What is the best beginner camcorder that shoots HD video and good photos?

Q. I've searched and most reviews say it's bad in the dark or makes ticking noises or maybe is too expensive. I'm looking for a good camera with HD video, good photos, far zoom ( x10 or higher ), and doesn't get grainy in the dark.

A. The Canon Vixia HV40 is a slightly refined version of the spectacular HV30. Great lens, very good ease of use and features, and great results. There really isn't much to say about these cameras that hasn't already been said. So your decision really isn't about the camera and its features - it's about whether to buy a tape-based camcorder.

a

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What is the best digital camera for my needs?

Q. My father owns a Sony Cyber-shot (6.0MP), and I love the thing. Its pictures always come out beautifully, and both the zoom and the focus are perfect.
However, it is a very large digital camera and much too bulky for my lifestyle - I need something that I can slip into my purse, not a camera that requires its own purse. I know that as the size of the camera decreases, the zoom must also decrease to a point. Are there any slimmer, sleeker digital cameras on the market that will offer me close to the same features as the Cyber-shot?

A. This is a new breed of camera. The ultra compact, with the big zoom lens. Of course, you do compromise a bit on image quality to fit such zoom capability in such a small package- but, for most regular folks, the minute differences in image quality really don't matter, and it's more about capturing the moment. Certainly, a big zoom range can help.

So- take a look at these models. all of which have 10x zoom range.

The Kodak V610. Very sleek
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/kodakv610/

The Nikon S10. cool swivel lens set-up
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/nikons10/

Casio EX-V7. Only a 7x zoom. But quite small.
http://www.digitalcamerainfo.com/content/Casio-Exilim-EX-V7-First-Impressions-Review.htm

Canon Powershot TX-1 (not out yet) Kind of a pocket camcorder form factor. An interesting offering.

Panasonic TZ2 or TZ3. Great wide angle 28mm big zoom .with Optical Image stabilization. here's a review of the previous model TZ1
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonictz1/

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Which is the best mini HD camcorder with long battery life ?

Q. I am planning an Europe trip with my family for about 4 weeks.

I wanted to buy a small handy cam which is full HD and has long battery life so I dont have to worry
about charging frequently.

The smaller the HD cam is the better for me, so easy to shoot

Let me know which one is the best.

Thanks in advance

A. Canon HV10 3.1MP High-Definition MiniDV Camcorder is the 4th camcorder I'm testing in 6 months and the first HD camcorder. Video quality is excellent; photo quality is good when in photo mode. Low light video is pretty good as well in a regular lighted room compared to other SD camcorders, and also Night mode is awesome if you plan to use it. Handling is great for someone with medium-small hands. Considering that the camcorder is under a pound with battery and tape inside, the size is quite small and controls are a bit cramped. Once you get used to it and you see the video quality you'll love it.

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What is the best quality camcorder for a college student?

Q. I'm wanting to purchase a camcorder and would ideally like it to have long battery life and good quality video. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, I just need something that records high quality video and has a good long battery life for fairly affordable - preferably $200 or less.

A. Aiptek Action HD GVS BK 1080P High Definition Camcorder with 5x Optical Zoom (Black)
* 1080P High Definition Camcorder
* 30 frames per second at 1080P and 60 frames per second at 720P with advanced H.264 technology
* 5 MP Images with macro lens for high quality close ups
* 5x optical zoom with auto focus and 4x digital zoom
* Features Superior Gyroscopic Stabilization for unmatch stability while recording video

Aiptek Action HD GVS 1080P High Definition Camcorder with 5x Optical Zoom (Silver)
Technical Details
Color: Silver
* 1080P High Definition Camcorder with 3-inch color LCD
* 30 Frames per second at 1080P and 60 frames per second at 720P with advanced H.264 technology
* 5 MP Images with macro lens for high-quality close ups
* 5x Optical zoom with auto focus and 4x digital zoom
* Features Superior Gyroscopic Stabilization for unmatch stability while recording video

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Do you like fujifilm cameras?

Q. im planning on buying the Fujifilm FinePix S2950 digital camera. But i wanted to know what do you think about fujifilm camera? I need to know i dont wanna end up buying a bad camera...please help

A. Hi Sara, and welcome to Y!A Camcorders:

Fuji doesn't really make any true camcorders, so normally this Question would be better posted over in the Y!A "Cameras" category. But at least this model FinePix has a decent zoom lens (18x optical) and shoots 720p HD video clips, in addition to 14Megapixel stills.

One step up from a basic "point & shoot" camera, this model is what is called a "bridge camera" (more features than just snapshot cameras, but not quite an SLR-style camera). The lens may have a long-zoom range compared to most cameras in its price class ($150-$200), but it's also not a very "fast" lens (wide-open it only has F3.1 to F5.6, depending on wide-angle or zoomed-in) so it's not very good in low-light situations. So if you shoot video with it (where the flash is useless) indoor results might be disappointing.

Fuji is a good brand name (they're the "Japanese Kodak" when it comes to camera film & processing) and �like Kodak� they've made cameras for years. They're just not one of the first brand names professionals and skilled amateurs think of when shopping for equipment.

CNet reviews gave this model 3-out-of-5 stars ("Good"), but pointed out the low-light and other shooting performance issues: see http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/fujifilm-finepix-s2950/4505-6501_7-34468871.html

Here's a Digital Photography Reviews article that's more of a copy of Fuji's press release than a review, but it covers all the features and specifications: http://www.dpreview.com/news/2011/1/5/fujifilms2950

Decide what kind of photos and videos are important to you, and if having a long lens isn't that important, you might search around for a better camera or camcorder in the same price range. But if you found that this model handles your style of shooting, and the price is right, go for it.

Just keep in mind that "cameras" are mainly designed for stills, and "camcorders" have features that make it easier for shooting videos.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
 

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Best Camcorder for vlogging?

Q. I would like it to be something new 2011/2012 and nothing too expensive. I want to vlog inside and outside. Also maybe something that can film sports such as football and motorcross.
Thanks for the answers! :)

A. Sony HDR-CX190 High Definition Handycam 5.3 MP Camcorder with 25x Optical Zoom (2012 Model) has been a great HD camcorder so far. It is very small and lightweight, to say the least. I think the 70 series battery I bought for this unit weighs almost as much as the camera. The controls are good with the little screen joystick and menus. The color is very good on the screen, and the video is sharp. I like the 30x for videoing my stepsons' wrestling matches.

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What is the best camcorder for live streaming?

Q. I am going to be live streaming local sporting events on my website and need to know which camera is the best to handle that? Also any advice on the best streaming site or software to use for it would be greatly appreciated.

