Click Table of Contents “Handycam” Handbook NEX-VG30/VG30H/VG30E/VG30EH Search image Index 2012 Sony Corporation 4-440-801-11(1) US
Using the “Handycam” Handbook Searching for information quickly Table of Contents You will find information on using your camcorder to its fullest in this “Handycam” Handbook. Read the “Handycam” Handbook in addition to the Operating Guide (a separate volume). Information on using your camcorder connected to a computer will be also found in the Operating Guide and the “PlayMemories Home Help Guide” that is the Help of the supplied “PlayMemories Home” software.
Read this first Using the camcorder Viewfinder Black points White, red, blue or green points LCD Screen Lens (NEX-VG30H/VG30EH) Lens hood (NEX-VG30H/ VG30EH) About language setting The camcorder is not dustproofed, dripproofed or waterproofed. See “About handling of your camcorder” (p. 102). The on-screen displays in each local language are used for illustrating the operating procedures. Change the screen language before using the camcorder if necessary (p. 24).
Note on the camcorder/battery pack temperature Notes on playing back You may not be able to play back normally images recorded on your camcorder with other devices. Also, you may not be able to play back images recorded on other devices with your camcorder. Standard (STD) image quality movies recorded on SD memory cards cannot be played on AV equipment of other manufacturers.
Table of Contents indication are exaggerated or simplified for understandability. In this manual, the DVD disc recorded with high definition image quality (HD) is called AVCHD recording disc. Design and specifications of your camcorder and accessories are subject to change without notice. The screen indicators in this manual are those of NEX-VG30. Notes on use Search image Do not do any of the following.
Features of this unit High-performance microphone The large-sized image sensor The camcorder is equipped with an APS-Csized (23.5 mm × 15.6 mm) CMOS image sensor. Its sensor area is about 20 times as large as the 1/3-inch image sensor that is often used in existing video cameras. The larger the image sensor, the shallower the depth of field. This allows you to reduce the focus on the background in order to make the subject stand out.
Search image Shooting movies as clear as still images Focusing manually (41) In better brightness (70) Shooting like film image (79) Achieving more impressive and artistic expression (72) Search image Adjusting the color (45) Table of Contents Defocusing the background (47) Shooting when holding the camcorder by hand Preventing camera shake (74) Following a moving subject (73) Index Shooting in low angle (45) US
Recording the sound clearly Recording the loud noise naturally (76) Shooting landscapes The sky in vivid colors (70) Table of Contents Recording the surround sound (44) Keeping your shot level (76) Shooting clear still images Search image The same scene with different brightness (73) Capturing the best moment (73) Index US
Table of contents Table of Contents Using the “Handycam” Handbook.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Searching for information quickly.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Read this first.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Advanced operations 40 40 40 41 42 Search image 42 43 44 44 45 45 45 47 47 47 48 48 49 51 51 51 52 53 Table of Contents Useful functions for recording movies and photos.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adjusting the zoom by the zoom ring.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adjusting the zoom with the zoom lever.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customizing your camcorder 65 65 66 70 70 79 80 81 Table of Contents Using menus.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Operating menus.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Menu lists.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Getting Started Step 1: Checking supplied items USB cable (1) (p. 60) Wireless Remote Commander (RMT835) (1) (p. 112) All models A button-type lithium battery is already installed. Rechargeable battery pack (NP-FV70) (1) (p. 15) Wind Screen (1) (p. 14) Large eyecup (1) (p. 26) AC Adaptor (1) (p. 15) Power cord (mains lead) (1) (p. 15) Component A/V Cable (1) (p. 37) A/V connecting cable (1) (p.
CD-ROM “Handycam” Application Software (1) “PlayMemories Table of Contents Home” (software, including “PlayMemories Home Help Guide”) Image Data Converter (RAW development software) “Handycam” Handbook (PDF) Operating Guide (1) NEX-VG30H/VG30EH High-magnification power zoom lens (E PZ 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS) (attached to the camcorder) (1) (p. 18) Lens hood (1) (p. 22) Front lens cap (attached to the lens) (1) (p. 18) Rear lens cap (1) (p.
Step 2: Attaching the supplied accessories Attaching the lens Table of Contents See page 18 for information on attaching the lens. The NEX-VG30/VG30E does not come with the E PZ 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS lens. Please use appropriate lenses (sold separately). For NEX-VG30H/VG30EH models, the lens is attached to the camcorder at the time of purchase. Attaching the Wind Screen Use the Wind Screen when you want to reduce the wind noise recorded by the microphone.
Step 3: Charging the battery pack Table of Contents DC IN jack Battery pack AC Adaptor Power cord (Mains lead) DC plug Align the mark on the DC plug with that on the DC IN jack. Search image CHG (charge) lamp To the wall outlet (wall socket) You can charge the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series) after attaching it to your camcorder. Notes You cannot attach any “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack other than the V series to your camcorder.
4 When the battery is charged, disconnect the AC Adaptor from the DC IN jack of your camcorder. Approximate time (min.) required when you fully charge a fully discharged battery pack. Battery pack NP-FV70 (supplied) NP-FV100 Charging time 195 390 Table of Contents Charging time The charging times shown in the table above are measured when charging the camcorder at a temperature of 25 C (77 °F).
