Camera Anatomy

Using a Camera

Before you begin to film there is five things you should always check 

S.W.E.F.F

Sound:

The first thing you should check is sound always try to use an external mic as it picks up sound better then plug your external mic into channel two. To check your sound wear headphones to see if the audio needs adjusting. The fluffy bit which goes onto your mic is called a dead cat. Ignore this step if what your recording doesn't need audio.

White Balance:

When filming you typically want the shot to look how your eyes see it To check your white balance have your subject hold a piece of white paper and then zoom in on the paper if it looks white then your white balance is correct.

Exposure:

Exposure is very similar to white balance check to see if your shot is dark or light use the ND filter it make it slightly darker (like putting on sunglasses) or Iris which helps control the amount of light going in. If you change location always check the white balance again or if your outside repetitively check as the weather is constantly changing so the lighting will probably change. Also if you think the shot is too bright press the zebra button which will show stripey lines if the area is too bright.

Focus:

Check to make sure your subject is in focus meaning that they are sharp to test focus zoom in on their eyes then adjust the focus using the the ring on the camera. If the subject or location changes you must adjust your focus again.

Frame:

This means setting up to prepare to film setting up the shot using zoom and getting the angle you want.