Minolta dimage7 Camcorder User Manual


 
60
RECORDING MODE
CUSTOM WHITE BALANCE
Custom-white-balance function allows a photographer to calibrate the camera to a
specific lighting condition. The setting can be used repeatedly until reset. Custom white
balance is especially useful with mixed-lighting conditions or when critical control over
colour is needed.
To calibrate the camera, press the function button and turn the
control dial until the Custom white-balance icon and “SET” appear
on the data panel and red on the monitors. Select a white object
and fill the image area with it; the object does not need to be in
focus. Press the shutter-release button to calibrate the camera. If an
error occurs during calibration, an error message will appear on the
monitors. Press the controller to cancel the message, then
recalibrate using a suitable reference target and the shutter-release button. This
sequence can be repeated as many times as necessary.
The setting will remain until another calibration is made. If the Custom white-balance
setting needs to be used again, while pressing the function button, turn the control dial
until the Custom white-balance icon is displayed without the “SET” on the data panel
and white on the monitors. The camera will use the last Custom setting.
The built-in flash can be used with the Custom setting. However, since the flash is
daylight balanced, it will give an unusual colour cast to an image if the camera is
calibrated to any other light source.
Calibration display
When making the calibration, the colour of the object used is critical. The object should be
white. A coloured object will cause the calibration to compensate for the object colour rather
than the colour temperature of the ambient light. A blank piece of white paper is an ideal sur-
face and can easily be carried in a camera bag.
Shooting tips