Video Production Equipment Key Terms

Learn and understand video production equipment key terms to promote yourself professionally

Any person serious about making videos knows that equipment is an essential element to a high-quality production. Knowing video production equipment key terms helps you gather the proper equipment and get it working to its optimal performance level.

Learning video production equipment key terms for video and audio gives you the background on terminology and how the equipment works. It also helps to clearly communicate with other professionals related to your production.

 

AVI

This term is an abbreviation for Audio Video Interleaved. One uses video production equipment to film in this specific file format for Windows applications. It weaves corresponding audio data with images from the video data resulting in synchronous audio and video data.
Try: John McGowan offers a definition of AVI.

Decibel

A decibel (dB) is a measuring unit for sound systems that describes power ratios. It is 1/10 of the mathematical term Bell, and due to human ear sensitivity, decibel values refer to calculations 10 times the logarithmic values of acoustically or electronically measured power ratios in a sound system.
Try: WiseGEEK offers a detailed explanation of a decibel and its measurement. It displays a chart defining decibel levels compared to sound sources.

Sound Pressure Level

Sound Pressure Level, also referred to as SPL, is a certain level measured by unit area for a specific location near a sound source.
Try: National Instruments offers a detailed tutorial on sound pressure levels and demonstrates ways professionals use this measurement when working with a microphone.

DB SPL

This term refers to the value of sound power or sound pressure levels. It is the decibel reference detailing the level of sound pressure against the unit area in a specified location in relation to the sound source.
Try: Trace R&D Center offers information on dBspl, demonstrating how one uses this measurement in daily life. It offers a chart so you can measure sounds when working with recording equipment.

Gaffer

A gaffer is a person in charge of working the video production equipment including lighting and cameras. The gaffer is generally an electrician.
Try: Wordorigins.org offers a look at the history of the term gaffer. It shows how Hollywood uses gaffers in its recordings and explains terms related to a gaffer.

Tripod

A tripod is a three legged stand, generally adjustable, that supports and moves cameras and other video production equipment.
Try: The Digital Photography School website offers tips to photographers on using recording equipment with a tripod. It also offers images of a tripod.

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