Notes on attaching/detaching of the power source Table of Contents When you remove the battery pack or disconnect the AC Adaptor, turn the camcorder off and make sure (Movie)/ (Photo) lamps (p. 30), the access lamp (p. 27) are turned off. that the The CHG (charge) lamp flashes during charging under the following conditions: The battery pack is not attached correctly. The battery pack is damaged. The temperature of the battery pack is low.
Step 4: Attaching the lens Front lens cap Table of Contents This manual explains how to attach a lens using the E PZ 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS lens that comes with NEX-VG30H/VG30EH (the lens is attached to the camcorder at the time of purchase). If you use another lens, refer to the instruction manual supplied with that lens. Rear lens cap Zoom ring Hood index Zoom speed switch Zoom lever Search image Zoom switch Focus ring Mounting index Lens contacts* * Do not touch or dirty the lens contacts.
Mount the lens by aligning the mounting indexes (white) on the lens and the camcorder body. While pushing the lens lightly toward the camcorder body, turn the lens clockwise until it clicks into the locked position. Be sure to put the lens on straight. Table of Contents Mounting indexes (white) Search image Notes When attaching a lens, do not press the lens release button. Do not use force when attaching a lens.
Removing the lens While pressing the lens release button all the way in, turn the lens counterclockwise until it stops. When you remove the lens, make sure that you hold both of the lens and the camcorder body. Table of Contents Lens release button camcorder body. Align the mark on the body cap to the mounting indexes, and turn the cap clockwise. Before you attach caps, remove dust from them.
If dust or debris adheres on the image sensor Turn off the camcorder and detach the lens. Clean the image sensor and the surrounding area using a blower (sold separately), and then reattach the lens. Table of Contents Notes Do not use a spray blower because it may scatter water droplets inside the camcorder body. Do not put the tip of a blower into the cavity beyond the mount, so that the tip of the blower does not touch the image sensor.
* With LA-EA1, autofocus speed with an A-mount lens attached will be slower compared to an E-mount lens. (When an A-mount lens is attached, the autofocus speed will be about 2 seconds to 7 seconds, when shooting under Sony measurement condition. The speed may vary depending on the subject, ambient light, etc.) Table of Contents Notes Some lenses may not be usable or may have limited functionality.
Step 5: Turning the power on, and setting the date and time 1 Table of Contents Slide the POWER switch to ON while pressing the green button. POWER switch 2 Select the desired language, then touch [Next]. Search image Touch the button on the LCD screen 3 Select the desired geographical area with , then touch [Next]. (MENU) [Setup] [ ( Clock Settings)] [Date & Time Setting] [Date & Time]. When an item is not on the screen, touch until the item appears.
6 Select the date and time, touch *. [Next] / Table of Contents 5 Select the date format, then touch [Next]. to set the value, then touch * The confirmation screen appears only when you set the clock for the first time. Search image The clock starts. Notes The date and time does not appear during recording, but they are automatically recorded on the memory (MENU) card, and can be displayed during playback.
Step 6: Making setting adjustments before recording The LCD panel Max. 90 degrees Table of Contents Open the LCD panel 90 degrees to the camcorder (), and then adjust the angle (). Eye sensor Max. 180 degrees Max. 90 degrees Tips Images are displayed on the viewfinder or the LCD screen. As your eye moves closer to the viewfinder when the LCD screen is closed, the screen display changes to the viewfinder.
about 4 sec after The viewfinder When you record while viewing through the viewfinder, keep your eye close to the viewfinder, while the LCD screen is closed. If the indications in the viewfinder appear blurred, adjust the viewfinder lens adjustment lever located beneath the viewfinder. If [VF/Panel] (p. 84) is set to [Auto], as your eye moves closer to the viewfinder, the eye sensor detects it and the display changes to the viewfinder even though the LCD screen is open.
Step 7: Inserting a memory card Table of Contents Access lamp Note the direction of notched corner. 2 The [Preparing image database file. Please wait.] screen appears if you insert a new memory card. Wait until the screen disappears. Search image 1 Open the cover, and insert the memory card with the notched edge in the direction as illustrated until it clicks. Close the cover. Notes If [Failed to create a new Image Database File. It may be possible that there is not enough free space.
Types of memory card you can use with your camcorder SD Speed Class “Memory Stick PROHG Duo” media 32 GB — Described in this manual “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media “Memory Stick XCHG Duo” media SD memory card SDHC memory card Table of Contents “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (Mark2) Capacity (operation verified) 64 GB Class 4 or faster SD card SDXC memory card Operation with all memory cards is not assured.
Recording/Playback Recording In the default setting, movies are recorded with high definition image quality (HD). 1 Table of Contents Fasten the grip belt. 2 To remove the lens cap, push the sliders on both sides of the cap. Search image 3 Slide the POWER switch to ON while pressing the green button. Your camcorder is turned on.
