Electronic recording camera with optimized power consumption

A video camera recorder comprising:

• an imaging means receiving an optical image and generating an image representative video signal;
• a viewfinder for viewing said optical image;
• means for generating synchronizing signals coupled to said imaging means;
• recording means coupled to said synchronizing signal generating means and to said imaging means;
• and,
• a control means for optimizing power conservation, having:
• a first mode of operation in which said control means enables operation of said synchronizing signal generating means and, inhibits operation of said imaging means and said recording means;
• a second mode of operation in which said control means enables operation of said synchronizing signal generating means and said recording means for reproducing a recorded image representative video signal and inhibits operation of said imaging means;
• and
• a third mode of operation in which said control means, enables operation of said imaging means, said synchronizing signal generating means and said recording means for recording said image representative video signal from said imaging means.