Sabtu, 23 November 2013

I have a JVC Everio GZ-E10 how can I get the professional look of music videos?

Q. I have been shooting video with my JVC Everio GZ-E10, and editing it with iMovie 09, but I can't seem to get that clean polished look of professional clear HD video, does anyone have any suggestions or tips for me?

A. Start with low-compression, high quality video capture. In your case, that will be difficult because the GZ-E10 is a consumer grade camcorder that captures high compression video. The best you can do - assuming you don't change the camcorder - is to check the camcorder's options and be sure you are recording in "highest quality".

We don't know what you are comparing to. Generally, the camcorders and cameras used in professional projects use video capture devices with much larger lens diameter and imaging chip systems compared to your camcorder. Without knowing the actual filter diameter (no spec) your camcorder's lens diameter is probably in the 30mm range and the spec on the single imaging chip is about 1/6 inch. Compare this to pro-grade camcorders that have 70mm lens diameter or larger aand if a camcorder, use a 3CMOS or 3CCD imaging chip array that is 1/3 inch or larger.

Then there's lighting. Your camcorder's small lens and imaging chip require LOTS of lighting (this is a Physics issue) to properly behave.

Assuming we get all the above done, that leave how the video gets from the camcorder into iMovie (hopefully also at "highest quality"), and rendering the final project from iMovie (don't use the preset Share: Export Movie..., use the "Share: Export using Quicktime..."

Export: Movie to Quicktime Movie
click options
Video settings: Compression type h.264... Compressor: Quality: High or Best... leave the rest alone
OK
Video: Size: Dimensions 1980x1080 HD and check mark in the de-interlace.
OK.
OK.
Name the file and set the destination. Save.

Playback on your computer will be different from playback on YouTube and other sites.

Experience is probably the biggest contributor. Someone with no experience and no skill using the best equipment available will usually capture poor video. Someone with experience using low end equipment can capture good video because they know the first step it to learn the limitations of the equipment and use the equipment in a manner in which it was designed to be used - not try to make the equipment do something it was not designed to do.


How do I get my Canon FS200 Cam-corder to sync to or be recognized on my Mac?
Q. I have a Mac OSX version 10.4.11 which comes with Imovie 6.0.3 and if updating my imovie to imovie '09 is the answer then i want to be completely sure because if i do that i have to buy the entire "ilife" pack to get imovie '09 and it is $80 and i don't want to do that to find that my computer still won't recognize my camera.

A. As the videos from Canon FS200 Camcorder is formated as. mod, which is hard to compatible with popular formats. I would like to suggest you to try a useful and rewarding tool-Mac Mod Converter for it can easily convert the.mod to the iMovie supporting format. Furthermore, it can also convert other video files to the formats-MOV, MP4, AVI, MPG,DV etc for playable on lots of media players and portable devices. Learn more about it: http://mod-converter.for-mac-os.com/.

Hope it can be helpful for you.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

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


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/





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

I need to know which camcorder is best for capturing images on an iPhone screen?

Q. OK I want to do app reviews but you can't see that text, images, or anything like that. So can you tell me what kind I should get. My price range is about 200
OK I want to capture video off it. I want to review apps and stuff like that.

A. If you just want images and not video take a screen shot of it on your iPhone by pressing the home and the sleep button at the same time, Now if your actually want to do videos of the screen then a cheap video camera or digital camera should work, just make sure the brightness on your iPhone is at its brightest and to make it even better turn the light off where you are filming it so there is no glare.


What are the benefits for the Verizon Iphone 4G?
Q. Alright so my contract is almost up and I'm really looking into the Iphone. Could someone please tell me the pros and cons of the phone? Also could I just use the Iphone as my Ipod or will that slow up the phone? Thanks to everyone that answered.

A. I have the iPhone 4 on Verizion and my girlfriend has the iPhone 4 on AT&T. I have a ton more coverage then her. Everywhere! She is always complaining about it. So get it on Verizion. I love this phone so much! I had a env touch before and it sucked so much. So for the Pro's and cons

Pros
------
-Amazing touch screen
-Amazing screen, very nice quality.
-Very fast. I dont notice any difference between 3G and wifi.
-great on screen keyboard. Very easy to type on.
-has a million apps to choose from.
- great camcorder/camera I shoot ski videos in 730p and then edit them on the phone and export them to YouTube and Facebook. Also as soon as you click the button to take a picture it snaps the shot so I can take pictures of my friends in the air.
-everything is so easy and simple. My friends Droid incredible is sooo complicated.
-has a iPod in it! It does not slow down the iPhone AT ALL! What I do it download "pandora" from the app store find eminem radio station and just listen to him all the time. I have 13 songs on the iPod part of this phone.
-has a front facing camera. I go on the app skype on 3G and can video chat wig people on computers.

