How to connect Panasonic 3CCD camcorder to Apple power book to download the recorded movies?

Q. I've connected the camcorder to the Mac using the USB port, but I am unable to access the camera. I tried using iMovie to no success. When I was using a PC I was able to access the camera and transfer the movies. I was hoping to be able to do the same with the Apple. The main reason I purchased the Mac was for the ease of editing and creating DVDs.

Any help would be much appreciated.

A. you must install a mac driver for your camera if you opt to use the usb port. if you cannot find a driver, you will need to use the firewire port.

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Can you recommend me a good camcorder?

Q. At first i wanted the Panasonic PV-GS 180 for the fact that it has both mircophone and headphone jack (also, it's 3CCD camcorder), however, I found out that it is discontiuned. So, I'm back to square one after researching about it for 2-3 months. Any suggestion? I'm willing to pay for a camcorder up to 500 dollars. So, any good ones that you know? I'd perfer if the camcorder has both mic and headphone jack (and good image quality of course) So, please help me..let me know.

Thank you for helping me in advance.

A. Well, since you like the Panasonic PV-GS180, you would DEFINATELY like the PV-GS500. The image quality is much better, it has a mic in jack, a focus ring, and Mega Optical Image Stabilizer to help make videos look professional. It doesn't have a headphone jack, but there is a way you can use headphones with it.

AND, I am sure you have looked at the PV-GS500 and didn't like the price, but you can actually get it for $449.99 online. Search it in Google and Ask.com. You will find the store. I'm not saying which store because I'm about to buy it and I don't want it to be gone before I get it.

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if all of these guys where fighting on your lawn, what would you do?

Q. http://media.photobucket.com/image/roxas/HikariRoxas/RoxasIX.jpg


http://www.411mania.com/siteimages/sonic_53796.jpg



http://www.ultimateradionics.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/pacman3.jpg



http://twilight-review.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/EdwardCullen1.jpg




http://blogs.poz.com/mark/upload/Captain_Jack_Harkness.jpg




http://www.bbc.co.uk/cult/xfiles/images/340/mulder07.jpg

A. bust out the camcorder. perhaps take off my clothes.

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how good is the quality of a 1080p video camcorder?

Q. more specifically a bell and howard. how good is it if i want to film a youtube series

A. Hi Ryan:

Like anything online or with computers, you need to be accurate (spell things right) with your Question in order to get an accurate Answer. But, I understood what you meant.

You are talking about a "Bell & Howell" brand camcorder. Bell & Howell used to be a well-respected movie camera & film projector brand for over 100 years. (My first home-movie camera & projector was a Bell & Howell 8mm color setup, and the first professional motion picture camera I was trained on (shooting 16mm football sports films) was a Bell & Howell with motor-drive & 400-foot film magazine.)

In 2011, a company called Vista Capital bought the rights to the B&H brand name, and now Bluestar Alliance licenses the brand to various product manufacturers who have no connection to the original company.

From my personal experience, and from reading reviews of the latest "Bell & Howell" branded camcorder imports, the features and quality are not very good.

Even though the name "Bell & Howell" used to represent good-quality movie cameras, no self-respecting professional or competent amateur would be caught using a current Bell & Howell model.

If you'll look at Bluestar Alliance's website (http://www.bluestarbrands.com/ ) you'll notice how many "Text To Be Added" or "under-construction" pages are in the menu links. That doesn't build confidence in the parent company nor the brands it represents.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
 

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How do I edit a 'border' around my video?

Q. I filmed using Hypercam, and i'm editing using Windows Movie Maker. I'm just wondering how I put a border around the video so it looks like it was filmed by a camera (if you get what I mean) with like the battery level in the top right and a rectangle around the area being filmed.

A. Well, Blaine has worked up this custom effect for XP and Vista versions of Movie Maker. It doesn't put a complete rectangle around the frame but it puts corner markers and a slowly flashing "REC" and red dot on it. In the upper left corner it has a battery icon and what looks like a pair of glasses;-)
http://www.youtube.com/user/blainevideos#p/u/0/eQvlXxhqSwY
http://movies.blainesville.com/2011/06/custom-camcorder-overlay-title-for.html

Oh, be sure to read "How To Use This Title" so you know how to apply the overlay.

Blaine's Movie Maker add ons self install so all you have to do is download the correct "flavor" - 32 or 64 bit - then click on it to install it.