Recording movies (Movie): When recording a movie (Photo): When recording a photo START/STOP button Table of Contents [STBY] [REC] MODE button Press MODE to turn on the (Movie) lamp. Press START/STOP to start recording. Search image The recording lamp lights up during recording (p. 111). To stop recording, press START/STOP again. Notes The maximum continuous recordable time of movies is about 13 hours. When a movie file exceeds 2 GB, the next movie file is created automatically.
You can check the recordable time, estimated remaining capacity, etc., by touching (MENU) Media Settings)] [Media Info] (p. 81). [Setup] [ ( The LCD screen of your camcorder can display recording images across the entire screen (full pixel display). However, this may cause slight trimming of the top, bottom, right and left edges of images when played back on a TV which is not compatible with full pixel display. In this case, set [Guide Frame] to [On] (p.
The IRIS, Shutter Speed, ISO and Exposure are set to automatic adjustment when PROGRAM AE is pressed. (MENU) [Image Quality/Size] [ Image Size] a To change the image size, touch . desired setting is displayed.
Playback on the camcorder Tips The camcorder displays recorded images as an event automatically based on the date and time. Your camcorder is turned on. (View Images). Press / to select the desired event (). The Event Index screen appears when you touch the event that is displayed on the center.
4 Touch an image you want to view. Table of Contents Touch to select the image type to be displayed in the index from [ MOVIE] PHOTO] (photos only), or [ MOVIE/PHOTO] (movies and (movies only), [ photos mixed). Search image To go back to the Event View screen / : Displays the previous/next page (Touching and holding the button scrolls the index screen.
Volume adjustment Delete Context Next Previous To fast-forward* To fast-reverse* To pause*/play Table of Contents To stop* * These buttons can be used only when the camcorder is playing a movie. Notes You may not be able to play back the images with other devices than camcorder. Tips Touching the button on the playback screen displays functions you can currently use, and allows you to use those functions easily.
Tips To repeat Slideshow, touch [Slideshow Set]. To see enlarged images Touch (Playback zoom) during still image playback. You can adjust the zoom by can also operate this with the zoom lever. PHOTO] on the index screen. Table of Contents Tips You cannot use the playback zoom if you have not selected [ / .
Playing images on a TV List of connection Connecting to a high definition TV Table of Contents When the recording quality is high definition image quality (HD), the movies are played back in high definition image quality (HD). When the recording quality is standard image quality (STD), the movies are played back in standard definition image quality (STD).
(White) (Red) To set the aspect ratio according to the connected TV (16:9/4:3) Component A/V Cable (supplied) A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold separately) (Yellow) When your TV is monaural (When your TV has only one audio input jack) When you connect with component A/V cable If you connect only component video plugs, audio signals are not output. Connect the white and red plugs to output audio signals. Select the [Component] setting for the component input jack you are using.
Table of Contents the order of priority of the TV input jacks is as follows: HDMI component S VIDEO video HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) is an interface to send both video/audio signals. The HDMI OUT jack outputs high quality images and digital audio.
Advanced operations Useful functions for recording movies and photos Adjusting the zoom with the zoom lever Adjusting the zoom by the zoom ring Optical power zoom You can enlarge the image without deterioration. A compatible optical power zoom lens is required. If the lens has a zoom ring, you can adjust the magnification by turning it to the right or left. Magnification setting by the zoom ring can only be performed within the optical range of the lens.
Notes Be sure to keep your finger on the zoom lever. If you move your finger off the zoom lever, the operation sound of the zoom lever may also be recorded. You cannot use the digital zoom when you set RAW/JPEG] to [RAW] or [RAW & JPEG]. [ Adjusting the focus manually Tips The digital zoom and the optical zoom can be used together. When you set [Zoom Lever] (p. 78) to other than [Digital Zoom], the digital zoom magnification will be retained.
To measure the exact distance to the subject Press EXPANDED FOCUS. Lens mount Table of Contents EXPANDED FOCUS button Pressing EXPANDED FOCUS switches between expanded and normal display. 18 mm (23/32 in.) The mark shows the location of the image sensor*. When you measure the exact distance between the camcorder and the subject, refer to the position of the line. The distance from the lens contact surface to the image sensor is about 18 mm (23/32 in.).
Touch * Touch . Recording modes and the media Types of media that images can be saved on will depend on the recording mode selected. For details on a save operation using the external devices, see page 60. . Recording image quality is changed. Tips You can record, play, or edit movies in the selected image quality only. To record, play, or edit movies in another image quality, change this setting.
To stop tracking, touch / that appears on the right of the LCD screen. Notes The subject you touched may not be detected, depending on the surrounding brightness or hairstyle of the subject. In this case, touch the subject again when you record. If you want to track a face, set the [Face Detection] setting to other than [Off] ([Auto] is the default setting). Tips If the face you touched disappears from the LCD screen, the subject selected in [Face Detection] (p. 74) has priority.
When you connect your camcorder with an HDMI cable (sold separately), the sound of high definition image quality (HD) movies recorded in 5.1ch sound is automatically output in 5.1ch sound. The sound of standard definition image quality (STD) movies is converted to 2ch. Low angles (START/STOP button on the grip) Table of Contents Tips You can select the recording sound from [5.1ch ) or [2ch Stereo] ( ) Surround] ( ([Audio Mode], p. 75).
