Video assist?

O

OldCorpse

Rockin the Boat
Hello everybody, I've been monitoring these boards for awhile, and this looks like a wonderful community. I'm an aspiring filmmaker, with limited experience.

Here's my question: is there something equivalent to a video assist on 35mm cameras for video cameras? I'm sure this is a very stupid question, but basically how do you address this issue: on my next project, I will not be cameraman. I would still like to see what the cameraman sees when he/she is shooting. Obviously, after the shot is concluded, it can be reviewd, I understand that. What I'm asking is how do I monitor the framing etc. *during* the actual shot. Regarding using the LCD on the camera, that is not always convenient to lean over someone's shoulder, but more importantly, the tiny image makes it hard to judge very much, including focus.

There may be technical reasons why you can't leach signal away from a video camera other than onto that little LCD screen, but I'd like to know either way. Is it possible to get enough signal to power at least a 17"LCD, and do such things exist for a video camera or can one jerry-rig one together? Or is this just total madness?

If this is totally insane, then how do *you* solve the monitoring-while-shooting need? Sorry for the length, and TIA!
 
It's actually easier. Video cams have either a composite/component/s-video/or bnc output that can be plugged into anything from a small walmart tv to Panasonic's 17" HD lcd. I like small Sony or JVC 9" color CRT monitors myself. Check B&H for prices and such.
 
Welcome to DVXuser.

Yup, All video cameras have some for of video signal output. And this sends out bascially what the LCD or viewfinder and showing.
A video-tap is just a small video camera, without a recording mechanism.

Different cameras have different outputs, and different outputs have different benefits.

Most all cameras have Composite out - same as a video tap for film - simple, uses 1 cable, work with just about anything, can be transmitted simply, etc.
HD cameras mostly have a Component output that can be used either in adition to, or in place of, the Composite output. Compoent is higher quality (can canry HD, Composite is SD only), but it takes 3 wires, can't be transmitted, needs a component ready monitor and can be hard to record externally (as VHS on a film set).

Short answer: yes, your operator should be able to get you all set up.

- Mikko
 
Thank you Mikko for such a detailed answer. I checked out your website, as I couldn't reconcile the Finnish Mikko with the Anglo Wilson, but now it's all a bit more clear (I'm American, but I lived in Goteborg Sweden for 5 years :)).
 
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