HF-S20 tips needed... at DVinfo.net

Richard Loiko · April 26th, 2011, 03:32 PM

Greetings! First post here, just picked up one of these camcorders and I really need some advice on how to set it up. I will be using it almost exclusively in clubs/bars recording bands (LOUD environment, spotty/low lighting) , looking to capture the best possible sound and HD picture, but of course, the footage will also need to be able to be downloaded to YouTube. I will be manning the camera/mobile about 40% of the time, the remainder it will be stationary on a tripod.

I have used camcorders before, to the extent of turn on, point, and press record. Which would probably work with this camera also if I weren't trying to capture such a dynamic subject as a band in such a difficult environment as a club.

Oh, and I plan on working with Pinnacle Studio 15

-I hear frame rate helps low light performance--suggestions?
-Keep it in "Auto" mode or mess with Aperture, Exposure, Shutter Speed, White Balance and Gain? If the latter, help LOL...
-Any tips on getting decent results when using the camera feature while recording video (big plus)?
-Is an external mic a necessity (5.1 is not needed, but decent audio is)?
-Does the built in attenuator perform well in "auto" mode, or should levels need to be set beforehand (tough when doing back to back acts)?

Thanks a bunch in advance all!

Richard Loiko · April 28th, 2011, 06:19 PM

100 views and no advice?

April 26th, 2011, 03:32 PM	#1
Richard Loiko Tourist Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 2	HF-S20 tips needed... Greetings! First post here, just picked up one of these camcorders and I really need some advice on how to set it up. I will be using it almost exclusively in clubs/bars recording bands (LOUD environment, spotty/low lighting) , looking to capture the best possible sound and HD picture, but of course, the footage will also need to be able to be downloaded to YouTube. I will be manning the camera/mobile about 40% of the time, the remainder it will be stationary on a tripod. I have used camcorders before, to the extent of turn on, point, and press record. Which would probably work with this camera also if I weren't trying to capture such a dynamic subject as a band in such a difficult environment as a club. Oh, and I plan on working with Pinnacle Studio 15 -I hear frame rate helps low light performance--suggestions? -Keep it in "Auto" mode or mess with Aperture, Exposure, Shutter Speed, White Balance and Gain? If the latter, help LOL... -Any tips on getting decent results when using the camera feature while recording video (big plus)? -Is an external mic a necessity (5.1 is not needed, but decent audio is)? -Does the built in attenuator perform well in "auto" mode, or should levels need to be set beforehand (tough when doing back to back acts)? Thanks a bunch in advance all!

April 28th, 2011, 06:19 PM	#2
Richard Loiko Tourist Join Date: Apr 2011 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 2	Re: HF-S20 tips needed... 100 views and no advice? Last edited by Richard Loiko; April 28th, 2011 at 10:07 PM.