If you want any changes in this effect or some other effect, you can join Windows Movie Makers and post what you want on their Effects, Transitions and Titles Thread. Blaine usually moderates the add on forums.
http://www.windowsmoviemakers.net/Forums/Default.aspx

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what is the best mic to record loud music?

Q. hello friends; i have a sony hdr-sr11 i am thinking in buying external mic to record loud live music but i am not sure what mic to buy i have been looking for RODE VideoMic DVC; SONY ECM-MSD1; SONY ECM-HST1; which would you recommend? thanks for your answers.

A. Any of the mics will work OK for normal audio levels. I am not familiar with that camera enough to know if you can adjust audio input levels (probably not). If so, you are all set. If not, you will be disappointed because the camera will try to adjust levels automatically and it is NOT designed for loud music. You will get badly distorted sound.

Video pros always have a way to adjust the audio levels - pro cameras have that feature built in. Consumer cameras do not.

It will be a bit of a pain, but the best way to do this is to connect the microphone to a camcorder "XLR audio interface". This device allows you to adjust the mic level down so that it does not distort the camera input. You will need to buy a mic that has an XLR output. The mics you are looking at I think connect directly to the camera - you don't want that. Here is one reasonably priced audio interface that is designed for what you want to do:

http://www.markertek.com/SearchProduct.asp?item=DXA%2D6A&off=2&sort=prod&skuonly=0&search=DXA%2D6&pagesize=20

You can then connect any good pro XLR microphone to you camera.

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What is a good camcorder for recording live music.?

Q. Christian Contemporary. I 'm on a budget but I need a camcorder with clear audio.

A. check out the Alesis Video Track. It has some good mics on it and takes pretty decent video. Not a bad price either

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How good is the video quality of the Canon Powershot SX10 IS?

Q. Should I just buy a digital camera AND a camcorder? Or is the video quality of the SX10 good enough to replace a camcorder? What gigabyte of SDHC card would be appropriate for shooting videos?

A. Not any P&S camera can match the quality found on the most modest camcorder and certainly none of the features found on camcorders.

The video feature on P&S cameras are just a little marketing feature, never meant to replace a true video camera

If your goal is to make video shorts of other homegrown videos, look to camcorders made by Canon, Panasonic, JVC or Sony

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Are all the Canon Vixia camcorders the same video quality with only differences in zoom and battery life?

Q. I wouldnt mind getting the lowest price model if video quality can be the same with only differences in battery life and such. I'm just going to make a skateboard videow itht his so the angles and stuff I want don't require such high tech super focusing power or something. I can deal with the low battery life also just want to make sure the video quality is the same.

A. No.

The HG series were designed to record very highly compressed AVCHD/MTS format video to an internal hard drive. The HF and HF S series were designed to record very highly compressed AVCHD/MTS format video to flah memory. Some have built-in flash memory, some use removable SD cards. The MTS files are copied to the computer over USB and the video editor must decompress them before editing. The video editor must be capable of dealing with MTS files - or you need to convert the files first - typically, if you convert the MTS files to some other format before your editor gets them, this means the video is no longer high definition. There is no clearly defined long-term archive process flow in case you want the video in a year, or 2 or 5 or 10...

The HV series were designed to record to miniDV tape using the same DV and HDV format used by professional videographers. The DV and HDV video formats are recorded to inexpensive miniDV tape - but this means your computer must have a firewire port to import that video... and it also means that when you do not re-use the tape, it is the long-term archive. Most video editors can deal with DV format video - HDV may be a problem (but most likely just with the low-end editors like MovieMaker). Assuming it is not a problem, after inporting the video and editing, you can export that high definition video project back to the camcorder and use the camcorder as a playback deck and watch in high definition oin a HDTV when the camcorder is connected with component or HDMI cables. This is not possible with flash memory or hard disc drive consumer camcorders.

If your computer has no firewire port and no way to add one, then you only decent option is flash memory. Even though the video file types and video compression are the same, hard disc drive camcorders have other known issues with vibration and high altitude - and potential video data recovery challenges when the camcorder breaks and the video has not yet been transferred. With miniDV tape or flash memory, just take the tape or memory card out and find a similar camcorder for transfer. In the case of a flash memory card, just use a cheap card reader.

There's lots more, but these are the big-deal issues.

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I'm looking for a new video camera?

Q. I need a new video camera that is under 400 dollars and isn't a JVC. I say that because JVC video cameras have a format they write in that I can't use. I have a MacBook and everyone says I should get a camcorder, but I heard those have tape, and I think that's a hassle and tape is just one big stream, not individual files. I want a Canon personally, but am open to good suggestions.

