SKAARHOJ

The primary role of video switchers is to let you mix several different video feeds together. You can also use video switchers to create transitions and other effects. Usually in live videos, you will use different cameras and all of them should have lots of compatible ports. It's not just about having video ports but the device should have audio ports as well. Below are key controls you should remember:

• Program bus - This is the source of the video that is visible to the audience. What you see on this screen is exactly what the audience is seeing. You will know which part of the video is currently playing and how many minutes left before loading the next shot.
• Preview bus - This allows you to select the shot that you want the audience to see next. It gives you an idea which shot to show and which graphics and titles to load for the next program. You will have the chance to frame the shot the way you want to before the audience sees it.
• Take button - This button helps you toggle between the preview and program screen. It acts as a direct cut if you need to get to the next shot.
• The T-bar - This is where the actual switching happens. This bar allows you to switch between different cameras at your disposal. You control everything from the T-bar, ranging from the transition speed and any special effects you want to add. It is important that you practice switching before the actual start of the shoot.
• The Monitor - You need to adjust the monitor settings so your switching will be successful. Either you make the adjustments manually or use vectorscope. What matters is you have the brightness, contrast, tint and color dials centered when you start.
• Auto button - This works as an alternative to the T-bar. You will always have a consistent transition when using this button compared to the T-bar.
• Fade to black - Considered as one of the most popular transitions in videos, fade to black is ideal right before starting a program. You can start a countdown, press the record button and press the black button again so the image will fade up. Towards the end, you can press fade out.

After learning the basic controls, you can now focus on operating the switcher. Remember that while the final program looks smooth, everything is different inside the control room. To make things easier and choose the right button to select, you can label each with their corresponding camera number. You can do this using a tape and permanent markers. Be prepared Make sure to set things up correctly. If you have a good set-up, you will have a more efficient shooting experience. Know the location of the shoot beforehand and get there days before the event to prepare. This gives you ample time to prepare your board or save your desired settings as a preset if your board allows it. You can also use this time to load your graphics. Know your cables To get the best sound, make sure you know where your cables go. The more crew running the cable, the quicker will be your setup and everyone will have enough time to relax before its time to start shooting. The key here is to work hand in hand with everyone to make things easier. Most importantly, make sure that all connections should have the right cables. Camera location matters Cameras should be located at predetermined spots. Each camera must have a reference signal from the switcher. This will allow you to synchronize shots with a master video signal. The signal is usually in the form of Blackburst (BB) and it carries the sync information from your switcher all the way down to the external devices. Ideally, you should have multiple Blackburst connectors on the back of the switcher for each camera. If you don't have enough, then it's safe to have a Video Distribution Amplifier (VDA). This allows you to multiply a single video input into several outputs. You will often see video switchers in film and video production environments. Some are also used in real-time video broadcasting or recording. Either way, a video switcher is handy in creating various visual effects. These effects may be simple mixes and wipes or elaborate effects, depending on the director’s taste. Just like audio switchers, you can use multiple input sources in video switchers and apply the desired effect. As a result, you can produce one or more outputs as creatively as possible. Modern video switchers are packed with additional features, which allow you to store a complex mixer configuration and serial communications. You can also use exclusive communication protocols. These days, video switchers are seldom used since computer-based, non-linear editing systems already exist. However, they are still very much useful in creating a master output for live video broadcasts and recordings.