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Scion TC: On-Board Video Camera for Autocross Racer A Scion SC gets outfitted for some cinema verite at the autocross track — with a driver's point-of-view digital video camera mounted to the headrest. From "Tricked Out" episode DTRK-411

Andrew Totolos checks the video signal on the mini-dv camera that will be mounted behind the headrest. The on-board camera will provide a driver point-of-view perspective.

In this Tricked Out project, host Andrew Totolos works with a 2005 Scion TC. The owner of this Scion has attended his first autocross event, and now he's is addicted to the sport. In fact, he's having so much fun that he wants to shoot video to show off his Scion and his autocross skills — reality-TV style.

Tricked Out comes to his aid, installing a heavy-duty camera mount that attaches to the passenger side headrest. The camera will capture point-of- view shots as the car's owner speeds through the race course. The mount will be removable so it can be swapped out to other cars. He'll also build a camera head, which will allow the camera to be placed in any position while attached to the mount. Finally, Andrew offers tips on shooting and how to do a little post-production work on the digital video footage to achieve professional looking results.

Following is a list of he tools and materials used in this project and a summary of the basic steps as seen in episode 411 of DIY's Tricked Out.

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Materials and tools for all modifications in this project:

mini digital-video (dv) camera
tripod
piece of steel conduit strut
reciprocating saw
grinder
scrap piece of heater hose
razor
drill
fasteners
large gate hinge
nuts and bolts, including eye bolt
110-volt mig welder with tank of shielding gas
welder's suit with gloves and helmet
small spring
mineral spirits and clean rags
spray paint and primer
standard shop tools
pneumatic cutoff saw, if needed
jack stands
binder clips
tie-down strap
hook-and-loop tape
computer with editing software
unedited footage of race

Important: Included in this summary are the steps in this automotive procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most vehicles. With any particular car or truck, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that vehicle. There are also variations according to the type and brand of upgrade-kit or replacement part that you select. Always consult your vehicle's service manual when undertaking significant automotive repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

Safety Alert: Always wear protective clothing and a face-shield when welding, and follow appropriate safety precautions. Always wear eye protection when working with power tools or pneumatic tools.

The project car: a 2005 Scion TC with lots of carbon fiber, strobe graphics and indigo ink pearl paint.

The Project Car: 2005 Scion TC

As the third member of the Scion family, the TC is Toyota's answer to the Honda Civic. With its low sticker price and 160 horsepower right out of the box, this baby's a steal. This car has already seen some decent mods including carbon fiber on the b-pillars and strobe graphics laid down over indigo ink pearl paint.

In addition, upgraded springs and an adjustable camber kit keep the 17-inch wheels and tires glued to the road. Under the hood, a strut tower bar further improves traction, while a gel battery adds some colorful splash. The engine has no problems breathing through a cold-air intake, which opens the airways of the 2.4 liter engine, pushing a healthy 160 horses through a manual 5-speed transmission.

The interior of this Scion has more carbon fiber trim hiding a CD and mp3 audio system that's brought into the thump-zone with a 10-inch sub housed in a custom sub box.

	Andrew shoots some hand-held video of the project car to augment the on-board footage.

Tricked Out Videography Basics

When it comes to a camera for this type of application, you'll want one that shoots in digital video. We used a model that shoots in mini dv format. The "dv" in the name stands for digital video. Digital is key since you'll want to transfer your tapes to your computer for editing and finishing.

Once your digital footage" is transferred to your computer, you can use video editing software to achieve professional looking results. Most newer computers come with some sort of video editing program.

For this kind of video photography, you'll also want a tripod that's sturdy and lightweight. Tripods are great for getting that rock solid shot from a stationary location. However, when it comes to shooting video at the track and autocross events, some of the most dynamic shots you're likely to get will typically come from inside the car. It provides the kind of footage that allows the viewer to "relive" the experience of the driver.

The standard technique for achieving this is with a POV (point of view) camera looking over the shoulder of the driver, straight through the front windshield. To do this, we attach a camera mount to the passenger side headrest. The system is removable so the camera can be taken out when not in use, or swapped onto other cars.

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