Where can I buy a mac compatible camcorder?

Q. I am trying to film by school before an upcoming protest, and I want to edit the film on my Mac; however, I have yet to find a Mac compatible camcorder. Please help.

A. Hmmm. You did not tell us where you are looking.

According to Apple, http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3290
... but since you did not tell us which Mac or which version of iMovie you are using, we have no idea what you have to work with.

I have a PowerBook G4, an G5 iMac and 2 6 month old 24" iMac. Over time, I have successfully connected a Canon Elura 60, Panasonic PV-GS320, Sony HDR-HC1, Sony HDR-FX1, Panasonic AG-HVX200, Canon HG-10, Canon HF S100 and a Canon DSC SD-750 camera - among many others - with either a firewire cable (for the miniDV tape camcorders) or USB (for the others) and one or more of the computers has always been able to deal with the transferred/imported video.

Just because the software in the box with the camcorder is not "Mac compatible" does not mean the camcorder will not work with a Mac - that software is typically useless - even in the Windows environment.

What is your budget?

Original Question

Will the Sony HDRTG1 camcorder be compatible with Mac video editing software?

Q. I saw this camera in the Sony store today and will probably pick it up... IF it is compatible with the Mac.

A. It will work with the most current Apple Macintosh iMovie HD that is bundled with the current iLife08. It will work with the most current FinalCut Express and it will work with the most current FinalCut Pro2.

There is nothing different about this camcorder - but the AVCHD compression it applies to the video can only use the video editing apps that will run on Intel-based Macs because there is a lot f number crunching going on to decode this very highly compressed video.

You can download the user manual here:
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/model-documents.pl?mdl=HDRTG1

Refer to Page 27.

The software included in the box with the camcorder is for Windows only - That does not mean the camcorder is not compatible with Macintosh, it just means Sony does not provide any software. Please note that there is an address to which you get directed:
http://guide.d.imaging.sony.co.jp.mac/ms/us/
that does not work. If you go to the FAQ at the product page, there is a section on Macintosh being compatible with iMovie08 and how to connect. Use the HDD link.

Note that you will need to buy ($20) the "MPEG2 Playback component for QuickTime" from Apple. While you are at it, download and install StreamClip (free) for when you deal with MPEG2 standard definition files http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/video/mpegstreamclip.html

Personally, I stay far away from AVCHD compressing camcorders... and stick with better video quality in DV/HDV video recorded to miniDV tape. Canon HV20, HV30, Sony HDR-HC7, HC9 for new ones. I currently use a Sony HDR-HC1 and am about to get a HVR-V1U.

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Should I upgrade to the xbox 360 slim? or should a buy a 3ds instead?

Q. I already have the xbox 360 arcade system and I never brought a hard drive for it and the slim model does look good. I also like portable gaming and I'm in college and can play the 3ds in between my classes. I was also thinking about the ps3 but for $250 that is to much! And I could just buy a blu-ray player if I really want which at the moment I don't so any advice is good advice so thanks :)

A. The X Box 720 is coming out in 2013.

So You shouldn't get another X Box until 2013.

So You should get the 3DS

Because you can play music (even with the system close)

You can LOWER the VOLUME of 3D

You can also turn the 3D OFF Completely

And 3D is good for working out your eye muscles & brain to keep them in shape as shown in this link:

http://www.aoa.org/x17309.xml

The Nintendo 3DS has downloadable 3D Music videos from today's American music artist which I have already downloaded the 3 free 3D Music Videos to watch anywhere and the 3DS has 3D "Blue Man Group" video and College Humor (in 3D) with the FREE "Nintendo Video" App that you can download (but its 4 3D Videos at a time and they replace them once in a while) and you can download cheap downloadable 3D Apps & 3D games costing from 99 cents to $5.99 and the Nintendo 3DS also has FREE downloadable 3D Apps & 3D Games, which I have already downloaded 3 Free 3D Apps and I have downloaded 2 Free 3D Games and the 3DS has a 3D Camera and I have already used the 3DS 3D Camera to take 3D photos and I have uploaded some of my 3D footage online using the Nintendo 3DS's Web Browser to upload my 3D footage online and I have used my 3DS Web Browser to also download other peoples 3D footage from the Internet on my 3DS Web Browser and I have view all sorts of 3D content on 3D Websites online on my 3DS's Web Browser and I have use my 3DS 3D Camera to play 3D Augmented Reality games as well and it's all in 3D without the Glasses using the 3DS 3D Camera and It has beautiful 3D HD graphics that equal to that of a 3D HD version of Wii Graphics and I have Streamed 3D Videos Online on my 3DS in the eShop and I have also Watch 3D Trailers for upcoming 3D movies coming to Theaters in 3D and I have done all of this in 3D Without the Glasses

The 3DS with a Wi-Fi Update can RECORD 3D Videos in 60 fps (unlike other camcorders, that only Record in 2D Only and in up to 30 fps only)

So you can pay $169 for a Nintendo 3DS and buy the greatest Games ever & all in 3D Without the Glasses like Cave Story 3D & Kid Icarus & Super Mario 3D Land & Mario Kart 7 using the MOTION SENSORS to play the game like if you were turning a real steering wheel to turn the Kart left & right and also play such other 8 GB 3D Games like TheatRhytem Final Fantasy & Kingdom Hearts 3D & Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D & Crush 3D and Shinobi & Animal Crossing & Rodea the Sky Soldier & Michael Jackson: the Experience 3D & Ridge Racer 3D & Super Street Fighter 4 3D & Monster Hunter 4 & Golden Sun 4 & Star Fox 3D & Zelda 3D & Sonic Generations 3D & Tetris 3D & Resident Evil: Revelations & Tales of the Abyss 3D & Tekken 3D which also has the 3D Movie Tekken the Movie 3D in it to watch and also play other 8 GB 3D HD games as Spider Man 3D and 100% of the 3DS games are in HD 3D Without the Glasses

And the 3DS pixel density is MUCH sharper than an average HD TV

They're making Angry Birds 3D as a downloadable game

And the 3DS has DLC (Downloadable Content) like Xbox Live for a bunch of 3DS games to add content to the game later on for Free

1 of the Free 3D Apps I have downloaded was Netflix

And Netflix is getting 3D Movies in the next few months, so for $169 you can watch 3D movies on the free Netflix App on the 3DS in 3D Without the Glasses

And 100% of the people who have said that they get headaches from 3D, have said that after up to 1 week of using the 3DS they NO LONGER get headaches anymore and that they now play with the 3D all the way up 100% all the time, non-stop

But I have never had any problem with the 3D at all, but each person has a different experience with the 3D ON during the first week

You can now pay to download 3D Videos on the 3DS

The 3DS is getting Hulu Plus before the end of this year (2011) as a Free downloadable App and Hulu already has 3D Content

and you can check this Link below for more 3DS Games:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nintendo_3DS_games

P.S. You will want to check these sites out for the Web Browser's 3D ability:

http://www.3ds-screenshot.com/

http://gamecrunch.co/3dscreens/

http://3dporch.com/

http://3dspaint.com/

http://www.klutz.com/static/nintendo/n3ds_mm9.html

http://www.instructables.com/3ds/

And there are such great cheap downloadable games from the eShop as:

Sakura Samurai: Art of the Sword

Dillon's Rolling Western

Pushmo

Pyramids

And here are the 2D Resolutions:

Wii = 640

3DS = 800

And here are the Motion Sensors:

Wii = 1 Axis

3DS = 3 Axis

And here are the Frame Rates (Frames Per Second):

X Box 360 Slim = 30 fps

3DS = 60 fps

And the 3DS Wireless is 2.4 GHz.