A. So... I don't know where you get your information, but it is inaccurate.

1) You can use a JVC even with the odd hard drive file format. You would be wise to learn to use the apple.com imovie discussions area.
If you upgrade to the current version of iMovie, everything will will work...
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=6275224&#6275224

2) The hard drive based camcorder you have from JVC is just as much of a camcorder as a miniDV tape based camcorder - That said, it is easier for the older versions of iMovie to deal with a miniDV tape based camcorder. Just get a 4-pin to 6-pin firewire (IEEE1394, i.Link) cable...

3) When you import digital video from a miniDV tape based camcorder, it is not a continuous stream. Each time you start the camcorder, then stop, is a clip in iMovie. If you want that clip separate, just drag it to the desktop and delete it from iMovie. Heads up on the hard drive based camcorders... if you record a long sequence (longer than 20 minutes, the camcorder will break the sequence into 20 minute segments. They can be stitched back together with the iMovie (or whatever video editor you use).

If you transfer analog video with an analog bridge (like those from Canopus), then the converted video will be "just one big stream, not individual files". This is NOT the case with video from digital camcorders (using miniDV or Digital 8 tape).

4) Importing miniDV tape from the camcorder to iMovie is realtime... that is, 1 hour of recorded miniDV video will take 1 hour to import (and high definition can take longer than realtime). Please do not consider this "a hassle". Press import, and go do something else - you do not need to sit there and stare at it while importing. In essence, it allows you to be more productive.

Tips:
a) Do not re-use miniDV tape. It is your archive.
b) When a project is edited and complete, export it back out to the camera - tape. This is your archive - in 10 years you can watch it again and have fun.

For $400, take a look at the Canon ZR-800, ZR950, Sony DCR-HC28, HC96 and Panasonic PV-GS320... but I don't think you need a new camcorder...

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Which is the better HDD camcorder, the Sony SR82 or SR42?

Q. I'm looking for a camcorder to make amateur films with. I'd like to know if the above-mentioned are decent camcorders, or do I have to expend more money to make better-looking films? My price range falls between $400-600 dollars, and I know that the REALLY good camcorders range in the thousands.

A. I would think that if you are willing to spend $400-$600 you can get a little bit better video quality than the SR42.

Prices of camcorders have been falling. You can find a new SR200 for under $600 nowadays on ebay. I would say either the SR82 or the SR200 would be good choices.

Shop around and you will find yourself a good deal. Just be careful to check out the reputation of any seller or website you buy from. There are some websites that advertise on Google that are total scams. Good thing I looked into them before I bought. You place the order and tell you the price on the website didn't include the battery, lenses, cables, etc. and that there is a 15% restocking fee if you cancel. In the end you end up paying over retail. Try ebay though. At least there you have have the seller's ratings just a click away.

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What camcorder can I get for 150 dollars?

Q. I have 150 Dollars and Im tired of using my ipod to record something or take a pic so any good camcorders for 150 dollars? I kinda dont want to spend more then that because Im saving up for something else. thanks :)

A. Panasonic V100K 42x Intelligent Zoom SD Camcorder (Black) is an excellent camcorder. This camcorder comes with 1920 x 1080 pixels HD. It also has2.7-inch LCD display. It can has a 32.5mm Wide-Angle. This camera shoots awesome videos and have been one of the top recommended in 2013 so far. It would be perfect for your youtube videos. It is sold at amazon for $147.00 which i think is a decent price for such quality. It has been rated 4.4 star rating, I have provided links below for you.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0072B5E7Y/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0072B5E7Y&linkCode=as2&tag=laptop058-20

check out this video that the camcorder took below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02YRGbpp7mA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gQv8dR4OVRw

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Whats the best cheap yet good camcorder to use for Youtube???

Q. Hi i'm starting to make a lot of YouTube videos and it's been alright for like the first year but now I wanna take it to the next level with my camera quality. Right now i've been using my webcam because my IPhone camera broke and so I needed to use something for my YouTube videos. I think I saved up enough to get me a okay camera but it can't be in like the hundreds...I just need something that is good enough to entertain my YouTubers. I want something that has HD quality and has a mic included into it. I want probably a handycam for it and if you can please have a camcorder that is in like Best Buy or Walmart. That would really help. My time is limited so please help me as soon as possible. Thank you so much for your time. ~Sanyika~

A. Most digital cameras take video and a camera like the Fujii finepix would be great for youtube videos , it records in HD and also takes some great stills and the older models from last year and the 2013 models will be sold on black Friday for good prices probably , maybe in the $150 range which is a bargain

If you don't want to wait until then best buy has some good deals on sony , jvc and canon camcorders now , some are nearly half price . check their website and sort by price .

