioned so it can be easy to find what objects on the ground are being recorded. Other data is displayed such as speed and elevation.
This can also be useful for industry applications such as surveys for utilities, water management, mining, forestry, and other surface features.
In this example two cameras were positioned on a bicycle as it went past many of Washington DC’s most famous landmarks. The total trip was about 20 minutes but you can position the pointer anywhere on the route to see what is in view.
Motocross at Budd's Creek
June 2013 Recent projects
The races were covered live with 14+ cameras for Lucas Oil Productions. For the forth year Peter Roof operated hard camera #7 at the base of a jump and large hill (pictured). It was loud, dirty, and smelly but the weather was not as hot for a June afternoon. The broadcast was sent to NBC, the web, and Fuel Network.
Photo from the camera 7 position.
Spelling Bee returns
May 2013 Recent projects
138th Preakness Stakes
May 2013 Recent projects
Our coverage again included building an anchor studio outside the barns where the horses stay when not running around the track. Cameras were also positioned on the club house roof and winner’s circle. For our production a total of six cameras were used, many with 1,000 foot triax cable runs. Additional crews gathered interview and b-roll material edited on site for our cablecast. Peter Roof’s role was as video technician shading and painting all camera pictures from a station in the truck’s engineering room.
TedMed 2013 conference
April 2013 Recent projects
The event is a multi-disciplinary community of innovators and leaders who share a common determination to create a better future in health and medicine. TEDMED curates an unusual and provocative program over three and a half days.
This year the live event was sent to many destinations inside and outside the facility. Peter Roof was assigned to switch sources for transmission to two Internet streams.
Rocket pre-launch aerial video
April 2013 Recent projects
That photo flight started in Manassas, Va. the day before with rigging Bussmann Aviation’s helicopter with a specialized gyro mount in the rear compartment. That system does a great job of smoothing out the motion of Alt Gobo’s Panasonic HPX170 P2 HD camera. In addition to the mount, three containers of jet fuel were stored to give the aircraft a little more range. The crew flew to Chicoteague, Va. and secured the helicopter for the photo mission that began before dawn the next day.
Just after sunrise the crew lifted off and did several orbits of the launch pad. The Antares A1 rocket has been on the beach-side pad for a few weeks. The still photos and video material was processed and made available to the media the next day.
Supreme Court hears same-sex marriage cases
March 2013 Recent projects
GoPro Hero 3 added to point-of-view camera roster
March 2013 Upgrades
57th Presidential Inauguration
January 2013 Recent projects
Desired shallow depth-of-field with innovative adaptor
January 2013 Upgrades
Many aftermarket manufacturers devised adaptors to use prime (fixed focal length) lenses from cinema and still cameras on these HD cameras. It takes advantage of the larger image area to get shallower depth-of-field images. Letus is one of the leading companies that makes a line of adaptors. This one can accept Canon’s line of “FD” lenses that Peter Roof used earlier in his career as a still photographer.
“I am so delighted to bring my old lenses into a new working life,” says Roof. “They’ve been sitting in my still camera equipment bag for a few decades. Now they get to make pictures again.”
Roof already had a variety of focal lengths and will have a few more to round out the set. Available will be 24, 35, 50, 85, and 135mm lenses good for shooting wide shots, interviews, and tight shots.
New vehicle for fleet
November 2012 Upgrades
A 2009 Toyota Tacoma is the latest addition to the Alt Gobo fleet. This vehicle replaces the 1994 Toyota 4runner that has faithfully served production needs for more than 15 years. The new truck has a larger cargo capacity. Other features are a larger engine and better fuel economy. Four wheel drive still remains a key capability that ensures crews can get to location in nearly any weather condition (traffic permitting).
Howard County Community Action Council overview video
October 2012 Recent projects
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial service
October 2012 Recent projects
This is the forth year that Peter Roof was operating a hand-held covering the two memorial services. This year budget constraints removed a few cameras but we still used nine positioned around the stage and audience. Two GoPro mini-cameras were planted on members of the pipe-and-drum corps and got some interesting angles during the processional. You can see Roof running a camera between the people pictured.
The threat of rain moved the Sunday service in the basketball arena of nearby Mount St. Mary’s college. The crew had to fully strike the setup at the outdoor memorial and reset in the gym before the morning service. Anticipating this necessity the crew preset camera and audio cables in the arena before the candlelight service.
