View Full Version : Help for novice camera operators


Henry Gray
November 20th, 2006, 08:53 AM
I have just taken delivery of my new Canon XL2.

I would class myself as a novice as I have no formal training in video or
filming.
The problem I am having with my new camera is what do all the settings
do ie.- GAMMA, KNEE, BLACK STRETCH, COLOUR MATRIX, COLOUR PHASE, CORING, MASTER PEDISTAL, 12 or 16 bit AUDIO, the description given in the instruction manual is very basic and does not explain why we should adjust these settings.

Having moved up from still photography I understand all about speed, exposure and depth of field but I am lost when it comes to video terminology.

Many of us out here are novices and it would be very helpfull if we could have a site which would explain what it does and why and when we should use these adjustments.

I have been using an XL1s for several years but the XL2 is a totaly new ball game.

I am sure many others using this site would love to learn more about how to get the best
from this superb camers.

Chris Hurd
November 20th, 2006, 09:36 AM
Run, don't walk, to DV Creators and watch their online XL2 features tour.

The link is http://www.dvcreators.net/canon-xl2/

It's a QuickTime 7 file. Hope this helps,

Tim Bickford
November 20th, 2006, 05:32 PM
Henry-

Hello - Congrats on the XL2. I was in your boat 15 months ago. It takes a while to get the hang of it. There are some very talented people in this forum that can teach you a lot. I'm still learning.....

I recommend the Ultimate Guide to the XL2 http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=details_accessories&A=details&Q=&sku=366552&is=REG&addedTroughValue=366276_REG&addedTroughType=accessory_detail

It's a good place to start.

Tim

Julian Fox
November 20th, 2006, 07:17 PM
Is there a PAL version of that DVD?

Henry Gray
November 21st, 2006, 01:46 AM
Thanks Tim this DVD is exactly what I am looking for.

Julian you say their is a PAL version, do you know of a dealer in the UK where I can buy this DVD.
B&H want over $26 to post to UK

Many thanks

Henry Gray
November 21st, 2006, 03:24 AM
Sorry Julian having re read your post you are asking the same question
as I am.

Tim Bickford
November 21st, 2006, 06:23 AM
Henry-

If you can get the DVD it's well worth it. There is certinly a lot to digest. The important part is just to have fun with it.

Take care...

Mike Teutsch
November 21st, 2006, 06:38 AM
Henry, guys,

Do what Chris said and go to DV Creators and watch and save their XL2 Features Tour Movie. It is about a half hour long and is far superior to the Ultimate Guide to the XL2 DVD. And, it's FREE!

I used to have both, and I sold the DVD. I will keep the DV Creators movie on my computer. The Ultimate Guide to the XL2 was very disapointing.

Mike

Greg Boston
November 21st, 2006, 07:39 AM
Run, don't walk, to DV Creators and watch their online XL2 features tour.

The link is http://www.dvcreators.net/canon-xl2/

It's a QuickTime 7 file. Hope this helps,

And when you're done there, stop by and read these pages. A much better explanation than the owner's manual.

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelFeaturesAct&fcategoryid=165&modelid=10350&pageno=2

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelFeaturesAct&fcategoryid=165&modelid=10350&pageno=4

Should help get you up to speed.

Congrats on your new XL2, it's an awesome camera.

-gb-