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What Type Of Camcorder Should I Get?

Q. I want a CAMCORDER for Music Video, and Sketch comedy purposes!
I want an HD camcorder
i need help because i don't want to screw up like last year i bought a crappy camcorder
My budget is $0-$150

A. To be honest, I spent 1000$ for mine, and I am still not happy with it. You need to save a bit more money, and then get a DSLR for Music Video. Normal camcorder won't do the job. Unless you are really good at postproduction, then you might get away with a HD flipcam.

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What camcorder should I buy for vloging?

Q. I am looking to buy a semi cheap ($200 budget) camcorder to do some vloging and some personal videos. I would like to put some on youtube. It does not have to be great quality picture. I just want something that will last and has a nice zoom/mic.

A. A lot of Vloggers use Flips.

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What is the cheapest camcorder with slow motion capacity?

Q. I would like a camcorder for my birthday that has slow motion capacity. Under 300 dollars would be useful, but I know there aren't that many at that price. I want the best quality, however, for that price range. I don't want a camera with 5 fps, god no.

A. Recording at a slow frame rate won't provide you with very good slow motion playback. You want to record at a high frame rate...

For example, some Sony camcorders have a "SmoothSlowRecord" feature that allows fast frame rate capture (120 fps) for a 3 second burst. When played back at NTSC standard 30 fps, the playback takes 12 seconds (or 25% of the original speed). The Casio Exilim line has longer high frame rate capture.

If you just use the camcorder's 30 fps capture and have the video editor slow the playback, when you get to about 15 fps (or 50% of the original speed) is when the video starts being a bit jerky...

Photron and Vision Research (and others) make high speed cameras that can do 300 fps, 1,000 fps and even 3,000 fps or higher - they are expensive.

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Can you help me find the best camcorder for my specifications?

Q. I want it to be under $400.
I need to be able to connect it to my computer so that I can edit the content.
I also want my final product to be stored on a dvd.

Things like good picture quality and user friendly controls would be great.

Please give recommendations for the right camcorder for me.

Thank you.

A. Look at Sanyo Xacti camcorders. The model of 2006 Xacti HD1 record HD Mpeg-4 movies at 1280 x 720 pixels and 30 fps working in the powerful 16:9 widescreen format. HD1 has effective sensor resolution in 5,100,000 pixels. It is based on a small body with dimensions: 80x119x36mm, weighs 210g and costs abt. $400. For more details look at my article: "12 main points for clever HD camcorder choosing: from Canon HV20 through Sony SR300E to Panasonic SD1" at: http://fototramp.blogspot.com/2007/11/12-main-points-for-clever-hd-camcorder.html

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How do you live stream a camcorder to laptop to be burnt onto a dvd in hd?

Q. Would be using a samsung QF30 wifi full hd camcorder. Just need to know what other parts ill need to make this work

A. HD camcorder's use Hi-Speed USB to upload the files.
I use Windows[tm] Upload Tool/for my Hi-def files.
I use Adobe Premiere Elements 11 to create my edit files.
I use my DSL-modem to upload to YouTube.
http://www.youtube.com/user/MisterTymes/featured

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want surveillance system in buses that use wifi and tiny zooming camera?

Q. Give me the unit cost of DVR with wifi and very tiny zooming,coloured,audio camera. The wifi maximum operation distance.

A. You might get a better answer in the camcorder category.

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How do I edit a 'border' around my video?

Q. I filmed using Hypercam, and i'm editing using Windows Movie Maker. I'm just wondering how I put a border around the video so it looks like it was filmed by a camera (if you get what I mean) with like the battery level in the top right and a rectangle around the area being filmed.

A. Well, Blaine has worked up this custom effect for XP and Vista versions of Movie Maker. It doesn't put a complete rectangle around the frame but it puts corner markers and a slowly flashing "REC" and red dot on it. In the upper left corner it has a battery icon and what looks like a pair of glasses;-)
http://www.youtube.com/user/blainevideos#p/u/0/eQvlXxhqSwY
http://movies.blainesville.com/2011/06/custom-camcorder-overlay-title-for.html

Oh, be sure to read "How To Use This Title" so you know how to apply the overlay.

