Camera Types and Supports for Video Production

Camera Types for Video and Television

The camera's function is to capture the image. We can find a wide variety of video and television cameras, from cheaper designs to more sophisticated markets. We can find a great variety of models. When choosing a camera, several factors must be considered: price, practical aspects (e.g., weight), operational characteristics, and performance (image quality).

Studio Cameras

Studio cameras, for example, are used on set and are usually connected to a production control room. They create high-quality images. They tend to be large, bulky, heavy, expensive, and difficult to transport. They usually incorporate a prompter.

EFP Cameras

EFP stands for Electronic Field Production. These are lightweight cameras. Normally, they are controlled from a mobile unit. They are often used for productions outside the studios (e.g., sports broadcasts).

ENG Cameras

ENG stands for Electronic News Gathering. They tend to be camcorders. This means that a single unit contains the camera (whose function is to capture the image) and the recorder (which records the signal). They are light, inexpensive, and widely used in journalism.

Camera Supports for Video Production

Before recording, we must choose the right support. A soft, subtle movement and a firm hand are essential for effective camera work. We have several ways to support the camera. We should note:

• The size and weight of the camera: We must consider whether we will be recording with the camera on our shoulder or hand, and whether we will be recording for short or long durations.
• Movements: We must keep in mind if we will be recording from a fixed location or if we will be moving while recording. The characteristics of the movements we make are also important (e.g., soft, fast).
• Height: We should also keep in mind if we will be varying the height while recording, and if the variation will be significant.
• Environment: The characteristics of the ground on which we will be recording, the space, etc.

The Most Commonly Used Camera Supports

Tripods

Folding tripods are simple, durable, and fold easily. They are useful in situations where other supports would not be suitable (e.g., over rough terrain and rugged hills). Basically, they have three legs whose length is individually adjustable.

Tripod Dolly

A tripod dolly is basically a tripod with wheels. It is well-suited for studio operations, and its portability makes it extremely useful for shooting outdoors. It is used on a flat surface. If the surface is uneven, oscillations will be created in the image.

Pedestals

Pedestals are the most commonly used supports on television sets. They consist of a height-adjustable center column attached to a base with three wheels that are steered by a wheel or a lever. There are outdoor and studio pedestals.

Cranes

Crane arms have an impressive range of possible shots. The main feature of this support is its long extension arm. The arm is mounted on a central column. The camera is usually attached to the top of the crane. It is controlled remotely by an operator located at the bottom, looking at a monitor. Cranes can achieve smooth and fast movements from ground level to their maximum height, and can pan a full 360 degrees. Cranes are widely used in field recordings. They are used to record fast action and when the point of view needs to be changed several times in one shot.

Hotheads

Hotheads are lighter than cranes. Like cranes, they can achieve quick movements and are widely used in spectacular television productions (e.g., music or sports programs).