Tripod Vs. Handheld - Sony PDX10 Workshop Handbook

SHOOTING HANDHELD VS. TRIPOD
STEADY SHOT
Hand held work takes a lot of practice and is easier for professional camera operators as the extra
weight of the broadcast camera gives it some stability. The very light domestic cameras are easily
affected by body movements, such as breathing in and out! However, there will be times when it is
impractical to use the tripod e.g. in a crowded area, a march, etc. Always use the steady shot feature.
Steady shots are essential to make your pictures look professional and keep you friendly with the pic-
ture editor. Wobbly pictures limit the editors choice of usable shots and are difficult to edit into and out
of. Plus if you intend to shoot for web broadcasting you'll find steady shots are easier to compress to a
small file size.
With the Pro-sumer cameras you have the STEADY SHOT facility which compensates for camera
shake but does not eliminate it.
The steady shot feature does NOT replace the usefulness of a tripod.
WITH A TRIPOD YOU CAN...
* Take steadier shots every time, especially at the narrow angle end of the lens.
* Ensure smoother camera movement (panning, tilting and pivoting).
* Keep the camera level by use of the balance level (bubble).
The disadvantage is that it will take you a little longer to set up the equipment, but your shots will look
better for extra effort.
TIPS ON USING THE TRIPOD
* Make sure the legs of the tripod are spread out as far as they will go. This makes it as stable as possible.
* However, for safety you can use a tripod as a monopod by bringing all the legs up together. This
way no-one will trip over it but be sure to keep yours hands on it at all times.
* Check the balance level (the bubble) every time you move the tripod.
* Set the pan and tilt friction's so that they are about equal.
* How much friction is personal preference - However, too little and shots will still wobble - too
much and you'll be fighting with your tripod for control of the shot!
* Adjust the panning handle so that it is comfortable for you to use. Again personal preference - but
usually just on the droopy side of horizontal.
IF YOU HAVE TO USE THE CAMERA HAND HELD...
* Use the wider lens angles whenever possible-Zoom Out. (Narrow angle shots will accentuate
camera shake)
* Try and brace yourself against a solid object like a wall, street lamp or a car.
* Stand with your feet slightly apart to steady yourself and hold your arms in a triangle shape against
your chest to form a sort of human tripod.
* When panning or tilting, move your whole body from the center to ensure smoother movements,
NEVER move the camera with just your arms or hands.
* Breath slowly and gently.
SONY PDX10 Handbook page 14