This was still in standard definition but in the widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio. The program was shown on a large LED screen at the edge of the venue plus sent live on two satellites and streamed on the web.
(Photo by Bill Green for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation)
Click here to view the highlight reel.
Sammie awards for 2012
September 2012 Recent projects
Award winners have been involved in a wide array of activities, including defending the homeland, caring for our veterans, protecting the environment, ensuring public safety, making scientific and medical discoveries, creating innovative ways to serve those in need, responding to natural and man-made disasters, promoting our national interests, and helping government become more effective.
Peter Roof shot four interviews for this year’s awards. Clips can be viewed in the samples section of this website.
USA Today 30th Anniversary and logo redesign
September 2012 Recent projects
The national daily newspaper “USA Today” celebrated its 30th anniversary. Along with that milestone it did a major design of its logo and other layout elements in both print and online products. To document the change the parent company, Gannett, hired Peter Roof to capture the editions rolling off its Springfield, Va. presses. In the plant miles of newsprint fly through the three-story offset press printing the entire run for this market in a few hours. Roof used the Panasonic HPX170 camera to capture the activity in high definition. The press runs so quickly that he used the “overcrank” function to capture it in slow motion.
Women of Vision testimonials
September 2012 Recent projects
"Gettysburg: The Decisive Battle" airs on Pentagon Channel
September 2012 Recent projects
The event drew the attention of The Pentagon Channel, a cable and satellite channel for and about the US Defense Department community. Any military topic, past or present, can be presented on the 24/7 international channel. One program, “Recon,” is a half-hour monthly program that explores military topics in greater detail.
On a hot weekend in early July photographer Peter Roof and producer Terese Schlachter went to the reenactment and found many interesting subjects. Photographer Arik Dashevsky shot additional material on a third day. The pair trudged all over with an HD camera, tripod, and a bag full of batteries and XDcam disks to get all the angles. A few Hero point-of-view cameras were deployed to get a personal perspective.
The battles are played out in a choreographed manner ... with a little improv. Special attention is paid to authenticity. The well being of two and four-legged participants is of high priority. Water stations are everywhere and events were rescheduled to avoid the hottest part of the day. The actual battles in 1865 occurred on 85˚F days. Temperatures on this reenactment approached 100˚F. Around the battlefield were encampments where participants live as they did in the time. For the public there were tents where they could buy reproductions and hear stories about the history.
The single episode is less than a half-hour. Please click here to watch.
The heat is on The Weather Channel
July 2012 Recent projects
To illustrate the heat on one of DC’s main industries, tourism, photographer Peter Roof and reporter Eric Fisher went along for a ride on a“DC Duck” which is a part of a fleet of amphibious vehicles. These 50-plus-year-old military utility vehicles have been modified to carry passengers. Click here to view the finished story.
Gettysburg battle reenactment
July 2012 Recent projects
This year marks the 149th anniversary of the three day battle between Union and Confederate armies in Gettysburg, Pa. The actual fighting was done on a battlefield several miles away and is now marked with monuments to the brave and fallen. These reenactments were done on a farm field outside of town. As many as four thousand enthusiasts participate in replaying parts of the battle with horses and soldiers using replica cannon and guns. They also live as they did in that century in an encampment nearby. A living history section demonstrated the food, fashion, and culture. A field hospital was setup and, using mannequins, showed how crude combat surgery was performed on the wounded.
The Pentagon Channel covered the weekend for their documentary program “Recon.” Temperatures soared above 100˚F. (In 1863 the temperatures were around 85˚F, still rough wearing a wool uniform). Photographer Peter Roof used a Sony HD XDcam camera to record the action and interview participants. Four GoPro cameras were planted around the battlefield and on participants to get additional perspectives on the action.
Budd's Creek Motocross fueling the fun
June 2012 Recent projects
The races were covered live with 15+ cameras for Lucas Oil Productions. For the third year Peter Roof operated hard camera #7 at the base of a jump and large hill (pictured). It was loud, dirty, and smelly but the weather was not as hot for a June afternoon. The broadcast was also sent to the web and to the Fuel Network. Photo from top of hill before camera 7 position (credit: GuyB/vitalmx.com).
National Spelling Bee
May 2012 Recent projects
Marine Corp Historic Half Marathon aerials
May 2012 Recent projects
Formerly run in Quantico, Va., the race was moved from its traditional fall running to the spring for the move to Fredericksburg, where it is now run through the streets, city blocks and neighborhoods of Old Town Fredericksburg, which give the race a completely different feel as well as plenty of new scenery and attractions for runners and spectators in town for the entire race weekend.
