Camera Basics

Camera Basics

A TV monitor was connected to the DVX camera for the following demonstration:

White balance is used so that white looks white to the camera. Light is actually different colors, for example in our classroom, fluorescent lights emit green light, daylight is blue, indoor lights can be orange. However, our eyes adjust automatically so that we don't detect the color. This is how you can set the white balance manually:

1. Press the button for white balance. On the DVX select PRST

2. Fill the screen with a white piece of paper

3. Press and hold the button in the front until it looks white on the screen

Exposure is controlled by the amount of light entering the camera. You can adjust the exposure manually on the DVX by pressing the Iris button and adjusting the ring until you achieve the 'correct' exposure.

Focus is adjusted to achieve a clear image. If you switch the DVX lens to Manual you can adjust the focus ring by turning it.

Focus (manual):

1. Zoom in on your subject all the way,

2. Turn the ring manually until your subject is in focus

3. Zoom out to your desired frame.

Camera Angles, Movement and Composition

When composing your shots remember the rule of thirds using those 4 imaginary lines. Allow for headroom and nose room for the subjects in your shots. There is a TV/Title safe area so the surrounding edges may be off screen. You need to frame your shots accordingly in order to have all of the important material appear inside of the tv/title safe area.

Krystal and I demonstrated subject to camera distance and angles:

Close Up (CU) - usually from the shoulders up

Medium Shot (MS) - from the waist up

Long Shot (LS) - head to toe

Low angle - camera below

High angle - camera above

Camera Movement

Pan - moving the camera horizontally (left to right) *a right to left pan is more noticeable

Tilt - moving the camera vertically (up and down)

Dollying - moving your body with the camera usually with the help of a dolly (wheelchair or skateboard could work too)

It is a good idea to use a tripod for stable shots. You need to place the base plate on the camera and then place it on the tripod. When setting up the tripod, start from the bottom up. There is a level that you can use as a guide to adjust the tripod legs. When you place the camera on the tripod make sure it is secure and not loose. Work with a partner who can keep one hand on the tripod while you make any adjustments. Stand in between the legs to prevent you from accidentally bumping the tripod and changing your camera frame/composition.

There are occasions where a feeling calls for handheld camera movements. We have a brace that fits right over your shoulder that you can use for steady handheld shots and for camera movement along with your subject.

The class was divided into two groups who completed a one shot portrait. Everyone took turns using the camera and saying a little bit about themselves in 30 sec. We reviewed the footage we shot and gave feedback. My group went on to practice manual exposure and focus with the TV monitor connected to the camera. Then, we switched back to using the camera screen because that's what they'll be using in the field.