A. The Sony HDR-AX2000 Handycam camcorderhas been amazing. The picture quality is outstanding, the 20x zoom is really nice to have and the tapeless format comes in handy. I use Premiere Pro for editing and haven't had any problems with file sizes or any file related troubles. Using a your own shotgun microphone will greatly enhance the audio for your projects. It shoots pretty good in low light also. Not bad for this price range.

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How do I connect my camcorder to my laptop to view live streaming images?

Q. I have a Panasonic hard drive camcorder model SDR-H18. I want to connect it to my laptop and view live streaming. How do I do this? It comes with a usb cable and an av cable. Thanks
I am running Windows 7 64bit Home editino on my laptop.

A. Do you mean you want to use the cam as a super WEBCAM so you can see what the camera see? I am afraid this is extremely difficult. Because in order to do so, you need a firewire interface that comes with the camera. Your camera doesn't have this function, so you can only do it with AV cable. Which means you will need an analoge capture device, and the image quality will drop hard. If you don't mind the low res, then go for it. Buy a analoge to USB cable which comes with a free software (usually). It range from 45$ to 140$, depending on the brands.

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What camcorder takes the best video in the dark?

Q. I am trying to find a camcorder to buy for ghost hunting which requires being in the dark... What camera is the best quality dark shot?

A. Hi C!
I think its cool you're ghost hunting. It's been a passion of mine for the past 2 years. I work in an old school building that some suspect is haunted. I have taken some interesting video footage there and submitted it to some ghost video sites.
To get back to your question, I use the JVC GZ-HD300A Everio 60GB Hard Drive Camcorder. I've used other inferior cameras which are fine in the daylight but this cam has the best twilight and night mode out there.
Believe me, I know how it feels to miss a chance at filming something amazing because I don't have the right camera. You can find this camcorder at http://offto.net/onsalecom/ for a very competitive price.
Just search "camcorders" and click "JVC"
I got it from their site after shopping around. They shipped it quick and reliably and their customer service is excellent.
Good luck, and drop me a line and let me know if you catch anything paranormal on film.

All the best, Jimmy

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Where can I find Professional Camcorders to buy in Southern California?

Q. I am looking for professional camcorders to buy. I have looked almost everywhere. Fry's Stopped selling them, and Best Buy doesn't even have a chance. HELP!

A. Samy's Camera ?

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Can you help me determine if this camcorder is a good buy?

Q. I need a camcorder and I'm looking at one with a 10x optical zoom. I don't know anything about camcorders so is this a good number for the optical zoom? Also, is the digital zoom number important when purchasing a camcorder? What number optical and digital zoom would be the best to get?

Please help me....I need to buy a camcorder by next Friday. Thank you!

A. What's your budget?
What are you recording?
Is it to upload to the web or watch on an HDTV?

As for the zooms, optical is the only one that matters. Digital zoom simply blows up the size of the pixels causing degradation in picture quality. On my old (circa 2001) camcorder, it gives the option to turn the digital zoom all the way off or limit it to 10x and 20x- I always leave it OFF.

As for what optical zoom number to aim for, it depends on what you're recording. A kids soccer game that you're 50ft+ away from, 10x is good. Indoor birthday parties, 5x would do.

You're budget is going to determine quality, but I would definitely try to get a 720p or 1080p HD camcorder, which range from $120 for a micro camcorder to $500 for a real 1080p camcorder.

720p SD card based micro camcorder:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001Q3M986/ref=asc_df_B001Q3M986951855?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&tag=googlecom09c9-20&linkCode=asn&creative=380341&creativeASIN=B001Q3M986

1080p entry level real camcorder
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-HMX-H100-Camcorder-with10x-Optical/dp/B001OQC0HK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1257077082&sr=8-1
supposedly on sale at Costco for $349 right now

While Canon makes the best consumer 1080p models
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-VIXIA-Memory-Camcorder-Optical/dp/B001OI2Z2I/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&s=photo&qid=1257076906&sr=1-14

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I want to get started in filmmaking. What camcorder shall I get?

Q. Alright so I want to be an ammatuer filmmaker [im 15]. I already know how to edit videos and all that sutff. I know what editing software Im buying [pinnacle studios]. I just need a camera that has good video quality and when you record, it saves to the built in hardrive or something or maybe a minidvd if its not to complicated when uploading to the computer. Something easy and simple with good video quality. But I need a good camcorder ranging from $200-$350. I cant find any! Any suggestions?
I forgot to mention that I plan on making short films. 10-30 minutes. So I hope that adds.

A. I have a Sony DCR-SR82 that works really well. It's not high Def but more than likely with your budget that's not an option anyway. I belive I paid $600 for mine but they make one with a smaller hard drive that's a bit cheaper. My Costco also sold mine so it came with a solid return policy.

Jim
http://www.ventvent.com/complaint.php

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Can you store footage from ultra flip camcorder without downloading on computer?

Q. I'm kinda near broke and am going to see relatives over xmas.My old camcorder died and I want to film the kids... I read such good reviews about the flip ,that I was thinking it might be a cheaper alternative til I can get a better one. But,my computer needs to be replaced too... Can you store footage and download when I get a new computer? I film mostly my kids. Or any other ideas?

A. If your computer still works then you could still save the video to it and then when you get your new computer just copy the videos from the old drive to the new one.

If you have a friend that would look after your videos on their computer you could do it that way, I know its difficult when money is tight, I think most of the world is in the same situation. You could always ask if your relatives have a laptop they could bring with them, and then you could happily film and they could look after the video for you. Just a thought.

Good luck

RR

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What are good camcorders for video editing?

Q. I want an inexpensive (up to $500) camcorder that is good for video editing/movie making. I've heard Mini DV formats are good, but I kind find much out there. Are hard drive or flash memory any good?
Help. Thanks.

A. With Video Editing Software, you can create and share your own screen sensations with the world .

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Most popular tags to place in the "tags" section of a YouTube video as of now (July 2010) to increase views?

Q. Hi yeah I'm looking for educated answers, sensible ones and as many as possible please as would really help me - many thanks and top points to best answer.