I can literally not think of a single con wrong with this phone.

I can go on forever but it is late and I am tired. I typed this on my iPhone by the way.
I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this phone I love it. I also recommend the 32 gb model because it shoots in such high quality it will take up more memory faster.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How to download iMovie HD with iMovie 09?

Q. I currently have a new mac with ilife 09 and, obviously, imovie 09 and i really want imovie HD. is there a download for that? or is it built into imovie 09? i have version 8.0.6 by the way. and by googling it, ive gotten a mixture of results :/ helppppp

A. Importing and Organization

Full-Screen Library Browser

Browse your entire video library in the full-screen view using Cover Flow. Easily switch among Events, projects, and iPhoto video clips.

Move and Copy Projects and Events

Easily move projects and their Events from one drive to another to free up disk space or transfer to another Mac.

iPhoto Event Matching

Display only the photos that match an iMovie Event date, making it easier to find photos that fit into a movie.

Font Family and Color Favorites

Quickly access your favorite fonts and colors for titles using a custom palette that allows skimming to preview font, size, and color changes.

Improved Preferences Interface

Enjoy a simpler, more elegant view of your iMovie preferences, divided into categories with icons for navigating between preference groups.

Camcorder Archive

Easily back up original AVCHD or other file-based video clips with the new archive feature. Import archived camcorder files from the Finder at any time.

Adjust Clip Date and Time

Select clips and correct for time or date shooting errors, allowing you to organize clips more accurately.


Improved Project Library

Find, skim, and watch any project using the enhanced Project Library, which displays a filmstrip next to each project’s name.

Improved Flip MinoHD Support

Directly import video from a Pure Digital Flip MinoHD camcorder, with automatic detection, thumbnail previews, and selective importing.

Editing

Precision Editor

Skim and click to refine your edits in the new magnified filmstrip view. Separately control audio, video, transitions, titles, and sound effects.

Markers

Identify key points in your movie — including chapter markers — for improved DVD navigation.

Advanced Drag-and-Drop Editing

Drop a clip from your library on top of a clip in your project to open a pop-up menu of edit options, including replace, insert, audio only, and more.

Detach Audio

Separate the audio from a video clip in a project to move it independently or change the audio speed.

Multiple Clip Adjustments

Make the same effect, sound level, or speed adjustments across selected clips by changing inspector properties for multiple clips at once.

Snap to Beat Markers

Place beat markers in a project to identify specific beats in music clips. Drag clips into the project and they automatically align to the beat markers, making it easier to edit to music.

Expanded Options for Pasting Adjustments

Quickly match specific inspector adjustments from one clip to another by copying and pasting.

Multi-Touch Support

Use a Mac with a Multi-Touch trackpad for an enhanced user experience. Swipe to add clips and move clips around in your project or pinch to see more detail in your library.

Enhancement

Video Stabilization

Let iMovie analyze your video to identify wobbly or shaky shots. Analyzed shots are instantly stabilized when you add them to your project.

Video Effects

Stylize your video to look like a dream sequence, a sci-fi movie, or a cartoon with video effects. Choose from 19 different video effects using the Preview Palette.

Picture-in-Picture

Add television-style, picture-in-picture effects by dragging one clip on top of another. Pop, fade, or zoom in on the inset video and watch it instantly.

Green-Screen Effect

Create special effects by recording yourself against a green background. Then let iMovie replace the green with any photo or video in your library.


New Titles, Transitions, and Effects

Choose animated titles, transitions, and cinematic video effects in the new Preview Palette.

Dynamic Themes

Finish your movie by applying a package of titles, transitions, and end credits that you can view in real time. Or add elements à la carte.

Backgrounds

Choose from a variety of colorful animated or static backgrounds to enhance titles or green screens.

Project Freeze Frame

Create and insert a still frame from any video in a project that perfectly matches the video around it.


