Handy hints in capturing and protecting your memories

Remembering to bring the camcorder and have it fully charged is just the beginning of capturing and preserving important memories. You really want to look back on important moments in your life and see them as they were, and to do this you will need to practice using a combination of filming techniques and the latest advancements in recording technology.

 

Capture true-to-life images

Nothing can replace quality visuals. From colour reproduction to clarity, they let us relive moments as they really happened and let us connect with them in a much deeper way. For this reason, it is essential that you record using the latest technology like the BSI (Back-side illuminated) CMOS Sensor.

It ensures that images are benefitting from the optimal amount of colour intake. Previous technology, such as the Front-side Illuminated CMOS sensors, captured images with an inferior set-up; a certain amount of colour and light was blocked by the internal wires from being received on the ‘light-receiving’ surface. This failing was overcome with BSI CMOS Sensor, and now the images you capture are true-to-life and exactly as you remembered them.

One of the other benefits of filming with the help of the BSI CMOS Sensor is that it makes filming in the dark more effective. With the improved structure of the sensor, the camera now requires less light to pick up colours, and the results are noticeably better. From shadows to poorly lit rooms, you will enjoy enhanced visuals with richer colours that may have not previously been captured.

So, the benefits of BSI CMOS are quite clear, but they still rely on you capturing decent footage. So, here are a few filming techniques that will hopefully help you capture the best possible footage.

Filming techniques

A few basic filming techniques can ensure that you get more from every frame. There usually isn’t an endless supply of memory, so it is important that you make the most of what you have.

Plan the Shoot

Before you turn the camcorder on, think through what you are trying to achieve. Who will be watching the footage? What will they want to see?

Clean the Lens

Get into the habit of checking your lens for water spots or dust, as this will avoid hours of ruined footage.

Zoom

Try to avoid using the zoom on your camcorder. You are far more likely to see the camera shake when you are heavily zoomed on a particular point. Use the zoom facility between shots to compose your picture.

Frame your shots

Be sure to frame your subject properly. This involves moving closer for good proportions, and don't be afraid to place the subject slightly off-centre to give context.

Hold your shots

A common mistake is to stop recording too soon. Try holding your shot for an extra three seconds. This will allow plenty of time for any post-production. You may insert scene transitions.

Filing system

There is no point in filing anything if you’re not going to save it properly. A good storage system, like an external hard drive, not only ensures that your footage is ordered and secure but makes it easier to access. Often our precious memories remain unwatched because people don’t know where to start looking.