A. activism, advertising, alcohol, alternative-news, ancient-history, animals, animation, anime, architecture, arts, astronomy, atheist, bizarre, blogs, books, buddhism, business, cars, cartoons, cats, celebrities, christianity, classic-rock, clothing, comedy-movies, comics, computer-graphics, computer-hardware, computers, cooking, crafts, crime, cyberculture, dogs, drawing, drugs, ecommerce, environment, fashion, fine-arts, firefox, geography, graphic-design, guitar, guns, hacking, health, history, humor, illusions, interior-design, internet, internet-tools, iraq, liberal-politics, liberties, linguistics, linux, literature, mac-os, mathematics, movies, multimedia, music, nature, network-security, news, online-games, open-source, painting, philosophy, photography, physics, poetry, politics, programming, psychology, quizzes, relationships, religion, satire, science, science-fiction, self-improvement, shopping, software, space-exploration, stumblers, stumbleupon, tattoos, travel, tv, video, video-games, web-design, windows, writing, actors, america, apple, art, aviation, blog, blogging, bush, california, car, cartoon, cat, celebrity, charity, children, climate-change, college, comedy, comic, community, dance, death, debate, design, diet, diy, dog, economy, election, elections, energy, entertainment, exercise, facebook, film, finance, flash, flowers, food, football, funny, gadgets, game, games, gaming, global-warming, god, google, graffiti, green, home, humour, illustration, images, internet-marketing, life, living, love, mac, marriage, math, media, medicine, microsoft, money, music-video, obama, oil, online, paintings, pakistan, peace, photo, photos, photoshop, pictures, pirates, president, quotes, recipe, recipes, republican, rock, sculpture, security, social-media, social-networking, society, space, star-wars, tech, technology, television, tips, tools, tutorials, ubuntu, vegan, video, videos, vintage, war, water, web, web-development, weird, wordpress, youtube, sex, sexy, hot, love, porn, president, 2008, 2009, winter, secret, omg, no, way, amplafitesttag, art, arts, bank, barackobama, bi, bisexual, blues, broadway, business, c, canvass, children, classical, college, comedy, community, communityservice, concert, conference, convention, country, county, dance, debatewatchparty, design, development, drive, election, election08, entrepreneur, event, events, fair, family, festival, field, filmfest, florida, football, for, free, fun, fundraising, halloween, haunted, indie, iowavoteearlyforchangeweekofac, jazz, kids, league, live, local, localfieldoffice, london, management, marketing, media, meeting, music, musicals, mybo, national, networking, new, nfl, nyc, obama, of, office, organizing, party, performance, phone, phonebank, pop, pride, prideevent, pridefest, registration, rock, service, show, shows, social, sport, sports, startup, technology, theater, tour, voter, voterregistrationdrive, w, web, western, women, women for obama, workshop, free, money, cash, movie, download, horny, quickscope, free, lobby, hard, scope, barrett, intervention, high, ******, 1600, microsoft, points, 10th, prestige, ak47, montage, sniper, m9, acr, m16, you, tube, rawr, lol, mp3, download, hillary, clinton, ohio, indiana, apple, banana, modern, warfare, leaked, info, gameplay, ninja, defuse, mw2, snd, optic, h3cz, sniper, montage, mp5k, 50cal, acog, Modern, Warfare, M16, footage, Sniper, Montage, by, OpTic, H3CZ, .50cal, m200, copycat, steady, aim, pro, nation, gaming, hecz, dtreats, hutchisyodaddy, zzirgrizz, topnotchmultimedia, waw, dogs, infinity, ward, tutorials, 3ds, max, song, vegas, adobe, photoshop, cs4, ps3, xbox, 360, hack, exooutsider, nextgenupdate, search, and, destroy, hood, thug, jake, brandon, retard, hangove, hill on, a, the, as, an, how, to, tags, pavelow, harrier, knife, too, damn, good, for, you, nuke, chopper, gunner, scary, zombie, exploits, tuts, views, sir, mix, a, lot, baseball, basketball, football, hockey, unban, sony, camcorder, ipod, orange, purple, haze, blue, pineapple, microsoft, never, get, patchaed, banned, loser, halo, left, dead, argentina, australia, evolution, of, dance, potter, book, puppet, pals, paper, airplanes, pregnant, quagmire, soundboard, springboard, blackra1n, jail, break, touch, iphone, grabber, nano, itunes, lag, keyboard, escape, search, keyvault, drive, hoops, goal, net, celtics, magic, lakers, los, angeles, sorry, if, words, are, in, twice, eminem, cent, ludacris, gucci, boobs, belt, saint, video, garden, chicken, steak, cow, liger, tiger, zebra, trees, garden, urban, random, :), will, jordan, sick, nasty, gross, lazy, insect, pursuit, happiness, romantic, spelling, humming, birds, eachother, microwave, japan, malaysia, africa, vietnam, indians, elephant, lone, these, were, all, thought, up, by, myself, carpol, tunnels, stewie, fat, man, lois, cartman, suprise, aperance, gotta, school, sucks, worst, biggest, fattest, funniest, longest, first

Original Question

What's a good camera to use for VLOGing?

Q.

A. I use one of 3 Canon ZR MiniDV tape camcorders. They hook by Firewire to the IEEE1394 port in my computer I use either of these two - http://asimplelife.ca/nle.html programs to import either live or from tape. Then they drop the video in to the project bins of the program, where I can stick the video I just captured on the timeline, add titles, edit(cut, split) add transitions and effects as required. then make a file and upload it to http://www.zippcast.com

You can go to YouTube, type either name of the programs into the search engine there, look fro videos that offer a free download, I know they are there.

MiniDV tapes take the best video quality going. To get a HD camcorder that can take as good video Quality videos as one MiniDV rape camcorder can, you would have to spend in excess of $3300 to purchase that HD camcorder.

MiniDV tape camcorders, when hooked by Firewire to the IEEE1394 port on your computer, make the worlds best webcam. This is something very few HD camcorders can do.

I have been Vlogging since early Nov 2010

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What's a good digital camcorder to purchase for low light situations?

Q. I'm looking for a moderately priced digital camcorder that will record high quality footage in low level light situations, but also have really good sound quality. Mostly for recording live music in small club type settings. Geek speak is Greek to me. I get really confused when people talk about bites and pixels and whatnot. I just want something that can see in the (not completly) dark without being green.

A. Sony has 0 lux capable camcorders. For more info try sonystyle.com

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What is the best Camcorder for recording live music?

Q. It is very loud music and almost always in clubs so it is very dark, ive tried to look online but everything is from 2007 and older. any help would be great, thannks.

A. Anything with manual audio control. I think the Canon HF M series is the least expensive - your other option is to get whatever camcorder you want along with a digital audio recorder. The Zoom H2 or H4 are good examples - Tascam, Roland, Marantz, and many other company make similar "field recorders". When you import the video to a computer for editing, import the audio from the field recorder. Synch the audio with the video and mute the audio that was recorded by the camcorder.

As for the low light behavior of the camcorder... you need large lenses and large imaging chips if the stage lighting is that poor. The Canon HF M and HF R series have 58mm lens filer diameter but a single CMOS imaging chip. Compare these with the likes of a Canon XHA1 or Sony HDR-FX1000. They will get great low-light video... but their lenses and imaging chips are very large...