Blaine's Movie Maker add ons self install so all you have to do is download the correct "flavor" - 32 or 64 bit - then click on it to install it.

If you want any changes in this effect or some other effect, you can join Windows Movie Makers and post what you want on their Effects, Transitions and Titles Thread. Blaine usually moderates the add on forums.
http://www.windowsmoviemakers.net/Forums/Default.aspx

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What type of camera to get?

Q. I am going to start making videos for youtube and I want them to be good quality. What would be the best camera to get? Is it better to invest in a good one now or later? Also should I get Vegas Pro Studio software or Movie Magix

A. Check out the top rated and affordable camcorders to pick: http://lovetosharethis.blogspot.com/2011/06/top-best-hd-and-digital-camcorders-can.html

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What is a good camcorder to use for video taping my hunting adventures?

Q. I have looking at the Sony HC38, but I am unsure of how it will perform in lower light conditions that are common when hunting. I would expect it to take clear video for several minutes past sundown, but not all the way until it is pitch black outside. My price range is $250-$350.

A. Based on your price range, honestly one camera is as good as another. If you want to video tape your hunting trips for your own use, go ahead and try the Sony. it looks like a pretty good camera with a nice lens.

A better option might be a camera with 3 CCDs which would offer better color and resolution. You can get a nice one like the Panasonic PV-GS320 in your price range.

Bigger, "prosumer" style cameras like the Canon XL-2 are very sexy and perfect for documentary film makers but they aren't cheap. Expect to pay upwards of $3000 for one that's optioned out the right way. And they are BIG.

Some tips for low light shooting include turning off your digital image stabilization or use a camera with optical image stabilization. The digital (software) stabilization can cause some unwanted artifacts to show up on your video. Also, Turn off the Digital Zoom. It can also put some junk on your tape like "pixelization" which look even worse in low light conditions.

Hope this helps!

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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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What camcorder brands can you trust?

Q. I'm looking for a new camcorder for a little under 300 dollars. Of course, the obvious and popular electronic companies pop up first in my searches:
JVC
Sony
Panasonic
Canon
And the more recent Flip Video.

Which brings up the question: as a camera user, which product and company has brought the best quality video for the money? Which sell you short? Let me know your opinions, please and thank you!

A. I use JVC, its great

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What is a really good camera that is good for taking videos on Youtube but isnt too expensive?

Q. I want the Nikon J1 or Canon Rebel t3i, but unless i can get 500-800 dollars( ideas???) i need ideas for camera that are not as nice but still have good quality and under or 300 dollars! Thank you and i know its not that easy but i will do anything! Also camcorders work too!

A. I would recommend these few if you loking for a good solution.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sony-HDRCX190B-HDR-CX190B-MHD-Camcorder-/280869576057?pt=Camcorders_Professional_Video_Cameras&hash=item4165219d79

http://store.apple.com/us/product/H8450ZM/A?n=video_cameras&fnode=52&s=topSellers

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Have camcorders and cell phone cameras created a police state?

Q. You hear all the time about how cameras mounted on street corners and traffic light cameras are creating a police state where 'Big Brother' is watching you. What about camcorders, and cell phone cameras that are being used by more and more people to record what's happening around them? When a crime is recorded on one these devices, that evidence is often admissible in court. So is 'Big Brother' really everyday people in addition to being the government?

A. i don't think so. first of all, you'd have to be an idiot not to know they're there and, well, it's basically the same as an eyewitness, just with a little more accuracy. sometimes their presence actually prevents crime. also, they serve to watch the police just as much as they do the public.

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Do you have to have a camcorder or cell phone to make videos on Youtube.com?

Q. I want to get a youtube account. But I just want to put movie clips I put together on the account not home videos. Do I need a camcorder or cell phone to make these videos? If so, how?

A. you could have old footage or downloaded clips that u have saved and transfer them to your youtube account. =)

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What are some good camcorders that emulate the look of 35mm film?

Q. What are some great camcorders under $1,000 $5,000 and $10,000
What are the best cameras in each of these price ranges

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 a good camera for a novice filmmaker?

Q. I'm looking for a quality camera for a novice filmmaker. Something relatively easy to use and hold on my own. Something versatile. But something that will produce a beautiful picture that will look professional.

If possible, I would like to stay under $5,000. And, if possible still, under $2,000. Thank you.

