Can ordinary video-cameras (like Sony Handycams) be used in making documentary films ?

Question

If yes, then how to add sounds to these recorded video-clips ? Just tell me elaborately anything u know on these issue, I'm a novice. Any kind of help is appreciated.

Answer 1

Try any of the following like Ulead and Pinacle.(9) If you are Serious, read on.

Motion graphics compositing (editing, touching up and special effects) is usually performed in post production once a stage or the whole process of filming is complete.

Before that can happen, the film needs to be captured (copied) to computer within Premiere(1) and broad brushed by repositioning and omitting film segments. Digital editing has made traditional sequential film splicing (linear editing) anachronistic.

Once the sequence of shots have been suitably placed, attention to VISUAL details can commence in post-production After Effects(2) to spruce up an otherwise dull coloured, poor contrast and lacking in clarity picture. Photo-magic imagery may be inserted for surprising post effects. Once visuals are tip top, AUDIO can be similarly sharpened, fine tuned with foreground and background music in addition to voice-overs and sound effects (follies) in Audition(3), before final release to the media of choice.

Where film is easily authored with Flash(4) to the internet as choice transposition, Premiere(1) will transpose digital film back to CDs, DVDs, Videos and computers.

Where the endeavours of documentary films can be total up to US $2,600 at intermediary levels, an abridged version of capturing and broad brushing film can be performed similarly(5) with post-production audio editing(3) totaling US $450.

Should a price of US $450 be over the top and there is uncertainty of long term pursuit, an encompassing film transpositor to computer, allows basic editing and touchups on Visuals AND Audio is possible through an all rounded editing tool in Studio(6). Text and animations may also be inserted with video on top of film to provide contrast and contextual depth. Mac users might want to consider Final Cut Pro.(8)

Conveniently, e-tutorials available for fledglings(7) are less likely to leave them in a lurch with a white elephant. The above choices are main stream industry standards.

Parallel to the above recommendations, are complementary tools in the market. Once you know where you are headed and what you have to work with, such finds come naturally.

ADDENDUM
In answer to your query, most cameras are able to: JVC (A), or PAnasonic or Sony(B). The camera is for you to get your vision on screen. One could use a Digital Stills camera with Video recording features, and still make a good movie.

When purchasing, be aware of space limitations of high-quality video, ability to play the videos directly on TV via composite cables or copy files to computer through a USB 2.0 connection or firewire cable.

Most computers require 500mb to 1GB of RAM with a full interface 256mb or higher video card to operate smoothly film editing software. Industry folk may opt for bespoke solutions.

Answer 2

If you've got some money look for almost anything with a 3 chip package. MiniDV cameras (handycam types) are now offering things like this. I myself have a single chip Canon that actually captures video very nicely, but it also features DV in and out so I can do some transfer stuff that other cameras might not offer. If you've got a lot of money behind you - My partner has a DVX 100-A and that is one of the most widely used high end cameras I've come across. Many of the people in my neck of the woods use this camera (professional and amateur alike). Otherwise, on the cheap, picking up a camera for shooting something and making a start for yourself or just to get things done...We've used anything including a high 8 old school Sony handycam.

Answer 3

Yes. If and if you have acess to a mini dv recorder with a mic use it as well and sync up the sound in post.

Answer 4

Are you wondering how to downoad for free Adobe Premiere Pro CS6? You can get it for free here http://j.mp/1r2i7pg
It's a good free solution.

Answer 5

you should be able to, check your manual on how to set the sound