And here are the Audio's:

X Box 360 Slim = 5.1 Surround Sound

3DS = 7.1 Surround Sound

And the 3DS has way more better graphics than the Wii as shown in this Link Here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aVETRohXnrg

Original Question

Does the nintendo 3ds have ps3/360 graphics?

Q. I want to get one for christmas,are the graphics really good as in a console good

A. Near PS3 Graphics:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aVETRohXnrg

And here are the 2D Resolutions:

Wii = 640

3DS = 800

And here are the Motion Sensors:

Wii = 1 Axis

3DS = 3 Axis

And here are the Frame Rates (Frames Per Second):

PS3 & 360 = 30 fps

3DS = 60 fps

And the 3DS has a 512 MHz Micro Processor.

And the 3DS Wireless is 2.4 GHz.

And the 3DS has a WAY MUCH sharper pixel density than the average HD TV.

And with the 3DS you can play music (even with the system close).

You can LOWER the VOLUME of 3D so it does NOT give you headaches for the first time in your life (if you're the kind of person to ever get headaches from 3D, otherwise just turn the 3D all the way up).

And you can also turn the 3D OFF Completely.

And 3D is good for working out your eye muscles & brain to keep them in shape as shown in this link:

http://www.aoa.org/x17309.xml

And the 3DS with a Wi-Fi Update can RECORD 3D Videos in 60 fps (unlike other camcorders, that only Record in 2D Only and in up to 30 fps only).

And the 3DS is getting DLC (Downloadable Content) like Xbox Live for a bunch of 3DS games to add content to the game later on for Free.

And 1 of the Free 3D Apps I have downloaded was Netflix.

And Netflix is getting 3D Movies in the next few months.

And 100% of the people who have said that they get headaches from 3D, have said that after up to 1 week of using the 3DS they NO LONGER get headaches anymore and that they now play with the 3D all the way up 100% all the time, non-stop.

But I have never had any problem with the 3D at all, but each person has a different experience with the 3D ON during the first week.

And the 3DS is getting Hulu Plus before the end of this year (2011) as a Free downloadable App.

and you can check this Link below for more 3DS Games:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nintendo_3DS_games

P.S. You will want to check these sites out for the Web Browser's 3D ability:

http://www.3ds-screenshot.com/

http://gamecrunch.co/3dscreens/

http://3dporch.com/

http://3dspaint.com/

http://www.klutz.com/static/nintendo/n3ds_mm9.html

http://www.instructables.com/3ds/

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In terms of video quality, is this the best camcorder?

Q. I want to buy a camcorder and I was looking at the Sony Handycam HDR-PJ230, it's priced at about $400. Is the video quality on this camcorder the best video quality for camcorders under $500?

A. If you are looking for a camcorder i recommend the Canon SX-40

yes it is a picture camera but i have this camera and use to make short films and i have to say it is a BEAST.

Recording at a 1920 x 1820 quality and FULL HD and still have the functionality of a digital camera is something ive wanted and it has 240 fps SLOW MOTION and also has fish eye effect

I love this camera so if you are looking to make movies get this one

Oh yeah it cost less that $350.00!

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Youtube video camera for best quality videos?

Q. I am going to start making youtube videos and wanted to know what was the best video camera to invest in. I keep seeing that everyone is suggesting the flip video cameras, is that really a good video camera? I want the camera to be under $500. Im looking for best quality video camera. Thank you!

A. I suggest the Kodak PlaySport Zx3.

The Kodak Play Sport Zx3 is easy to use, has a very good display, and takes very good video in normal light and good video in low light. It's waterproof to a depth of 10 feet and can shoot good 5-megapixel stills. However, it only has fair audio quality. Its on-board software makes basic editing and sharing videos online very easy to do.

Highs
A good HD pocket camcorder with very good video picture quality, display quality and ease of use; good low-light picture quality, image stabilizer, versatility and still camera. Moderately priced model.

Lows
Fair audio quality and battery life.

You can click the link below for more information.

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What are some good blogs or websites for independent filmmaking?

Q. I want to learn how to make a film so I want to do my own research but I'm not sure what are reliable sources of information. Cinematography, Sound, lighting, etc. Also some good articles that could give me advice on what type of camcorder I should get that wouldn't be too expensive but still produce quality video.

A. Do a search for film shed

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What's a good cheap camera for independent filmmaking?

Q. I've been making short films with my old JVC mini dv camcorder for awhile, but I would like to start entering contests. The visual and audio quality is just terrible and I'd be embarrassed to enter anything made with that camera.

So my question is... what is a good, relatively cheap, camera with good visual quality?

and as a bonus question: Are there any programs similar to Final Cut Pro that are cheaper?

A. perhaps a cannon hv20?

Has a similar 24p setting, it is HDV based.

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Good camcorder for an amatuer looking to put vids on the web?

Q. Alright so I am going to be doing open interviews and i want to video tape them. they will be in all sorts of areas. (outside, inside, buildings stuff like that.) I need a good camcorder that is under 400$. Anybody got any suggestions?

A. I would recommend the Panasonic PV-GS85, It is a great camcorder for what you want to do.

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Good quality camcorder that easily connects/downloads to computer?

Q. I am looking for a good quality camcorder for under $400. But, while looking up some camcorders that I wanted to buy, there were a lot of complaints of how hard it was to connect/download to the computer(*cough**cough*Sony MiniDV Handycam DCR-HC38*cough**cough*). Do any of you guys know of a good quality camcorder that can easily connect/download to the computer?

A. Camstuido and CaptureWiz Are pretty good if you want to record anything but games. I recommend Camstudio, Because its free, And CaptureWiz is a 30 day trial.

With CaptureWiz though, You can record audo from your speakers or microphone.

But unless youre going to record something other than on your computer, Try searching Ebay, Or better, Search stores for Used camcorders.

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Does anyone know what the most compatible camcorder is for an HP Pavilion tx1000 notebook? ?

Q. i use windows vista, and am concerned about a camcorders software not working with my notebook. any suggestions? thanks.

A. Hi Ziggy,

You have a good question. Once you picked out a camera, check the specifications for it. Look for the video file format that the camera records in. Most analog and digital cameras record to .Avi or .MOV. MOV is an Apple format. But many decent editing software programs will work with MOV. Digital Video can also be MPEG-2.

What ever camera you choose, it will come with it's own software, but most likely a reduced functioning version.

If you choose a high definition camera, then this changes everything. You not only will you need software to work with AVCHD but a souped up computer to handle the highly compressed video of HD. Think like a gamers system: 3 GHz processor, 4 MB RAM, and up-to-date video (display) adapter. Many laptops lack this configuration.

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Is there any way possible to get back a video i accidentally deleted?

