1. Camera Placement Options

You may use one of three methods to record your Lost Item Online submission:

A. Mounted Camera (Tripod or Similar)

✅ Best for: A stable, full view of the search area

• Position the camera far enough back to capture the entire search area, start line, and the handler’s position.
• Ensure the camera is at a height that provides a clear, unobstructed view of the search.
• Double-check that the hide location is visible during the course walkthrough.
• Avoid placing the camera too low, as it may miss elevated hides or the full search picture.
• View Example

B. Helper Holding the Camera

✅ Best for: Dynamic filming with a clear view of the dog’s movements

• The helper should stand back and pan smoothly to follow the dog’s movement through the search.
• Avoid sudden zooming or fast camera movements that could make the video difficult to review.
• Ensure the helper does not interfere with the search or move too close to the hide.

C. Handler Holding the Camera

✅ Best for: Single-person setups when a tripod or helper isn’t available

• The handler must maintain enough distance from the dog to allow proper judging.
• Keep the camera steady and avoid blocking the dog’s search progress.
• Ensure that all required elements (start line, hide location, and full search) are clearly visible.
• This method may not be ideal for high-energy searches where handler movement affects video quality.
• View Example

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2. Ensuring All Video Elements Are Captured

Regardless of the recording method used, each submission must include:
✔ Course walkthrough – Clearly showing the start line, hide location, and any distractors
✔ Search area view – A clear, unobstructed view of the full search area
✔ Handler & dog performance – The judge must be able to see the dog’s start line behavior, searching, and final alert
✔ Proper distance – If the handler holds the camera, there must be enough space between them and the dog for fair judging

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3. Common Camera Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Placing the camera too close to the search area – This may cut off parts of the search or make it difficult to see the dog’s full movement.
🚫 Shaky or fast camera movements – Makes judging difficult, especially if the dog moves quickly.
🚫 Not capturing the full search area – Judges need to see where the dog starts, searches, and alerts.
🚫 Filming from an angle that hides the dog’s final alert – The judge must be able to verify the dog’s indication and the handler’s call of “alert.”

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4. Final Checklist Before Filming

✅ Is the camera steady and positioned to capture the full search area?
✅ Can the start line and hide location be clearly seen in the walkthrough?
✅ Will the judge be able to see the dog’s search progression and alert?
✅ If a helper is filming, have they been instructed on smooth camera work?
✅ If the handler is filming, is there enough distance between them and the dog?