Preakness Stakes
May 2012 Recent projects
Our coverage included building an anchor studio outside the barns where the horses stay when not running around the track. Cameras were also positioned on the club house roof and winner’s circle. For our production a total of six cameras were used, many with 1,000 foot triax cable runs. Additional crews gathered interview and b-roll material edited on site for our cablecast. Peter Roof’s role was as video technician shading and painting all camera pictures from a station in the truck’s engineering room.
Summer Vacation Challenge for The Weather Channel
April 2012 Recent projects
Update: finished segment now running on Weather.com. Watch it here.
TEDMED at Kennedy Center
April 2012 Recent projects
Once a year, TEDMED holds a "grand gathering" where leaders from all sectors of society come together for three and a half days. They explore the promise of technology and the potential of human achievement. This unique event combines dazzling celebration, high-powered learning and unforgettable theater.
Production requirements were intensive. Six HD cameras (several with long lenses plus one jib) were positioned around the Opera House. Other sources were digital playbacks and graphic presentations. Destinations include a web stream, satellite uplinks, and a vast array of monitors around the venue and activity tent erected outside. Above the stage was a large screen plus a backdrop containing projected animations. Alt Gobo’s Peter Roof’s function was camera video control shading all cameras and facilitating the routing of the sources/desinations.
The photo, courtesy TEDMED Facebook page, shows a dialog about nutrition between ultra-marathon champion Scott Jurek and Sesame Street’s Cookie Monster.
Visual storytelling workshop
March 2012 Upgrades
Sessions attended: licensing, storytelling, police/journalists relations, Final Cut Pro tips & tricks, time lapse, editing style, one-man-bands, and collaborative projects. Many of the presenters didn’t show anything particularly new but reinforced the methods for gathering and assembling essential and special elements for compelling stories. It was good to hear what elements, both picture and especially sound, make for good building blocks for any story. Non-linear edit systems have helped the process for both speed and ease. What is impressive is that these practitioners can make great stories about unplanned events on a short deadline and all in less than 1:30.
Peter has been a member of NPPA since he started as a news still photographer in 1985. Several years later he transitioned to TV news and was delighted that the organization also supports excellence in this craft.
ImageMakers PSAs
March 2012 Recent projects
The Image Makers Program is WIFV’s community outreach initiative for metro area high school students. It was created in 1997 to teach local youth about film and video production, while also helping deserving nonprofit organizations. Image Makers participants learn how to research, write, produce, direct and edit PSAs for broadcast distribution. These PSAs are made for up to three deserving nonprofit organizations each year.
The creative program is taught over the course of eight Saturdays and concludes with a show where each of the finished PSAs are presented to the non-profits. In one session Peter Roof and Kathi Overton gave the students a “Five Minute University” class in lighting, camera, and sound.
The District of Columbia Public Library Foundation leverages and enhances DC Public Library resources and programs that promote, in all community members, literacy and a thirst for knowledge.
For both productions Alt Gobo provided the Panasonic HPX170 DVCproHD camera and lights with Peter Roof on camera. Additional tools employed were the matte box and Glissade® camera slider.
For the Library Foundation (pictured above) shoot Kathi Overton provided sound and assisted on lighting and focus pulling. The location was in the newly renovated Petworth Library in NW DC. The purpose of the production was to show the variety of activities found in the library besides reading books. Watch the completed PSA here.
On the FirstTee production Toby Roberts (pictured right) did the sound and helped with lighting. The location was inside a school for a locker room setting and on the Langston Golf Course in NE Washington. Toby is an avid golfer so he enjoyed the subject and was able to put in a round of golf after we wrapped. Watch the completed PSA here.
Cooking demo by Mike Isabella
January 2012 Recent projects
Stage play "LIttle Murders" opens
January 2012 Recent projects
In a return to a profession last practiced a quarter century ago Peter Roof helped get the stage play “Little Murders” up and running. This production is created in the original 3D. As Technical Director he was responsible for all the sets, props, lights, and sound. He was supported by excellent designers and crew.
The project began in early December with set construction in an Arlington County run scene shop. The “black box” performance space is also managed by Arlington County. The set consists of two walls representing a New York City apartment in the late 1960s. The lighting grid uses 30 Source Four Jr. Zoom lekos and 30 6” fresnels controlled with an ETC programmable lighting board. Sound is a big part of the play and is run using Qlab software. There are even a few special effects to support the action.
