There are two basic approaches to video camera system design –
• One-piece or integrated units.
• Modular or convertible systems.
Here the camera is usually self-contained, and may either be a camcorder fitted with its own integral videocassette recording unit (VCR), or connected by a cable to a small portable videotape recorder nearby. (The recorder may be carried in a shoulder or back-pack, or on a small wheeled trolley-pack.)
You can make a limited number of changes to an integrated camera system. For example, you can –
• Replace the zoom lens with another having a different range.
• Clip on a small LCD color monitor screen, to supplement the eyepiece viewfinder fitted to the camera, or use a stand-alone picture monitor.
• Plug in a high-quality microphone.
• The camera’s power can be supplied by an internal or attached on-board battery, or by a separate videotape recorder unit’s supply.
Modular systems are extremely versatile. They allow you to convert your camera arrangements in various ways, depending on the type of production and shooting conditions. The camera head is the heart of the system, and it can be used with a range of different accessories:
• The lens system – From compact lightweight types to large state-of-art units. Usually a zoom lens, but sometimes prime lenses (fixed focal length) or special purpose types may be used instead. Effects filters may be added to modify the lens image in various ways.
• The types of camera controls – You may make lens adjustments (focus, lens aperture, focal length) on the lens-system itself, or use separate controls attached to the pan bars (panning handles). Alternatively, some or all of these adjustments may be controlled remotely (I.R. control; CCU).
• The viewfinder – An adjustable eyepiece design, which can be repositioned on either side of the camera. A black and white or color monitor attached to the top of the camera. A clip-on LCD screen. Sometimes an additional high-grade picture monitor is more convenient.
Modular cameras
Various features can be attached to the camera head to suit the type of production.