Factfiles Audio Visual Equipment for Demonstrations (2) VISUAL ENHANCEMENT

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The use of Audio and Video equipment for art groups and societies can enhance the presentations that you give by providing adequate visual and audio information to all of your members who do not have a good view at the back of meeting. This, apart from the obvious benefits to your members, relieves the demonstrator or lecturer from the pressure of worrying if he/she is in the way or whether everyone can hear if he/she is 'talking to the canvas' whilst explaining the particular technique. A handy by-product of this is you can also record the presentation and make it available to members who are unavailable to attend the meeting; however check with the presenter that he/she has no objections about being recorded

What you will need	A video camera with an optical zoom (of any format i.e. 8mm, Hi 8, VHS, Digital etc.) but it must have a 'Video out' jack (usually yellow in colour). A tripod, used to prevent 'camera shake' A projector, used to enlarge and project the image from the camera A stand for the projector A screen, to project on to (NB a white wall could be used if necessary, however, you will lose picture quality using this method). An artificial light source to illuminate the picture the presenter is working on. A bar stool for the camera operator.
Camera	If the camera has an Optical & Digital zoom, switch off the digital zoom facility, and use the optical only. Use of the digital zoom distorts the image by 'pixilating'the projected image. You will also need to set the 'White Balance' of your camera; you will need to consult your camera's handbook for this as it differs between camera makes (In short, white balance fools your camera when filming indoors using artificial lighting, giving a better quality image). Switch off the venue lights during the presentation, as it makes it easier to see the projected image.
Using an Easil or Working Upright	When your presenter arrives, it is important to ascertain whether he/she is left or right handed; as you will want an unimpeded view of the painting. If you presenter is right handed, you will want to set up the camera on the right of your 'stage' (as your members see it) and set up the easel on the left (again, as your members see it). This will give the camera operator a good view, and subsequently your members, of the work in progress. If he/she is left handed, the reverse of the above is true. Set up the camera using the tripod so it is at a comfortable height for the operator to use (a bar stool is a useful aid for the operator, as you will otherwise be stationary on your feet for the length of the demonstration/lecture!) Connect the video camera 'Video out' jack to your projector 'Video in' jack (you may have to make up a cable or buy an adaptor kit for this, as projector 'Video-in' connectors vary from make to make). You will then want to set up your projector, in a central location, so it projects the image at a suitable height for all to see; too low and peoples' heads and shoulders obscure the view, too high, and you will all have 'cricks in your necks' at the end!
Vital SAFETY Precautions	1. DO NOT OBSTRUCT AISLES OR EMERGENCY EXITS WITH YOUR EQUIPMENT 2. DO NOT OBSTRUCT AISLES OR EMERGENCY EXITS WITH YOURSELF OR DEMONSTRATOR. 3. Once you are satisfied that points 1 and 2 have been met, TAPE ALL OF YOUR LEADS TO THE FLOOR, AS THEY PRESENT A DANGEROUS TRIP HAZARD 4. SWITCH OFF EQUIPMENT WHEN NOT IN USE (ie in breaks) ELECTRICITY AND TEA/COFFEE DO NOT MIX!
Right Handed Presenter
	NB Left handed presenter, swap Camera Operator and Presenter around.
Working Flat	This is easier, just more awkward! Set the tripod on a large table (bearing in mind the presenter will use this too) with the camera pointing down. Keep the camera as high as possible so it does not obstruct the presenter; use the camera's zoom facility to get closer to the image (A camera with a remote facility is an obvious bonus). Set up the camera and tripod so you don't video the top of the presenter's head! The main issue with using this method is you can suffer 'camera shake' due to the presenter working. You can use a specialist floor stand which prevents this and allows the same view, but this is further expense...... I have made my own using a counterbalance system. Connect the camera to the projector using the same method as above.
In Summary you will need:	1. A Video Camera 2. A Tripod for the camera 3. Cable to connect the above 4. A projector (the biggest financial outlay) 5. A stand for the projector 6. A screen 7. A light source for the work in progress 8. A bar stool for the camera operator
Tips	1. Tighten all of the tripod locks when satisfied of the position; believe me, there is nothing worse than the camera 'heading south' during filming! 2. Introduce yourself to the presenter and discuss what you both need. Compromise is the name of the game, as they want to work unimpeded, and you want them to give a good presentation. Tell them you can zoom in if they want a particular bit enhanced. 3. DON'T FLIT AROUND with the camera. Moving the camera around, or constant zooming in and out is a sure fire way to give your members motion sickness! 4. When the presenter stops to talk and faces the audience, this is a good time to zoom in to show relevant points on the painting; don't film them, concentrate on the work. 5. When zoomed in on the painting, move the camera very slowly and smoothly (this is easier said than done) see also item 3!! 6. Don't pass comments to people close by you, as these WILL be picked up by the camera's microphone!- The earth cannot swallow you quick enough! 7. Listen to the comments, good and bad, passed on to you about your filming prowess, the audience is the customer; if they have an opinion, and most do, on how something was done, listen to them as their point may be a valid one. You can also explain to them why you had to do it a particular way as well,...... in your defence! 8. Get yourself a comfortable chair, a bar stool/ breakfast bar chair is a good choice, but preferably one with a back support. 9. Lastly, be familiar with your equipment, as the lights in your venue will be off. You will reap the benefits if something goes wrong, or you have to adjust something in the dark. The MOST IMPORTANT one is to remember which way to press the zoom rocker switch, as there is nothing more annoying than thinking you are pressing the switch to zoom in, and you zoom out.... see item 3 !!

These notes can be copied - Artnetdirectory 2002

These notes have been compiled and written by Grant Findlay .   He is a Technical Officer on the Committee of the South Wales Art Society, responsible for filming/recording, projection and sound systems used for demonstrators, workshops and guest speakers. Please click here to link to his pages.   Grant Findlay

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