“Little Murders,” written by Jules Fiffer, focuses on the violence that encircles and engulfs a New York City family. The action centers on daughter Patsy and Alfred, the new man she brings home to introduce to her parents and brother. It’s a world where the sound of gunshots is de rigueur, heavy breathers regularly call, unseen visitors knock at the door… and the Newquists are just trying to have a nice day. Meanwhile, Alfred has chosen not to fight back, something that Patsy is desperate to change. The epidemic of violence in 1960s New York and a citizen’s choice to sink or swim form the basis for the dark comedy at the heart of “Little Murders. “
Jules Feiffer has offered satirical commentary on American life for over fifty years, through cartoons, screenplays, stage plays and children’s books. Originally gaining prominence as a cartoonist for The Village Voice, Feiffer shines an often sardonic light on the political, sexual and social facets of our culture.
The American Century Theater is a 501(c)(3) professional nonprofit theater company whose mission is to promote 20th century theater as a vital part of our cultural dialogue. It was founded in 1994 in Arlington, Virginia.
New teleprompter
December 2011 Upgrades
Presidential interviews for local stations
December 2011 Recent projects
Back to backstage
December 2011
For those TV types the job is not punching a video switcher but coordinating all technical elements (sets, lights, sound, etc.) of a stage production. It’s been 25 years since Roof worked regularly in a theater. That was before the internet and cell phones. Back then he was one of the small group of techies in Western Maryland College’s (now McDaniel College) Alumni Hall, the theater for the academic and summer programs. His career took him to newspaper photography then into TV production.
“The theater experiences I had still apply to the work I do now,” said Roof. “Much of the technology I use in video production crosses over but others I will have to relearn or see how it’s done today.”
Roof was asked by company Managing Director Paige Gold to oversee the production of the next show, “Little Murders” by Jules Feiffer. Roof will be supported by designers, carpenters, and electricians contracted for this show. Roof will still do his "day job" of working client TV production assignments as the schedule allows. The show opens in January and is performed in a black-box theater attached to the Gunston Middle School in Arlington County.
Game Day Morning, NFL Network
November 2011 Recent projects
Alt Gobo's Peter Roof wins silver Peer Award
November 2011
The segment is a story produced, shot, and edited by Peter Roof. A few years ago he learned that Guazzo was preparing to enter the derby. Guazzo is a helicopter pilot and currently flies for Children’s Hospital in Washington, DC. Roof flew with him starting in late 1990s when they were in “SkyFox,” the news helicopter for the local station, WTTG-TV Channel 5. That was Roof’s early experience operating aerial camera systems.
Roof is always on the lookout for stories to capture on video and add to his library he shares with anyone on the internet. What he looks for are profiles and portraits of people, issues, events, and places that reflect the unique character of the community. Key topics are a little off the mainstream, not immediate, and not necessarily popular. Stories are told participants’ own words and most are shot within a day. “When John told me he was going to race in the derby I knew I had to capture it,” recalled Roof. “I knew that I wanted to see his enthusiastic effort into something neither of us had done or seen. I also knew that this will be great material for an excellent story.”
TD Bank Town Hall Meeting
November 2011 Recent projects
Hero Dog Capitol Hill event
November 2011 Recent projects
Street interviews for retirement channel
October 2011 Recent projects
The program shows on Retirement Living Television which is the only cable network that provides information and entertainment that helps you redefine life after 50. Programming focuses on new pursuits, living longer, financial planning, exploration, community building, reconnecting, caregiving, mentoring, retirement, fulfillment. It's a place of discussion about key issues and topics that matter most to Generation 50+.
Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial services
October 2011 Recent projects
Every October, the Foundation sponsors the official national tribute to all firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. Thousands attend the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
Ethics Awards
October 2011 Recent projects
NCBEA recognizes companies that have demonstrated their integrity, civic and social responsibility, and business excellence in the Greater Washington region. Hosted by the National Capital Chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals in partnership with George Mason University, the competition is open to any organization (except financial service companies). Recipients of this highest honor in business ethics have an executive-level commitment to business ethics, specific examples of how they implement their corporate code of conduct, and clear communication that sets expectations for ethical behavior.