Q. I have a Flip camcorder software, and when i went on it to play a video, it said "Locate Missing Video" so in other words it got deleted somehow...checked in the recycling bin- nothing.
im really upset i had a video from when i made a year with my bf.
is there any way i can get it back?

A. A deleted file does not "write over itself" with blank hard drive space.
The file is still there until written over with other activity.
The action of deleting is an instruction for the computer to reuse the space.
It may be possible to retrieve the file. It depends on how long it's been since it was deleted.
Does anyone else have access to the computer?
Have you done a drive search to check if the file has been moved to another folder unintentionally? Worth trying this first just in case.

Undelete Plus is a program which can recover deleted files.
Even so there is no guarantee you will have success but again - what have you got to lose?

http://www.snapfiles.com/get/undeleteplus.html

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I want to get camcorder to Make a Portfolio of film work?

Q. So I want build a portfolio for UCA ( Uni for creative Art) And i want to get a good HD Camera where i can plug into computer or whatever so i can edit it using my editing software , so have you got any suggestions

A. You can consider buying Canon VIXIA HF S200 Flash Memory Camcorder - 2010 MODEL
Pros of the Canon VIXIA H S21/20/200 camcorders vs. the HDC-TM700:
- Sound quality seems a tad better, but not much
- 3" touch screen is much larger and has much, much higher resolution
- Menu structure is better
- Still image capability is significantly better
- Video gain functionis flat out excellent and can effectively be used to increase low light sensitivity, while reducing image noise drastically
- Two SDHC card slots
- Flash is more powerful
- Has a built in video light, even though it's meek
- Hot shoe layout is much better than Panasonic, but it's a Canon proprietary design, so you can only use Canon accesories
- The standard battery is not very large (last about 80-90 minutes) quite tricky to eject, especially when you have wet or sweaty hands. It doesn't come right out when you release the lock and is hard to pull out.
- The hand loop is very chintzy and permanently mounted to the camera body (cannot be replaced if it wears out). It is not big enough for larger hands and constantly a bother.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00322OOXM?ie=UTF8&tag=gaminglinks-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00322OOXM

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What is the best camera to buy a film student?

Q. I need to get a gift and i really have no clue what to buy my son. My budget is 1000 USD and the camera has to perform the best in its class at low light situations.

A. A film student? movies or photos? I think you should ask more before you shell out the bucks.

How about an DSLR that shoots HD video? That seems what some are doing.

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/camcorders/cam-cam.shtml
http://blog.photoframd.com/2010/02/26/canon-7d-tips-dslr-or-camcorder-for-hd-video/

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What would be a good camcorder for an hd vlog?

Q. Im going to start doing vlogs and wanted to do at least 720p but would like full 1080p HD and need to know what camcorder to use so im only going to get one thats suggested and when i buy it ill make yours the best answer. Thanks For Your Help!!!

A. You can try ElectronicBazaar. Here are many such camcorder and some different features. Read their specification and compare if they match to your requirement. All you need to think about your requirement.

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How do I enable a timestamp on my Aiptek camcorder photos?

Q. I have the Aiptek HD Action camcorder (HD-DV 1080P) and I can't figure out how, or even if I can put a timestamp on my photos... Please help!

A. you should call them and ask

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Is there a way to make my music sound similar to live music that was recorded through a camcorder?

Q. I'd like to find an effect to make it seem similar if you recorded live music through a low quality camera.

Is there a way to do this?

A. You can use VirtualDJ to mix two audio.

So you'll need some audience voice and VirtualDJ.

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What is 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 completely) dark without being green. If someone can recommend a brand/ product name that would be great.

A. "Moderate" means different things to different people.

Good low light generally means either big imaging chips and big lenses to allow as much light in to hit those big imaging chips. The imaging chips are like the retina in you eye. They need light to work well - big lenses allow more light in. The good news is (I think) is *most* clubs have some sort of lighting and the talent is under those lights. That means the talent is not necessarily under "low light" though you might be at the back of the room and the camera will be surrounded by low light, it will be pointed at the talent - that is lit.

My opinion: There is no camcorder with good built-in mics. Whatever camcorder you get should have a mic-in jack so when you discover that the built-ins are not good enough, you have a recovery path.

DO NOT GET A DVD BASED CAMCORDER.

Since miniDV tape provides the best available video quality, that is where I will stay...

Low end:
Canon ZR800, ZR900, ZR930
While these camcorders do have mic in jacks, they do not have manual audio control. If the audio you record is loud, the camcorder's auto-mic gain circuit will not be able to handle it. There will be lots of clipping and the audio will sound very muddy. The best mic in the world cannot fix this and the bad audio cannot be fixed in editing. You can replace the audio with properly recorded audio from a field recorder (like those from Marantz, M-Audio or Zoom).

Mid range - some might consider this "moderate":
Canon HV20, HV30
Sony HDR-HC7, HC9
They are around or over $700.

All four cams have a mic-in jack and full manual audio control. These are the least expensive camcorders with both. They all shoot in standard definition (DV) and high definition (HDV), so you have a choice as to which format you want on the miniDV tape.

As miniDV tape camcorders, you will transfer the video from the camcorder to your computer using firewire (IEEE1394a, .Link - all the same thing). USB will not work to tansfer the video from the miniDV tape. You will need to add a firewire 400 port to your computer if you don't already have one. Macs have had them for years.

Since we have gotten this far, I will list the high-end recommended cams, too - Just so you understand where I came up with "moderate":
Canon XHA1
Sony HVR-V1U
Panasonic HDX200
These are all around or over $3,000.

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What is the best camcorder for film making under $600?

Q. I am an independent film maker in college, and im looking to buy an HD camcorder but im not sure what camera will provide a film look and be under $600 at the same time. PLEASE HELP!!

A. Canon HV20 no questions. Maybe the HV30, but I don't think it is good enough to pay that much more, almost 40 bucks. And also you will want a decent shotgun mic if you want good audio which could run another 100 dollars. So if you have a $600.00 budget this is what I would get....

Canon HV20 from: http://www.topchoicedigital.com/viewproduct.aspx?id=9956788&l=Froogle
Adzen ECZ 990 Shotgun Mic from: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/3646-REG/Azden_ECZ_990_ECZ_990_Super_Cardioid_Shotgun.html
Then invest the other approximate $100 into lighting, or making something that indymogul.com has made that you could use in your videos, check them out.

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What camcorder would you recommend for under 600$?

Q. I want one with pretty good video quality that I can maybe use to make pseudo-documentaries just for fun and things of that nature. I see I can get a Canon GL1 off ebay for like 500-ish dollars. Is that the best way to go (it's not HD technically but a good prosumer camera)

What do you think?

A. No consumer grade HD camera can match the video quality of a MiniDV tape camcorder. You would have to spend in excess of $3500 to get a comparable Quality of a $350 MiniDV Tape camcorder.

You can take footage from a MiniDv camera and up-convert it to 1920 x 1080 and still have a better image quality that footage shot in HD.

A $2000 HD camera will record 11 gigs of data per hour. Little old 720 X 480 MiniDv gets 13 gigs/hour. That is 15% More data for 1/6th the frame size.

