Before
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Video / Before
Before you shoot….every time.
On the floor
- If you are taking equipment off floor set it up quickly before you leave - that way you'll never forget that one critical cable or the tripod quick release plate...
- Make sure all camera batteries are charged – always bring more than you think you need
- Videotape – always more than you think you need
- Please try using the DTE Recorders- they eliminate the need for tape. We have several in the ER- make sure to get a 6-pin to 4-pin FireWire Cable when you check these out. Instructions on how to use them are on the DTE Recorder page, linked to on the sidebar.
- If you’re mic is powered by a battery - bring a back up
On the shoot
- Run through all the camera menus & make sure they are set properly for the conditions of your shoot.
- White balance or chose a pre-set.
- Set the time code (01:00:00;00 = tape #1, 02:00:00;00 = tape #2, etc.)
- Run 30 seconds of color bars
- Set audio levels
Shoot!
- Please try using the DTE Recorders- they eliminate the need for tape.
- When you finish for the day pull the tape & flip the tab so you can’t accidentally tape over your own work. Start each day with a fresh tape – it's worth the $3!
Returning the Equipment
- Be sure to pull the tripod quick release plate & return it attached to the tripod.
- Never leave the batteries attached to the camera or the DTE Recorder
- The friendly folks in the ER sure would appreciate the return of those red clips
Wondering what kind of tapes to purchase? There are two schools of thought on that front. Some folks like to match the brand to the camera, others to the deck. I tend to shoot with with Panasonic AY-DVM63PQ tape.
A good source for videotape is B&H or Edgewise. Within walking distance try Adorama or in a pinch there is always Rafik.