How do I get my Canon FS200 Cam-corder to sync to or be recognized on my Mac?
Q. I have a Mac OSX version 10.4.11 which comes with Imovie 6.0.3 and if updating my imovie to imovie '09 is the answer then i want to be completely sure because if i do that i have to buy the entire "ilife" pack to get imovie '09 and it is $80 and i don't want to do that to find that my computer still won't recognize my camera.

A. As the videos from Canon FS200 Camcorder is formated as. mod, which is hard to compatible with popular formats. I would like to suggest you to try a useful and rewarding tool-Mac Mod Converter for it can easily convert the.mod to the iMovie supporting format. Furthermore, it can also convert other video files to the formats-MOV, MP4, AVI, MPG,DV etc for playable on lots of media players and portable devices. Learn more about it: http://mod-converter.for-mac-os.com/.

Hope it can be helpful for you.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Please inform me about camcorders with SD video recording and, most critically, EXTERNAL MIC JACK?

Q. Many camcorders today don't have external mic jacks (which is pitiful considering their mics are usually their weakest features).

I need a camcorder for a club, at a moderate price, with SD card recording and the mic in jack.

Thanks!

A. Hf100. Period.


I'm looking for a hard drive camcorder with an external mic jack?
Q. I am a high school basketball coach and I want a camcorder that records on a hard drive and I want to patch a radio into a external mic jack or an audio in jack.What are my choices for brands and prices??Thanks.

A. To answer your question directly:
Sony HDR-SR11, HDR-SR12
Panasonic *might* have one or two; Canon has none.

Because the crowd noise and possibility of a band or other loud audio, hard disc drive based camcorders are not recommended for your stated environment. The vibration from that loud audio can cause the hard drive heads to park and no video will be recorded. This is a known problem with hard drive based camcorders. So is high altitude, but we won't go there at the moment...

Flash memory and miniDV tape based camcorders do not have this problem with vibration. For standard definition, flash memory, the Canon FS10, FS11 and FS100 have a mic jack; Flash memory camcorders save to the same file formats used by hard drive camcorders. For high definition or standard def miniDV tape, the Canon HV20 and Sony HDR-HC9 meet your requirements. These are all "least expensive" - the issue is getting amic jack - most camcorders do not have this. There are more cameras that cost more that have audio-in capabilities.

For prices, there are two kinds - the ones you can buy and know you will get what you pay for or potential scams. Do comparison pricing - if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is. I have found B&H Photo and Adorama are reputable online dealers. Check at the CNET camcorder forum for horror stories on certain scam sites.

DVD camcorders are useless. Don't waste any time on them.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What's a good HD Video Camera for an aspiring film maker heading to college?

Q. Hi, I'm Tyler McDonald and I have a passion for making videos. After I graduate high school, I plan on attending either Grand Canyon University or Northern Arizona University to get a degree in Digital Film. I understand that these colleges will have cameras that I will be able to check out, but I'm really considering purchasing one of my own. The cameras at my school work, but I have problems with them from time to time with my MacBook Pro. I'm looking for a 1080p, 60 fps DSLR or camcorder thats within a reasonable price, no higher than $3000. I've been looking, but I've got a lot of great feedback from Yahoo Answers on previous topics so I decided to ask of your guy's opinions yet again! I would greatly appreciate any help with this, and links to where I may purchase these cameras would be great as well! Thanks!!

A. the longer you postpone your purchase decision, the better it will be.

1. you still have a lot to learn about what features are important in a video camera and what is just sales fluff.
2. technology is changing rapidly, and what might look as a good option now might not be so satisfactory 4 years from now.
3. you most likely will graduate to something more sophisticated than a MacBook Pro, and using that as the criteria for limiting camera selection is not wise.
4. depending on how you intend to use your college education, you may find that a dSLR is a truly poor choice for professional work. some projects require more than 12 minutes of continuous video recording.


What's the difference between a camcorder and a 'professional' camcorder?
Q. For example, why is an HVX 200 better then a vixia hf100 which shoots 1080p to or the sanyo FH1a which shoots 1080p at 60 fps which the HVX cant even do? Also, why are camera lens so expensive? LIke 700 dollars for 3 or 5 or whatever pieces of glass on a metal rim??

