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GLOSSARYOFTERMS

Iris

Works like the pupil of the human eye. In a well-lit environment, the human pupil contracts to keep too much light from entering. In low lighting, the pupil dilates to allow more light in.

Colour temperature

A measurement in Kelvin degrees which indicates the colour contents of a light source; bluish light has a higher colour temperature than reddish light. To reproduce white as white under different types of lighting, the chrominance signal must be adjusted to match the light source’s colour temperature.

(See “White Balance”.)

AC Charger Station

Used when charging the battery. Or, when connected directly to the camcorder, it can be used as a power supply.

Auto focus

Focus can be set for automatic adjustment, for beginners who find the adjustment difficult.

On-screen display

Displays in the viewfinder can be shown on a connected TV.

Strobe

In the early days of movie making, 1-second strobes were uncommon, so movies didn’t have the smooth movement they have today. This function gives movies the old-film flicker effect.

Record-Standby

Engage this mode by pressing START/STOP during Stop or Record modes. It means that the camcorder, or your VCR, is paused and ready to record.

CCD (Charge coupled device)

Solid-state imaging device used in camcorders as the camera’s image pickup; analogueous to the eye’s retina except that picture information is output as electric signals.

Dew sensor

If condensation forms inside the unit due to a temperature change, the indicator appears in the viewfinder, and the camcorder becomes unusable.

Digital zoom

10X Optical zoom image is taken and digitally processed to provide 40X or 100X magnified images.

Digital Image Stabilizer

When shooting while holding the camcorder in your hand, even if you think you’re perfectly still, there is slight movement. This function compensates for that movement.

Fade

An effect used in scene transitions. Like movies or TV, the scene gradually goes black or white (fade out), or comes in from a black or white screen (fade in).

White balance

A term that refers to the correctness of colour reproduction under various lighting. If the white balance is correct, all other colours will be accurately reproduced.

Wipe

An effect used in scene transitions. A scene disappears as though it’s being wiped off the screen (wipe out), or appears as though it’s wiped on (wipe in).

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JVC GR-DV33 Colour temperature, AC Charger Station, Auto focus, On-screen display, Strobe, Record-Standby, Dew sensor

GR-DV33 specifications

The JVC GR-DV33 is a compact and versatile MiniDV camcorder that was designed with both amateur and semi-professional videographers in mind. Known for its unique blend of compact design and quality features, the GR-DV33 was a popular choice in the early 2000s, catering to users who sought portability without compromising on technology.

At the heart of the GR-DV33 is its 1/6-inch CCD sensor, delivering sharp and vibrant video quality with an impressive resolution. This camcorder supports a maximum recording resolution of 720x480, which, while modest by today's standards, was significant at the time for producing clear images and faithful colors in various lighting conditions.

One of the standout features of the JVC GR-DV33 is its advanced digital image stabilization technology. This technology minimizes the effects of shaky hands, ensuring smoother video playback, which is especially beneficial for outdoor and action shots. Users appreciated how this feature helped create more professionally looking videos without the need for bulky stabilizing equipment.

The GR-DV33 also incorporates a 20x optical zoom lens, which allows users to capture distant subjects with remarkable clarity. Coupled with a 100x digital zoom option, the camcorder enables users to explore creative angles and shots, from wide landscapes to close-up details. The built-in autofocus system further enhances usability, ensuring sharp focus on subjects even during dynamic shooting situations.

In terms of connectivity, the JVC GR-DV33 is equipped with various output options including USB and FireWire ports. This allows for easy transfer of footage to computers for editing or sharing online, making it a great option for budding filmmakers. Moreover, the camcorder features an LCD screen that can be flipped and turned to allow for flexible shooting angles, alongside an electronic viewfinder for traditional framing.

Another notable characteristic is the camcorder's low-light performance, enhanced by its NightAlive mode, which enables users to record in dim conditions while maintaining a usable level of quality. This feature is particularly appealing to users looking to capture events in poorly lit environments.

The JVC GR-DV33, while no longer cutting-edge, remains a testament to the era of MiniDV camcorders and is fondly remembered for its reliable performance and ease of use. Whether documenting family events, trips, or personal projects, this camcorder provides a solid foundation for capturing lasting memories with a straightforward and user-friendly design.