MiniDv formats are uncompressed in the brightness channel, and have low compression in the less important color channel. No frame relies on its neighbor for image data

HD relies on reference frames, as few as 2 each second. The remaining 28 frames record only a predetermined level of change, and mathematically guess the differences between frames. Sports videos are mostly unwatchable when shot in HD.

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How do i get my videos off of my dv video camcorder onto my computer ?

Q. i bought a video capture pci card, but i can only plug in the composite video
the videos have no sound ???
am i missing something?

A. DV (Digital Video) camera connected to a composite video input connector? You will loose quality. The composite connector will only capture video. You must also connect the audio to the computer, is there a audio connector that you connect to the microphone connector on your computer? You will need to configure your software to select the video and audio source.
Is there a USB or Firewire connector on the camera? Please check the manual. USB and Firewire will allow you to capture a higher quality of video.

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How do I download video from my Panasonic camcorder model PV-GS250?

Q. I first tried to download the video to a Mac but that prove impossible. Now I am trying to download to a Windows XP system. This is what I have done so far. I installed all the necessary drivers, for USB and video stream. I also downloaded video capture software called Magic video studio.

The computer and software recognize the camera, but I can not get the file on the camera to play. I may all the adjustments to the camera that the manual said to do, i.e. change to web camera. I have no idea what to do next.

By the way the software that came with the camera is not compatible with XP. The camera is a few years old.

Thanks.

A. Video Editing Process*

*CAPTURE the video stream from vcam or Import from pc folder, EDIT to make the movie as a project, FINISH (render) movie as a video file, and finally SAVE or burn to CD/DVD.

for starters, XP/Windows Movie Maker** (wmm) would provide the simple & easy way (& free) to learn the technique, where SpiceFx by Pixelan could provide enhanced effects. **click detailed WMMaker help.
After learning the editing tricks, you may later venture into other video editing programs - Premiere, Vegas, Pinnacle, Ulead, etc.

Steps:
CAPTURE VIDEO
a.) Connect vcam to computer via firewire cable (4 or 6 pin) for good transfer (USB can do but may drop frames),
b.) Set the vcam mode to play recorded video on tape & pause
c.) Open wmm in computer and set to TASK PANE
d.) In the wmm/Task pane/CAPTURE VIDEO, click CAPTURE from video device. Wmm should now be able to control vcam operations. The video files from vcam can then be copied to wmm collection (usually there are several video files from vcam although you will not notice on vcam playback)
e.) Import other desired video files, pictures, music, narration from pc folder to wmm collection
EDIT MOVIE
f.) wmm/ EDIT: drag & drop captured video files one by one from collection to TIMELINE chart below at the desired sequence
g.) Enhance/edit your video further if you wish: add other video files, pictures, background music/ narration, subtitles, effects, transition, etc., then, test to your liking (re-edit as you wish)
FINISH MOVIE (w/rendering)
h.) Save the video file to pc or burn to cd
i.) Save the project file (work-in-progress) for succeeding edits

Hope this helps…

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im looking for a good photography and film camera?

Q. im an amature film maker and photographer. id like to have a camera that can do both just to save in general. as far as spacifics id like it to have a mount for mic and other nessecary filming accessories. im looking to spend any where from 400 to 700 dollars.

A. Film making requires a motion picture camera, 16 mm or 35 mm.

What you seem to be looking for is a digital camera with a video feature.

At present the Nikon D3100 and Canon T3i/600D are the most popular, under $700 dSLR cameras which have this feature.

The video accessories you will need cost far in excess of your $700 budget.

Here are some links to those:

http://www.digitalphotographywriter.com/2010/07/dslr-camera-microphone-for-videos.html

http://www.redrockmicro.com/redrock_dslr.html

http://www.markertek.com/Video-Equipment/Video-Cameras-Camcorders/DSLR-Accessories.xhtml

http://www.photographyblog.com/news/letus_talon_and_hawk_dslr_video_accessories/

http://www.switched.com/2010/05/24/essential-dslr-accessories-for-shooting-oscar-worthy-hd-video/

And more info on becoming an director of video and film

http://www.learner.org/interactives/cinema/directing2.html

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looking for a video camera with headphone and microphone jacks?

Q. not really sure where to start looking. ive found a few but they're like 800 or more dollars. i'm looking for something a bit more affordable.

A. Hi Tim:

Combining what fellow Y!A Contributors "Lare" & "Palladini" said, you can get a Canon consumer model camcorder with both an external mike jack and a headphone jack, but just about the best-buy you'll find in a new (current) model is by buying the factory-refurbished version of the Canon Vixia HV40 for $499 (normally a $700-class camera). Since you are in New Jersey, you can order from Canon USA's Shop Direct website: http://shop.usa.canon.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10051_10051_210157_-1

The ZR-series that Dave (Palladini) mentioned are now-discontinued (I own a ZR-85 and a ZR-600 – both standard def models) but they were more-affordable than the Hi-Def HV-series. The HV40 will shoot either HD (HDV) or standard-def (DV) on miniDV cassettes.

If you don't mind the digital artifacts of highly-compressed HD footage, Canon also offers a $199 refurbished deal on their $270 Vixia HF-M301, which also has dual inputs for mike & headphone: http://shop.usa.canon.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_10051_10051_294015_-1 This (and the other under-$400 models) Vixia records using the H.264/MPEG-4 AVC codec (a/k/a "AVCHD" compression format) which can be a challenge to edit, both regarding software and hardware requirements.

If you can afford the Vixia HV40, the HDV and DV formats use lower-compression, have better image fidelity (especially with fast-motion subjects), and frame-accurate editing capability.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
 

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Can I use a different brand other than a Sony memory card for a Sony camcorder?

Q. I just ordered a Sony Handycam HD 5X Optical Zoom 2.5 in. LCD Camcorder - Purple, and I wanted to know if I could use some other brand of memory card than Sony. Like, could I use a SanDisk?

A. You have to buy a memory stick. I used a lexar memory stick in my sony camera. As long as it's a memory stick and not an xd or sd or sdhc, then you should be ok.

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How to hook my camcorder to my computer?

Q. I have a very nice one and I wish to put videos up on youtube. My only way to record is via my Sony Handycam Vision 200x Digital Zoom camcorder, and I don't know how to hook it up to my computer. I was wondering if a simple 2-into-1 cord plugged between the 'corder and computer's line in would work. I really don't have a good budget to go buying equipment. Please! Advice, and know what you are talking about! Thanks!

A. I think this is your camera

http://www.ebay.com/ctg/Sony-Handycam-Vision-CCD-TRV37-/79694346

Its an analogue camera and therefore the video has to be converted to digital so that you can save it to your computer. Simple and not that expensive with in reason the more you pay the better the results, there are a couple of options,

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_0_13?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=video+capture&x=0&y=0&sprefix=video+capture

1 get a capture card that fits inside your computer, this will give the best results.

2 analogue to digital converter plugs into your camera using A/V then into your USB on the computer.

you will then be able to capture the video from your camera and get it onto your computer in a digital format.

using the software provided you can choose a few different formats probably the best for you would be MPEG, a good solid format that will be no problem editing.

