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Locking off settings on Coolpix S9700

coolpix compact settings stop motion

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2 replies to this topic

#1
Blueribbon

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I intend to use my camera to film stop-motion. However, I am aware DSLRs are the preferred for this but they aren't particularly practical as an everyday camera from my experience due to the weight/bulk (like lugging a suitcase around). A problem with compact cameras is the limited control over settings. This is particularly a problem in stop-motion animation where the focus etc. needs to remain the same throughout the filming unless I change them manually.

Since I'll be taking two shots of the subject, moving my hand into the frame to manipulate the stop-motion puppet, then taking two shots, and so on. The problem is if the camera changes settings automatically relative to my hand the result is a fluctuating effect on the final composite animation. How do I lock off the settings sufficiently to prevent issues like this? Flickering tends to ruin my animations.

 

This is my latest attempt: https://imgur.com/AWslKgt



#2
Adam

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I see that the S9700 has a manual mode on the mode dial, so you'll want to select that as a first step.  Based on what I can tell, this will also lock the ISO at 125 unless it was otherwise set manually.

 

Then, set the correct exposure as you would normally, and you shouldn't see any variations in your photos unless the ambient lighting changes.



#3
Merco_61

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What was your shutter speed for these? With many light sources, using a shutter faster than 1/50 in Europe and 1/60 in the US will cause flicker.

I am not familiar with the S9700, but going to manual mode with AutoISO off is the way to go, whichever camera you use for stop-motion.

 

There is a more compact alternative to a DSLR these days... The Z50 is much smaller and has less mass to lug around.







Also tagged with one or more of these keywords: coolpix, compact, settings, stop motion