Time code is measured in hours, minutes, seconds and frames. There 25 frames per second and this part of the screen runs to 24 then returns to 00 before starting again at 01. The guide frame is the small square in the centre of the viewing screen; it assists with framing and composition. The cameras use DVCAM, a high quality tape with DVD quality audio sampling.
In our introduction to the camera we learnt how to focus by zooming into the subject, focusing with the wheel and then zooming out. After this is done, unless the camera is moved, everything in the shot will stay focused throughout the duration of the filming. We were also told about shutter speed and how if there is a low shutter speed it will give a blurry effect whereas if there is a high shutter speed everything will be very clear with lots of detail (e.g. opening scene of Saving Private Ryan)
There is a small wheel at the back of the camera to control exposure (how much light is let in). If it shows a small number then the exposure will be high and there will be lots of light. If the number is big there will be a smaller aperture and less light.
The Gain or Db is the artificial light that the camera can add. This, however, should always be set at 0Db since it can lower the quality of the image. The only time it should be used is if you need to obtain footage in low lighting conditions in a hurry.
The White balance is also important. This ensures the picture does not look too blue or orange. If you are filming indoors, the white balance symbol should be set as the light bulb symbol. If you are filming outside the sun symbol should be showing.
We learnt various calls that crew members need to shout during filming such as:
'Stand By'
'Standing By'
'Turn Over'
'Rolling'
'Action'
'Strike'
We learnt various calls that crew members need to shout during filming such as:
'Stand By'
'Standing By'
'Turn Over'
'Rolling'
'Action'
'Strike'
