Make a recording of your home and contents to store in a safe place in case of fire or theft.

Practice recording under a variety of lighting conditions. This will help you respond quickly whenever you see a scene you want to record.

Fading in and out of scenes may make your videos appear more professional.

Do not move the camcorder rapidly from side-to-side while recording. A steady, gradual “pan” avoids blurring and “jitter”.

Use the viewfinder to make sure the camcorder is level while recording or your scenes will appear “tilted”.

Make sure indoor scenes are well-lit to improve picture quality and color reproduction.

Do not bump or tap the camcorder’s microphone while recording because this sound will be recorded.

Be aware of video and audio backgrounds. Background details barely noticed while you are taping may show up as visual “clutter” on your recording. Background noises (especially TV sets, radios, household appliances, traffic sounds, etc.) can detract from the sound you want to record.

Avoid long “still” shots of landmarks and scenic attractions. Recordings are more interesting if they include people and details. “Local color” will give travel videos lasting appeal. Consider recording a familiar or landmark scene from an unfamiliar vantage point for added interest. Remember to check the lighting before starting to record.

Try to avoid taping backlit subjects indoors. Bright light behind your subject may cause the subject to appear too dark.

Include close-up shots of individuals when taping family outings or group functions.

For a different perspective, try kneeling down (or laying) on the floor when recording children or pets.

41

Page 43
Image 43
RCA CC437 manual