In this section:

• Learning objectives:
• Your camera
• Tape carrier
• Record button
• On-off camera switch
• Viewfinder
• LCD screen
• Lens

Learning objectives:

• Familiar with the workings of video camera
• Familiar with the camera terminology
• Familiar with the various camera angles
• Familiar with the various styles of film making

Your camera

The camera is the most important piece of equipment for the production. The camera operator has to become familiar with the principal features of the camera, and know the position of the main controls. Practice exercises will give the necessary confidence and experience so that the operator's concentration can be on the framing and the shots when the real film starts shooting. Video cameras have many features in common.

Tape carrier

This is on the side or at the bottom of your camera. Find the eject button for opening the carrier. Make sure the tape is oriented properly, and don't force it in. To close and lock the carrier, you will probably have to press a small spot or button.

Record button

It's probably under your thumb, and it's usually red. The record button is what you use for shooting: press it to start recording, and press it again to stop.

On-off camera switch

It's near the record button, and you move it with your thumb. Most cameras have at least three modes: camera, VCR, and off. Camera is the recording mode, and VCR is playback. (VCR mode is like a video player: it allows you to look at the material you have recorded.) When you are shooting, you will see the image that is being shot through the viewfinder, or LCD screen. In VCR mode, you can control the tape to play the footage you have shot with the "shuttle control" buttons: stop, fast forward, play, and rewind.

Viewfinder

This is positioned along the top and back. It's a little glass peephole through which you can see your shot.

LCD screen

This is folded down along the left-hand side of most cameras. It allows you to move the camera away from your face; this can make it easier to compose the shot.

Lens

The lens allows the camera to see. Use the proper materials when you clean it.