TVR 11500
Introduction to Field Production

Syllabus
 

  
camera

Do's and Don't's of Camera Use

    Now, most of these may see self-evident, but honestly, I have had students do some crazy stufff (not that you every would:)).

    Do:

    • Treat the camera like it is your best friend. Because it is.
    • Let PPECS know if there any problems with the camera so the next person doesn't have to deal with it.
    • Always check the camera's operations before leaving PPECS (same goes for mic's and any other equipment)
    • Always check the menu functions and other camera settings to make sure they are set for out class's default settings
    • Always do a test recording on location to verify you are recording sound and images
    • Do watch for condensation when taking the camera inside from a cold weather shoot.
    • Do let PPECS know if your battery isn't holding a charge
    • Do let PPECS know if there is something on the lens.
    • Do let PPECS know if the tape heads are dirty.
    • Do let PPECS know if the camera or mics or cables or tripod is malfunctioning in any way.
    • Do double check that you haven't left bits and pieces of your equipment on location.
    • Do check your tape immediately upon return to verify a good recording of image and sound
    • Do white balance the camera whenever lighting quality changes
    • Do use manual focus.
    • Do wear headphones to monitor audio.
    • Do carry extra AA and 9-volt batteries on your shoots.

Don't:

    • Touch the lens.
    • Don't drop the camera.
    • Don't let your dog eat the camera.
    • Don't take the camera skydiving.
    • Don't leave the camera in your car unattended.
    • Don't subject the camera to extreme hot and cold temperatures.
    • Don't use the camera hear a radio transmittor or major power line.
    • Don't take the camera "singing in the rain."
    • Don't leave your tape in the camera.
    • Don't leave the battery in the camera when not using it.
    • Don't sell the camera on eBay.
    • Don't use the camera mic unless collecting natural sound for B-roll.
    • Don't use the digital effects features on the camera - we can do all that in post.
    • Don't dissect the camera just because you are betting you can reassemble it.
    • Don't use tape head cleaners without at least first trying to fast forward and reverse your own tape in an effort to fix a clog (tape head cleaners wear the heads down quickly.  If you do use one, read the instructions very carefully.
 

Contact: Dr. C
URL- http://www.ithaca.edu/faculty/ncornwell/115/115cameradosanddonts.html
Revised- Jan. 1, 2010