what camcorder should i get for 250 dollars?

Q. I have 250 dollars what camcorder should i get... and please don't say i should save up for a more expensive one.

A. I like the Canon ZR950. You can find them priced from $230 - $275 depending upon where you shop on the web. A word about that, be very careful about buying on the web, especially camcorders/cameras. There are many slick web sites with great camcorder prices, but you will get ripped off. I would stick to Circuit City, Buydig, Newegg, or B&H photo (B & H photo is the best). I still prefer mini dv tapes over newer hard drive or DVD camcorders. I find less problems when it comes to editing, function and overall performance when working with tapes - it's a personal thing. Even with more inexpensive camcorders it comes down to you controlling the camcorder, and not letting the camcorder control you. That is, even on less expensive camcorders you can control focus and exposure (not all but many of them). Granted, this doesn't have a focus ring, like more expensive camcorders, but it does have a menu where you can control focus and aperature/exposure settings. Yes, many of these camcorders do a fine job when set to automatic - and do well with automatic focus and automatic exposure control. I still think it's improtant to take the time to learn what the camcorder can really do. Many of these less expensive cameras look fine in outdoor lighting but stuggle a bit with low indoor lighting (if the lighting is dark), but that can be easily fixed indoors by simply turning on more lights/light or adding a table lamp or floor lamp. It's not necessary for most people to go out an buy "movie" lights. it's just a matter of being aware of your surroundings when shooting. Many people complain that their camcorder footage looks "grainy" or "dark" inside, but in some cases you need to add some light in the room. The camcorder industry advertises LOW lux or low light ratings, or that the camcorder will perform miracles inside in low lighting, but every manufacturer is different in their ratings and how they view their specific camcorder.

But, with that said, I like the Canon ZR950 for the price, and it's a good value. If you have any money left over, buy yourself a tripod.

David
http://www.skyjamvideos.com

Original Question

How much can I claim for a stolen camcorder tape?

Q. On my return from a working holiday, one of my bags was searched by a company working at the airport. When I unpacked it at home, I discovered that some things were missing, notably my camcorder. I had specifically taken this to video my presentation whilst away... I'm in the process of filing a claim with the company that searched my bag & would like advice on how much to claim for the tape in the camcorder, as this is something that can't be replaced.
Any ideas?

A. Unless you had seperate insurance for the contents of the tape you are not going to get any money for that, as it has no commercial value, so you may get the value of the tape (blank). I learnt this and it was a costly mistake, now I never leave my camera or tapes (more important) they are always with me as a camera can be replaced but 6 weeks of underwater filming cannot.

Sorry

RR

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