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Is the flip mino hd good for filming makeup tutorials?

Q. I am a new beauty guru and my old camera is not hd and I cant film good quality videos.When I shoot makeup tutorials the colors dont show up the true color that they are. I want a good cheap hd camera and i was wondering if the flip mino hd camera is good for what I am looking for? I found some on ebay for like 40 dollars

Thanks

A. I would recommend the UltraHD, it's cheaper and it does have better quality. When it comes to price it does a pretty good job $145 - http://bit.ly/bzCAzk This is the camera that I have and it does pretty good videos - http://www.youtube.com/user/JesseBAndersen

Video quality wise the Kodak Zi8 might be the one. It does 1080p and also has an external mic input. Price wise it's about $180 http://bit.ly/bKPaP8

You can view a pocket camcorder comparison here:
http://gizmodo.com/5401862/ultimate-pocket-camcorder-comparison

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What camcorder should I get that uploads to Youtube, is HD, and doesn't have lines when pointed at a screen?

Q. My Flip Video camcorder does have lines. Plz help

A. I haven't seen the lines on my Flip Ultra HD.

One camera that I might really get is the Kodak Playsport. The Playsport is 1080p, waterfproof, and $150 It doesn't come out until April 5.

Check it out here:
http://gizmodo.com/5442193/kodak-waterproof-playsport-hands-on-it-might-be-the-new-pocket-cam-to-buy
http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DUTF8%26x%3D0%26ref_%3Dnb%255Fsb%255Fnoss%26y%3D0%26field-keywords%3Dkodak%2520playsport%26url%3Dsearch-alias%253Delectronics&tag=alldevs-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957

For alternatives to the Flip you have the Creative Vado HD and the Kodak Zi8
Zi8 HD 1080p - http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DUTF8%26x%3D0%26ref_%3Dnb%255Fsb%255Fnoss%26y%3D0%26field-keywords%3Dkodak%2520zi8%2520HD%26url%3Dsearch-alias%253Delectronics&tag=alldevs-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957
Vado 720p - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002P3N1J2?ie=UTF8&tag=alldevs-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002P3N1J2

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A good camera or a camcorder for recording music cover videos?

Q. I need a good camera or a camcorder for recording music cover videos and music videos . I'll be using a external mic so the sound of the camera won't matter much. But I want a camera with high quality video capacity and my budget is under 200 dollars

A. All digital still cameras an most camcorders in your price range do not have a mic jack - so recording the audio separately is likely required.

Less expensive camcorders have small lenses and imaging chip and will not record video well under low-light or poor indoor lighting conditions. You end up spending money on lighting. As the recording device increases in cost, the lenses and imaging chip get larger allowing for better low/poor light behavior. While that lens diameter and imaging chip size increases, the camera's feature set increases and various controls start moving out of the menu and to the outside of the camcorder.

Point and shoot cameras are designed to capture digital still images. Capturing video (and audio) are secondary "convenience features". No mic connection and very limited other controls...

Any device can capture decent video if the lighting is adequate. This could be as simple as capturing video outside during bright, sunny conditions or inside adding lights like tripod-mouted worklights (relatively inexpensive - or maybe already in the garage?) from the hardware store... or as complex (and expensive) as getting PAR56 cans mounted to light trees and use dimmers...

You should also use some sort of steadying device... this could be a chair, floor, shelf, stack of books or a tripod...

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Help me find good camcorder for youtube videos?

Q. Okayy, i am looking for good quality camcorder and good audio. Help please!!c: also needs to be under 200

A. Although not anymore being manufactured, you can find "Flip" cameras that are inexpensive on sites such as ebay and will work great for anything you'll need to post on youtube.

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Where can I find Professional Camcorders to buy in Southern California?

Q. I am looking for professional camcorders to buy. I have looked almost everywhere. Fry's Stopped selling them, and Best Buy doesn't even have a chance. HELP!

A. Samy's Camera ?

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What Panasonic hd camcorder should I buy?

Q. Hello I am looking for a panasonic hd camcorder to buy as my previous camcorder somehow wont work anymore. I want it to be a Panasonic hd camcorder as I have heard that those are the best on the market today and for a very fair price.

I am willing to pay up to 500$ for this Panasonic hd camcorder.

So what Panasonic hd camcorder should I buy and why should I buy exactly the Panasonic hd camcorder that you recommend?

Thanks in advance!

A. Hello Maria, you should definately go for the Panasonic HDC-SD60K. This Panasonic hd camcorder is nothing but fantastic! It has so many great features and cool functions, basically everything you need in a camcorder and even more.

The battery last much longer than described and it takes amazing pictures. I cant remember the link, but search for the name and then you will find it.



************************************

I found the link, I guess I should have waited because it is actually half the price that I bought it from, which sucks for me, but I guess not for you :)
The link is below.

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Best inexpensive Professional Camcorders for the beginning filmmaker?

Q. I'm trying to find the best camcorder for the money, and I'm looking for something around the $1,000-$1,200 range. Counting both used and new camcorders, what is the best camcorder I can get for around this price range with the best quality?

A. Sony DCR TRV950 3ccd used about $500 /ebay

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What is the best camcorder for my money?

Q. I'm looking into purchasing a camcorder mainly for the purpose of making videos for YouTube and school projects.
I'd like to keep the price under $500
I also need something that has a built-in microphone and is compatible with Mac computers.

A. you can try this Camcorder ! Sony
HDR-CX260V High Definition Handycam Camcorder

Its Got Full 60p HD recording , not just 60i quality. It has good lowlight, it just does not have nightshot and there is no light on the Camcorder. This is Probably the best Sony camcorder for under 500 $ You could try other brands too, Like Panasonic, or Canon, but Im Positive that All sony handycam camcorders are compatible with Mac's! I recently got the Sony HDR cx 580v camcorder!! its F*cking Awesome!! It has A HD 5.1 mic,2 Built in Camcorder lights, A projector, Full HD 24p/60p recording. I would recommend it ! :)

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What is the best camera for shooting video? *READ DESCRIPTION*?

Q. I am looking for a camera to film YouTube movie reviews and short films. I want it to shoot in 1080p and have good sound capabilities. Also I would like it to be affordable preferably under 400 dollars. Something durable that won't break if it is dropped. I am currently looking at some Nikon Coolpix Cameras are they any good? PLEASE HELP

A. The Nikon Coolpix cameras were designed to capture still images. They do that well. Capturing video is a "convenience feature". The video is ok - but audio is not implemented well. No manual audio control; no mic jack.

Something durable? There are not many "ruggedized" cameras or camcorders out there - the closest may be helmet cams.