RR

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Is there anyway to improve the droid x camera? its extremely sluggish?

Q.

A. LG Optimus S Android Phone, Gray (Sprint)
Technical Details

Android-powered phone in black with 3-inch touchscreen, full QWERTY keyboard, and pre-loaded social networking apps
Sprint TV and Amazon MP3 Store enabled; GPS turn-by-turn directions via Sprint Navigation; access to thousands of apps from Android Market
3.2-megapixel camera/camcorder; Wi-Fi networking; Bluetooth stereo music; microSD expansion to 32 GB; access to personal/corporate e-mail services
Up to 6.4 hours of talk time, up to 350 hours (14.5 days) of standby time; released in July, 2010
What's in the Box: handset, rechargeable battery, charger, USB cable, microSD card adapter, quick start guide

---------

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How is this android mobile phone?

Q. HI,
how is this Samsung mobile..
http://chotareviews.blogspot.com/2010/07/samsung-galaxy-i899-launched-by.html
is it worth to buy.. advice me

A. You can consider buying
1)1)HTC DROID INCREDIBLE Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)
* Slick, thin smartphone with 3.7-inch HD OLED screen
* 8-megapixel camera with flash
* Android 2.1 OS with Google and multitasking
* 1 GHz Snapdragon processor for outstanding performance
* Backed by a 1-year limited warranty
http://www.amazon.com/HTC-INCREDIBLE-Android-Verizon-Wireless/dp/B003HC8NUW/?tag=bdd-linking-001-20

2)Motorola DROID A855 Android Phone (Verizon Wireless)
* Android 2.0-powered smartphone with 3.7-inch touchscreen and slide-out full QWERTY keyboard
* Access a wealth of Google mobile services including Google Maps with Navigation for voice prompted turn-by-turn directions, Gmail, Google Talk, Calendar and more
* GPS-enabled for location services; Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g); 5-megapixel camera/camcorder; Bluetooth stereo music; microSD expansion (16 GB card included)
* Up to 6.4 hours of talk time, up to 270 hours (11.25 days) of standby time.Full manual available for download from www.verizonwireless.com or www.motorola.com.
* What's in the Box: handset, rechargeable battery, wall/USB charger, 16 GB microSD card, quick start guide
http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-A855-Android-Verizon-Wireless/dp/B002UUTCKC/?tag=bdd-linking-001-20

3)Motorola BACKFLIP Android Phone (AT&T)
*Fast 3G connectivity via AT&T's HSDPA/UMTS network (850/1900 MHz bands; 3.6/7.2 Mbps speeds with network availability).
*Your information is continuously updated and backed up into a secure environment, so you're connected and protected even if you lose your phone.
*GPS navigation capabilities via AT&T Navigator service includes audible turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates and re-routing options.
*Built-in accelerometer and eCompass for use with location and orientation apps.
*3.1-inch touchscreen display (320 x 480 pixels, 65K colors)
*5-megapixel camera with 4x digital zoom, LED flash, video capture (24 fps), and easy uploading of videos to YouTube,
*Wi-Fi networking (802.11b/g) for accessing home and corporate networks as well as hotspots while on the go.
*Bluetooth connectivity (version 2.0) includes profiles for communication headset, hands-free car kits, and the A2DP Bluetooth profile--enabling you to wirelessly stream your music to a pair of compatible Bluetooth stereo headphones or speaker dock. (Profiles supported: A2DP, HID, HSP, HFP, AVRCP and GAP)
*Memory expansion via microSD card slot with support for optional cards up to 32 GB (2 GB card included).
*Full HTML Web browsing
*Text, picture and video messaging
*Instant messaging via AIM, Windows Live, Yahoo!, and Google Talk
*Push e-mail via Google and Exchange with support for IMAP and POP, MSN Hotmail, Yahoo Mail and AOL Mail
*Google and corporate calendar (supports Exchange 2003 and 2007 protocols)
*Back-up and security: Contacts, log-in information, home screen customizations, e-mail and social network messages are backed up automatically on the secure MOTOBLUR portal. The portal also allows you to use the phone's fully integrated aGPS to help locate the phone if misplaced. Remote wipe easily clears information from a lost device.
*3.5mm headset jack
*USB connectivity
*Dual microphone with noise cancellation
*Voice dialing capabilities
*528 MHz processor, 256 MB flash memory
http://wireless.amazon.com/Motorola-BACKFLIP-Android-Phone-AT/dp/B003A4HWYU/ref=sh_br_ph_1?tag=bdd-linking-001-20

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Should i get a camera or a camcorder?

Q. im planning on getting a camcorder or camera to start shooting memories and such. i heard cameras cud take vids too...and camcorders are capable of taking pics as well. whats the differance between a camcorder and a camera? which one is better for capturing memories?

A. I would consider .Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder

* Records up to 24 hours of crisp high definition video to a 64GB internal flash drive or directly to two removable SD memory cards
* Genuine Canon 10x HD Video Lens
* Canon 1/2.6" 8.59-Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution
* Canon DIGIC DV III Image Processor
* Dynamic SuperRange OIS corrects a full range of motion

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/671659-REG/Canon_4374B001_VIXIA_HF_S21_Dual.html/BI/6846/KBID/7390

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-HF-S21-Memory-Camcorder/dp/B00322OP40/?tag=nktf-20

http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?ff3=4&pub=5574865779&toolid=10001&campid=5336440665&customid=nktf&mpre=http%3a%2f%2fshop.ebay.com%2fi.html%3f_nkw%3dCanon%2bVIXIA%2bHF%2bS21%2b%26_sacat%3d0%26_odkw%3dSony%2bHDR-CX350V%2b32GB%2bHigh%2bDefinition%2bHandycam%2bCamcorder%26_osacat%3d0%26bkBtn%3d%26_trksid%3dp3286.m270.l1313

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How do 3D glasses work, will they work from a recorded video on a camcorder?

Q. So, i downloaded a movie that was recorded on a camera and its a 3D movie. I have 3D glasses, but would they still work with a recorded copy of the movie?

A. In order to see things in 3D each eye must see a slightly different picture. This is done in the real world by your eyes being spaced apart so each eye has its own slightly different view. The brain then puts the two pictures together to form one 3D image that has depth to it

3D film viewed without glasses is a very strange sight and may appear to be out of focus, fuzzy or out of register. The same scene is projected simultaneously from two different angles in two different colors, red and cyan (or blue or green). Here's where those cool glasses come in -- the colored filters separate the two different images so each image only enters one eye. Your brain puts the two pictures back together and now you're dodging a flying meteor!

So im sure it will....... because it will still hvae the colors on the screen im sure., and the glasses separate them.

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Is the Canon t3i recommendable or should I go with a traditional camcorder?

Q. I have a budget of a bit over 1000$ and was wondering if I should go for the Canon t3i or go for a traditional camcorder. - Sony eg offers very good HD camcorders, but I've already had two sony camcorders (one of them being the sony hdr-xr520v) and I just feel like DSLRs make a much nicer picture when shooting video!

Any advice would be great!

A. It is highly recommended, especially if you have already had another camcorder. In fact, this DSLR is the best selling DSLR camera in Amazon!

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What is a good used camera and camcorder store?

