Family Video Basics

Family Video Basics

Digital Video has added to Family Video Making and moviemaking in general a host of possibilities that were once the province of the professional film studios. The key to this explosion in potential is the partnership between the relatively inexpensive digital video camera, the widespread availability of powerful personal computing and the Internet. By adding movement and sound to the still image, it is possible to go much further in digital video than in digital photography, in terms of creativity.

This section is dedicated to beginner family videomakers or those who consider themselves as illiterate when it comes to camcorders and maybe technology in general.

This section will provide basic information about video cameras, their main features and differences, and what to consider when looking for a camcorder depending on budget and the intended use and objectives.

VIDEO BASICS

Modern digital video cameras offer near professional facilities in increasingly compact forms, with good image quality. Ensure your camera is compatible with your computer before purchase.

Family Video - Camera

Many digital cameras can record short video clips (30 seconds or longer). You may not be able to zoom or focus during the clip.

Family Video - Camcorder

Breathe new life into your analog video tapes by converting them into a digital format like a DVD or share them online.

Family Video - Video Conversion Device

Play your analog tapes through a video capture device connected to your computer to compress and encode the video in a digital format, ready for editing.

See also...
Master your camcorder: The items and skills you need to prepare before starting to shoot
Prepare the shoot: The items and skills you need to prepare before starting to shoot
Frame your shots: Distant shots, close-ups, panning, zooming - when and how to use them
Frame the action: Use the adequate framing techniques to compose for space and track movement of your subject
Shooting for variety: Find different creative angles to make things interesting to watch
Zooming: Distant shots, close-ups, panning, zooming - when and how to use them

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