You can choose from the following modes The white balance is adjusted automatically. Outdoor ( ) Indoor () The white balance is appropriately adjusted for the following recording conditions: Indoors At party scenes or studios where the lighting conditions change quickly Under video lamps in a studio, or under sodium lamps or incandescent-like color lamps ) One Push ( Search image The white balance is adjusted according to the color temperature of the light source: Select [Color Temp.
Adjusting manually Aperture value Use the MANUAL dial on the camcorder for a variety of manual adjustments. Switching operation icon Switching operation icon Blank Table of Contents Controlling the image settings manually with the MANUAL dial Operates manually. Operates automatically. Operates [Exposure] manually (p. 49). Setting value When a setting value is highlighted, it can be adjusted by the MANUAL dial. Tips Press IRIS again to adjust the IRIS automatically.
Adjusting the Shutter Speed Adjusting Exposure Steps to configure Shutter Speed priority exposure are described here. The following explanation is an example for when [Exposure] is assigned to the MANUAL (default). Press MANUAL to enter the manual exposure adjustment mode. Press SHUTTER SPEED to set the mode to manual. Pressing MANUAL switches the setting mode between automatic and manual. Pressing SHUTTER SPEED switches the setting mode between automatic and manual.
settings will be displayed with the following icons. : Automatic : Exposure is set manually. To return to automatic adjustment mode Press MANUAL once again. appears next to the values of [IRIS], [Shutter Speed] and [Gain (ISO)], and highlighting is canceled. Advanced manual operation You can set the brightness of the movies you want to shoot by using IRIS, Shutter Speed and Gain (ISO). The following explanation is an example for when IRIS is set to manual.
Set [Exposure] to manual. Tips IRIS, Shutter Speed, Gain (ISO) and Exposure will all be set to automatic adjustment when PROGRAM AE is pressed. Among IRIS, Shutter Speed and Gain (ISO), only the item(s) which is set to returns to when you touch [Auto] on the screen for [Exposure], [Spot Meter], etc. Table of Contents Press IRIS to set the mode to manual ( next to the setting value disappears).
Making good use of your camcorder Deleting movies and photos Notes You cannot restore images once they are deleted. Save important movies and photos in advance. Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor from your camcorder while deleting the images. It may damage the memory card. Do not eject the memory card while deleting images from the memory card. You cannot delete protected movies and photos. Undo the protection of the movies and photos to delete them, before you try to delete them (p.
Press (p. 33). (View Images) button Touch / to select the desired event, then touch . To select and protect movies, touch [Multiple Images] MOVIE]/[ PHOTO]/ [ [ MOVIE/PHOTO]. Touch and hold the desired thumbnail so that you can confirm the image. Touch to return to the previous screen. Touch . To undo the protection of an event In step 3 above, touch [Remove All In Event], select the desired movies/photos, then touch . When [ / Setting] is set to STD Quality], appears [ .
/ to adjust the Touch capturing point with more precision. Returns to the beginning of the selected movie Touch Table of Contents Notes You cannot restore movies once they are divided. You cannot divide protected movie. Undo the protection of the movie to divide it, before you try to divide it (p. 52). Do not remove the battery pack or the AC Adaptor from your camcorder while dividing the movie. It may damage the memory card.
Saving movies and photos with a computer Selecting the method for creating a disc (computer) Disc type Choosing a method Importing movies and To save images on a Blu-ray disc with high definition image quality (HD) photos to a computer (p. 56) Creating a Blu-ray disc* with high definition image quality (HD) (p. 58) Importing movies and Importing movies and To copy images on a disc in standard definition image quality (STD) to distribute photos to a computer (p.
Notes Always maintain your PlayStation3 to use the latest version of the PlayStation3 system software. The PlayStation3 may not be available in some countries/regions.
3 Importing movies and photos to a computer Click [Import]. Table of Contents Movies and photos recorded on your camcorder can be imported to a computer. Turn on the computer beforehand. Refer to “PlayMemories Home Help Guide” for details. Notes Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor for this operation (p. 16). 1 Turn on your camcorder, then connect the camcorder to the computer using the USB cable (supplied).
Saving images on a disc definition (STD) when saving the movie on the disc. 4 Click [Calendar] or [Index] to select the date or folder, and select the movie you want to save on the disc. 1 Turn on your computer, and place an unused disc on the DVD drive. 2 3 See page 54 for the type of discs you can use. If any other software than “PlayMemories Home” starts automatically, shut it down. Start “PlayMemories Home.
Creating a Blu-ray disc Table of Contents You can create a Blu-ray disc with a high definition image quality (HD) movie previously imported to a computer (p. 56). To create a Blu-ray disc, the BD Add-on Software for “PlayMemories Home” must be installed. Click [BD Add-on Software] on the installation screen of “PlayMemories Home,” and install this plug-in according to the on-screen instructions. Connect your computer to the internet when you install [BD Add-on Software].
Saving images with an external device Dubbing guide You can select the method for saving high definition image quality (HD) movies using an external device. External media device Saving images on an external media device with high definition image quality (HD). Hard disk recorder, etc. Saving images on a DVD disc with standard definition image quality (STD).
