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A prosumer videographer often refers to a non-professional who engages in video production. But prosumer is also a term used to describe video equipment that has many of the functions and much of the quality of professional video equipment at a fraction of the cost. This category has been around for about a decade, enabled by lower costs for imaging chips sets and easy–to-use video editing software.
The first and most important piece of video equipment any self-styled videographer needs is a video camera. Prosumer video cameras differentiate themselves from consumer models by dint of their expanded functionality and higher quality images. Prosumer cameras also cost more than consumer models—3 to 4 times as much.
The advantage to prosumer video cameras is that they have many of the functions found on high-end professional models, in addition to high-quality imaging and audio. Here are three of the more useful features: first, external microphone inputs, which allow a videographer to use external microphones such as lavaliere or lapel mics, handheld mics or shotgun mics, all of which are likely to be wireless. Second, interchangeable lenses give you the ability to change lenses when attempting to film different types of events. For example, a wide angle lens would ideal for filming a sporting event, as it allows the viewer to take in the whole field of play at once. Consumer models don’t have this option. Third, prosumer video cameras have shutter control, which enables shooting in low-level light conditions. These are just a few of the valuable functions a prosumer video camera offers.
However, if the higher cost of a prosumer video camera doesn’t deter an aspiring videographer, the complexity might. With all of its knobs, switches, and settings, a prosumer model is not for the technically faint of heart. Just starting to record on one can be initially confusing. Thankfully, most of these cameras come configured with default settings which are appropriate for shooting in high light, low background noise settings. For more advanced shoot locations and situations, you’ll need to do a slow, steady perusal of the manual and some web searching. Fortunately, the terms and functions are similar from one camera to another so once you learn how to use it you’ll be able to transfer that knowledge to other devices.
The benefits of owning a prosumer video camera are manifold. If you’re willing to spend some extra money and take the time to familiarize yourself with one, you can produce broadcast quality video without a crew or news van. Granted, for many applications this would be overkill; video conferencing, stupid pet tricks and chemistry experiments require only a basic video camera. So think about how you’re going to use your camera, your light, audio, and resolution requirements, then decide if a prosumer video camera is right for you.
Ian Smith
ismith@realtors.org |
