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Consumer Products Home :: Support :: ZR300 :: Tips & Techniques

Tips and Techniques
ZR300
ZR300


Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 16x zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.




Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the XL1S (16x lens only) automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion-sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

The XL1S' on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject--for instance, when recording dialogue--consider plugging a directional microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16 Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48kHz (Equivalent to DAT). However, in 16 Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12 Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (Near CD Quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16 Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.






Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 16x zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.




Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the XL1S (16x lens only) automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion-sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

The XL1S' on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject--for instance, when recording dialogue--consider plugging a directional microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16 Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48kHz (Equivalent to DAT). However, in 16 Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12 Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (Near CD Quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16 Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Techniques for the ZR20/25MC/30MC

Here are a few tips for great results with your ZR series digital camcorder.

The ZR's flexible LCD view screen makes it easy to frame each shot. Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 10x optical or 200x digital zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the ZR's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion-sickness!

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.

The ZR lets you create professional-looking cuts and fades easily and simply, right in the camera. Begin a scene with a fade-up on your shooting location, wipe from one scene to another, and give your movie's ending a slow fade to black for dramatic effect.

The ZR's built-in stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject--for instance, when recording dialogue--consider plugging a directional microphone into your ZR's microphone terminal.

Be prepared for all shooting conditions. Wide-angle and tele-converters for your ZR's lens, lights, extra batteries, and digital videocassettes are all available from Canon. And don't forget a carrying case for storing and protecting your gear.

Most of all, have fun! The last thing you want on vacation or when you're setting up for that perfect action shot is to struggle with your equipment. The ZR series camcorders are so easy to use, you're ready to shoot professional-looking video as soon as you open the box!





A

First, hold the camera steady, using two hands whenever possible. Canon's image stabilization will take care of any camera shake, but you can help by having a steady hold on the camera.





B

Then, think about changing your perspective. Get up above the crowd, or down at a child's eye level. This is made easy by using the fold-out viewscreen to monitor composition. And speaking of that, you don't always have to have your subject right in the middle of the picture.





C

Third, don't play your zoom control as if it was a trombone -- in and out, in and out. Zoom out, then record. Stop, zoom in, then start recording again. If you do zoom while shooting, do it very slowly.





D

And, fourth, when moving the camera from side to side to follow the action (the pros call this panning), try to do this as slowly as possible, too. Do it too fast and your audience might get motion sick!





E

Fifth, don't put your camcorder away when night falls. City night scapes and street scenes can provide some wonderful additions to your videos.





F

Sixth, watch for the play of the light from a setting sun on your subject, and remember that your ZR-series camcorder works very well, indeed, indoors under normal and even low light levels.





G

Seventh, your ZR-series camcorder offers professional-looking special effects. Occasionally begin a scene with a fade-up on your shooting location, wipe from one scene to another, then end with a slow fade to black for dramatic effect.





H

Most of all, have fun! The last thing you want on vacation or when you're setting up for that perfect action shot is to struggle with your equipment. The ZR90/ZR85/ZR80 camcorder is so easy to use, you're ready to shoot professional-looking video as soon as you open the box!





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 10x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups..





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the Elura 40MC built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

The Elura 40MC on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider plugging an external microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48 kHz (equivalent to DAT). However, in 16-Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12-Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (near CD quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16-Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





A

First, hold the camera steady, using two hands whenever possible. Canon's image stabilization will take care of any camera shake, but you can help by having a steady hold on the camera.





B

Then, think about changing your perspective. Get up above the crowd, or down at a child's eye level. This is made easy by using the fold-out viewscreen to monitor composition. And speaking of that, you don't always have to have your subject right in the middle of the picture.





C

Third, don't play your zoom control as if it was a trombone -- in and out, in and out. Zoom out, then record. Stop, zoom in, then start recording again. If you do zoom while shooting, do it very slowly.





D

And, fourth, when moving the camera from side to side to follow the action (the pros call this panning), try to do this as slowly as possible, too. Do it too fast and your audience might get motion sick!





