Requesting "Full-field" Match Video for Webcasts from FIRST

[David Brinza]

Perhaps it's time to send a message to Bill Miller, Director of FRC, regarding a desire to change the video feed used for webcasts of FRC matches:

Dear Bill,

For years, FRC members have expressed frustration on Chief Delphi with the video feed provided for webcasts from FRC events. Currently, the webcast feed is the same as the video shown on the big screen behind the field. For the live audience near the field, close-up views of individual robots, drive teams, etc. on the screen are fine, because the field is right in front of them. The live audience can view the entire game, while the big screen offers exciting, close-up shots of some of the action. However, the big screen video feed is not well-suited for watching the game if you are not in the audience.

Many members of the FRC community are interested in watching matches from events they cannot attend in person. Most are watching to see how the match unfolds: what game strategies were used, what the capabilities were for the teams involved, what were the key plays in determining the outcome. Generally, the big screen video feed cannot provide the full picture of how matches evolve because the action often occurs across the entire field. The game announcer audio often describes action not shown in the video, which is disconcerting to viewers.

The under-signed members of the FRC community request a "full-field" camera view of the field for webcast while matches are in progress. Other camera views can be shown during team introductions, after the match is completed and during field reset (including sponsor recognition slides, scholarship offerings and pre-recorded videos). Please consider this suggestion when working with Sargent Production Services for future FRC events.

Thank you for your attention and for all you do the make FRC a success!

Signed,

(List of FRC members supporting this suggestion)

Please provide comments/suggestions regarding the above message.

Indicate in your reply whether you want to have your name and FRC Team number to appear on the message sent to Bill.

Suggestions are welcome for the timing of sending this message to FIRST - next month, next fall, after Kick-off??