Basics

Camcorder Controls: Zoom

– Zoom Operation• Automatic• Manual

– Zoom Types• Optical• Digital

Mounting the Camera

• Tripod• Monopod• Floating Stabilizer

Tripods

• Small tripods made for still cameras can't allow you to make smooth moves. A tripod with a good fluid head and some bubble levels is your best accessory that should last you for years.

Basic Camera Moves

• Practice to make them smooth– Pan– Tilt– Boom

The Six Deadly Camera Sins

• Firehosing• Snapshooting• Headhunting• Zooming• Backlighting• Jogging

Framing Your Shots

• Head room• Look/Lead room• Rule of thirds

Filter Basics

• Lens Protectors– “Transparent lens cap”– UV

• Useful effects– Circular polarizer– Star filter

• Leave the fancy effects for post

Handheld Shooting Tips

• Don't hold the camera too far from your body, it will cause shake. Tuck your elbows into your sides, bring the camera in close, holding it with one hand and either cupping your elbow with the other hand or support the bottom of the camera.

• You can also tuck the camera into your hip for better support for a low angle shot.

Handheld Shooting Tips

• Leaning against a tree, wall or pole will relax your body better than standing for a long period of time. If your camera doesn't have a handle, you can find inexpensive supports that can help you find a better way to get high, low or moving shots.

Handheld Shooting Tips

• Sitting shots are best done while in a relaxed position. Balancing on your knees, or on one foot, with the upper body in the air will cause your thighs to ache and shake.

Handheld Shooting Tips

• When sitting, be comfortable. It's best to sit with your torso supported on your feet, as in the example on the left, or sit cross-legged and cup the camera into your lap.

Resources

• Videomaker Presents: Video Editing DVD

• The Videomaker Handbook• www.videomaker.com: Production

Techniques forum• www.youtube.com/videomaker