"Native Voices" museum opening
October 2011 Recent projects
Interview of Common for TV One Washington Watch
September 2011 Recent projects
Evening of Excellence at Reagan Building
September 2011 Recent projects
The annual reception honors some of today’s most influential leaders and advocates of change. This year’s honorees included: Tom Joyner, host of The Tom Joyner Morning Show; Donna Richardson-Joyner, top fitness guru; and Dr. Regina Benjamin, U.S. Surgeon General.
Hosted by CNN news anchor Fredricka Whitfield, this invitation-only event took place on Friday, September 23rd. The evening included music by DJ D-Nice. The event also featured a special tribute to the Martin Luther King, Jr., Memorial Project.
September 11 tenth anniversary coverage
September 2011 Recent projects
Welcome to Washington, you win a plane
September 2011 Recent projects
United Airlines First Officer Eric Short was making his usual 1 a.m. arrival on a trip from San Francisco to Washington’s Dulles International Airport. But he had one more stop after that. With assistance from United, the stop was carefully coordinated by Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association staffers on a mission: to inform Short that he was the winner of AOPA’s 2011 Crossover Classic sweepstakes.
The midnight event was a total surprise. Hours earlier the staff, camera person Peter Roof and audio/lighting tech Kathi Overton helped setup the scene inside the Signature Flight Support hangar on the grounds of Dulles. The prize plane was positioned just inside the massive hangar doors and lit up with HMI lights. As Short’s van pulled up the doors opened to reveal the plane and AOPA president, Craig Fuller. One crew followed Fuller as he greeted the winner and presented the fully refurbished and restored 1974 Cessna 182P four-seater, single-engine aircraft.
“A few minutes ago, we were flying 200 people,” he said. “And now here I am with a new airplane!” exclaimed Short.
Short, who lives in Paulden, Ariz., has spent his life in aviation and served a 20-year stint in the Air Force. MORE
"Hoarding" episode airs
August 2011 Recent projects
New Citizens Naturalized at Monticello
July 2011 Recent projects
At Thomas Jefferson’s mountaintop home, Monticello, near Charlottesville, VA on Independence Day 77 people took an oath and became US citizens. The annual naturalization ceremony featured a keynote speech by Coca-Cola Co. chief executive Muhtar Kent, a dual citizen with the US and Turkey. In a prepared speech he said, "As you become Americans in the place Thomas Jefferson loved most of all, you represent his dreams of the future.”
The company he leads, Coca Cola, covered the event with four cameras and prepared a short vignette that was sent and shown later on the holiday at various sporting and holiday venues around the country.
The company he leads, Coca Cola, covered the event with four cameras and prepared a short vignette that was sent and shown later on the holiday at various sporting and holiday venues around the country.
Motocross at Budd's Creek
June 2011 Recent projects
Air Force Cycling Classic
June 2011 Recent projects
National Spelling Bee for NBC affiliates
June 2011 Recent projects
Camera assignment for TLC's "Hoarding: Buried Alive"
May 2011 Recent projects
Two Panasonic HDX900 cameras cover the main interaction with the subject, friends, counselors, and volunteers. A few POV cameras view the clean-up efforts from loaders and time-lapse of dumpsters filling up. As you can imagine, the working conditions were harsh. Moving around was difficult since there were rusty pieces of machinery everywhere and narrow pathways around the place. Bug spray and sunscreen had to be applied regularly. You had to stage gear in a designated area for fear of having your accessories swallowed into the piles of junk. The location was so remote that most of the b-roll depicting the community did not show any people. The completed episode aired in August.
Demolition Derby added to Alt Gobo library
May 2011 Recent projects
The story is about amateur driver John Guazzo, who followed his childhood dream to crash a car in a demolition derby. The program follows his final preparation and running the race.
The derby is a competition where drivers collide their vehicles into opponent’s vehicles and win if they are the last ones still moving. There are four classes of vehicles and the derby is run four times a year at Potomac Speedway in Budd’s Creek, Md. Proceeds go to area charities.
The event was recorded in June 2009 using a Panasonic HPX170 tapeless video camera capturing to P2 cards. Camera was set to record in high definition at 720P. Peter Roof produced, photographed, and edited the program.
Pentagon Memorial added to Alt Gobo library
May 2011 Recent projects
On September 11, 2001, terrorists crashed Flight 77 into the Pentagon, killing the 59 passengers on board the aircraft and 125 military and civilian personnel who were working inside the Pentagon. The Pentagon Memorial park consists of 184 memorial units, each of which are dedicated to an individual victim by its unique placement within the collective field. The "terrazzo" finish of each memorial unit rises dramatically from the ground on one end, and on the other end hovers over a small pool of lighted water in the surrounding gravel field of the park. Each unit has a specific directionality to distinguish victims on board Flight 77 from victims within the Pentagon.
