As a rule, the better the camera, the better the viewfinder. And the larger the viewfinder, the easier it is for camera operators to set-up, compose, focus, and control picture parameters for aesthetically pleasing results.

Viewfinders on studio cameras can range from seven to nine inches diagonally, with good brightness, as well as good resolution and color fidelity. Even the mount itself needs to be well-built so that the viewfinder can be adjusted and positioned any way camera operators may need.

When shooting in a bright studio, a simple shade can be placed over the viewfinder to make it easier to see. However, when shooting in bright sunlight, such as at a stadium, racetrack, or other outdoor setting, an outdoor hood is used to shade and protect the viewfinder from direct sunlight.

Here are the 10 must-haves to look for in broadcast-grade viewfinders:

1. A large seven-to-nine-inch diagonal video screen
2. HD resolution or better
3. Brightness of up to 450 nits, especially for outdoor use
4. Viewfinder controls for brightness, contrast, sharpness, and zebra, among other specs
5. Status display for camera menu, video return, focus indicator, tally, and other important information
6. Tally lights for both talent and camera operator
7. A fully adjustable mount that allows the viewfinder to tilt, swivel, and extend on any axis
8. A shade for in-studio use, and hood for when shooting outdoors in bright sunlight
9. Solid construction of the viewfinder, shades, and mounting system
10. Easy, secure on/off attachment to the camera body

As video resolutions rise from 1080p60 HD to 4K/UHD, the ability to properly set-up and focus camera shots can make or break the production. If the picture quality, framing, settings, and/or focus are off even a tiny bit, viewers will notice, and that can dampen their enjoyment of the show. High-end viewfinders usually provide a variety of focus assist features. These include a linear focus indicator bar, edge color peaking, and on our 4K/UHD cameras, a 4X zoom that can help find focus quickly and accurately.

For this reason, its important to understand how the quality compromises made on cheap prosumer video cameras and DSLRs can make it difficult for the operator to get the shot right. These quality compromises are intended to minimize the cameras overall cost, size, and/or weight. For example, holding a DSLRs rear screen menu away from you to use it as a viewfinderor having to peer into a prosumer camcorders small eyepiece-style viewfindercan make it difficult to achieve optimal focus in HD, but especially at 4K resolution.

Check out Hitachi camera systems and viewfinders here and see what a difference these well-engineered components can have on your next high value show or stream.