A. Its all about sensor size, pixel density, sensor type, format, interchangeable lenses, manual controls, brand, inputs and preference

Sensor size: A professional camera will have a larger image sensor which allows for a higher pixel density and a shalower depth of field which is very important for professional looking videos, while a consumer will have a much smaller sensor which means a wide depth of field and smaller pixel density

Sensor type: you can have either ccd,3ccd,cmos,3smos. ccd is one ccd chip so it has to process everything through one sensor meaning lower sensor while a cmos is pretty much more powerful version of the ccd (if you don't want to get to technical) While a 3 cmos and 3ccd have 3 sensors which do one color red green or blue and put them together which makes it higher quality and also contributes to the price
heres my opinion on which one is best
ccd<cmos<3ccd<3cmos

format: You have to decide what your computer can take, does it have a fire wire? usb? other stuff
There are a few recording formats, minidv, hdv, avchd (mts2) mpeg4,mpeg2, mov, wmv, minidvd, p2 cards, film, and redcode

Minidv: Common format in standard definition prosumers, it is a Digital tape and is connected through firewire it is very high quality and the best standard definition but can be a hassle to edit, but there are cheaper minidv models which are not half as good because of the other factors before
hdv: probably the best hd format because it is reliable and high quality but is also pain to edit, most current prosumers use hdv like the xl-a1 and it is very high quality
avchd: seen mostly on consumer cams and is clearly the best for smaller cams, no contest (but it is highly compressed and easy to edit
mpeg4: commen on lower end cameras is ver low compressed and easy to work with, mpeg2 is a lesser quality mpeg4
mov: very differed on quality throughout camera can be terrable or amazing, it depends
wmv, uncommen and not the best
Minidvd: a very bad idea (worst format)
the last 3 are extremely professional and cost tens of thousands of dollars but will obviously be the best quality possible (especially red)

interchangeable lenses, important for getting multiple different shots and is a reason that a camera is considered professional and really is a way to make it look how you want it to look and any way you want it to work this also goes for manual controls in cameras, also if you dont have a interchangeable lens camera then usually the better the glass the higher quality it will look, size is also a factor (so is zoom but thats not vary important) remember that manual focus will make your videos look even better

brand: there are a lot of brand including sony, canon, panasonic,jvc (these are the most commen)
sony: best for the price
canon: best for the quality (can be expensive!) also has a lot of manual controls in consumer models such as the vixia hfs100 which i owned at one point
panasonic:cheaper, pretty nice, not as reliable
jvc: unreliable i wouldn't trust it

Inputs: another factor between consumer and prosumer is its inputs such as audio inputs which if your lucky a consumer will have a mini jack (3.5 mm) port (look for it its important) while a prosumer will have a adjustable audio level status which usually comes in the form of xlr ports and will have lots of manual controls like gain conrol and side channeling as well as stereo forms and adjustable to mono. which really the audio is half your movie so dont take it unseriously.

perference. do YOU like a large camera, do YOU like manual controls does it matter to you, is it in your budget, what do you really want it for? you need to ask yourself this to decide if its right for you

Other side notes

video dslrs conquer a lot of prosumer territory while still being much less money like large sensors and interchangeable lenses but can lack in audio but with the money you saved you can buy a h4n and have extremely high quality audio (that setup is indie film worthy) the canon t2i (550d) is the highest quality camera for the price out there

The canon vixia line is a very nice CONSUMER cam i had it i needed more controls that i needed for my videos which my t2i provided


hvx200 is a good camera and is highly rated and worth what they are saying and it has what a prosumer needs but if you want a cam like that get a xh a1 they are extremely nice and around the same price, but as i said VIDEO quality will be equivalent to our worse than the 800 dollar t2i but you can always get external mics for even cheaper and it will be better audio

camera lenses are expensve because the glass is hard to make and it is very high quality and VERY important

any other questions shoot me an email at pgrimmjr123@gmail.com i would be happy to help\

-Peter





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Jumat, 22 November 2013

What is the Best Video Camera I can get for $300 or less?

Q. What is the best Video Camera I can get for $300 or less. I need the best quality I can get for that price range. Please Help

A. I recommend this, Sony HDR-CX190 High Definition Handycam 5.3 MP Camcorder with 25x Optical Zoom (2012 Model).


What is the best camcorder between $250-$750 (excluding the Canon Vixia Series)?
Q.

A. I would recommend Sony HDRXR260V (2012 model). I am very impressed. the camera is slightly smaller than last years model, it is very intuitive to use. The touchscreen menu is very easy to use, and works well. It's amazing how small these guys are .. even compared to 2 years back. Internal Memory is 160 Gig! And 30x OPTICAL ZOOM -OK for me this is the main reason I wanted THIS model. (They have many models with more memory etc..)
-I wanted the zoom because I take pictures and videos of nature, so it is not always easy to get close.

