Camera zoom control and clipping problems when looking at a relatively small object with a very large object

[dhfrasher]

When trying to view a small object and a large object, say a 1 ft dia sphere sitting on a 3000x3000 ft plane, the camera jumps to large zoom distances and clips the small object. How can I control zoom and clipping of the camera in this case?

I have tested several simple scenarios, tried resetting the home view for the small object before adding the plane, but the camera always jumps to the large zoom distances and clips the smaller object. 

I am simply trying to model a house (the small object) on a beach (the large object) and then move inside the house. 

Thanks for any help