Saving images on an external media device 1 Connect the AC Adaptor and the power cord (mains lead) to the DC IN jack of your camcorder and the wall outlet (wall socket). Notes For this operation, you need the USB Adaptor Cable VMC-UAM1 (sold separately). The USB Adaptor Cable VMC-UAM1 may not be available in some countries/regions. Connect your camcorder to the wall outlet (wall socket) using the supplied AC Adaptor (p. 16).
5 Connect the external media device to the camcorder and touch [Copy.] on the camcorder screen. Notes The number of scenes you can save on the external media device are as follows. However, even if the external media device has free space, you cannot save scenes exceeding the following number. High definition image quality (HD) movies: Max. 3,999 Standard definition image quality (STD) movies: Max. 9,999 Photos: Max.
To perform [Direct Copy] manually Press and hold the image down on the LCD screen to confirm the image. Touch to return to the previous screen. If you select [All In Event], select the event / . You cannot to copy with select multiple events. Table of Contents You can perform [Direct Copy] manually while the camcorder is connected to an external media device. (MENU) [Edit/Copy] Touch [Direct Copy] on the [Event View] screen of the external media device.
Creating a standard definition image quality (STD) disc with a recorder, etc. A/V Remote Connector Table of Contents You can copy images played back on your camcorder to a disc or video cassette, by connecting your camcorder to a disc recorder, etc., with the A/V connecting cable. Connect the device in either way of or . Refer also to the instruction manuals supplied with the devices to be connected.
2 3 Table of Contents Connect your camcorder to the recording device (a disc recorder, etc.) with the A/V connecting cable (supplied) or an A/V connecting cable with S VIDEO (sold separately). Connect your camcorder to the input jacks of the recording device. Start playback on your camcorder, and record it on the recording device. 4 Refer to the instruction manuals supplied with your recording device for details.
Customizing your camcorder Using menus You can enjoy using your camcorder more by making good use of menu operations. The camcorder has various menu items under each of 6 menu categories. Camera/Mic (Items for customized shooting) p. 70 Image Quality/Size (Items for setting up image quality or size) p. 79 Playback Function (Items for playback) p. 33 Table of Contents Shooting Mode (Items for selecting a shooting mode) p. 70 Edit/Copy (Items for editing) p. 80 Setup (Other setup items) p.
Menu lists Shooting Mode 70 Shoots photos. 70 Spot Meter/Fcs Adjusts the brightness and focus for the selected subject simultaneously. 70 Spot Meter Adjusts and fixes the exposure to the subject, so that it is recorded at a suitable brightness. 70 Spot Focus Focuses on a subject you touch on the screen. 71 Exposure Fixes the brightness of a picture manually. 71 Gain Sets the gain. 71 ISO Sets the luminous sensitivity for recording still images.
( Flash) Sets how the flash is activated when shooting photos. 75 Flash Level Sets the brightness of flash. 75 Red Eye Reduction Prevents redeye when shooting with flash. 75 Wind Noise Reduct. Sets wind noise reduction of the internal microphone. 75 Audio Mode Changes the recording sound format. 75 Audio Rec Level Adjusts the audio level when recording. 76 Guide Frame Displays the frame to check that the subject is horizontal or vertical.
Edit/Copy Deletes movies or photos. 51 Protect Protects movies or photos to avoid deleting. 51 Copy Selects and copies movies or photos to external media. 60 Direct Copy Copies any images that have not been stored to external media. 62 Media Info Displays information on the recording media, such as free space. 81 Format Deletes all data on the recording media. Repair Img. DB F. Repairs the image database file on the internal recording media or a memory card.
Sets whether or not to record images when there is no lens. 85 Remote Ctrl Enables/disables use of the supplied Wireless Remote Commander. 85 A. Shut Off Sets your camcorder to turn off automatically. 85 Language Setting Selects the language to be used on the LCD screen. 85 24p Mode* Shoots 24p movies on a PAL-based system. Calibration Adjusts the touch panel. Battery Info Displays the battery information. 86 Version Displays the version of your camcorder and lens.
Camera/Mic Shooting Mode (Items for customized shooting) See “Using menus” (p. 65) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . See “Using menus” (p. 65) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . Spot Meter/Fcs (Spot meter/ focus) Movie You can record movies. Table of Contents (Items for selecting a shooting mode) You can adjust the brightness and focus for the selected subject simultaneously. This function enables you to use [Spot Meter] (p. 70) and [Spot Focus] (p.
Touch the subject of which you want to adjust the exposure. To return the setting to automatic exposure, touch [Auto]. Tips You can also adjust manually by using the MANUAL dial (p. 47). Gain You can adjust the gain manually when you do not want to use the AGC (automatic gain control). Spot Focus Auto You can select and adjust the focal point to aim it at a subject not located at the center of the screen. Adjusts automatically.
Notes The larger the number, the higher the noise level. Picture Effect Select the desired effect filter to achieve more impressive and artistic expression. Table of Contents Tips You can set a faster shutter speed, and reduce image blur in dark locations or of moving subjects by increasing ISO sensitivity (select a larger number). Gain/ISO Sensitivity (Recommended Exposure Index) is the sensitivity to light of recording media that incorporates an image sensor that receives light.
