Frequently Asked Questions About Camcorder Use
Learn the answers to some common camcorder conundrums.What's the best technique for using the zoom lens?
If your lens can be manually zoomed, do so whenever possible. That saves time and battery power. Where possible, zoom between shots rather than during them, and try to edit zoom shots out of your final tape. When planning to zoom in on a subject, zoom in before you shoot, set and lock focus on that subject, then zoom out to the start position. This will ensure that the important subject is in focus throughout the shot.
How can I use the special "looks" of wide angle and telephoto lens settings?
A wide angle lens setting increases the apparent depth of the scene. Use it to make small areas look bigger. Since it also increases the apparent speed of motion toward and away from the camera, use wide angle for dynamic action shots in chases, fights, etc. A telephoto lens reduces apparent depth. Use it to make background objects look bigger and closer than they are. Use it, too, to create dramatic compositions on the two-dimensional video s…
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