---------

Sony HDRXR260V Camcorder (2012 model) - http://www.amazon.com/Sony-HDRXR260V-High-Definition-Handycam-Camcorder/dp/B006K55018/?_encoding=UTF8&s=electronics&tag=cameratop-20&linkCode=ur2&qid=1337401211&camp=1789&sr=1-42&creative=9325





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What kind of camera/camcorder are most independent filmmakers using these days?

Q. I'm looking to invest in a HD camcorder to film my feature length horror movie. Need something to give me that cinematic 'film look'. Will a camcorder with 24fps do the trick? Gonna be three fight scenes and a car chase so i need something that will capture the speed of those scenes and not come out looking blurred on the screen. Any suggestions or advice is greatly appreciated.

A. It depends on the budget.

"Paranormal Activity" from a few years ago was captured using a Sony HDR-FX1000.
An indie set I was on a few weeks ago was using a rented Arris film camera.
A Director of Photography friend uses a RED Scarlet.

Horror movies are generally dark. If you want to shoot in low light, then you need BIG lenses and BIG imaging chips.

For fast action, stay away from high compression AVCHD. MiniDV is likely most cost effective and stores low compression HDV.

"Blurred" means slow shutter. To speed the shutter, ADD LIGHT and increase the shutter speed manually.


what camcorders do you reccomend for somone wanting to get into amateur filmaking?
Q. is the Panasonic HDC-SD1 3CCD High Definition HD Camcorder a good one?

or is there a better deal out there?

A. That's an AVCHD camera. It's not a bad format, but it is hard to edit because most software doesn't support it well, and the quality is not as good as HDV cameras.

The Canon HV20 is a compact camcorder with HDV (high-def miniDV), 10X zoom, manual focus and white balance (via menus and dials), mic input, 16:9 and 24p, for around $700. It is very popular among budget indie filmmakers now. It gives you enough manual control to do most of the things you see in professional movies.

Don't forget that a good camera is only one tiny part of making good films. Good actors, a script, directing, lighting, blocking, sets, costumes/makeup, and good sound and music are all often overlooked by newcomers, but are far more important than the image quality of the camera.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

camcorder HR10 high definition ? .. is that good, is there any other competition?

Q. I am eager to buy a high definition camcorder. I have shortened my choices and have found that most comments suggest that the best in the market is the Canon HR-10. But also I would like to know which their problems are or which the negative issues might be ? ..

A. Some comparable models are listed here in this review of the HR10:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Canon-HR10-Camcorder-Review-33522/Comparisons--Conclusion.htm

The primary down-side for DVD camcorder is the recording time - maximum of about 30 minutes per miniDVD. For HD models, you would also need a compatible HD DVD player.


What is the best camcorder I could use for shooting high definition short movies?
Q. I am looking for a camcorder so I can use it for personal use at the same time for shooting high definition movie quality shots.

A. Top of the shop Sony. I've used the DR100 (over the shoulder job) and the top end commercial model. Both are broadcast quality.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

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

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

A. Nope....

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


How can I transfer videos from my camcorder to my computer?
Q. I have a sony handycam camcorder (DCR-DVD305) it uses Mini DV. I looked and I saw that most people suggested using a firewire port however, my camcorder does not have a plug for that. I can upload the videos by putting the disk in my CD drive but when I upload it to youtube the quality is VERY poor. Is there anything I can do? Thanks

A. Clarification: Your camcorder uses miniDVD as storage media.

MiniDV is a far superior digital tape based camcorder storage media type. In consumer camcorders, only miniDV tape based camcorders (and a few JVC consumer hard drive camcorders) use firewire for camcorder-computer connectivity.

Since we don't know what else you are doing to get that video to YouTube, here is how I would do it:

Download and install a DVD ripper - I like HandBrake
http://handbrake.fr/

1) Finalize the mini disc in the camcorder.
2) Take the disc out of the camcorder and put it in the drawer loading DVD drive in your computer.
3) Launch HandBrake.
4) Rip the video to a format your video editor likes.
5) When the ripping is done, quit HandBrake and launch your video editor.
6) Edit. Save As... or Export to a file type that YouTube likes.
7) Upload to YouTube.

