On Thu, 06 Jan 2000 11:09:53 -0600, Jeremy wrote:

> I have a JVC KY-19 camera with a Sony BetaSP dockable VTR and I am
>currently producing a documentary and recruiting video for our local
>fire department. My trouble is this: A majority of my on scene shots
>(about 75%) are at night. Any strong source of light is wreaking havoc
>with my camera. I can't call it a lens flare but that is essentially
>what it seems to be. The point of light produces a "starfield-like"
>pattern. This is making my night footage virtually unuseable. Are there
>any filters that I should know about or any tips or suggestions? I have
>become very frustrated. ANY! suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

If this is not due to surface dust on optics (external
or internal), it is probably due to a fault in the
lens design (try different zoom settings to see if it
changes - also try removing a front filter, if there
is one, and try a different lens, if possible). I have
seen this effect in a few still-camera zoom lenses
when shooting at night - the image of light sources
is multiplied by internal reflections.