The simple but elegant memorial units are at once a glowing light pool, a cantilevered bench and a place for permanent inscription of each victim's name. The interplay between the flowers of surrounding crape myrtles, the crunch of gravel underfoot, and the water flowing under each bench provides an experience in the park that is touching and moving, one that creates a place of peace and remembrance, and allows for individual interpretation by each visitor.
"Kiss Me Kate" at Gonzaga High School
March 2011 Recent projects
WIFV Image Makers
February 2011 Recent projects
The Image Makers program takes a diverse group of high school students and allows them to explore careers in film and television by pairing them with professional members of Women in Film and Video, a professional association of television and film professionals in the Washington DC area. They gain hands-on production experience while producing public service announcements for local charitable organizations. It helps foster the next generation of filmmakers while helping the local community.
The program is taught over the course of eight Saturdays and concludes with a show where each of the finished PSAs are presented to the non-profits. In one session Peter Roof and Kathi Overton gave the students a “Five Minute University” class in lighting, camera, and sound.
In this production Alt Gobo provided the HPX170 DVCproHD camera and lights with Peter Roof on camera. Sound was provided by Kathi Overton who also assisted on lighting and camera. The location was Studio B at Interface Media Group in downtown DC. Alt Gobo used the Glissade®, a 1-meter camera slider of its own design since dolly and trucking shots were used throughout the production.
(Photo by Matt Uvena. Kathi Overton, center, pulling focus for Peter Roof, right)
Fisheries Forum in Puerto Rico
February 2011 Recent projects
Discovery Channel re-creations
February 2011 Recent projects
Glidecam upgrade
January 2011 Upgrades
This stabilization system works gracefully and professionally. Producers will see why the idea of making a camera glide through the air isn't just a dream, it's a reality.
The Glidecam 4000 Pro will easily supports smaller cameras like our Panasonic HPX170. It is quick and easy to set up and balance. Allows unrestricted booming and unrestricted 360 degree panning. This rig should be considered for projects that can use an increase in production values with dynamic pictures.
Note: camera operator shown in photo not included.
More daylight balanced Chimera lighting
January 2011 Upgrades
Education for Innovation: A Digital Town Hall
December 2010 Recent projects
EDUCATION FOR INNOVATION: A DIGITAL TOWN HALL from Innovation Economy on Vimeo.
The Innovation Economy hosted, “Education for Innovation,” a digital town hall discussion on how we can create the next generation of innovators. Speakers included Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, OECD Secretary General Angel Gurría, ITIF President Robert Atkinson and New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman.
Event was recorded live in high definition in the Newseum studio and webcast live. Alt Gobo’s Peter Roof was one of five camera operators.
Souls of Valor
November 2010 Recent projects
Program that aired on The Pentagon Channel takes a look at the extraordinary combat actions on the part of the last three Medal of Honor recipients. About 12 minutes in are interviews with the sons of Chief Master Sergeant Richard L. Etchberger recorded by Peter Roof on XDcam.
Election coverage
November 2010 Recent projects
Red Bull Soundclash
October 2010 Recent projects
Much like a political debate, both bands handed each other the stage in the innovative, back-and-forth musical conversation. The two bands from very different musical genres were not performing for a panel of judges or experts but for the audience, who had the final vote. In a surprising twist of fate, Tokyo Police Club came out on top.
The stages faced each other and nine cameras covered the event including two jibs and four hand-helds.
Watch the video here.
Ethics Awards
October 2010 Recent projects
NCBEA recognizes companies that have demonstrated their integrity, civic and social responsibility, and business excellence in the Greater Washington region. Hosted by the National Capital Chapter of the Society of Financial Service Professionals in partnership with George Mason University, the competition is open to any organization (except financial service companies). Recipients of this highest honor in business ethics have an executive-level commitment to business ethics, specific examples of how they implement their corporate code of conduct, and clear communication that sets expectations for ethical behavior.
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial
October 2010 Recent projects
Video production is provided by CrossCreek Television Productions. The scope of the production has grown to 15 standard def cameras including a Steadicam, jib, and two remotely operated cameras. This is the second year that Peter Roof of Alt Gobo ran one of the hand-held cameras.