I think you need to make a choice - either good video and audio or durability - there's nothing that does both. For a camcorder, something in the Canon HF M series. For a helmet cam, either the GoPro or Contour HD. If you go the helmet cam route, then use an external audio capture device like a Zoom H2... When you edit the video, import the audio, synch and mute the audio that was captured by the helmet cam...

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Where the heck amatuer/low budget porn film makers get the girls?

Q. I'm talking about regular guys with a 250-400 dollar camcorders. Somehow, they convinced these girls to be in their 2-14 minutes videos for useless junk website. Are these girls ex gfs, close friends, and gfs of the film makers? It seems like they live in their home town. Do they put up ads?
How do these guys get them?

A. Money talks, even if it is only a couple hundred dollars. If you notice, most look to be the right age to be in college. Which would you rather do, wait tables for a couple or three nights to make a couple hundred, or star in a 2-14 minute sex scene?

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What is the best camcorder $300 and under for low light lov budget film?

Q. I an currently writing a script for a fan film based on The Crow. I cannot seem to find a low budget camcorder with good software and low light capability. Most of the film will be shot at night and I want a good clear picture in low light and it has to work with windows movie maker!
I'd appreciate any suggestions cause I can't find anything in my price range.

A. Good low light video capture behavior = large lenses and large imaging chip systems.

Big glass and big chips are expensive. There are no "inexpensive" camcorder with lenses larger than 60mm lens filter diameter + 3CCD (or 3CMOS) imaging chips (1/3" or larger) which is why you can't find any.

Versions of MovieMaker before Windows 7 cannot deal with AVCHD compressed MTS files unless they are transcoded first. Only certain combinations of of Windows 7 and MovieMaker Live can deal with AVCHD/MTS files... No version of MovieMaker will deal with MOV files (unless transcoded, first). Only certain configurations of MovieMaker will deal with AVI files. So I'll say any consumer camcorder or camera that captures high definition video to flash memory or hard disc drive is not do-able because dealing directly with MovieMaker won't happen. No one should ever waste their $ on a DVD based camcorder. As for miniDV tape, MovieMaker can't deal with HDV. But, if the computer has a firewire port, it can deal with importing standard definition DV files. Certain versions of MovieMaker can deal with the MPG files from some consumer cams - no version of MovieMaker can deal with standard definition MOD files...

For $300, the Canon FS series standard def flash memory cams are OK - and they can do stndard definition widescreen - but you will need to use a transcoder like MPEG StreamClip www.squared5.com or HandBrake www.handbrake.fr to convert the files to WMV format so MovieMaker can deal with them.

Good luck!

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What is a good camcorder for recording my bands shows and practices?

Q. I've been looking into buying a camcorder to record my bands shows. I need something 125$ or less. I really want something that has good audio (obviously) and can capture a good picture in dark places. The venues I play in tend to be dark. I have been looking at Aiptek camcorders but I'm worried I'm going to buy something that isn't worth the money. Does anyone have any suggestions on camcorders?

A. Toy cams, entry level consumer and mid-range consumer camcorders have small lenses and imaging chips so low-light behavior will be poor. They also do not have manual audio control so if your band is loud, the audio will be poor.

The least expensive cams - of which I am aware - that have manual audio control are the Canon HV230 and Sony HDR-HC9. Sorry. It is what it is.

You can get the cheap cam for the video - but when you edit, replace the audio with audio captured by a field recorder like those from Zoom or M-Audio or Edirol among others... The field recorders have manual audio control - the good ones can use external mics - the best ones connect external XLR mics.

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I want a great quality camcorder to use with my mac as a webcam?

Q. I am looking to buy an HD camcorder with the best quality i can get that shoots in H.264 that i can use as a webcam on my 24" iMac. I am not looking to buy anything too expensive but all suggestions are appreciated. What else would i need to use my camcorder as a webcam? What is a great little preferably waterproof camcorder?

A. Hi, i am not sure i will be helpful enough. But i do have some suggestion.

A good-performance flip camcorder is of help to avoid water to some extent. and you need a HD camcorder which costs not too much. Maybe this 5.0 Mega Pixel Digital Camcorder with 3.0 inch Touch Screen + HD 1920x1080P is right for you.

A cool four in one gadget-Digital Camcorder, Digital Camera, Mass Storage, Voice Recorder brings you more interesting video recording experience.

The 1/2.5" CMOS Sensor allows you to shoot high megapixel images (5MP native sensor, 12Mp thru interpolation). And with 5x optical zoom as well as 4X digital zoom, you can really get close to the action no matter where you are without losing the clarity. Also, the 3.0 inch Color LTPS LCD 16:9 touch panel gives you maximum easy operation.

Supporting up to 32GB external memory, it enables you to store large quantity of pictures, videos and voice. Never again will you worry about missing important events with this powerful high pixel camcorder.Well, the high quality Casio NP40 Li-Ion Battery (1050mAh) ensures its long good working condition.

you can learn more about this product by click: http://www.chinazrh.com/50-mega-pixel-digital-camcorder-with-30-inch-touch-screen-hd-1920x1080p-p-1884.html

wish you good luck!

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What is the best quality camcorder for a college student?

Q. I'm wanting to purchase a camcorder and would ideally like it to have long battery life and good quality video. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, I just need something that records high quality video and has a good long battery life for fairly affordable - preferably $200 or less.

A. Aiptek Action HD GVS BK 1080P High Definition Camcorder with 5x Optical Zoom (Black)
* 1080P High Definition Camcorder
* 30 frames per second at 1080P and 60 frames per second at 720P with advanced H.264 technology
* 5 MP Images with macro lens for high quality close ups
* 5x optical zoom with auto focus and 4x digital zoom
* Features Superior Gyroscopic Stabilization for unmatch stability while recording video

Aiptek Action HD GVS 1080P High Definition Camcorder with 5x Optical Zoom (Silver)
Technical Details
Color: Silver
* 1080P High Definition Camcorder with 3-inch color LCD
* 30 Frames per second at 1080P and 60 frames per second at 720P with advanced H.264 technology
* 5 MP Images with macro lens for high-quality close ups
* 5x Optical zoom with auto focus and 4x digital zoom
* Features Superior Gyroscopic Stabilization for unmatch stability while recording video

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How to conserve laptop battery while using a webcam device to record?

Q. Is it possible to put a laptop into sleep mode or computer save mode while still using a program to record through the webcam/or camcorder hooked up to the computer? I want to extend the laptops battery life as much as possible as i wont have access to charge the laptop battery.

thanks!!!

A. Turn off wifi, Set the monitor to turn off after 1 minute, get an extended battery pack.

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How do you get the thing off the TV when you playback a cassette tape from your camcorder?