Q. I cant find any used camcorder stores with sony, jvc, canon, ect..

A. Try buying used cameras in person by using a service like Kijiji or Craigslist. Then you can pick exactly what you want!

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What is the best pocket camcorder in the low-light department?

Q. What is the best pocket camcorder in the low-light department?

A. I recommend Flip Mino Camcorder, 60 Minutes (Black)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DUTF8%26x%3D24%26ref%255F%3Dnb%255Fss%255Fe%26y%3D18%26field-keywords%3Dpocket%2520camcorder%26url%3Dsearch-alias%253Delectronics&tag=shop-electronics-department-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957

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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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Which is the Best Camera for Video Recording for Youtube 2013?

Q.

A. Define "Best".

For low light conditions, Sony HDR-FX1000 or any other camcorder with a lens diameter of 72mm or larger and Imaging chip 3CCD or 3CMOS system that is 1/3" or larger.

For infrared recording, Sony HVR-A1 in "NightShot" mode to capture monochrome video under zero visible light conditions.

For fast action and slow-motion playback, any GoPro or Contour - these may be best as "pocket cams", too.

For loud audio, any camcorder with manual audio gain control.

For very low audio, any camcorder with an external mic jack and manual audio gain control so an external mic can be used - and the low audio level can be made higher.

Since consumer camcorders can range in price from $80 to about $3,000, and there is such a wide range of video and audio quality issues, please set a budget and tell us what your plans are to capture things to YouTube... then we might be able to provide a little more detail...

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Should I upgrade to the xbox 360 slim? or should a buy a 3ds instead?

Q. I already have the xbox 360 arcade system and I never brought a hard drive for it and the slim model does look good. I also like portable gaming and I'm in college and can play the 3ds in between my classes. I was also thinking about the ps3 but for $250 that is to much! And I could just buy a blu-ray player if I really want which at the moment I don't so any advice is good advice so thanks :)

A. The X Box 720 is coming out in 2013.

So You shouldn't get another X Box until 2013.

So You should get the 3DS

Because you can play music (even with the system close)

You can LOWER the VOLUME of 3D

You can also turn the 3D OFF Completely

And 3D is good for working out your eye muscles & brain to keep them in shape as shown in this link:

http://www.aoa.org/x17309.xml

The Nintendo 3DS has downloadable 3D Music videos from today's American music artist which I have already downloaded the 3 free 3D Music Videos to watch anywhere and the 3DS has 3D "Blue Man Group" video and College Humor (in 3D) with the FREE "Nintendo Video" App that you can download (but its 4 3D Videos at a time and they replace them once in a while) and you can download cheap downloadable 3D Apps & 3D games costing from 99 cents to $5.99 and the Nintendo 3DS also has FREE downloadable 3D Apps & 3D Games, which I have already downloaded 3 Free 3D Apps and I have downloaded 2 Free 3D Games and the 3DS has a 3D Camera and I have already used the 3DS 3D Camera to take 3D photos and I have uploaded some of my 3D footage online using the Nintendo 3DS's Web Browser to upload my 3D footage online and I have used my 3DS Web Browser to also download other peoples 3D footage from the Internet on my 3DS Web Browser and I have view all sorts of 3D content on 3D Websites online on my 3DS's Web Browser and I have use my 3DS 3D Camera to play 3D Augmented Reality games as well and it's all in 3D without the Glasses using the 3DS 3D Camera and It has beautiful 3D HD graphics that equal to that of a 3D HD version of Wii Graphics and I have Streamed 3D Videos Online on my 3DS in the eShop and I have also Watch 3D Trailers for upcoming 3D movies coming to Theaters in 3D and I have done all of this in 3D Without the Glasses

The 3DS with a Wi-Fi Update can RECORD 3D Videos in 60 fps (unlike other camcorders, that only Record in 2D Only and in up to 30 fps only)

So you can pay $169 for a Nintendo 3DS and buy the greatest Games ever & all in 3D Without the Glasses like Cave Story 3D & Kid Icarus & Super Mario 3D Land & Mario Kart 7 using the MOTION SENSORS to play the game like if you were turning a real steering wheel to turn the Kart left & right and also play such other 8 GB 3D Games like TheatRhytem Final Fantasy & Kingdom Hearts 3D & Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D & Crush 3D and Shinobi & Animal Crossing & Rodea the Sky Soldier & Michael Jackson: the Experience 3D & Ridge Racer 3D & Super Street Fighter 4 3D & Monster Hunter 4 & Golden Sun 4 & Star Fox 3D & Zelda 3D & Sonic Generations 3D & Tetris 3D & Resident Evil: Revelations & Tales of the Abyss 3D & Tekken 3D which also has the 3D Movie Tekken the Movie 3D in it to watch and also play other 8 GB 3D HD games as Spider Man 3D and 100% of the 3DS games are in HD 3D Without the Glasses

And the 3DS pixel density is MUCH sharper than an average HD TV

They're making Angry Birds 3D as a downloadable game

And the 3DS has DLC (Downloadable Content) like Xbox Live for a bunch of 3DS games to add content to the game later on for Free

1 of the Free 3D Apps I have downloaded was Netflix

And Netflix is getting 3D Movies in the next few months, so for $169 you can watch 3D movies on the free Netflix App on the 3DS in 3D Without the Glasses

And 100% of the people who have said that they get headaches from 3D, have said that after up to 1 week of using the 3DS they NO LONGER get headaches anymore and that they now play with the 3D all the way up 100% all the time, non-stop

But I have never had any problem with the 3D at all, but each person has a different experience with the 3D ON during the first week

You can now pay to download 3D Videos on the 3DS

The 3DS is getting Hulu Plus before the end of this year (2011) as a Free downloadable App and Hulu already has 3D Content

and you can check this Link below for more 3DS Games:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Nintendo_3DS_games

P.S. You will want to check these sites out for the Web Browser's 3D ability:

http://www.3ds-screenshot.com/

http://gamecrunch.co/3dscreens/

http://3dporch.com/

http://3dspaint.com/

http://www.klutz.com/static/nintendo/n3ds_mm9.html

http://www.instructables.com/3ds/

And there are such great cheap downloadable games from the eShop as:

Sakura Samurai: Art of the Sword

Dillon's Rolling Western

Pushmo

Pyramids

And here are the 2D Resolutions:

Wii = 640

3DS = 800

And here are the Motion Sensors:

Wii = 1 Axis

3DS = 3 Axis

And here are the Frame Rates (Frames Per Second):

X Box 360 Slim = 30 fps

3DS = 60 fps

And the 3DS Wireless is 2.4 GHz.

And here are the Audio's:

X Box 360 Slim = 5.1 Surround Sound

3DS = 7.1 Surround Sound

And the 3DS has way more better graphics than the Wii as shown in this Link Here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=aVETRohXnrg

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Whats a good film video camera for a few hundred to make short films with?

Q. I know most of the really good film cameras are like 1-2 thousand, but for now I wanted to experiment and get some basic pro hd quality of some shots so I can start practicing my vfx and editing in after effects.

