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Disadvantages Of Using Digital Video Cameras
By Trevor | August 10, 2007
It Can Be Expensive
Of all the disadvantages of using digital video cameras this is probably the most challenging.
You have read the sensible articles stating that it is not the equipment but the technique that makes the best digital videos.
But who cares about that! If you are a real enthusiast then it is as much about the equipment as it is the end result.
Yes there is a high initial cost to pay, but it has fallen, quite considerably in recent years. But I wonder if like me, you feel that you have to aim for at least a certain standard of digital video camera, past the basic models at least.
There is a kind of confidence that comes from owning better equipment. I’m convinced it improves your technique, even if it is an intangible benefit. An antidote to one of the disadvantages of using digital video cameras.
The Better The Camera The Bigger The Manual
Once you have purchased your new digital video camera you then have to plough through the manual to understand all its functions.
This seems to takes ages and to be honest, is quite boring! However, it is really important to learn at least the most common functions.
For the more peripheral functions try this - if the manual is small enough it may fit into your camera bag anyway.
If not, then see if the manufacturer has a copy in pdf format on their web site. If so download it and just print off the pages relevant to what you think are the extra functions you will most use.
A few pages of A4 paper will be lighter to carry around in your equipment bag and easier to refer to as well. Another of the disadvantages of using digital video cameras dispelled!
Batteries Can Be Your Downfall
Like all the other hi-tec devices nowadays you always have to take into account battery life.
Please, please take a second battery on any shoot that you do. As you will know if you have been using digital cameras for any length of time – that shot of the day will always be when your battery is just giving up.
If you have ever seen the film True Lies, you will probably remember that just about the worst time to discover a flat battery in your digital video camera, is when your leader is wound up for dictating his ransom demands!
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