Video Accessories

Many accessories and products are available to enhance your video making and viewing experience. These products can help improve your end result or can assist you in overcoming problems or difficulties. Designed to improve both visual and audio quality, some accessories are quite basic while more advanced videographers may take advantage of more sophisticated and technical tools. Whatever your video making background or interests, there is bound to be an accessory out there designed to enhance your experience.

Microphones

A popular choice for capturing good quality sound, the right microphone can be a worthwhile addition to your video equipment. There are several different types of microphones available. You may find that your video camera has a microphone built into it already. There is also the “shotgun” style of microphone. This is mounted to the top of your camera. Also available are hand-held microphones which you attach to your camera. Another type of microphone is the clip-on or lavaliere. This is the small microphone which is attached to the lapel or collar of the person you are recording. For more professional needs, a boom microphone may be employed. This large microphone is connected to your camera and is held over the person or people you are recording. The microphone is designed to stay out of the camera’s line of vision, while capturing high-quality audio. More recently, a series of wireless cameras has been developed. These work much like the traditional lavaliere or hand held microphones with the additional capabilities of wireless technology. No more chords and cables.

Lens Protector

Another worthwhile investment is a good quality lens protector. A lens protector will prevent the surface of your video camera’s lens from becoming scratched, pitted, or damaged in any way. Professional lens protectors are available. A less expensive way to protect your video camera’s lens is to use an ultraviolet (or UV) filter. This filter is clear and is easily screwed onto your camera. It affords significant protection against scratches and is a less expensive option. UV filters are often available for $20 or less.

Tripods

Tripods are useful in many ways. This three-legged stand, allows you to film your subject without having to hold the camera. A tripod also produces a steadier film than results from the same camera being hand-held. Tripods are especially useful when not much action or motion will occur – interviews are a good example. Tripods are generally height-adjustable. Be sure that each of the three legs is of the same height to ensure a level platform for your camera.