Alert: Consumer grade DVD camcorders that record standard definition files saved to VOB format files are very highly compressed. Video from these types of files was never meant to be edited. Video compression = discarded data = reduced video quality. You need to be recording at highest quality which will reduce the record time to the small DVDs. In my opinion, DVD based camcorders should be recalled and you should get your money returned to you (I am confident this won't ever happen). DVD based camcorders barely make useful doorstops.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Are any camcorders good in low light environments like indoors?

Q. I have a camcorder I bought for €235 in 2011 which is 10MP. Indoors it is always grainy and fuzzy except in some very bright lighting. Outdoors it's better. Are there any camcorders available that are sharp indoors and in low light/dark environments and have little/no visible noise/grain?
My camcorder only has ISO controls for photographs and not video. It has a "Night mode" and white balance but no matter what settings I use, I almost always get grainy video indoors even with lights on.
My camcorder is Toshiba Camileo A35.

A. Good low-light means large lens filter diameter and large imaging chip. The large lens allows in more light; the large imaging chip can deal with what little light is available. You have already discovered that small lens diameter and small imaging chip doe not behave well. As camcorders increase in price, their lenses get larger - so do the imaging chips... You did not tell us which camcorder you are currently using, but at your price point, I would guess 30mm filter diameter and 1/6" single imaging chip. or you are using a digital still camera (maybe even a bridge camera) that happens to capture video as a secondary "convenience feature".

For low-light conditions, at a minimum, I use my Sony HDR-FX1. This was replaced by the HDR-FX1000. 72mm filter diameter lens and 1/3" 3CCD imaging chip. If it is really dark, then Panasonic AG-HVX200 with 82mm filter diameter and 1/3" 3CCD imaging chip works well... above this they start to get expensive.

If these cameras are too expensive, you have an alternative... learn to shoot "day for night". ADD light during video capture
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MaC44MU4iw
and use a decent video editor...


What kind of a good, cheap camcorder is good for filming skateboarding?
Q. Okay, here is the deal. I am really into filming my friends skateboarding, but my brother just graduated and is taking his camcorder with him. This would be fine, but I know almost nothing about cameras, and would like to buy my own!

What I need is this:
1) A sharp clear picture for faster, more "Sportlike" videos
2) A price range of less then 500 US dollars
3) Something that isn't very bulky, like a small size like this (http://tinyurl.com/yogbdy)

Please and thank you!

A. I hope you aren't serious about it being small like the one in the picture...

Check out the Canon ZR series. That is probably going to be the best line of cameras for you.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Can the new Sony Webbie HD Camcorder fit an XLR adapter to it?

Q. Can you fit an XLR adapter to the new Sony Webbie HD Camcorder?

A. No.

The "Webbie", as the name suggests, is a video camera optimized for internet video... in other words, it's an ultra-low-end model. Sony sure knows how to make a camcorder... I have several of theirs, it's a fine brand. But you don't get extra features at the low-end.

So, there's no microphone jack, and the built-in mic is mono-only. Like most of this sort of camcorder, it's closer in design to a digital still camera's video mode than to a standard camcorder: tiny lens, no optical zoom, higher levels of video compression, etc.

What you might do is use an off-camera recorder. A MiniDisc recorder, a digital flash recorder, an iPod with one of the recording adapters, even a laptop computer with a decent microphone (if you don't have a mic jack on the laptop, you can get "USB" mics, which are basically just microphones with USB audio interface built-in).

XLR mics are generally higher-end stuff... my $2600 camcorder came with XLR jacks on it, but my cheaper ones, not so much. You can get an XLR to 3.5mm plug adaptor for devices that take an external mic, from a company called BeachTek... but they probably cost more than your "Webbie" did, just for the interface. See here:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?ci=0&shs=beachtek&sb=ps&pn=1&sq=desc&InitialSearch=yes&O=jsp%2FRootPage.jsp&A=search&Q=%2A&bhs=t&Go.x=0&Go.y=0

If you're using off-camera mics, the trick is to properly synchronize audio, so that when you want to sync it up (this presumes you're doing some video editing on a computer), it's easy to find the sync point. You've seen this done before, though you might not know it. That stereotypical "clap-board" you see around movie-making... that's what it's for. High end film cameras don't have on-camera sound, and professional film makers have their own crew for recording sound. The "clap" made by the clapboard provides the synchronization point for the multiple audio and video recording devices.

I use similar things all the time to match up video from two and three camera shoots. Even if the "Webbie" audio isn't all that great, it'll record your sync noise and make it easy to match up some better off-camera source.


