See focusing.

A method of laying a new control track on a tape to prepare it for insert editing. Shoot with the lens cap on to get a recording with no pictures.

Describes an image that has been so overexposed that all detail is lost and colours are bleached out.

See Type B film.

A B picture.

A second-rate, usually inexpensive theatrical film.

In film rolls where only one edge is perforated (single perforation), the emulsion faces inward toward the hub, while the perforations are away from the camera operator. B-wind used for camera film, for making optical, and in bidirectional printers. Refers mostly to 16 mm film stock. See also A-wind.

Interference; disturbing sound; crosstalk in the telecommunication system.

Also called baby keg or baby spot. Colloquial term for a small spotlight with a 500- or 750-watt bulb housed in a casting, usually equipped with a lens.

Short tripod legs used for low-angle shots.

A small, miniature tripod for low-angle shors.

A film editing room technique to synchronize the end, rather than the start, of a scene with the sound track.

See lot.

(1) A projection method whereby the projector is placed behind a translucent screen and the picture is viewed from the opposite side. This method, although becoming obsolete, is used in commercial presentations because it does not require a darkened room. See also front projection. (2) A specific scene that is projected onto a translucent screen to serve as background for a proformance. Both the action and the background scene are photographed by the camera, thus simulating "location" filming in the studio (sound stage). See travelling matte.

The events stated or implied to have happened before the period covered in the film or video.

The backwards timing of a broadcast program from its end to the beginning. Back timing is done to help the director and performer pace (time) the show correctly, enabling them to finish "on the nose" as scheduled. Important in radio and television.

A function that allows the basic mechanism of the camera to be driven backward with a hand crank.

See drop.

(1) Sound effects, dialogue or music at a low level for background effect. "Hold to BG" means to turn the volume down and hold under as background. "Hold under" direction is also used. see also under (2) Part of the scene or picture that serves as setting for the action.

Also called dressing light or set light. Light illuminatining the background (scenery). See also backlight, fill light, and key light.