I'm learning how to use a Sony PD 170, and after having gone through the owner's manual I find that I am still wondering about some of the camera's functions. The manual is written assuming a higher level of knowledge than I have. Does anyone have any recommendations on tutorials or books that will explain the basics of gain, white balance, shutter speed and in regard to these functions what considerations I should keep in mind for post production, and also, for instance, the advantages of shooting in manual instead of automatic, etc. Thanks for any and all recs.

Though there is great knowledge base to be found and utilized here, you might try http://www.alanbarker.com/. I found a lot of answers to functions on the PD170 there. Hope this helps.

Tyge, I agree!

Alan Barker's website is very informative if you own any cam and plan on doing documentary work or run-and-gun shooting. You may not agree with every premise, but he'll make you think about things that you may not have before.

Another useful site for learning the PD 170 is the Urban Fox PD170 Workbook (http://www.urbanfox.tv/workbooks/sonypd150/index.htm) or, for other cams, the Any Cam Workbook (http://www.urbanfox.tv/workbooks/anycam/index.htm).

Those websites have exactly the info I'm looking for. Many thanks!