Drive Mode (Miniature) You can set the drive mode, such as continuous or bracket shooting. This item is available in still image recording mode only. Single Shooting Notes When [ RAW/JPEG] is set to [RAW] or [RAW & JPEG], Picture Effect cannot be used. When you shoot movies, [Soft Focus] and [Miniature] effects are not available. Shoots 1 still image. Normal shooting mode. Cont. Shooting ( Cinematone Bracket: 0.
Notes In movie recording mode, the camcorder automatically focuses appropriately to record movies. In [Continuous] mode, the audio signals will not sound when the subject is in focus. Off Does not adjust the exposure for backlit subjects. MANUAL Button You can compensate for camera shake. SteadyShot] to [Off] ( ) when Set [ using a tripod (sold separately), then the image becomes natural. Available settings vary depending on the lens.
the subject’s face, a double-lined frame will appear and that face has priority. Off Does not use Red Eye Reduction. On ( Flash Notes Turn on the power of a flash (sold separately) attached to use Red Eye Reduction. Red Eye Reduction may not produce the desired effects. It depends on individual differences and conditions, such as distance to the subject, or if the subject looked away from the pre-strobe. There are certain flash units that you cannot use with Red Eye Reduction.
Audio Rec Level Zebra You can display a zebra pattern as a guide for adjusting brightness. The zebra pattern will not be recorded with the image. You can adjust the volume when recording. is displayed on the recording screen when you change the volume. Does not display the zebra pattern. Returns to the normal level. On and the brightness level appear on the screen. Adjust the brightness level with +/-. Tips We recommend that you use headphones to check the level when adjusting the setting.
Tips The settings appear on the screen during the manual adjustment regardless of the settings of this function. indicates that the settings are automatically adjusted values (p. 48). Histogram Audio Level Display Off You can select whether or not to display the audio level meter. Does not display the histogram. On On Displays the histogram with a line indicating the brightness level 100.
Notes When [AF Micro Adjustment] is not set to [On], you cannot register an adjustment value. By shifting the value toward +, the focus point shifts toward the background, and by shifting it toward –, the point shifts toward the foreground. Decide the value by reference to the result of a test shooting. We recommend that you decide the value under actual shooting conditions. When you attach a lens that is registered on the camera, the registered value is displayed. You can register up to 30 lenses.
Image Quality/Size (Items for setting up image quality or size) that has been set during recording. For details, see page 43. Activate [24p Mode] when you shoot 24p movies on a PAL-based model (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH). REC Mode / See page 43. Setting See page 42. Frame Rate Table of Contents Tips Frame rate means the number of images that are updated in a certain period of time. See “Using menus” (p. 65) on the operation. The default settings are marked with .
Notes The selected image size is effective when the (Photo) lamp is lit. See page 97 on the recordable number of photos. JPEG image size will be fixed at 16M when RAW/JPEG] is set to [RAW & JPEG]. [ Edit/Copy (Items for editing) See “Using menus” (p. 65) on the operation. See page 51. Selects the compression format of still images. Protect Table of Contents Delete RAW/JPEG See page 51. JPEG This is a common compression format.
Setup Repair Img. DB F. (Other setup items) See page 91, 94. See “Using menus” (p. 65) on the operation. The default settings are marked with . File Number Series You can check the remaining recordable time on the memory card for each recording mode, and also the approximate free and used media space. To turn off the display Assigns file numbers of photos in sequence. The file number becomes larger each time you record a photo.
and photos are played back as following illustrations. Camera Data Movie 16:9 Movies and photos Movies and photos recorded in 16:9 recorded in 4:3 mode (wide) mode Photo Table of Contents Select this to view your movies on a 16:9 (wide) TV. The recorded movies and photos are played back as shown below. 4:3 Select this to view your movies and photos on a 4:3 standard TV. The recorded movies and photos are played back as shown below.
480p (NEX-VG30/VG30H) 576p (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) 1080i/480i (NEX-VG30/VG30H) 1080i/576i (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) Outputs 480p (NEX-VG30/VG30H)/576p (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) signal. 480i (NEX-VG30/VG30H) 576i (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) Outputs 480i (NEX-VG30/VG30H)/576i (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) signal. 480i (NEX-VG30/VG30H) 576i (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) Select this when connecting your camcorder to a TV with the component input jack.
Notes When you connect the camcorder to other devices using the [MTP] mode, movies that have been recorded with the same image quality as the one currently selected (selected with / Setting] menu) can only be the [ displayed on the connected device. When the camcorder is connected to an external device in the [MTP] mode, movie files will be displayed with the recorded date, however, some information, such as area information, included in the movie files cannot be displayed on the connected device.
Always displays. The rec button on the LCD screen is not displayed when shooting. Tips The icons or indicators are displayed in the following cases. When you turn on your camcorder. The LCD screen is touched (Except rec button on LCD screen). When you switch your camcorder to the movie recording, photo recording, or playback mode. You can switch the display by pressing DISPLAY. A.
output from the camcorder is NTSC color. Images may not be played back normally, depending on the connected TV. When you have activated [24p Mode], you / Setting] to [ STD cannot set [ Frame Rate]. Quality] or you cannot use [ Date & Time See page 23. Area Setting Calibration See page 103. Battery Info Home Table of Contents You can adjust a time difference without stopping the clock. Select your local area when using the camcorder in other time zones.