What are the differences between a camcorder and a professional video camera?
Q. Are there huge differences in the video quality you can get from a HD consumer camcorder and a little "professional" cameras...the type videographers and local news stations use on location. What are the other main differences in capability?

A. Consumer camcorders have small lenses and small imaging chip(s). This combination results in their not doing too well in low-light situations. Prosumer and pro-grade camcorders have much larger lenses and larger imaging chips.

Consumer camcorders' manual controls are generally not easily accessible. Prosumer and pro-grade camcorders have easily accessible manual zoom, manual focus, manual iris/exposure, manual shutter and manual audio controls... and neutral density filters and video gain control.

Many consumer camcorders generally do not have any mic jack or other audio-in capability other than the built-in mics. A few have a 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo mic jack (but generally no manual audio control). Prosumer models generally have a 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo mic jack with manual audio control. Pro-grade camcorders have built-in XLR audio connectors.

Consumer camcorders are generally built to be used hand-held, even though no one should ever do that. Prosumer models are larger - and while designed to be hand held, rarely are; the large ENG (Electronic News Gathering) pro models are nearly always shoulder mountable. The advantage of the shoulder mount translates into a much steadier shot - though a tripod or camera crane or other steadying device would be steadier than shoulder mount.

Other features like frame rate, interlaced vs progressive frame capture, add-on lens selection and quality, LANC (a wired remote) jack availability, matte box availability, filter selection, will also come into play.

You will also find that the vast majority of the pro camcorders use miniDV tape or save to an external hard drive that stores in DV or HDV format (same as miniDV tape). Panasonic has a few new internal hard drive or flash memory pro-grade camcorders. Red has a family of them. Sony, Canon and JVC pro lines continue to be on the DV/HDV page.

In good daylight, tripod mounted, no movement of the subject or the camera, with normal audio levels, it would be a challenge to differentiate 1080i/p 30fps video. Deviate from this, and the differences get very obvious, very quickly. Video is captured under lots of different lighting conditions, there may not be time to set up a tripod, and audio levels can be from 0 to REALLY LOUD in an instant... and the reason we capture video is for the motion...

Under many conditions, the ENG camcorder audio is not even used even though it is captured - an external field recorder (Edirol, Zoom, Marantz, M-Audio, Fostex) is used to capture the audio you end up hearing on TV and a separate audio person is employed just to be sure the audio is correctly captured.

So yes, there are huge differences - which is why a low-end consumer camcorder costs less than $300 and a decent pro camcorder can be as low as $3,000 or as high as $60,000...

But a skilled person with a low-end camcorder will always capture much better video than a non-skilled person with the most expensive camcorder...





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Kamis, 21 November 2013

Whats the best video camera for a beginner filmmaker?

Q. I'm looking for a camera that provides good quality video, but is also at least semi-user friendly and not outrageously expensive. I have prior experience filming but would like to take it up more.

A. i was googling and found Canon VIXIA HF S21 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder for you which is really good.

* 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.amazon.com/Canon-HF-S21-Memory-Camcorder/dp/B00322OP40/?tag=pntsa-20


why do they recommend a tape or mini tape camcorders for beginner filmmakers instead of a hd camcorder ?
Q. i will be using the camcorder for filming videos for youtube and such..

A. MiniDV tape:
-Is cheap, easily additive storage, and it's an instant archive. For about $3, I can get an hour of tape. I can get as many as I need - no need to purchase more and more SD cards or hard drives. Also, as soon as I'm done shooting a tape, that's my archive. I don't necessarily NEED to back it up or erase it in order to "make more space" on the camera. Just pop in a new tape.

-Carries the highest-quality consumer formats. In standard definition, it is the ONLY consumer-level format that uses "intraframe" compression; that is, each frame is self-contained. It doesn't have to do calculations based on frames around it in order to "fill in" the content. "Interframe" compression carries much less information per frame, and instead relies on other frames from which to calculate the video data.

For years, I have sworn by tape for those reasons. Computers choked on heavily-compressed file formats, and it took a long time to transcode them to more editing-friendly formats. Quality of file-based formats was relatively low, with low data rates being used in camcorders. SD cards were ridiculously expensive. The time it took to properly work with file-based formats simply was not worth the effort.