E

Fifth, don't put your camcorder away when night falls. City nightscapes and street scenes can provide some wonderful additions to your videos.





F

Sixth, watch for the play of the light from a setting sun on your subject, and remember that your ZR-series camcorder works very well, indeed, indoors under normal and even low light levels.





G

Seventh, your ZR-series camcorder offers professional-looking special effects. Occasionally begin a scene with a fade-up on your shooting location, wipe from one scene to another, then end with a slow fade to black for dramatic effect.





H

Most of all, have fun! The last thing you want on vacation or when you're setting up for that perfect action shot is to struggle with your equipment. The ZR45MC camcorder is so easy to use, you're ready to shoot professional-looking video as soon as you open the box!





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 10x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups..





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the Elura 40MC built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

The Elura 40MC on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider plugging an external microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48 kHz (equivalent to DAT). However, in 16-Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12-Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (near CD quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16-Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 20x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the GL1's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion-sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

114The GL1 on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject--for instance, when recording dialogue--consider plugging a directional microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16 Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48kHz (Equivalent to DAT). However, in 16 Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12 Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (Near CD Quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16 Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 11x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the Optura Xi's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly or your audience might get motion sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

227The Optura Xi's on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider plugging an external microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48 kHz (equivalent to DAT). However, in 16-Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12-Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (near CD quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16-Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 20x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the GL1's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion-sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

114The GL1 on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject--for instance, when recording dialogue--consider plugging a directional microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16 Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48kHz (Equivalent to DAT). However, in 16 Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12 Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (Near CD Quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16 Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 11x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the Optura Xi's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly or your audience might get motion sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

227The Optura Xi's on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider plugging an external microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48 kHz (equivalent to DAT). However, in 16-Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12-Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (near CD quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16-Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





A

First, hold the camera steady, using two hands whenever possible. Canon's image stabilization will take care of any camera shake, but you can help by having a steady hold on the camera.





B

Then, think about changing your perspective. Get up above the crowd, or down at a child's eye level. This is made easy by using the fold-out viewscreen to monitor composition. And speaking of that, you don't always have to have your subject right in the middle of the picture.





C

Third, don't play your zoom control as if it was a trombone -- in and out, in and out. Zoom out, then record. Stop, zoom in, then start recording again. If you do zoom while shooting, do it very slowly.





D

And, fourth, when moving the camera from side to side to follow the action (the pros call this panning), try to do this as slowly as possible, too. Do it too fast and your audience might get motion sick!





E

Fifth, don't put your camcorder away when night falls. City nightscapes and street scenes can provide some wonderful additions to your videos.





F

Sixth, watch for the play of the light from a setting sun on your subject, and remember that your ZR-series camcorder works very well, indeed, indoors under normal and even low light levels.





G

Seventh, your ZR-series camcorder offers professional-looking special effects. Occasionally begin a scene with a fade-up on your shooting location, wipe from one scene to another, then end with a slow fade to black for dramatic effect.





H

Most of all, have fun! The last thing you want on vacation or when you're setting up for that perfect action shot is to struggle with your equipment. The ZR45MC camcorder is so easy to use, you're ready to shoot professional-looking video as soon as you open the box!





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 10x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

114You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the Optura 100MC's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

The Optura 100MC's on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider plugging the optional directional microphone (DM-50) into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48 kHz (equivalent to DAT). However, in 16 Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12-Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (near CD quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16-Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Keep it steady!!

While some video makers seem to like to keep the camera in motion, twisting it this way and that while capturing their images, most of us like to watch videos that don't give us motion sickness. Hold the camera steady, using two hands whenever possible. The Optura 200MC's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. But you can help it along by holding the camera as steady as possible. When moving the camera from side to side to follow the action (the pros call this panning), try to do this slowly; just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista.





Compose your shot

Don't use the zoom as if you were playing the trombone; use the zoom to set your composition, then start recording. If you do need to zoom during recording, zoom slowly. Think about changing your perspective. Get up above the crowd, or down at a child's eye level. This is made easy by using the fold-out viewscreen to monitor composition. And remember, your subject doesn't always have to be right in the middle of the picture.