Additional information Troubleshooting socket). Connect it to the wall outlet (wall socket) (p. 15). If you run into any problems using your camcorder, follow the steps below. Check the list (p. 87 to 95), and inspect your camcorder. Disconnect the power source, attach the power source again after about 1 minute, and turn the camcorder on. Press RESET (p. 110) using a pointed object, and turn the camcorder on. If you press RESET, all settings, including the clock setting, are reset.
Another DVD device malfunctions when you use the supplied Wireless Remote Commander. The remaining battery time indicator does not indicate the correct time. Batteries/power sources The battery pack cannot be attached to your camcorder. The battery pack is quickly discharged. Use an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (V series). You cannot use NP-FV30/FV50, even though they are V series. The power abruptly turns off. Use the AC Adaptor.
Adjust the touch panel ([Calibration]) (p. 103). The image in the viewfinder is not clear. Move the viewfinder lens adjustment lever until the image appears clearly (p. 26). No display on the LCD screen although it is open. If the eye sensor switches to the viewfinder, the LCD screen turns off. Set [VF/Panel] to [Panel] (p. 84). Memory card Operations using the memory card cannot be performed. Images stored on the memory card cannot be deleted.
The temperature of your camcorder is extremely low. Turn off your camcorder and take it to a warm place. Leave the camcorder there for a while, then turn on the camcorder. Fuzzy white circular spots appear on images shot using a flash. The image taken with flash is too dark. On your camcorder, there may be a slight time difference between the point where you press START/STOP and the actual point that recording movie starts/stops. This is not a malfunction.
Settings)] [Repair Img. DB F.]. If it still appears, delete the image with (p. 51). The corners of the image are dark. Remove the filter or hood. Depending on the thickness of the filter or improper attachment of the hood, the filter or the hood may partially appear in the image. The optical properties of some lenses may cause the periphery of the image to appear too dark (insufficient light). No sound or only a quiet sound is heard during playback.
A photo cannot be captured from a movie (NEX-VG30/VG30H). Black bands appear at the top and bottom of the screen of the 4:3 TV. The memory card where you want to save photos is full. Copying/Connecting to other devices Neither image nor sound is played on the connected TV. Connecting to a computer “PlayMemories Home” cannot be installed. The LCD screen of your camcorder can display recording images across the entire screen (full pixel display).
Self-diagnosis display/ Warning indicators (Warning indicator pertaining to memory card) Fast flashing There are not enough free spaces for recording images. After storing the images on other media (p. 59), delete unnecessary images, or format the memory card (p. 81). The image data base file may be damaged. Check the data base file by touching (MENU) [Setup] [ ( Media Settings)] [Repair Img. DB F.]. The memory card is damaged.
The external media device is not formatted correctly. Inconsistencies found in the image database file. Back up and recover. Recover, then import using the included PC software. (Warning indicator pertaining to camera-shake warning) (Warning indicator pertaining to photo recording) The memory card is full. Photos cannot be recorded during processing. Wait for a while, then record. Tips You may hear a melody when some warning indicators appear on the screen. Buffer overflow.
could be damaged. Try with another memory card. Unable to access external media. Cannot recognize this memory card. Format and use again. Cannot recognize the lens. Attach the lens properly. Still picture folder is full. Cannot record still pictures. You cannot create folders exceeding 999MSDCF. You cannot create or delete created folders using your camcorder. Format the memory card (p. 81) after saving images on your PC, etc.
Recording time of movies/number of recordable photos (unit: minute) “HD” stands for high definition image quality, and “STD” stands for standard image quality. Expected time of recording and playback with each battery pack Approximate time available when you use a fully charged battery pack.
time of the media. Movies containing quickly moving and complex images are recorded at a higher bit-rate, and this reduces the overall recording time. Expected number of recordable photos 16 GB 32 GB 64 GB JPEG 2400 4800 9600 RAW 880 1750 3550 RAW & JPEG 670 1300 2650 Search image When [ Image Size] is set to [ 16.0M]. When using Sony memory card. The selected image size is effective when the (Photo) lamp is lit.
Using your camcorder abroad System NTSC Power supply PAL Viewing high definition image quality (HD) movies In countries/regions where 1080/60i (NEX-VG30/VG30H) and 1080/50i (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) are supported, you can view movies in the same high definition image quality (HD) they were recorded in. You need an NTSC 1080/60i (NEX-VG30/VG30H) or PAL 1080/50i (NEX-VG30E/VG30EH) TV (or monitor) with component and AUDIO/VIDEO input jacks or HDMI jack.
Setting to the local time You can easily set the clock to the local time by setting a time difference when using your (MENU) [Setup] [ ( Clock Settings)] [Date & camcorder abroad. Touch (MENU) [Setup] Time Setting] [Daylight Savings] or [Summer Time] and [ ( Clock Settings)] [Area Setting] (p. 86).
