Can anyone tell me the best resource to learne to use my Z-1? I have an understanding of it's features already but I don't know the first thing about how to use the camera off of the auto settings. I would like to get an understanding of how the shooting environment would make me change settings to optimize picture. I am not trying to assume that 1 pill can make me a know it all, but where can I LEARN how to operate the camera. All advice is appreciated.

Jeff

Can anyone tell me the best resource to learne to use my Z-1? [...] Jeff

For everything you would ever want to know about the Z1, I suggest you take a look at Steve Mullen's excellent book, Sony HVR-Z1 and HDR-FX1 Handbook (http://www.knowledge-download.com/SonyHDV/index.html) and for more references on DV Filmmaking, take a gander at my Digital Filmmaking Bibliography (http://kino-eye.com/digital-filmmaking-bibliography/).

Can anyone tell me the best resource to learne to use my Z-1?

Actually I think you've already found the best resource for the Z1... the DVinfo forum :-) Spend a little while reading back through all the posts in this forum, there is a wealth of information. And you can add your own questions to the many existing threads when you find something of interest.

Hi DAvid,

Thanks for the answer but I am not so interested in the features of the z-1 but how to use any type of camera I guess. For example, shooting in manual mode, if I get to a venue and need to adjust for the lighting, what do I do? I realize this is a case for photography not necessarily the camera or the type of camera. I am looking for resources to explainabout exposure, iris settings, f-stops etc. I usually hire out my camera work and want to get an understanding of what I am doing.

Jeff

For basic info you might want to look at this site:

http://www.urbanfox.tv/workbooks/sonyz1/index.htm

The PD-150 section might also be of interest:

http://www.urbanfox.tv/workbooks/sonypd150/index.htm

Wow, that's great stuff Boyd, Thanks. I also found an engineer near my town that will let me consult for a few hours. I think I will read up on this and then have a better understanding for the hands on.

Jeff

I would also like to suggest an excellent Guide on DVD.

HandsOn HDV - The Complete Guide to the HVR-Z1U and HDR-FX1 at

http://www.handsonhdv.com

I can certainly vouch for the Hands On DVD. It is well produced, well organized, and comprehensive. Well worth the cost.

The best-selling HDV book, now in its second version:

http://www.vasst.com/product.aspx?id=ed515883-935a-4037-aef0-0ad68139e940

Over 55,000 copies sold, completely revised and updated by Douglas Spotted Eagle, Mark Dileo and I.

heath

I'll give the Hands on HDV DVD a plug too. There are some silly mistakes where fps gets confused with shutter speeds, but overall it's well done.