he good to hear that helped...
Here are the answers to your other questions I got a little overboard and this is definitely the longest post I've ever made. I let my assistant, chatGPT, help a bit with writing to save some time
1- There is not one straight answer for this. There are so many places where you can get videos, sometimes with, and sometimes without Alpha channels. Here's a list i found but there are many many more...
https://bjosephburch.com/royalty-free-s ... o-footage/
2- Alley will show the original compression and it will show a transparent background in the preview. Those are the two ways to see if you're video has a alpha channel and the options are just always there. Pick it if you need it
3- You will most likely get a larger file size and an identical video output (with a black background) when recompressing a video to contain alpha if the original source doesn't have an alpha channel. Here's why:
Alpha channel explained: An alpha channel stores transparency information for each pixel in an image or video frame. Videos without an alpha channel inherently have an opaque background (usually black).
Recompression with alpha: When you force the recompression to include an alpha channel, the software doesn't magically create transparency data. Instead, it creates a new alpha channel filled with a default value, typically representing full opacity (black).
Identical video output: Since the original video lacks transparency information, the recompressed video with the new alpha channel will visually appear identical to the original. You won't see any transparency effects.
Larger file size: The addition of the alpha channel, even if filled with black data, increases the overall file size compared to the original video without alpha.
In essence, you're adding extra data (the black alpha channel) that doesn't affect the visuals but increases the file size.
4- In Resolume Arena's Advanced Output, while both slices and polygons define specific areas of your clip to be shown on the final output, they differ in their functionality and capabilities. Outside of Arena's Advanced Output they behave the same and they are both treated like slices:
Slice:
Function: Defines a rectangular region of your clip.
Shape: Always a rectangle.
Transformations: Offers basic transformations like scaling, rotation, and positioning within the output.
Warping: Limited warping capabilities, primarily for basic corrections.
Edge Blending: Can be used with edge blending for smooth transitions between adjacent slices.
Use cases: Simple selection and positioning of content, often used for basic layouts or tiled visuals.
Polygon:
Function: Defines a custom shape with straight edges that determines the visible area of your clip.
Shape: Created by connecting multiple points to form a closed shape.
Transformations: Offers advanced transformations, including scaling, rotation, positioning, skewing, and perspective adjustments.
Warping: Powerful warping capabilities for precise manipulation and fitting onto complex surfaces in projection mapping scenarios.
Edge Blending: Can be used with edge blending for smooth transitions between adjacent polygons.
Use cases: Ideal for projection mapping onto non-rectangular surfaces, creating irregular shapes with precise control, and achieving more complex distortions and effects.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
Choosing the right tool:
If you need a simple rectangular selection with basic transformations, use slices.
If you're working with non-rectangular projection surfaces, require precise control over shape and warping, or want to achieve complex distortions, use polygons.
Additional points to consider:
Slices are generally considered easier and faster to set up, while polygons offer more flexibility for intricate adjustments.
Depending on the complexity of your project, you might combine slices and polygons for different areas of the output.
Masks:
There are two different types of masks you can use in Resolume Arena's advanced output: Input Mask and Output Mask. They serve distinct purposes in defining what gets shown on your final output:
Input Mask:
Function: Defines which part of your clip gets sent to a specific slice.
Location: Applied before the clip is transformed and positioned within the output.
Use cases:
Cropping unwanted parts of the clip before it reaches the output.
Isolating specific elements within the clip for individual manipulation in slices.
Creating interesting effects by masking out certain areas of the clip.
Limitations: There can only be one input mask per slice.
Output Mask:
Function: Defines the final visible area of the slice on the output.
Location: Applied after the clip has been transformed and positioned within the output.
Use cases:
Masking specific shapes onto the final output (e.g., revealing content through a cutout shape).
Creating blackout zones on the projection surface.
Combining multiple slices with different output masks for complex visuals.
Global vs. Per-Slice: Resolume Arena offers a single global output mask that affects all slices or the option to create individual output masks for each slice.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
Choosing the right mask:
- Use input masks when you want to control what content gets sent to a specific slice from the original clip.
- Use output masks when you want to define the final visible area of the slice on the output after transformations.
5- There isn't a single, comprehensive official Resolume manual in the traditional sense. However, there are excellent resources available to help you deep dive into learning Resolume, especially considering your background in lighting design. Here are some options:
Official Resolume Resources:
- Resolume Knowledge Base: This is a great starting point with a wealth of information on using Resolume Arena. It covers various topics like setting up projects, using effects, working with clips and layers, and advanced output options. You can access it here:
https://resolume.com/support
- Resolume Tutorials: Resolume offers a library of official video tutorials on their YouTube channel. These cover various aspects of the software, from basic introductions to more advanced techniques. While not as in-depth as a manual, they provide a good visual learning experience:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=gZjwewDLS1o
- And of course, the official Resolume Community Slack Channel that's a very engaged group of like-minded souls that will always take the time to answer your question.
https://join.slack.com/t/resolumecommun ... w7BjCrEMJQ
Unofficial Resources:
- VJ Forums and Communities: Online communities like forums and Facebook groups dedicated to VJing and using Resolume can be a valuable resource. You can connect with experienced users, ask questions, and learn from their workflows and tips. Some popular forums include VJscape and the Resolume Facebook group.
- Online Courses and Tutorials: Youtube is your best friend…
there so many tutorials about everything there… but there are also several online platforms offer in-depth courses specifically focused on learning Resolume. These courses can be a structured way to learn the software with step-by-step guidance and project-based exercises. Look for reputable platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, or dedicated VJ training websites.
- VJ Books and Articles: While not as common as software manuals, there are some books and articles available on VJing and using Resolume. These can provide a different perspective and additional insights into using the software creatively.
Leveraging Your Lighting Design Experience:
Your background in lighting design for club installations is a valuable asset for learning Resolume. Here's how your existing knowledge translates:
-Understanding Lighting Principles: Your grasp of lighting concepts like color theory, timing, and spatial awareness will directly translate to creating visuals in Resolume.
-Working with Fixtures and Consoles: The skills you use to program lighting fixtures and consoles share
similarities with controlling clips and effects in Resolume.
-Creating Visual Ambiance: As a lighting designer, you already understand how to create atmosphere and tell a story through light. This translates well to creating visually engaging content in Resolume.
Tips for Reaching an Advanced Level:
Start with the Basics: Before diving into advanced techniques, solidify your understanding of Resolume's core functionality like clip management, effects, layers, and composition.
Practice Regularly: Set aside dedicated time to experiment with Resolume. Play with effects, try different workflows, and create test compositions.
Focus on Specific Areas: Once comfortable with the basics, choose specific areas you want to learn more about, like projection mapping, advanced compositing, or live coding with Resolume.
Learn from Others: Watch tutorials, participate in online communities, and observe how other VJs use Resolume in their work.
Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: The best way to learn is by doing. Experiment with different techniques, push boundaries, and discover new ways to create visuals in Resolume.
Remember, mastering Resolume takes time and dedication. But it's lots of fun...
Wow.... 
