17

Playback

17.1 Don’t use the camera for playback!

Although HD cameras are usually capable of playing back a tape, I strongly advise you never to do this. In absolute extremis, perhaps, but that does not include the director wanting to see a printed tape or any continuity problems. The VTR on the camera is primarily designed as a record unit and without tedious precautions will assume that is your requirement and happily record over any material already existing on the tape. Believe me, I know!

If you absolutely have to use camera playback and it is only needed for reviewing a few seconds, say up to 30 seconds, of the last take then hold the Ret button down until you are that far back and then let it go. The camera will now safely replay and ...

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