Video cameras on board

[PAXboy]

I am aware that this question has been asked before but a friend that is a semi-pro film maker has asked me to ask:
Are video cams (amateur + professional) only allowed to be used during cruise? Does the ban on electronic apparatus being used during departure and approach, apply equally to video cameras?

[Rainboe]

Yes they can. The rules are to cater for equipment giving electro-magnetic transmissions. Video cams can be used inflight as well as cameras, but it may be a surprise, but about half the countries in the world ban photography overhead.

[banana head]

Be careful though, a DV camera using a personal mic for example broadcasts in the FM band ( Mic Tx to Camera Rx). Clearly such a device is not permitted at any time in flight.
Many Airlines impose a blanket ban as it would not be practical to train Cabin crew in recognition of all photographic/ video/ transmitting technology - so your friend would be well advised to check with the airline on which he proposes to film beforehand.
There is also of course the issue of not legally being entitled to use footage obtained on board without the operators prior permission.....