Maintenance and precautions About the AVCHD format Recording and playback on your camcorder Based on the AVCHD format, your camcorder records with the high definition image quality (HD). In addition to high definition image quality (HD), your camcorder is capable of recording a standard definition (STD) signal in the conventional MPEG-2 format.
About the “Memory Stick” media Types of “Memory Stick” media “Memory Stick Duo” media (with MagicGate) “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (Mark2) “Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo” media “Memory Stick XC-HG Duo” media — About the remaining battery time indicator This product supports parallel data transfer. However, the transfer speed may differ, depending on the type of media you use. This product cannot record or play data that uses “MagicGate” technology.
About battery life About handling of your camcorder On use and care Be sure to attach the lens front cap when not using the camcorder. To keep your camcorder in optimum state for a long time, turn it on and let it run by recording and playing back images about once a month. Use up the battery pack completely before storing it. Operating temperature. This camcorder is designed for use in a temperature range of between 0 °C and 40 °C (32 °F to 104 °F).
You [ corner of memory card or the like 3 times. Touch [Cancel] to cancel calibration. Notes If you did not press the right spot, try the calibration again. Do not use a sharp-pointed object for calibration. Doing so may damage the LCD screen. You cannot calibrate the LCD screen if it is rotated, or closed with the screen facing out. Do not exert excessive pressure on the LCD screen, as it may cause uneven color and other damage.
On charging the pre-installed rechargeable battery Table of Contents Your camcorder has a pre-installed rechargeable battery to retain the date, time, and other settings even when the LCD screen is closed. The preinstalled rechargeable battery is always charged while your camcorder is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket) via the AC Adaptor or while the battery pack is attached. The rechargeable battery will be fully discharged in about 3 months if you do not use your camcorder at all.
ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT IN ANY MANNER OTHER THAN PERSONAL THAT COMPLIES WITH THE MPEG-2 STANDARD FOR ENCODING VIDEO INFORMATION FOR PACKAGED MEDIA IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED WITHOUT A LICENSE UNDER APPLICABLE PATENTS IN THE MPEG-2 PATENT PORTFOLIO, WHICH LICENSE IS AVAILABLE FROM MPEG LA, L.L.C., 6312 S. Fiddler’s Green Circle, Suite 400E, Greenwood Village, CO 80111 U.S.A.
Table of Contents these software programs under the conditions of the supplied GPL/LGPL. Source code is provided on the web. Use the following URL to download it. When downloading the source code, select NEX-VG900 as the model for your camcorder. http://www.sony.net/Products/Linux/ We would prefer you do not contact us about the contents of source code. Please read the files in the “LICENSE” folder on the CD-ROM. You will find licenses (in English) for the software.
Quick reference Screen indicators Right Indicator Center 60i 50i Right 60% 2.
Bottom Indicator Meaning View Images button (33) Wind Noise Reduct.
Parts and controls Operations with other manufacture’s accessories are not guaranteed. Eye sensor (p. 84) Viewfinder lens adjustment lever (p. 26) MIC (PLUG IN POWER) jack When an external microphone (sold separately) is connected, it takes precedence over the built in microphone, or a microphone attached to the multi interface shoe. PHOTO button (p. 31) (Movie)/ Search image authorized Sony service facility. Viewfinder (p.
Table of Contents Microphone (p. 44) Zoom lever (p. 18) Memory card slot (p. 27) Zoom speed switch (p. 18) FOCUS button (p. 41) Zoom switch (p. 18) Search image Memory card access lamp (p. 27) While the lamp is lit or flashing, the camcorder is reading or writing data. Hook for shoulder strap Battery terminal (p. 15) MANUAL button (p. 47) MANUAL dial (p. 47) LCD screen/Touch panel (p.
Table of Contents Lens (p. 18) (headphones) jack Use stereo minijack headphones. Zoom ring (p. 40) A/V Remote Connector (p. 37) This terminal is to interface your camcorder to another device. You can output still images, movies and sound to a connected TV, or control your camcorder when it is mounted on a remote control video tripod. Camera recording lamp The lamp flashes when the remaining recording media capacity or battery power is low. Point the Wireless Remote Commander (p.
////ENTER buttons When you press any of these buttons, the light blue frame appears on the LCD screen. Select a desired button or an item with ///, then press ENTER to enter. Wireless Remote Commander Insulation sheet PHOTO button (p. 31) The on-screen image when you press this button will be recorded as a still image.
a Sony CR2025 lithium battery. Use of another battery may present a risk of fire or explosion.
Index Symbols A B Battery Info..................................86 Battery of the Wireless Remote Commander...............................112 Battery pack..................................15 Beep...............................................84 Blu-ray disc...................................58 C E Edit/Copy.....................................80 Event Index...................................33 Expanded focus...........................42 Exposure.......................................71 External media...
R S V VBR...............................................96 Version..........................................86 VF/Panel.......................................84 VF Color Temp............................84 Volume..........................................82 W Wall outlet (wall socket).............15 Warning messages.......................94 White Balance..............................45 Wide Mode...................................79 Wind Noise Reduct.....................75 Z Zebra..........................
Additional information on this product and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at our Customer Support Website. http://www.sony.