Q. When you pause a tape on your TV screen after playing it back on the camcorder-

The crap at the top of the screen with the battery life showing and the minutes. Is there any way to take that off or make that not on the screen when you pause the tape?

A. You dont mention the make and model of the camera but there should be a setting to turn off and on the display. you may find it under the view finder/screen

RR

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How long before this camera is considered obsolete?

Q. My son is a high school senior. Next year he wants to go to community college and live at home (at least that is reasonably affordable) instead of going away to school. He wants to take an expensive major however. Video production. We have been able to save about $5,000 towards his education. We are not wealthy people. The rest will have to come from loans and maybe a grant or scholarship.
We are looking at some "entry level" pro cameras in the $1500-1800 range. That's about 1/3 of our savings for his education.
Models include these:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/518555-REG/Sony_HVRHD1000U_HVR_HD1000U_Digital_High_Definition.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/745707-REG/Sony_HXR_MC2000U_HXR_MC2000U_Shoulder_Mount_AVCHD.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/878341-REG/Panasonic_hmc40kit_AG_HMC40_AVCCAM_HD_Camcorder.html
and
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/749467-REG/Canon_4922B002_XA10_HD_Professional_Camcorder.html

My concern is he starts September 2013 so these products may not even be available by then or others will be available. We hope he graduates May 2015. He tells us when he graduates he will maybe find a freelance job or shoot local cable news, build up some experience, maybe after 2 years go for a B.A. at least part time.
Is anything we buy him in 2013 (summer) going to be any use to him as a working professional in 2015 (summer)? So let's say you are a class of 2012 graduate with an AAS in video production. The camera you purchased in the summer of 2010 when you first started, do you still use it professionally? Can you make anything doing freelance news videos, PR videos or local account commercials with this equipment?
We're going to do everything we can to help him. No doubt he will still be living at home in the summer of 2015. By then he's going to have a student loan to pay off. We have a 2005 Hyundai Accent that we are going to give him for college. I hope that thing still runs when it is 10 years old and he isn't making car payments on top of that. The thing has 120,000 miles on it but runs really well. I just fear when he graduates he's going to be in deep debt and have limited employment. I may be wrong. What do you think? Thanks.

A. Hi "Upwardly Mobile":

Fellow Contributor "L" covered most of the bases quite well, but the only point he didn't underscore is that MOST good video & film production programs at community colleges HAVE the cameras, lights, mikes, tripods, and other gear that the students will learn on & use.

When I went to a local (but nationally prominent) university with a Broadcast/Film Dept., portable video was still fairly new, but all the film cameras, tripods, & light kits were supplied by the Department for students to "check out" as-needed for class projects.

And most video production students start out with Studio Production techniques (where it's easier for groups to learn 3-point lighting, camera setup & tripod/dolly operation, shot composition, audio techniques & mixing, etc.). No need for portable field gear there.

For field production & Electronic News Gathering, a good college will have a fair number of camcorders for students to use & check out (if needed for outside-of-class projects).

The same is true for Editing Software & computer workstations. Some college programs might be economizing and making students supply their own laptops for this, but all the major software companies offer Academic Editions of their normally-expensive edit suites at discounted prices. And of course, nowadays, apps like iMovie (Mac) and Movie Maker (PC) come "free" as part of the operating system and can accomplish what older (and expensive) software used to do, as far as basic editing.

As "L" mentioned, do a bit of "homework" yourself by contacting the community college's department head & instructors for your son's chosen major. Tour the facilities (studio and edit suites) and ask about the "equipment room" for student project gear. See what textbooks (a major expense) are required, and whether computer/laptop & software expense will be part of what's expected of your son. Only if there's little-or-no camcorder gear (or no hands-on studio cameras) would I recommend buying anything like the models from B+H that you listed.

Almost every cable TV & freelance video job I've had over the past 30 years has "supplied" (rented or company-owned) the cameras & grip gear I needed. I bring my own gear only when it's a "favor" or when what I have is better-suited to the task, or they want a "director with gear". My point being, your son doesn't need to own =any= camera gear to make a living freelancing. A good camera operator can stay busy in almost any part of the country, with just his/her skills. (Same for sound mixers & boom/wireless mike operators.)

hope this helps, and hope it saves you some money,
--Dennis C.
 

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Can I bring my camera to a concert?

Q. I bought tickets to go to a concert in 2013 and I printed out my tickets and on it it says: No cameras/recorders. And by asking if I can bring my camera I'm not trying to make it irrelevant, but don't people bring their cameras to concerts all the time?
It's at the PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC & the concert is for One Direction.

What will happen if I do bring my camera?
Any idea?

A. For some concerts, they do allow you to bring cameras/camcorders. It will say if it's allowed on the ticket. But in your situation, you're not allowed to because it says it on the ticket. You could sneak your camer in without getting caught(usually hard to do). But if you do sneak it in then you could take pictures and record the concert. But when/if you get caught, they'll kick you out of the concert.

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Using a HD 720p camcorder, What size SD card should I buy?

Q. Using a HD 720p camcorder, What size SD card should I buy?

I am thinking of buying a Sanyo Xacti VPC-TH1 High Definition camcorder and I dont know what size SD card to buy...

I want to record about 2 hours in 720p so which size should I get?
Is there any rough kind of guide to follow?

A. the camera specs appear to indicated that it is designed for 16 GB memory cards. the battery is good for 200 minutes, and 16 GB is 230 minutes of HD video. However if you plan on using the still photo capability of the camera, that will reduce the minutes of available video. An 8 GB card will be just short of 2 hours of HD video.

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When are the 1080p camcorders going to come out?

Q. Sony and Canon have 1080i/720p camcorders on the market, but I have yet to find any 1080p format camcorders.

A. the guy above is wrong. his camera is 1080i like all other hdv cameras. not sure when 1080p is coming.

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I want to shoot high quality digital video (not high def), what digital camcorder should I get?

Q. Any pro-sumer camcorder under $3000 is good? Any good one under $2000?

A. You are in the right target range - basically, the largest lens and imaging chips you can get in the camcorder - in the price range you can afford - keep in mind that you should not spend you whole budget on the camcorder. Audio and stability devices - Mics and tripod/crane/steadycam-glidecam devices - and lights will be needed. Maybe even a lens or two.

Standard definition
Canon GL2 & XL2, Sony DCR-VX2100, Panasonic AG-DVX100 series.

Any particular reason you don't want high def? They can all capture standard def, too... Sony HDR-FX1000 & HVR-V1U, Canon XHA1...

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Is the Canon XA10 HD Professional Camcorder good for film making?