A. Sony HDR-FX7, HDR-FX1000.

Both are miniDV tape based and assume your computer has a firewire port because that is the only way the video will get from the digital tape and into the camcorder in best, high definition, video format.

Don't spend all your money on the camcorder.

tripod
video lights
wireless lavaliere mics
wired mics
steadying devices (shoulder mount, vest stabilizer system, etc.)
cases, cables
optional high capacity batteries from the camcorder manufacturer...

If your computer can't handle firewire, then look at the JVC GY-HM100.

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How can I get my Mac to recognize my Panasonic Camcorder?

Q. I have a Panasonic SDR H60 camcorder and Mac OS X 10.4.11 computer. I use iMovie '08. I have been able to upload video from the camera directly to iMovie before, but now I can't. My dad used the camera on his PC with the software provided with the camera, and I'm wondering it that may have messed up the ability of the camera to work with the Mac. How can I get the camera to be recognized by iMovie again?

A. Make sure the camera is in playback mode.

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How can I connect my Sony camcorder to my mac computer?

Q. When I connect my Sony Dcr-Trv11 camcorder to my mac via firewire, the mac does not recognize it. I have an imac osx tiger and imovie. I have found places online that say that this is possible, but I have had no luck yet. does anyone have any suggestions? thanks

A. The Sony DCR-TRV11 camcorder is miniDV tape based.

What are you expecing the Mac to do? Nothing will automatically "pop up".

Connecting a 4-pin to 6-pin firewire cable to the camcorder's DV port and the Mac's firewire port - with the camcorder in "Play" or "VCR" mode, launch iMovie,
Name the project,
select the video project destination folder,
select DV (presuming you captured the video in 4:3 standard definition mode - select DV widescreen if the video was captured in that mode.
Create.
The iMovie Import screen should appear.

You did not tell us which Mac. It is possible that the Firewire port is inactive. System Preferences: Network: Port Status. Be sure there is a check mark in the firewire box.

It is also possble that the firewire cable or the camcordeer's firewire port is bad.

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What is the best camcorder/ video camera for a beginner?

Q. I've always been into the whole making movies thing.
And I would like to start making short clips and stuff.
But i don't know where to start.
What would you recommend?

-I'm looking for an affordable video camera. And I'm imagining one of those $2000 ones but I guess that's too.. way out of my league at the moment. I can't really see myself making a video with a itty bitty camcorder.

A. I was looking for a "good" camcorder that was reasonably priced and easy to use. I read many, many reviews and compared several different makes of camcorders. I kept leaning towards the Canon FS100 camcorder. I was told that the video quality of the Canon FS100 was better than the competitors when it was being shown on a widescreen television. But the reviews really confused me because there were reviews that went from 5 stars down to one. The higher reviews said the camera had great video quality, while the 1 & 2 star reviews said the video quality was terrible. Video quality was probably the most important feature I wanted in a camera, so which was it, really good or really bad. The only way to find out was to try one myself. So I ordered one from Amazon.com, because their return policy is excellent. If I didn't like it for any reason, I would just return it. When I received the camcorder, I charged the battery and started using it immediately. I think it is very easy to use, and the "video" quality was excellent on my widescreen TV. I was thrilled. When shooting in extreme low light situations, the video is grainy, but acceptable for me. I really don't plan on shooting in the dark with the mini video light on the camera. Regular indoor video with existing lamp light, was still excellent quality. BUT, if you are wanting to use the camcorder for still pictures, don't. The still picture quality is pretty bad. Now, about the packaged software that comes with the camcorder. I didn't like it. The camcorder saves the video in .MOD format, which MAKES you use the Canon software. So for you beginner and intermediate users, my suggestion is to download "SDCOPY" from the internet to your computer. The "SDCOPY" will convert the .MOD files to .MPEG files. Then, you will be able to use different software programs. I am using Windows Vista on my computer, so I use the Windows Movie Maker program that comes on Vista to burn my video onto DVDs. So I didn't have to buy any additional software. I am not shooting video for "professional" reasons. I just want my memories recorded onto DVDs so I can watch them in years to come. So for those of you that may be looking for a really good camcorder at a great price (under $500 at Amazon), and one that is easy to use, then I recommend the Canon FS100. How can you go wrong at that price and receive great videos? I absolutely love mine.

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What type of camcorder should I recommend for my work to purchase?