Excellent autumn weather held the entire weekend. It was quite a moving event and difficult to not be touched by the profound grief that brought these families to the service.
Photo by Bill Green for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation
A Policeman's Life - Afghanistan TV
September 2010 Recent projects
Host Mariam Atash Nawabi sits down with Wyce Babar, an Afghan-American policeman in Prince George's County, Maryland for a behind the scenes look at police work and to discuss the day-to-day challenges of being a police officer.
Production was accomplished with two Panasonic HPX170 cameras recording tapeless to P2 cards. Mike Broleman and Peter Roof were the photographers. In addition, two point-of-view HD cameras were mounted in the officer’s cruiser to capture additional angles as he patrolled the town. Another angle included dynamic car-to-car video in the streets of Riverdale.
The segment is a part of a program called “Pul,” a weekly public interest program, recorded in the United States for broadcast throughout Afghanistan.
Watch segment.
New Web Site
August 2010 Upgrades
If you are reading this you are looking at my totally new and improved web site. Please tour the site using the navigation buttons on the left. I’ve included a comprehensive and growing set of sample programs. A complete and current inventory of my comprehensive gear package is detailed under Tools of the Trade. Not many production companies show their rates but you will find mine here. What does “Alt Gobo” mean? Find the answer in the “About” pages. And here in the news page you will find out all about my latest projects, upgrades, and what’s come out of the Research and Development Labs. Stay tuned for essays, commentaries, and tech tips in my “Feed” section.
Glissade® (camera slider)
July 2010 R&D Labs
World's largest kidney exchange live webcast
June 2010 Recent projects
Peter Roof directed the two-camera, live webcast celebrating this event at the Washington Hospital Center. MORE
Laura Bush interview for Afghanistan TV program
June 2010 Recent projects
The interview can be seen here and was recorded in a gallery of the Women in the Arts Museum in Washington DC. Kathi Overton and Peter Roof lit the scene and ran the Panasonic HPX170 tapeless cameras.
Continued work for Miller Center debate series
May 2010 Recent projects
The series was created to encourage a vigorous, well-informed discussion on the national stage about the major issues of our time. MacNeil Lehrer Productions covers these events with five cameras on a set "in the round." A production of this scale has its usual challenges but some locations have necessitated special procedures. At the Library of Congress the entire setup was restored within an hour after the library was closed to the public. The programs are now shot in HD and webcast live and broadcast on PBS stations a few days later.
Stained glass SMPTE color bars
May 2010
Support for ImageMakers
April 2010 Recent projects
The program is taught over the course of eight Saturdays and concludes with an awards show where each of the PSAs are presented to the non-profits. Peter Roof gave the students a highly distilled class in lighting and camera work at one of the sessions. This year Shelter House and Suited for Change both had a PSA made for them by the participants.
At the production phase Alt Gobo provided camera, light, and sound resources on the Suited for Change PSA. That spot was shot using Alt Gobo's Panasonic HPX170 DVCproHD camera with Peter Roof as DP and Kathi Overton on sound. This production was the inaugural run for Alt Gobo’s new 8-foot mini camera crane which was used in the last scene before the closing graphic.
New rates and discounts
March 2010 Upgrades
After more than five years at the same low rates Peter Roof has decided to make a slight increase. He believes the new rates are competitive and are slightly below the average for this market. The rates take into consideration his deep experience and the comprehensive set of tools that includes the latest technology and the industry’s top performing legacy hardware. In a practice not common in this business, Alt Gobo will publish the current rates on this website. Clients can use the figures to plan routine projects. Of course, no two jobs are alike and clients are encouraged to contact Alt Gobo with specifics so we can give a more detailed estimate using only the necessary resources.
Along with the increase a unique 10% discount program is being offered. Discounts are available on Alt Gobo resources and clients can take advantage of this program if projects are firm booked in advance. Single-day projects can get the discount if the job is guaranteed ten days in advance. For two and three+ sequential day projects the window is 20 and 30 days respectively. The discount is also available if Alt Gobo has the choice of selecting the production day(s).
Along with the increase a unique 10% discount program is being offered. Discounts are available on Alt Gobo resources and clients can take advantage of this program if projects are firm booked in advance. Single-day projects can get the discount if the job is guaranteed ten days in advance. For two and three+ sequential day projects the window is 20 and 30 days respectively. The discount is also available if Alt Gobo has the choice of selecting the production day(s).
