On this page, we will learn about the use of "Sports" or
"Action" camcorder settings and some recommendations about
wide angle adapters and using more than one camcorder.
New
camcorders: With the introduction of the MiniDV format,
camcorders get smaller and more affordable. HINT: If you
shoot your own sports video, try to set your video camera
to ACTION or SPORTS mode. If you have a FRAME mode, its
even better. Action or Sports mode allows for higher
shutter speeds which can be useful for frame-by-frame
reviewing.
Wide
Angle: Great for handholding to follow or chase the
action.My preference is to go as wide as possible. I use an
external wide angle adapter. I try to get as close to the
action as possile. Wide is very forgiving, you can shake,
rattle and roll and nobody cares. Think COPS™ on TV.
B roll: If you have access to more camcorders, plant one
downrange somewhere close to the end of the action.
To Zoom or Not To Zoom: Don't zoom, period. Notice the
audio is excellent when I get close to the action. No
expensive mikes needed when you are CLOSE. If you take
anything away from this, get in WIDE and CLOSE. You will
like it.
Practice: Watch the pros. Mimic what you see on TV or the
movies. One more thing, after you have videotaped, allow at
least 5 seconds if possible at the end. Abrupt endings are
hard to edit.
To view the videos you will need Apple's QuickTime® for
your Windows PC box. If you use a Mac, you already have it.
You can use the links below to download the latest version
for you. Be sure to get the free version. The Pro ($29.95)
version allows more authoring, exporting and editing
options. Either version will work.
QT 7.3 for Windows XP users: .
If you use an older OS other than Windows XP/2000, use your
existing QT 6.5 to view most of the videos on this site. I
will encode to MP4 so you can view them.
I
enjoy the video media and do my own editing using Apple®
Final Cut Pro HD® software. I choose and shoot SONY® MiniDV
cameras because they solved their video and audio sync
issues. I shoot my tiny SONY in 16X9 mode and output to
standard 4X3 format. The letterbox effect is cool.
All videos are shot by me or my friends.
Last updated: March 29, 2008