Chapter 5 - Cameras

After reading this chapter, you should know . . .

  • The basic scanning processes used to create video.
  • The role of hue, saturation, and luminance in creating video color.
  • How a camera produces video signals.
  • Lens characteristics and principles of lens operation.
  • The theory and operation of zoom lenses.
  • Common camera controls and how they are used.
  • How different types of camera mounting equipment are used.
  • Basic camera shots and how they are used.
  • Basic principles of picture composition, including framing, headroom, angle of elevation, and balance for standard-definition and high-definition formats.
  • Basic camera operation techniques.

1. Practice shooting footage using the guidelines for shot composition discussed at the end of this chapter. Intentionally violate some of the principles to see the negative effect. Can you think of times when these principles can be violated without adverse effect?

2. Practice manipulating the depth of field of a scene of two people talking. First, set up the shot so that both the subjects and the background are in focus, then set up the shot so that the background is no longer in focus. How do the two shots differ in the emphasis placed on the main subjects of the shot?

1. What are the main differences among ATSC formats in terms of resolution, scanning, and frame rate?

2. How do the three aspects of color (hue, saturation, and brightness) combine to create specific colors?

3. What are the basic aspects of lens design and how do they affect shots?

4. How do different camera mounts affect camera shots? What types of shots are possible with each type of camera mount?

5. Discuss the guidelines of picture composition. Why is each guideline relevant, and how does each serve to make a better picture? What differences does a 16:9 aspect ratio make in the way shots should be composed?

Here we provide links to excellent topic-related web sites.

Cameras and Related Equipment

Canon Focal Length Comparison

Cranes and Other Studio Mounting Equipment

Firewire