Q. I'm starting out so this would be my first camcorder I have ever used.

A. Hi "Bittercold":

Since you already asked twice last month about miniDV camcorders, I won't repeat any of the other Y!A pros' advice on that subject. I will, however, point you back to fellow Contributor "L's" Answer to you regarding the AVCHD format issues that the Canon XA10 records all its files in: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=AmxPdh4o1WYVv83bjYM0h6Xsy6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20120324030021AAL8XNH

If you are interested in "filmmaking", then you are going to have to plan for editing, and AVCHD's lossy compression codec isn't the best for frame-accurate edits.

If you've never done any camcorder shooting at all, you might be better served starting out with something used from a good camera store or pawn shop, and making sure some of your budget money goes into the extra RAM & fast hard drives (among other things) that editing HD footage will require. Try a $250-$500 test run, before you go spending almost 2-grand.

Feel free to update us with what kind of stuff you plan to shoot, for better feedback. It makes a difference:

When I get hired by Coach Schuman or one of the other Yahoo!Sports' "Rivals 100" coaches to videotape a football event, they expect me to bring a miniDV format camcorder, not a flash-card AVCHD or H.264 unit, no matter how expensive. And small-is-good with run & gun sports shooting, so I use a Canon ZR-series or Panasonic GS-80 (both under $700), rather than my $3000 Sony Z1U. We shoot everything in 4:3 Standard Def, since that's what the editor, the other coaches, and all the other shooters work in. And the low-compression DV codecs make for good action footage and easy edits.

The Canon XA10 has pro-audio features, good Canon glass optics, dual SD slots, etc., but I can't say if it's the best deal for you.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
 

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how slow can I get my camera to film?

Q. I want to make my camera ( http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/camcorders/professional_camcorders/xa10#Specifications )

the canon hd xa10 ($2000)
film in slow-mo but I don't know how to adjust the settings to make it like 500fps or 250fps or whatever amount. when I make it slow the quality sucks. help?

A. The question is why don't you just do some tests?

That would be the most straight forward way to find that out.

The reason that the image quality is reduced is because video cameras that can shoot at high frame rates, the resolution could be as low as 340 x 240 pixels so is much, much smaller than a Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080p)

That said, I just looked in the user manual and 250 fps and 500 fps are not options with that camera. Page 50 lists the available frame rates

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What are good, moderately priced semi-professional camcorder?

Q. I'm a Journalism major and I'm currently in production of a documentary about religion practiced in my hometown for my school.

As I'm currently in college, I have very little money to spend. One pf my goals is to be an indie film/documentary director. As such, I would love to purchase a good camcorder.

What is a good camcorder of semi-professional/professional quality that I can purchase for a moderate price (at least as moderate as a camera will allow).

P.S., as a little side question, would kick-starter be a good way to raise money? For the project as well as the equipment?

A. My definition of a "professional camcorder":

Lens filter diameter = 70mm or larger
Imaging chip is 3CCD (3CMOS is acceptable but not preferred) that is 1/3" or larger.
Audio inputs are XLR connectors. If the camcorder has a single 1/8" (3.5mm) sretro audio input, then it drops to "prosumer".

The Canon XHA1 meets all these requirements of "pro grade". The Sony HDR-FX1000 meets all the requirements for "prosumer" and an XLR (juicedLink or BeachTek) adapter can be used for XLR mics. The Sony HVR-Z5 and Panasonic AG-HVX200 round out the list of entry-level pro-grade cams that meet or exceed the stated requirements. I think the Panny is the only one that comes with a shotgun mic for camera mounting but all the others can mount a shotgun mic. Since I prefer Sennheiser or Audio Technica shotgun mics, it does not really matter.

The next step up has the Canon XF and XLH lines; Sony HVR-Z7, HDCAM/XDCAM lines and the JVC GY-HM series.

All are "digital" including those using miniDV tape. Remember, the "DV" in miniDV = digital video.

If your definition of "semi-professional/professional camcorder" is different, please let us know what that is so appropriate suggestions can be provided to you.

When you research these, you will find pricing from around $3,000 up to $60,000. "Moderate price" is relative. Remember that the camcorder is a small piece of a larger system. You will also need a good, sturdy tripod and other steadying devices, video lights, optional batteries from the manufacturer, cables, cases, mics (there is no single "best" mic), video editing application, possible computer upgrades to be able to edit the video you capture...

Kick starter? We don't know where you are. Perhaps there are small businesses in your area willing to pay few $ for video production for posting to the web or there is a local wedding/event videographer willing to take you on as an intern or parents willing to pay for video capture of their children's sports activities or stage performances.With little/no experience with video capture, selling video services, editing and delivering a final product to your customer, this could be an interesting learning experience for you.

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What are the main drawbacks of using dslr´s for making videos?

Q. It appears to me that basic (entry-level) video-camera sometimes have very similar technical aspects to high-level dslr cameras.
(I am not an expert so correct me if I am mistaken).

Where is the line drawn where a video camera takes over DSLR in terms of the quality of the video?
I think I am trying to determine what my realistic needs are. I want to make music videos or perhaps short advertisements for use on the internet. Perhaps, I would like to do something more sophisticated if I gathered up some steam.

My current camera does not have very good video capabilities. (Its the Nikon d7000).

What strikes me is that there are many examples of videos that do not seem to have been taken on state of the art cameras..... and the emphasis seems to be more on the lighting setup.
Concerning the point about overheating .... in my case, there is a limit of 20 minutes when the camera automatically switches off but you can turn it on again instantly .... I did around 60min of this once, however, the battery will just DISAPPEAR following that.

A. While I agree with Rick, he did not mention that dSLRs have a file size/video length limitation and have known issues that result in the dSLR overheating when used as a video recorder for prolonged periods (and the cool-down takes a LONG time).

dSLRs are designed to capture still images and can do that well. They can capture video - but this is a secondary, "convenience feature". They are not camcorders and should not be treated/used as a camcorder.

Camcorders are designed to capture video (and audio) and can do that well. Many (at the consumer grade level - not so much at the prosumer or pro level) can capture still images, but do not provide the flexibility dSLRs provide - still image capture in those camcorders providing that capability is a secondary, "convenience feature". Camcorders can capture video and audio for as long as there is available memory space and power. There is no internal overheating issue.

If video is the primary concern, use a camcorder. If still images are the primary concern, use a dSLR. But to use equipment primarily because of a specific secondary feature is not recommended as there will be trade-offs in the way the equipment needs to be used in order to achieve a desired result. The trade-offs may not be easy to identify until something bad happens and a work-around needs to be identified and implemented. In this case, this can result in never to be replicated activities - and no video of that activity. More simply: If a dSLR is used to capture a wedding for video and 20 minutes in the camera shuts down because it overheated, what is the back-up (workaround) plan?

