How to use the Canon Digital Video Camcorder (DVC)

 

With this information sheet, learn how to record and review video using the DVC.

 

1. Connect Power Supply:

 

The DVC can be powered by:

• Regular AC outlet
• Battery
• AC/DC adapter
  

 

If you're filming a single location indoors, without need of much camera mobility, it may be a good idea to use a regular AC outlet. Plug the power adapter into a wall outlet and plug the AC power cable into the DVC. The power terminal is located behind the rubber terminal cover on the front of the camera (by the lens).
OTHERWISE, you can just use the batteries (make sure they are charged).

2. Insert Digital Video Cassette:

1. Locate and slide the "OPEN/EJECT" switch on the underside of the camera; the cassette compartment cover will open automatically. (NOTE: if the tripod connector is attached, it must be removed before loading and unloading cassettes; simply unscrew it with a coin.)
   
2. Load (or unload) the cassette by gently inserting it with the window of the tape facing the grip belt of the camera and the REC/SAVE tab up.
   
3. Press the "PUSH" mark on the compartment until it clicks, and wait for it to close.
   
4. Click the cover back into place.

3. To Record:

1. Turn the camera on: Locate the power/function switch on the back of the camera (by the battery). Push the small lock button and switch the knob to the "CAMERA" position. Use the control buttons on the side of the camera (above the LCD screen compartment) to "rewind," "fast forward," "play," or "stop" the playback.
   
2. Open the LCD screen (on the left side of the camera) by sliding the LCD panel release button; OR simply use the viewfinder on the top of the camera.
3. Position the camera for image capture. You may ZOOM in or out using the zoom controller switch (located on the top of the camera on the right side, above the power switch.)
4. When ready, press the red start/stop button to begin recording ("recording" will appear on the LCD screen).
5. When finished, press the red start/stop button again to stop recording ("paused" will appear on the LCD screen).

4. Manual Adjustments

1. To adjust the shutter speed, make sure the camera is in "PROGRAM" mode. Press in
   the selector dial and choose AUTO from the program menu. Open the menu and select CAM.SET UP and select "SHUTTER." Use the selector dial to choose the shutter speed.
2. When shooting a subject not appropriate for autofocus, you can set the focus
   manually. To do this, press the FOCUS button. Then, adjust the focus manually using the selector dial. To return to autofocus, press FOCUS again.

5. To Review

1. Push the small lock button on the power/function switch and switch the knob to the
   "PLAY" position.
2. Use the control buttons on the side of the camera (above the LCD screen
   compartment) to "rewind," "fast forward," "play," or "stop" the playback.

6. Tips for Shooting Video

1. Hold the camcorder with your elbow pressed against your body. Use your free hand
   to stabilize the camcorder. Familiarize yourself with the controls to avoid taking your eye off the subject when shooting.
2. Use a tripod if your subject(s) will generally stay in one place.
3. The subject should not necessarily be in the center of the frame. Try framing the
   subject slightly on one side, leaving space in the direction the subject is facing or moving. Do not cut off the subject's head and avoid cutting people off at the neck, hips or knees.
4. Use a variety of shots and picture angles for a more interesting video. For example,
   start with a long shot and work up to a close shot of your subject. Keep zooming while recording to a minimum and try to establish your shot before you push the record button.
5. For shooting landscape shots, pan the camera left or right in a smooth, steady motion.
   To shoot tall vertical objects such as buildings, try a tilt shot from bottom to top.