Camcorder Recording Tips
Recording Tips
• Practice recording under a variety of lighting
conditions. This will help you respond quickly
whenever you see a scene you want to record.
• When using manual focus, it is easier to make
professional looking videos if you check the focus
before you start recording. Use your camcorder’s
zoom to help you focus manually. Before you start
recording, zoom in on your subject and adjust the
focus until you see a clear image in the viewfinder.
Then zoom back to where you want to record. If
the subject-to-camcorder distance does not change,
the subject will remain in sharp focus over the
entire zoom range.
• 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”.
• Try to make sure indoor scenes are well-lit. This
improves 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.
• Include close-up shots of individuals when taping
family outings or group functions.
• Make a video recording of your home and contents
to store in a safe place in case of fire or theft.
Holding Your Camcorder
• Hold the camcorder horizontally. Keep your feet
slightly apart and your upper arms close to your
body.
• When possible rest your elbows on a table or other
stable surface to help keep the camcorder steady.
• If you want to film at different angles, you may
raise the viewfinder 90˚.
• Standing against a wall may give your recordings
more stability.
• Use an optional tripod for stable images.
Traveling Tips
• Write down your camcorder’s serial number and
keep it separate from the camcorder when
traveling. If your camcorder is lost or stolen, you
will be able to identify it.
• Make sure you have any plug adapters that you
may need before taking your camcorder to other
countries. Consult your RCA dealer for advice.
• Use extra care to avoid damage to your camcorder
and accessories when operating them at a beach or
pool. Spray, sand, and dust should be avoided. If
your lens has been exposed to the elements, clean
it only with proper lens cleaning supplies.
• Carry your camcorder in a carrying case when
traveling. See page 4 for a case especially
designed for this camcorder. An ordinary suitcase
or carry bag does not offer the protection your
camcorder needs. Treat your camcorder as carry-
on luggage to protect it from rough handling.
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