looking for tutorial

[robi]

Hi, a week ago I was browsing the various threads and found an interesting and very basic tutorial on getting acquainted with the camcorder (am not sure if it was about the DVX or the HVX). It explained the various functions, how to reset the camcorder to a known initial state, and other useful basics. I have tried again to find this tutorial for an in-depth study, also using the search tool, but wasn't able to locate it. Could anyone help please? Thank you
Robi

 

[andy_starbuck]

I think the one you are talking about is under the DVX100 / Technical Forum, and it is a sticky called "Getting the Right Image". It should be here:
http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=6721

Two things to note about the HVX that are not in that thread:

1) You need to black balance quite often with the HVX. Any time you change recording format (480,720,1080) or change recording destination (P2/Tape) you should black balance by pressing the same button you use to white balance, but holding it for several seconds. Black balance sets the black levels in the image and ensures that you have proper detail in the dark areas of the image.

2) The higher resolution of the HVX can complicate manual focus. If you are going to use manual focus, remember that the LCD screen only provides about 10% of the resolution of the image being recorded in HD mode. And that's generally not enough to focus visually. The "Focus Assist" button on the HVX operates differently than on the DVX. On the DVX it temporarily enables autofocus and then returns to manual focus. On the HVX, that button provides a blow-up of the center of the image to help with focusing. So be sure to use that.

The HVX is sort of the "Swiss Army Knife" of video cameras. So besides the basic operation you also need to learn about how to work with the P2 and with tape and with both together.

 

[robi]

Thank you Andy, that is exactly the tutorial I was looking for. Also, thank you so much for the useful hints on black balance and focus. I am jumping from a Canon XM1 to the HVX and I sure need encouragement to master all of those buttons... Not to speak of P2 processing. Anyhow, given enough time and backed by useful experience by knowledgable users, I am sure I can do it.