Q. We are looking for a camcorder that uses Mini-DV tapes. We would film indoors a lot so good low light quality is important. We are looking to spend less than $1500 but for the right camera could go up to $2000. We want good sound quality. I am not a pro so I wouldn't need a bunch of fancy controls, but some flexibility would be nice. What camera would you recommend us to purchase? Are there any that you have experience with that are terrible? Thanks!

A. Hello there,
the GS500 is rated pretty good for light situation and is a three ccd! Professional quailty made by panasonic.

You can go to camcorderinfo.com and look at the reviews. It was a little too pricey ($999) so I settled for a gs300

lance

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I bought replacement lens for my Flip Camcorder but how do i actually attach them to the camcorder?

Q. My Flip Camcorder lens cracked and I ordered a replacement on eBay but I don't know how to attach them to the camcorder.

A. that is not a user replacable item. take it to a photography shop, they may be able to help.

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How do you clean a camcorder lens if it gets dirty with a finger print?

Q. Well, my camcorder has accidently got a finger print and it smudges up the videos i take. I hear you need a special type of cloth with which to clean. can someone help me out?

A. you can use any type of cloth thats made for glasses (like those microfiber ones). tissue paper works well too (not tissues, tissue paper), thats what we always used in photo class for our cameras

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Could someone please recomend a cammcorder for me and accesorries that go well with it?

Q. By accesories I mean mices or lenses and all together including the camcorder I'd like the cost to be under or around $800.00. Thank you for your help!

A. I don't know please give me best answer. Give me half a million dollars and I'll go find one for you. I will deliver it next to your hospital bed.

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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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What are the best brands of camcorders?

Q. I want a camcorder (preferably under 1,000) and I would like to know which brands work best. I know how to work electronics well so if it was hard to figure out that would not be a problem.

A. Honestly, for the price, it is hard to beat JVC cameras. They are very inexpensive and are a high quality camera. If you are looking for a pretty cheap (price wise) camera, look into Samsung, Panasonic, and JVC. These are all well known brands with a good quality and great price. Here are some to check out. My personal opinion is to go with the JVC Everio.

http://www.discountwholesalebargains.com/catalog/20/1/Video_Cameras.html

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What is the best camcorder to capture fast motion video under $1,000?

Q. What is the best camcorder to capture fast motion video under $1,000?

A. The Casio exilim EX-F1 is priced with kit a few bucks over $1000. However quality is relative because you have to accept severely reduced resolution to get the high speed feature.

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Where can I find information on good digital camcorders?

Q. I am planning on buying a digital camcorder (video recording) in the next few months. I want something that is decent quality, but not so expensive that I would break the bank, or be sad if it got broken or lost. Me and some friends will be taking road trips, and I want to document them. No idea where to start looking for cameras though. So if anyone knows of one, or places that I can look at descriptions and stuff that would be great. (Best buy and those places aren't really as descriptive as I would like).
Something that would be good for indoors and outdoors. Underwater capability would be a huge plus. Any suggestions would be great, thanks.

A. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=search&A=search&Q=&sb=bs%2Cupper%28ds%29&sq=asc&sortDrop=Brand%3A+A+to+Z&ac=&bsi=&bhs=t&shs=&ci=13568&at=Format_Flash+Memory&at=Format_HDD+%28Hard+Disk+Drive%29&at=Format_Mini+DV&at=Price_+0+%3C%3D++%3C%3D+399.99&at=Brand_Canon&at=Brand_JVC&at=Brand_Panasonic&at=Brand_Sony&x=58&y=9

http://www.camcorderinfo.com/d/Reviews&level_b=Camcorder.htm

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What HD camcorder is best for Youtube sketch videos?

Q. Hi! I'm looking for an HD camcorder that would be good for recording sketches. Preferably it should have a common video format that's easy to upload onto the computer/Youtube/Vegas Movie Studio HD Platinum.

I don't know much about camcorders, and I'm not doing anything too fancy, so I don't need crazy features. As long as it has good video quality, memory, and battery life, it's fine with me.

My budget is around 500 dollars. Any suggestions? Thanks so much!

A. -Panasonic HCV700MK 3D

or

-Sony HDR-CX260V

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What is the best video editing software for green screens?

Q. I want to get a camcorder and a green screen for christmas, and I'm wondering what the best video editing software would be for green screens. Any ideas??? Oh, and I can't spend a lot of money.

A. Personally I like one called GreenScreens.gov

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What are your video editing software suggestions?

