Core Skill #1: Camera Control

Control Your Camcorder Like a Pro.

Learn and master the use of these 3 Controls:

1. Focus: Learn to quickly switch between auto and manual focus.  The camera automatically focuses on anything in the centre of the scene. Adjust focus manually if subject is off-centre.
2. Exposure/Iris: Use auto but learn to quickly enable and adjust manual exposure/iris to keep your subject consistently lit up.  Always manually adjust when the subject is darkened by a bright window behind.
3. White Balance: Record white as white and not blue or green.  Unlike our eyes, the camera have problem with seeing colors under filament light and flourescent light.

Adrian Lee
http://VideoLane.com

PS: This short videography tip is extracted from Online Videography Course.

PPS: If you want to get a camcorder that gives you superb manual controls, try Panasonic. Make sure you can adjust Focus, Exposure and White Balance externally (not with menu).

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