Watch the sun

The sun can be your friend or your enemy. Don't force your subjects to stand looking into the sun; move them so the sun is coming from the side. Or place your subject in the shade; the Optura 200MC automatically will adjust exposure. When shooting under bright sun on the ski slopes or beach, switch over to Sand & Snow Mode for proper exposure.





Night and low light

Don't put your camcorder away when night falls. The Optura 200MC works wonders with city nightscapes and street scenes. And remember that your camcorder works very well, indeed, indoors under normal room lights.





Special effects

The Optura 200MC offers many professional-looking digital special effects. They can add considerably to your video when used occasionally.





Achieving good audio

The camera's on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider using Canon's optional directional microphone.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality. However, in this mode, while you are able to record two channels of high quality audio, you will not be able to add any additional audio to the tape when you edit your video. Choose 12-Bit Audio Mode for added flexibility if you need to add up to two additional channels of sound, yet still obtain near-CD quality audio.





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 10x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the Optura 300's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly or your audience might get motion sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

114The Optura 300's on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider plugging an external microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48 kHz (equivalent to DAT). However, in 16-Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12-Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (near CD quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16-Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 16x zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the XL1S (16x lens only) automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion-sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

114The XL1S' on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject--for instance, when recording dialogue--consider plugging a directional microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16 Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48kHz (Equivalent to DAT). However, in 16 Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12 Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (Near CD Quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16 Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





Techniques for the ZR20/25MC/30MC

Here are a few tips for great results with your ZR series digital camcorder.

The ZR's flexible LCD view screen makes it easy to frame each shot. Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 10x optical or 200x digital zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the ZR's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly, or your audience might get motion-sickness!

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject, and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.

The ZR lets you create professional-looking cuts and fades easily and simply, right in the camera. Begin a scene with a fade-up on your shooting location, wipe from one scene to another, and give your movie's ending a slow fade to black for dramatic effect.

The ZR's built-in stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject--for instance, when recording dialogue--consider plugging a directional microphone into your ZR's microphone terminal.

Be prepared for all shooting conditions. Wide-angle and tele-converters for your ZR's lens, lights, extra batteries, and digital videocassettes are all available from Canon. And don't forget a carrying case for storing and protecting your gear.

Most of all, have fun! The last thing you want on vacation or when you're setting up for that perfect action shot is to struggle with your equipment. The ZR series camcorders are so easy to use, you're ready to shoot professional-looking video as soon as you open the box!





Composing your shot

Start with a long shot to establish your subject, and then use the 10x optical zoom to move in closer for medium shots or close-ups.





Keep it steady!!

You don't need a Steadicam® for jiggle-free tracking shots or pans; the Optura 300's built-in image stabilizer automatically eliminates camera shake, even when you shoot without a tripod. Just turn at the waist to track a moving subject, or pan across that awe-inspiring vista, and let the camera do the rest. Remember to use moving shots sparingly or your audience might get motion sickness!





Watch the sun

Try to keep the sun behind you as you shoot. This keeps the light on your subject and glare out of your lens. If you can't avoid shooting into strong sunlight, consider using a neutral density filter (available from Canon) to keep the sun from washing out the colors of your video and to maintain focus over a greater depth of field.





Achieving good audio

114The Optura 300's on-board stereo microphone provides great sound quality for most situations. For those times when ambient sound might distract from your subject -- for instance, when recording dialog -- consider plugging an external microphone into your camcorder's microphone terminal.

16-Bit Audio Mode will provide you with the highest sound quality, since audio is sampled at 48 kHz (equivalent to DAT). However, in 16-Bit Mode, you are only able to record 2 channels of audio. It is not possible to add any additional audio to the tape.

12-Bit Audio Mode records sound at 32 kHz (near CD quality). Although the sound quality is lower than 16-Bit Mode, it provides added flexibility, since two additional channels of sound may be added.





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