E
Mastering the Basics
Tips for Making Better Videos
Holding the camcorder
For maximum stability, grip the camcorder in your right hand and keep your right elbow pressed against your body. If necessary support the camcorder with your left hand. With practice, you will be able to operate the controls by touch, without taking your eye off the action.
Using a tripod
To prevent any unwanted movement, you can mount the camcorder on a tripod, (or any flat surface at a suitable height) and operate it with the wireless controller.
•When you are using a tripod, be careful not to leave the viewfinder exposed to bright sunlight or it may melt. (The light is concentrated by the viewfinder lens.)
•Make sure that the fastening screw of the tripod is no longer than 1/4 inch (5.5 mm), or it will damage the camcorder.
Composition
The most important element in the scene does not have to be in the center. For a more interesting picture, try to position your subject so it is slightly to one side. Leave some space on the side of the frame that the subject is facing or moving towards.
Don’t cut off the top of the subject’s head, and don’t cut people off at the neck, hips or knees (move a little bit above or below).
Watch out for distracting objects in the background.
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