Is there a pretty good camera out for a few hundred dollars?
I can't use my newest android galaxy phone because the quality is just no comparison so most people on youtube.
I will be filming outdoors, using chromakey green screen, need good focus for panning and possibly zooming, and heavy after effects afterwards.

Thanks!

A. Any camcorder will do if the lighting is *great* and a steadying device (not handheld) is used.

"really good film cameras" are more like $100,000 and up (Panavision, ARRI, etc).

Professional camcorders defined:
Lens diameter of 72mm or larger;
3CCD or 3CMOS imaging chip system 1/3" or larger;
Low compression video capture/storage
XLR audio inputs...
... start at about $3,500 and can get to about $80,000.

"a few hundred dollars" gets you into the range of entry-level consumer camcorders - not including tripod or other steadying devices, lights, mics, cables, optional high capacity battery from the camcorder manufacturer, and a bunch more stuff.

Something from the Canon HF M series might work.

"Film" is used in film cameras. Digital still image cameras (including point & shoot and dSLRs) or digital camcorders do not use any sort of film...

Tips:
NEVER capture handheld. Always use a steadying device. Tripod, camera crane, vest system, chair, table, shelf... anything - but not handheld.
Don't pan - if you must, pan s l o w l y.
Don't zoom - if you must, zoom s l o w l y.
Use manual audio gain control.
Plan, plan, plan. And when on location, stick to the plan. If you have to change, then you have to change - but it means you did not plan correctly.
Write the plan. Print it. Use it. Use a "shot list" to be sure you got what is needed.
Use LOTS of LIGHT. at the low end, cameras and camcorders have small lenses and single small imaging chip. It is impossible for them to behave well under low-light or poor lighting conditions. ADD LIGHT.

Good luck.

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ANSWERS, what is the best camcorder for snowboarding, READ BELOW?

Q. I want to get an HD camcorder for under $600 or a consumer non HD camcorder for under $400, I want to get a camcorder that has awesome clarity to shoot sponsor videos, and is a Flash Memory or MiniDV better for snowboarding and to make DVDs. Thanks

A. after working in the film industry for almost 3 years and shooting snowboard/ski videos for local mountains like echo mountain, and copper mountain, here is what i have to say.

HD is not a easy rout to go. HD is a very unforgiving environment. First off, you need an HD camcorder. Those run about 1000 dollars averagely. You would also need a video editing program that supports editing in HD. Sony vegas is a common program but that runs you 500 bucks. You also need a ton of ram and a good graphics card that can process the HD video while editing. In the end you need an HD dvd burner that can burn your HD footage. If you fall short of one of these things the video in the end will not come out in true HD but will be brought down to normal SD quality. If you have the money and tools to shoot, edit, and play in HD then go for it!

I would go for miniDV any day. flash memory can only store a little data and the quality is not as supurb as mini dv

In my opinion i shot my first snowboard video on a panasonic pvgs 320. Its a great camcorder that has 3ccd's and has the best picture for a camera under 400 dollars. I currently own it and love it. If you don't want that camcorder then get something that is 3ccd. It will be making the people that watch it go WOW! 3ccd gives you supurb color and I highly reccomend it.

check out my youtube listed below. I have my first snowboard video on there and the quality may seem bitter (because its on youtube) but trust me the quality is the best for the price you pay.

also please check out my tutorial on my youtube below that shows you how to build a steadicam. that will let you ride behing your buddies and get spectacular footage thats SUPER STABLE. also invest in a wide angle for close up shots near the jumps and rails.

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What is a good digital camcorder?

Q. what is a good digital camcorder for under 300 bucks? that records good quality. give me some brands thanks. oh and that takes pictures too.
all i want it for is to record stupid videos to put up like on youtube.com and stuff like that nothing for professional recording or anything just to mess around with and catch stupid stuff on cam.

A. In General the best Digital Camcorder in the market is SONY. They have a lot of very good models. Then comes Panasonic, Cannon, JVC etc
Go to best buy.com and you will find selection under $300, but mostly Samsung & JVC.
If you are going to just use it every now and then, then go for JVC better than Samsung, but for sure think about the SONY.

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What's an affordable camcorder to film hunts?

Q. My brother and I are planning on filming our hunting trips this upcoming fall. Looking for a good quality camera for under $300. Must have high zoom capability (optical) and preferably water proof (resistant).

One that I am interested in is the sony handycam DCR-DVD650, any input on this model will be helpfull.

A. You may want to get something that is not a DVD or HDD (Hard Disk Drive) cam which are subject to failure should the camera be dropped or abruptly jolted. And HDD drives can fail at high altitudes. DVD cams are not easy to access (edit) your final video on disk (you have to use a ripper program). Also moving drives use more battery consumption. For going out in the field on a hunt, you would want to use a flash memory camcorder. Some are dual-flash which can record your video on internal memory or to a memory card. A cam that would work for you in your budget would be something like the Canon VIXIA HF R100. It records in HD to memeory cards. It has a 20x optical zoom.

$279.00 (amazon.com)

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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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How can I mute the microphone on my Panasonic PV-GS150 MiniDV Camcorder?

Q. I am recording soccer games and don't want the talk between me and my friends to be heard by coaches who will later review the tapes.

A. you are in luck, this camera has an external mic input. simply get a miniplug that is not wired, from radio shack, or cut the wire off of an old earphone plug. Using this "dummy plug" will mute the camera mic, and since there is no mic connected to the dummy, no audio will be recorded. when you need audio, simply pull the dummy to restore normal camera operation.

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What is the best affordable camcorder in quality?

Q. I am looking for a good value camcorder. Any brand or type is alright with me. Any recommendations will be much appreciated. Thank you. :)

A. What is your budget?

What do you need the camcorder to do?

Who is your audience?

"affordable" means different things to different people.

The "best" and no stated budget?

High end? Red One. Maybe Silicon Imaging.

Pro grade? Sony XDCAM series, HDCAM series; Canon XLH or XH series; Panasonic AG-HVX series; JVC GY-HM100.

Prosumer? Sony HDR-FX1000... or jump to the higher end of the HVR series.

Consumer? Canon HV40.

If the above are to much, then consumer cams in the standard definition Canon ZR960 or FS100 are decent.

As the cameras get less expensive, the lenses and imaging chips get smaller and their low-light behavior diminishes. Manual controls get buried in a menu and audio control is lost.

Pocket cams less than about $250 can work well IF you stay within their limitations... Always under good light, always with audio that is not loud and not soft, always on some sort of steadying device (tripod, chair, table, whatever) and never handheld. Never use digital zoom. Stray from these recommendations - or try to make a camcorder work outside its specifications - and any cam will not provide acceptable results.

Original Question

What is the best type of Camcorder to use?

Q. I need a good quality camcorder for shooting videos. What kind should I use and how much? Thanks.

A. What other requirements do you have?

What environmental conditions do plan to be under - or do you want to plan for as many conditions as possible? Poor lighting? High audio levels? Commercial, prosumer or home-video?

What kind of quality are you expecting?

What is your budget?

Will you be editing? What with (application) and on (computer)?

Overall, in the consumer space, the Canon HV30 and HV40 are probably the best value and most flexible, but assume your computer has a firewire port and your editing software can deal with HDV format video. The HF S series for tapeless - they are flash memory based are next in line.