Cameras in motion
January 2010 Upgrades
Production support and projection for Ethics Awards
November 2009 Recent projects
Prius added to green up the fleet
November 2009 Upgrades
PAL upgrade triples international potential
August 2009 Upgrades
Most nations have, or are developing, digital high definition transmission standards that are similar to what the US implemented in June 2009. Sadly, there is still no global standard. High def material can be recorded in a wide variety of settings and may be able to be converted or output using many different codecs. The technology is still emerging and we have yet to see how material can be exchanged easily. However, having the capability to record in the PAL frequency may streamline that process if going directly to traditional broadcast or post-production overseas.
Big @$$ glass for closer look at distant action
June 2009 Upgrades
Golfers can improve their game with instant swing analysis
May 2009 Recent projects
To illustrate the functionality a foursome of golfers on a practice round using the device was recorded in high def. The material was edited and prepared for posting the next day at the client's location.
World's largest model rocket launch covered for Discovery Canada "Daily Planet"
May 2009 Recent projects
The program "Daily Planet" on Discovery Channel Canada took interest in covering the historical launch. Alt Gobo's Peter Roof ran one of two BetacamSP cameras covering all aspects of the people of gear involved in making, and the crowds witnessing, the event. Brad Fulton worked the other camera and Michael Poole was on sound.
Production resources for the next generation of professionals for "Image Makers"
April 2009 Recent projects
At the production phase Alt Gobo provided camera, light, and sound resources for one spot. The Make Piece spot was shot with Alt Gobo's Panasonic HXP170 DVCproHD camera with Kathi Overton as DP and Peter Roof on sound. The WYC spot needed additional sound so that second unit work was done by Peter Roof with heavy tech and advisory support from Kathi Overton.
Military Benefit Association :30 spot
March 2009 Recent projects
Thirty-second commercial aired in select cable markets nationwide. Shot in high def (720P/24P) using prime lens adaptor. Edited in Final Cut Pro. Alt Gobo was the production company and made this spot with the assistance of the following people:
Crew:
Producer/DP: Peter Roof
Co-producer, technical supervisor: Kathi Overton
Associate Producer: Sharon Sobel
Writer: Wendy Wilson
Editor: Louise Hernon
Makeup: Patty McFarland
Audio: Kathi Overton
Gaffer: Louise Hernon
Grip: Jesse Fresco
Cast:
Veteran: Daniel Lee Mascarello
Wife: Stephanie Harkay
Daughter: Chloe Kasey
Announcer: Heather Hathaway
Special thanks:
Tom and Linda Roof
Steve Shannon
Crew:
Producer/DP: Peter Roof
Co-producer, technical supervisor: Kathi Overton
Associate Producer: Sharon Sobel
Writer: Wendy Wilson
Editor: Louise Hernon
Makeup: Patty McFarland
Audio: Kathi Overton
Gaffer: Louise Hernon
Grip: Jesse Fresco
Cast:
Veteran: Daniel Lee Mascarello
Wife: Stephanie Harkay
Daughter: Chloe Kasey
Announcer: Heather Hathaway
Special thanks:
Tom and Linda Roof
Steve Shannon
56th Presidential Inauguration coverage
January 2009 Recent projects
PayPal added to accept credit card payments
January 2009 Upgrades
Aerials for award-winning Maryland Public Television program "Moving Maryland Forward - A Century of Modern Highways"
November 2008
The only way to grasp the magnitude of this subject is from the air. Aerial DP, Peter Roof, on board Bussmann Aviation's MD500 helicopter, covered nearly the entire state from the Chesapeake Bay to the Allegheny Mountains. They flew beside bridges and around intersections as they gathered hours of high def material using the Sony Cinealta camera in the side mount configuration. It took a mission in 2008 and one in 2007 to shoot it all. The material included spetacular autumn pictures used in other MPT programs.
The National Association of Government Communicators has awarded this program an Award of Excellence in its 2009 competion.
Eye in the Sky over NY Marathon
November 2008 Recent projects
SilverDocs gets "Under Our Skin"
June 2008 Recent projects
Aquabarrel streams water, we stream video
August 2007 Recent projects
To show off their unique product Aquabarrel asked Peter Roof to shoot/produce and Kathi Overton to edit a three minute program for streaming on the web, YouTube, and other outlets. Fresh material was shot in 720P/30P high definition using the Panasonic HVX200 tapeless camera and edited on Final Cut Pro. The program shows the different options and the key features that separates this product from its competition. View clip.