Basic Usage Guide: Detailed Instructions for Professional Arri Alexa Mini Camera Operation

I   Power-On and Preparation Phase

1. Battery Installation and Check

• Charging Confirmation: Before installing the battery, ensure it is fully charged using the original charger, and check the battery indicator to confirm.
• Proper Installation: Follow the camera manual to locate the battery compartment, align the battery’s positive and negative terminals correctly, and gently push it in until you hear or feel a locking click.
• Spare Batteries: Carry one or more spare batteries for long shooting sessions, and regularly check their battery levels.

2.  Connecting the Power Adapter

• Aligning the Connector: Locate the DC power port on the camera, and securely connect the power adapter’s plug.
• Power Indication: After connection, check the camera’s power indicator to ensure proper power supply.
• Safe Usage: When using the power adapter outdoors, take precautions against moisture and avoid extreme temperatures.

3.  Inserting Storage Media

• Choosing the Right Card: Select a high-speed, high-capacity CFast 2.0 memory card compatible with your camera.
• Proper Insertion: Follow the camera’s directional arrows, gently push the memory card into the slot until it locks in place.
• Formatting: Before first use or swapping cards, format the memory card within the camera to ensure compatibility and stability.

4. Lens Installation

•  Lens Selection: Choose the appropriate lens based on your shooting needs (e.g., wide-angle, telephoto, macro).
• Lens Cleaning: Use a professional lens cloth or air blower to remove dust and fingerprints from the lens surface.
• Mounting the Lens: Align the lens mount marks with those on the camera, rotate the lens until it locks securely in place.

II   Shooting Modes and Parameter Adjustments

1. Manual Mode (M-Mode)

• Precise Control: Ideal for complex scenes requiring fine-tuning of shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.
• Parameter Tuning: Use dials or menus to adjust exposure elements while monitoring the exposure indicator on the monitor for accurate results.

 2.  Auto Mode (Auto-Mode)

• Quick Shooting: Suitable for stable lighting conditions and scenes that don’t require special effects.
• Automatic Adjustments: The camera automatically adjusts exposure, focus, etc., allowing photographers to focus on composition and timing.

 3. Preset Modes (e.g., Cinema Mode, Landscape Mode)

• Style Selection: The camera offers various preset shooting styles. Choose the one that best suits your content.
• Fine-Tuning: Some presets allow for adjustments like contrast and saturation to match personal preferences or specific needs.

4.  Detailed Parameter Adjustments

• Exposure Parameters: Adjust shutter speed, aperture, and ISO based on lighting conditions to balance exposure and depth of field.
• Focus Parameters: Use autofocus for quick subject locking or switch to manual focus for precise adjustments to ensure clarity.
• White Balance: Select the appropriate white balance preset or customize it based on lighting conditions (e.g., daylight, tungsten, fluorescent) for accurate color reproduction.
• Recording Format and Resolution: Choose the recording format and resolution that meet your post-production requirements (e.g., online streaming, TV broadcast, cinematic release).

III. Video Recording and Playback

1. Starting and Stopping Recording

• Button Operation: Locate the red record button on the camera, press to start recording, and press again to stop.
• Remote Control: If using a remote, control recording via remote buttons for distant or collaborative shooting.

2.   Video Playback

• Immediate Playback: After shooting, immediately review footage on the camera’s monitor to check exposure, focus, and composition.
• Detailed Review: Enter the playback mode in the menu to view video frame by frame for a more comprehensive assessment.

3.   Exporting Videos

• Safe Removal: Before exporting, safely remove the CFast 2.0 card through the menu or physically to prevent data corruption.
• Card Reader Export: Connect the CFast 2.0 card to your computer using a high-speed card reader, and export video files using file explorer or professional video management software.
• Backup and Organization: After exporting, promptly back up and organize your video files for subsequent editing and processing.