Then the "prosumers"... Sony HDR-FX1000 and HDR-FX7...

The the Pros... Canon XH and XLH series, Sony HVR-Z1, Z5, Z7; Panasonic AG-DVX and HVX series; JVC GY series... there are many more, but this is a good starting point...

Pocket cams up to about $250.
Consumers up to about $1,200
Prosumers up to about $3,000
Pro... above that.

Mics? Cases? Tripods? Video lights?

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Looking for a mic that works with a camcorder?

Q. Hi there. I'm going to be filming some movies soon on a camcorder of mine and wanted to get a mic that can be hooked up somewhere on a persons body(probably like the neck part) Like they do in jackass. It cant be a cord it has to be a wireless mic. Does anybody know what I'm talking about? Where can I buy a mic like this? Anything will help. Thank you.

A. Before you buy a mic, it would be helpful to know which camcorder you are planning to use. Since many camcorders do not have a mic jack, buying a mic would be a waste of money unless you plug the mic into a filed recorder like a Zoom H2 or H4 or some other field recorder like those from Tascam, Edirol, M-audio and many others...

Back to the mic... What is your budget?

Wireless lavalieres are very useful. I use some from Sennheiser. Audio Technica, Shure, EV and a few others make good ones. UHF is best. VHF is acceptable. Those in FM, 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, and 5.4 GHz bands are in "shared spectrum" with portable cordless residential phones, wifi, garage door openers and many other RF emission sources. You should stay away from them or risk recording interference with the audio. I have nothing good to say about Samson or Nady (other than I would not suggest them).

The mic element is connected with a cable to a body pack. The body pack transmits the wireless audio signal to a base station. The base station can be portable (Sennheiser and Audio Technica make good ones in the mid and high end) and battery powered or the base station can be large and AC-powered (Shure makes good ones as do Sennheiser and Audio Technica and several others).

bhphotovideo is a good source for all video items including audio for video. Adorama is another decent source. Guitar Center carries some of this stuff online - not too much stock in the stores.

Good wireless gear is not inexpensive.

Original Question

Is it better to buy a cellular or a camcorder?

Q. if it's a camcorder what have that to have?

what's blu ray and bluetooth.
if a computer has wifi but not bluetooth can it communicate with one with bluetooth?

Is better a blackberry or an iphone?
why?
thanks.

A. The Latest iPhone4s beats Blackberry to dust.
The latest iPhone 4s has millions of apps,and even has the famous iMessege (recent) which beats the BBM to dust.
The latest iPhone 4s also contains siri,your new best friend,and a 8MP camera,at the end,the prices are some what similar,so I would say you should go with the Apple device.

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What is the camera with the best picture quality and 1080p (60fps) video?

Q. How much is the cost? Looking for a camera not a camcorder. But hybrid suggestions are good too. Anything under $200? Anything under $200 for 1080p (30 fps)? and will 1080p (30fps) be worse than 720p (60fps)?

A. ...You won't find any below $200

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Best settings for recording an indoor concert on a Kodak Zi8?

Q. I have a Kodak Zi8. I will be recording an indoor rock concert at a theater. What would be the best recommended settings? 1080P or 720P/60FPS? Also should I turn the recording mic all the way up or down or keep it in the middle. I want to get the best sound possible.
Like should I turn the audio gain up or down? I have it down curently, I'm wanting to eliminate the static noise.

A. Does your camcorder have a Mic Port? If so, bribe the boys and girls operating the mixer for a feed out. Bring every connector known to mankind and cables to match so you can hook that to the Mic port.

No Mic port, leave the camcorder at home. You will get very little of the band and the singing, but the cheering and clapping of the 400 or so of the people around you and closest to you first, the band(s) audio last.

Take a digital audio recorder with your and then bribe the mixer operators for that feed out. Same goes for connectors and cables. Then mix video and audio in your NLE software.

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What is a good inexpensive camcorder for independent filmmakers?

Q. I'm looking for a camcorder to buy, something that will not give me the whole 'home movie' effect and feel to it. I will also need a tripod so it won't be shakey and all that but could you just tell me some good inexpensive camcorders that will give me what i'm looking for. I don't know much about camcorders and lenses but i'm looking into it. If anyone can help me with brands and prices of camcorders to look into I will be very thankful.

-M

A. By "something that will not give me the whole 'home movie' effect and feel," I think your talking about the film-look. It can be replicated, through either software or in-camera. However, both these options are pretty expensive, and it doesn't sound like you have that much money right now. I'll get to that later, but for now I'm going to talk about cameras.

I dont know your budget, but from what you said, Im guessing you want a camera probably $800 or below (correct me if I'm wrong, and I'll re write this). In that price range, I cant recommend any particular camera, but follow these rules and you should have a pretty good beginner filmmaking camera:

1. Get miniDV- pretty obvious isn't it?
2. Look for a lot of manual functions- every cam has auto functions, but look for the ability to switch to manual focus, iris, shutter, etc.
3. 3ccds are better than 1
4. The newest isnt always the greatest- not really a rule but basically dont go and get the newest thing that just came out

Other plusses are mic ports, headphone ports, hot shoes, and optical image stabilizer.

If you get a tripod, get one with a fluid head. I'm not recommending a particular one, but look around on google. To tell you the truth, Im not exactly a pro on tripods. But a useful trick that you can do with your tripod is screw on your camera, and instead of opening up the legs, hold the legs together and walk with it. If you do it right, the tripod will absorb the shake from your hands giving you a very cheap steadicam effect.

I hope this helped, and I'm a filmmaker as well, and I always like meeting other filmmakers so feel free to contact me at evilgenius4930@yahoo.com

Original Question

What is the best camcorder to buy to make youtube videos?

Q. what is the best camcorder to buy to make youtube videos

A. Consumer level HD camcorders have 4 problems. 1) Blurry, fuzzy, out of focus areas closely around people in videos taken by consumer level HD camcorders. 2) Any movement, even a wave or lifting an arm, while in front of a recording consumer level HD camcorder, results in screen ghosts and artifacts being left on the video track, following the movement. Makes for bad video, sports videos are unwatchable. 3) These Consumer level HD camcorders all have a habit of the transferred to computer files are something you need to convert, thus losing your HD quality, to work with your editing software. 4) Mandatory maximum record times - 1 hour, 30 minutes, 8 minutes, 3 minutes – four different times advertised as maximum record time for some consumer level HD camcorders. No event I have ever been to is that short. Either take multiple camcorders or pack up with out getting the end of the event on video.

With a MiniDV tape camcorder, record 60 or 90 minutes ( camcorder settings), 90 seconds or less to change a tape and record for 60 or 90 more and repeat till you run out of tapes.

You can get a Canon ZR960 for $250. It is a MiniDV tape camcorder, has a Mic jack. You will need a firewire (IEEE1394) card ($25 to 30) for the computer and a firewire cable (less than 10) to be able to transfer video to your computer. To say this is not HD, think about this. It would cost in excess of $3500 to get a HD camcorder that could equal the video Quality of a $250 Canon MiniDV tape camcorder.

And most of all if you hook this up the way I said, you have the worlds best webcam.

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