Media Studies

Manual Camera Operation

White Balance» This is the method by which the camera

is informed of the primary source of light being used.

» How do you do a white balance?» What are the two primary sources of

light being used.» What happens if you do not do a white

balance?

Exposure» This is the control which adjusts the

amount of light being allowed into the camera.

» This is measured in f-stops.» If the iris is open you allow in more

light, and on screen have a low f-stop.» If the iris is closed you limit the amount

of light going into the camera, you have a high f-stop.

FOCUS» Setting the focus is extremely important

as the distance between the subject and the background may be considerable.

» What is the method of checking your focus ?

» Using focus in film making is important, focus control can allow very creative effects, can you give any examples of this?

Shutter» This is the control of the cameras time

in which the iris is remained open.» low shutter - has a slow motion delay

effect with strong motion blur.» High shutter - has a slight edge effect

which increases clarity ideal for fast movements.

Framing / Composition» What is good headroom?

» What is talk space?

» Can you explain the rule of thirds?

180 line of action

» What is this rule can you explain it?

180 Line» This is about the position

of where the camera can be placed between two people talking.

» Can be placed anywhere on the one side but should not cross.

» If you cross the line it will look as if it is a mirrored image as if they have turned their backs.