Freak Show FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What Macs can run Freak Show?

Theoretically any Mac that runs Tiger can run Freak Show, however, understand that old Macs will run Freak Show slowly, maybe too slowly to be useful. Unlike Photo Booth and some other video software, Freak Show does not require a Mac with Quartz Extreme. But without Quartz Extreme some of the effects run slowly.

Can I use a USB webcam with Freak Show?

If it claims to support Macs then it should work. If it doesn't say anything about Macs, it might work using the free webcam-osx usb webcam driver.

How can I improve performance? Get faster frame rates, avoid stuttering?

You can improve performance by quitting all other applications. Freak Show will appreciate the extra memory and cpu time.

How can I apply a Freak Show effect to iMovie, Premiere or Final Cut Pro?

The only method available right now requires the paid version of Freak Show and a DV camcorder or deck with a FireWire connection.

Use your video editing program to output the clip you want to modify to DV tape.
Play your tape (connected via FireWire), use Freak Show to apply the effect you want, and use Freak Show's Record Video feature to create a QuickTime movie of the effect.
Finally, replace the original clip in your editing program with the clip you created with Freak Show.

Can I design my own effects for Freak Show?

Sort of. Apple makes a fantastic free tool called Quartz Composer and you can use it to create Freak Show - like live effects.

Is there a Freak Show for Windows?

Sorry, not at this time.

Is there a Freak Show for Linux?

No, but we recommend EffectTV for Linux. Its free.

Where can I find more information?

There is a Freak Show page at TDI with a list of Freak Show reviews and press.