How to get camcorder to focus on the forefront scene?

[yetanotherlogin]

Hello

I'd like to shoot the same type of video as the following:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_Gn2qpiFZs#t=1m

As you can see, the camcorder actually focuses on the background instead of the foreground where the action is.

I was wondering if laying down some dark fabric on the ground would force the camcorder to focus on the foreground, possibly pointing a soft flashlight to where I'd like it to focus.

What do you think?

Thank you.

[racer-x]

Shoot in manual focus mode. Long zoom and wide open aperture would help here.

[yetanotherlogin]

Thanks. Only doable with a camcorder that supports manual mode, though.

[newpball]

What do you think?

Get a better camcorder with manual focus option.

[racer-x]

Go to a local library and check out a book on Camera Exposure. That will help a great deal to understand about narrow and wide field of view and how to obtain them.

[yetanotherlogin]

Ok, thanks.

[jagabo]

If there's no manual focus, yes, putting a black or white cloth in the background will help -- If there's no detail in the background to focus on the camera will try to focus on what's in the foreground. It's also possible your camera can't focus that closely. A macro lens will help in that situation. If your camera doesn't accept alternate/additional lenses you can put a magnifying glass right in front of the camera to act as a poor mans' macro lens.

[yetanotherlogin]

Good to know. Thanks.