Set your camera to manual (M) mode. Next, make sure that
frame rate (fps) is the same as shutter
speed
. That way there will be no black "gaps" in the video and the VisualPoi pattern will look smooth.
Example: Let’s say your camera’s frame rate is set to
30 fps
. Then you have to set the shutter speed to
1/30 sec
(this is sometimes called “360 degree shutter angle”). These two values must be kept the
same.
Then you set your aperture (iris) and ISO (gain) so that exposure (brightness of the video) is not too
dark or too bright. Definitely turn off any AUTO-ISO or AUTO-GAIN settings, because the camera
always "thinks" that the scene with VisualPoi is too dark and turns the brightness up. Set your
aperture and ISO according to the camera display - make sure the colors are not too white (blown
out). It's always good to make the settings a bit darker than too bright, which produces pale colors.
Right and wrong combination of frame rate and shutter speed when shooting video
What frame rate to use? This is not so important, but it's always good to use lower fps. 30 fps is
good, 25 fps is little better (then you set your shutter speed to 1/25 sec). 24 fps can also be used, but
then there is no corresponding shutter speed (only 1/25 sec, not 1/24 sec), so small black “gaps” in
the image will be visible.
A solid tripod for your camera or camcorder is also highly recommended.
What camera to use? There are many suitable models on the market, but we had good results with
so called 3-chip or 3CCD camcorders like Sony HXR-NX5. Standard DSLR cameras with video function
can be also used, but it’s a bit harder to get nice colors.
Maintenance
Charging
When the battery indicator drops down in level, the Visual Poi needs to be recharged. You can use
the included charger or any mobile phone charger supplying 5V from its USB connector. Visual Poi is
fully charged, when the red indicator next to the USB connector turns off.