Movies for TV - Early Television Foundation

NEWSREELSFORTV 289
sounds better than the real thing when recorded. Similarly, to
imitate the sound of flames, paper or cellophane is rustled in front
of the microphone. By dubbing the sound in later like this, its
quality can be controlled very closely.
A point which is probably even more important is that of
costs. If sound is taken to the event it will require the services
of at least two more men to operate and carry the equipment.
This means increased labor costs, overhead, maintenance, and
eventually these are reflected in the price for which the program
can be sold. If you listen carefully to the next local newsreel you
see on television you will notice that all or most of it is accompa-
nied by the narrator's voice alone without any sound effects.
The equipment to be used occupies a most important place
in the consideration of the film department. Quite obviously a
camera will be required better to have two in case of repairs
and for use of the part-time cameraman. We have already said no
sound, so that narrows the field considerably. If money is tight,
as it usually is, the good old stand-by, the Cine Kodak Special, is
With its two-
probably the best all-round camera one can buy.
lens turret and facilities for motor, hand and spring drive, as well
as the single picture feature, it is amazingly versatile. The Bell &
Howell Filmo series is also excellent for this purpose. If we run
to more ambitious equipment there are the Mitchell and Maurer
cameras. Now if we decide that we need a single system sound
camera for multiple purpose operations, the Auricon at once
comes to mind. This camera, while being in the low price field,
is also well made and performs satisfactorily. Although it is a single
system camera it does not have to be used that way and it can,
of course, be used silent. However,
it suffers from the disad-
vantage of requiring a 11 0-volt power supply to operate it.
self-contained camera is better for field
Generally a completely
work since one never knows just where the next scene will be
taken. Film editing and splicing equipment is also required, as is
a titling outfit. For checks and demonstrations to prospective
be used
sponsors a projector is an essential. Since it will probably
for many purposes it is advisable to purchase one which also