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So you want to be the next Spielberg? Well the first thing you need to learn is how to get the most out of your consumer camcorder. Believe it or not you can get some quality video using most consumer products. The technology is better today than ever before.All you need to have is a basic understanding of video recording. So read up and implement these few simple tips and you'll be off shooting better video in no time.

Probably the first thing you need to know is about the recording media. Recording media can consist of tapes, DVDs, and even hard drives. For the most part it doesn't matter what brand you choose when shopping for media to record your videos. However, I do recommend once you pick a brand that you stick with it. Using other media may alter the picture in the slightest so consistency is the key when choosing the media. Next I would buy an extra battery. How can this help you ask? Imagine recording a wedding and all of a sudden the camera goes dead. Not a good time to find out you should have splurged on an extra battery.

Holding the camcorder can be an art unto itself. For nice steady shots use a tripod if you have one and if you don't have one consider purchasing one. The next best thing is to place the camera on a stationary object such as wall top or table and do your shooting from there. As a last resort you should hold your camera with two hands and bend your knees. This stabilizes the camera and absorbs some of the shock when you move around. It is still very possible to get good shots with a handheld point of view.

Do not ever use the digital zoom on a camcorder. It's worthless and just a number that companies can throw on the camcorder to be more impressive. It seems with numbers like 770X and 1000X that you would be able to shoot from miles away and still get a clear shot. Not true. Digital zoom uses a processor to alter the image causing pixelization on the final product. Instead shoot with just the optical zoom which uses the lens and motors to zoom in and out giving you a crisp clear picture. Your camcorder should have a menu option on it to disable digital zoom.

The last tip I will talk about is lighting. This is something that most people never take into consideration. Light can drastically affect your shots. Don't be scared as you don't have to be a master videographer to judge your lighting conditions. If you are inside then flip some switches and see which shot looks more natural and run with it. Outside is more out of your hands. Pay attention to shade and clouds and things of that nature.

These few simple steps will have you video looking better almost immediately. I have been a videographer for the better part of 6 years and I use these tips every time I shoot.

Learn more about this author, Erik M. Dell.
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