VFX- Camera Basics

 Camera Basics

Aperture

What is it?

Controlling how much natural light enters the camera.

It is measured in what we call 'F-stops'.

Small f-stop = larger opening = more light entering camera (e.g F3.5)- best way to get a shallow depth of field.

Large f-stop = smaller opening = less light entering camera (e.g F22)- best way of getting a greater depth of field.

How to set it

To adjust your aperture you will need to make sure 'live view' is off, press and hold down the button with a + and - sign on and a little aperture icon next to it, then use the command dial to move up or down a 'stop' e.g open or close your aperture to allow more or less light in.

You will need to adjust your aperture depending on the brightness of your location.

ISO

What is it?

Is how sensitive the sensor inside your camera is to light. It is a good idea to keep your ISO as low as possible (100 or 200) for the best looking image; sometimes you'll need to turn it up if you're in low light, however if the ISO is too high (800+) your image will start to become grainy.

How to set it

To change iso = Fn button and adjust command dial.

Shutter Speed

What is it?

Shutter Speed refers to the amount of time each individual frame is exposed for, when filming video this is measured in a 'fraction of a second'.

​

How to set it

To adjust the shutter speed use the command dial and roll it  (from 1/30 to 1/4000 for video) However you will want to keep it at 1/50 when shooting at 1080p, 25fps.

Focus

How to adjust it

Before clicking record you need to make sure your shot is in focus and there is a couple of things you can do to make sure it is.

To adjust the focus  you use the 'focus ring' rotating it left and right until your subject is in focus.

Zoom

How to adjust it

You zoom in and out using the 'zoom ring' on the lens.

As a note you will also need to keep an eye on your focus to make sure your subject remains focused while zooming or moving closer or further away from your subject as the camera wont auto focus.