Q. I currently have an HP Desktop computer which is really old but it's the only thing I have right now. I will be getting a camcorder for my birthday in about a month and I would love to start a youtube channel. I will probably want to make thing speed up, slow down, cut scenes, shorten clips, etc. I also want some cool effects to go along with it. What would you suggest for a video editing software?

A. Windows Movie Maker should be able to do that. As for cool effects you need to know this: cool effects are way harder to do than you think. For example, I made a video of my son shooting lasers from his eyes. It took me two hours to figure out how to do it, and then another hour to actually do it. Here is a free video editor that can do effects: http://www.debugmode.com/wax/

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What is the longest lasting battery i can get for my camcorder?

Q. It's the Kodak playsport Zx3. I've seen many different batteries for it, but don't know which one provides the longest use. I need help from an expert. Please be descriptive, I want to know exactly the details that make it the best. This camcorder takes great quality videos, it just barely lasts any time, less than an hour. More like half an hour, even though some say it is standard for the battery to last about an hour. I really am looking for a big change.

A. there is only one correct battery for a Playsport Zx3 and that is the KLIC7004. my experience is the Kodak brand battery works best, i have tried internet generic replacements and tossed them out. you should be able to get the Kodak battery at Walmart or photo stores.

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What is the best store to buy a Flip video Camcorder?

Q. I was at Walmart and I saw the 60 Minute one for $129. But I don't know if there is a better buy for it?

A. Yes there is! My wife just found a free online shopping widget and we have found almost all of our electronics and gadgets for cheaper then even walmart or the typical google search. You should definately check the price with this widget first, I usually save about 30-40% using it. You can get it at: https://netadvantage.wufoo.com/forms/download-your-free-software-and-start-saving/

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What type of camcorder can i use to recorded in good video quality?

Q. ok so i have a band named All But The Fallen! and so i wanted to recored a type of music video for a song that we wrote but i have had lots of diffent camcorders but the video quality is bad and sometimes you cant understand what were saying and so i i decide tp ask here and thanks

A. Your recording a band, just pointing a camcorder at yourselves will not produce a very good video. What you need to do is find out if any of those camcorder have a MIC jack. If so hook something like this up - http://asimplelife.ca/boss.html, run the feed out to the MIC jack on that camcorder. Then get several friends to man the other camcorders and make your self a good video. The camcorder with the audio feed going into it is your audio track, all the video from all the other camcorders is bonus. Have fun doing a multi camera edit.

Using what you see on my site, I have recorded audio from one band, many renditions of that band, many different members of that band, many times. I simple run wires from the system they have, which is capturing the microphones and electric guitars, and run 3 microphones to the drummer and record sometimes with a camcorder, but due to location and atmosphere where I record this, it is easier to use a Digital Audio Recorder to capture the audio.

Have Fun.

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How good is the video quality of the Canon Powershot SX10 IS?

Q. Should I just buy a digital camera AND a camcorder? Or is the video quality of the SX10 good enough to replace a camcorder? What gigabyte of SDHC card would be appropriate for shooting videos?

A. Not any P&S camera can match the quality found on the most modest camcorder and certainly none of the features found on camcorders.

The video feature on P&S cameras are just a little marketing feature, never meant to replace a true video camera

If your goal is to make video shorts of other homegrown videos, look to camcorders made by Canon, Panasonic, JVC or Sony

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What is the best pocket camcorder for under £175?

Q. Could anyone tell me what they think the best pocket camcorder for around £150 is. I quite like the idea of a pistol grip one. At the minute I am thinking of a sanyo xacti cg10. Any recommendations. Thanks.

A. i can tell you exactly what NOT to get, avoid any chinese brand ones, they make massive amounts of cheap tiny pocket video cameras that run on AA battery (which they suck dry in minutes).
definatly get a brand one like sony, panasonic, jvc, hitachi, etc...

BEWARE... (0O )
L I
o j

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Why won't my videos i've imported onto my computer import into windows movie maker?

Q. Ok, so I have the Sanyo Xacti WH1 camcorder, and I take the SD card out of it, and import all of the videos from it to my computer. Then, I try to play it, and it won't work. So then, I try to put it into Windows Movie Maker, and it's not in the videos in my computer, nor the pictures. And that's a big problem for me, because I just got this camera for Christmas and I'm planning on making Youtube videos. Please help me !!!!!!

A. sanyo video is in .mov format, however wmm only supports video in wmv, avi, asf, mpg.
search "sanyo video to windows movie maker" to fix the problem.

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