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What is the best budget/ entry level camcorder for videography business?

Q. I am going into videography business with a very limited budget. Thus , I am looking for a camcorder that is functional and does not cost much.

A. Here's a list of the top camcorders for 2006:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/CamInfo-Selects-2006.htm

As you are going into business, you might consider leasing the equipment.

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what is the best camcorder to get that isnt expensive?

Q. im looking to buy a camcorder to take home movies of friends and family.I would also ned to know how to transfer it to a DVD so others can view it as we pass it around the family. The easier to transfer the better.

A. Here's a helpful guide:
http://www.easycamcorders.com/content/Beginners-Guide.htm

plus some advice on the specs/features to look for:
http://www.digitalvideoclub.com/basics/camcorder.php

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Why do lines appear on tvs in home movies?

Q. If you are recording a home movie on a camcorder and a tv is in the background, why do lines appear across the screen. Is it possible to fix this.

A. i think it has something to do with the frame rate of the recording device and the frame rate of the TV screen. If they're not synced up perfectly, that's probably what will cause the interference.

Just a guess tho.

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Any good cameras that shoot hd video, over 12 megapixels, with fold and twirl lcd screen under price of £300?

Q. My birthdays coming up and I need a new camera, im looking for a camera that shoots HD Videos, over 12 mega pixels, with adjustable LCD screen ( fold and twirl) under the price of £300 anyone know of such a camera?? BUT NOT A CAMCORDER!

A. Look these over

Canon Powershot G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6.
Nikon Coolpix 5000, 5400, 8400, 5700, 8700, 8800.
Canon Powershot S1 IS, S2 IS, S3 IS, S4 IS, S5 IS,
Konica Minolta DiMAGE A200
Canon Powershot A80
Pentax Optio 750Z
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50K (one of the best higher end cameras with this feature)
Canon Powershot A640, A650 IS

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What is a good Pro HD Camcorder I could buy for under $5000? Or under $4000?

Q. I want to look into an HD camcorder (not the hand-held ones... the pro camcorders)... what is a good brand/model to buy?

Thanks!

Keaton
What else do I need to buy besides the camera? I'm taking some classes on the production of film so I'm sure I'll learn how to work all of the elements of filmmaking there, but in the mean time, what should I buy? (somebody mentioned mics, lenses, etc.)

A. Same suspects... depends on your requirements...

Canon XHA1, Sony HVR-Z1U, HVR-Z5U, HVR-Z7U, Panasonic AG-HVX200, JVC GY series.

Mics? Lenses? Editing platform? Tripod or other steadying devices (camera crane), external monitor? It is easy to spend more on accessories than the camcorder.

bhphotovideo and Adorama are good online sources.

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Is there any way to transfer video from a samsung sc-d382 min dv camcorder to my iMac without using iMovie 09?

Q. I have a firewire 400 cable with a 400 to 800 adapter. My iMac is the 27in. version. I can record to iMovie 09 using the camcorder and firewire cable, but cannot send video from the camcorder to iMovie 09. Can I use a video coverter, Quicktime Pro, or other built-in app?

A. When you are moving DV-format video from the miniDV camcorder to the computer, the computer Imports - or Captures - the video. DV format video is compressed and the camcorder's processor does the decompression and the video is saved to the iMovie (MOV) file format.

You are correct, the miniDV tape based camcorder does not "send" the DV format video to the computer - the computer takes the video from the camcorder.

QuickTime Pro won't do what you want, either.

Final Cut (Express or Pro) will behave the same way iMovie does...

I am not aware of any application that will just stream the DV-format video data (no importing, no decompression) straight from the camcorder to the computer. This is not platform-spacific - the same is the case for Windows video editing for miniDV tape based camcorders, too. Importing is a real-time activity when working with miniDV tape.

The only way I know of to do what I *think* you need in order to do what you want is to record the DV format video straight to a specialized external hard drive - Focus Enhancements makes the FireStore series. This way, the DV forrmat video data is written directly to the FireStore drive when you connect the camcorder to the FireStore with a firewire cable. When video aquisition is complete, power everything down, connect the FireStore external drive to the iMac, power up, and work with the DV format files... Sony has a external video storage unit, too - but I don't know if it will work with your Samsung miniDV camcorder. These specialized external storage devices are not inexpensive...

A regular external computer hard drive with no specialized DV-capture firmware will not work.

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why are my iMovie film clips out of sequence?

Q. when I import video from my sony handycam digital disk camcorder into imovie, the film clips are always out of sequence. for example, when recording a basketball game, I get the clips showing up in imovie out of sequence from the actual game. is there something I can do to correct that?

A. Maybe you don't have the right codecs installed.

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What kind of video editing software can you use for a gl1 camcorder?

Q. I have a canon gl1 camcorder and i was wondering if there is any software you can use (i you even can) to edit videos and such.

A. Pretty much any half decent video editor can handle standard definition DV format digital video. Even MovieMaker (bundled with Windows XP - SP2 or newer - including Vista).

You need a firewire cable to connect the DV port of the camcorder to the firewire port on the computer. USB won't work. USB to firewire converter/adapter/hub/cables won't work.

If your computer does not have a firewire port, hopefully it has an available expansion slot so you can add one.

In this context, firewire, IEEE1394, i.LINK and DV are all the same thing... and they are not USB.

With the minDV tape based camcorder connected via firewire, power up the camcorder and put it into Play or VCR mode. Launch the video editor and Import or Capture the video.

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Can blurry still pictures taken from a camcorder be corrected to look crystal clear?

Q. Own a Sony Handycam. The camcorder can be set to record live action as well as take still pictures. However, when still pictures are taken, they look completely blurry. Is this result the nature of using a video camera to function as a still camera or is there a way to correct the mess?

A. Nope....

You may be able to correct just a tad. An image taken with a camcorder is most likely very small pixel-wise, 5MP (give or take). And being that you state the still was captured during motion, the image was bound to be blurry anyway. Using an image editor, use the Sharpen tool or Unsharp mask, etc. on the image and see what you get.

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How should a teenager earn 4000 or more dollars the fastest way possible?

Q. I need money to buy a film video camcorder :P
I also need extra money to get other equipment needed

A. be a hooker

Original Question

What does 2000 mAh en referring to a camcorder battery?

Q. Looking to buy a battery for my older Panasonic VHS-C camcorder. What does the mah refer to?
Thanks

A. mAh stands for "milli ampere hours", it is basically a measure of how long the battery can run before it needs to be charged again.

For example if you had a 4000 mAh battery it would last twice as long.

You can use any size mAh battery as a replacement in your camcorder.

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