That said, nowadays, I'm agreeing less and less that tape is THE format to hold onto. Many of the problems that people have had with file-based consumer camcorders are being alleviated. Computers are being built with more powerful processors and graphics cards, which more easily handle the calculations needed to play interframe formats like H.264. Flash memory is getting cheaper. Hard drives are getting bigger. Data rates of file-based formats are getting higher, which means increasing video quality. Video editing programs are being developed as 64-bit applications now - the big three players, Avid, Apple, and Adobe, now all have 64-bit versions of their flagship programs, which means better performance with these formats. And in a stunning trend, it's getting harder to find computers with FireWire ports, which are key for using DV tape, as computer manufacturers move to USB3. I'm still scratching my head over that one. Thunderbolt is coming soon, though...

Honestly, if I were to be buying a camera now, I'd be giving a really good, long look at some of the file-based cameras, namely those which use removable media like SDHC or SDXC cards. Storage is getting cheaper, computers are becoming more powerful, and the quality of these cameras is getting better and better. For long-term backups, Blu-Ray drives and discs are getting cheaper, as are, again, large hard drives.

It may be a good 4-5 years after people started saying it, but I am starting to believe that tape is finally on its last legs. There are still some great tape cameras out there, cameras like Canon's HV40 - but the gap between their benefits and those of file-based cameras is getting very, very narrow now.

Getting a camera for home use, I'd probably make the jump to a file-based format now. Maybe that's just me. However, for professional use, I'd look for a format like AVC-Intra, or a camera with SDI output, as those are the ways to keep intraframe compression options.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How do i connect a cannon Zr500 mini dv camcorder to my computer without having a dv port?

Q. I Dont have anything but a usb port on my computer and i have a dell dimension 3000 desktop computer if there is a way to connect please list the things that can help me connect it

A. get a IE1394 (firewire) pc card off ebay for $1-2. Then get a transfer cable with a 6 pin connector for your pc on one end and a 4 pin connector on the other for your camcorder. (again $1-2 plus shipping). If you really need it soon, head over to your nearest electronics store, but its going to cost about $40 compared to $10. Putting in a firewire card is the easiest way to get your digital footage onto your computer without any quality loss (i.e. through analog inputs). You can then use Windows Movie Maker 2 to edit the footage. (Free download if you dont already have it)


What camcorder should i get for amateur movies?
Q. a few friends and i want to start filming some short movies and such but we need a camera... what is the best camera you think we can get for about £1000 - £3000...

we are looking for value for the money as well as getting the best spec we can. We want the picture to look as good quality and professional as we can.

thanks

A. Sony DCR-VX2100E Professional Digital Camcorder
3CCD Imaging System
2 Lux Minimum Illumination
58 mm Lens
12x Optical Zoom / 48x Digital Zoom
Optical Super SteadyShot
530 TV Lines Camera Resolution
Precision Colour Viewfinder
i.LINK (DV in/out)
Analogue in/out
Exposure Dial
Powered Zoom Ring
2.5" Precision Colour LCD
Memory Stick Slot
Intelligent Accessory Shoe
STAMINA 9h (with optional battery)

£1,739.45 + £3.48 shipping
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sony-DCR-VX2100E-Professional-Digital-Camcorder/dp/B00022LTXI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1237739686&sr=1-5&tag=winkkk-21&linkCode=ur2&camp=1634&creative=6738





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

whats better in flash camcorders, a higher number of optical zooms or a higher number digital zoom?

Q. Thinking of buying a panasonic flash camcorder with 70x optical zoom and 3500 digital zoom. Is this any good?

A. Higher optical zoom is better. Optical zoom is the only true zoom. Digital only crops the image and then enlarges it, so you lose image quality.


Digital versus optical zoom in camcorders: How do they work side by side?
Q. I understand that a high optical zoom (when used) delivers a clear picture while a high digital zoom (when used) delivers an unclear picture. What I want to know is, do these 2 different features work dependantly or independantly from each other? Are there camcorders that come with both high optical zooms and low digital zooms at the same time? Or does having a high optical zoom inevitably impose the camera with a high digital zoom? And, if this is the sad but true case, can the digital zoom be deactivated during shooting, leaving active only the optical zoom, so that zooming is done optically instead of digitally, for the sake of capturing a clear and well defined picture, instead of a fuzzy, pixelated image? By the same token, just for knowledge purposes, can the optical zoom be deactivated while leaving active only the digital zoom?

A. Typically, the optical zoom would be used 1st until it has reached the upper limit, then the digital zoom takes over at that point. Therefore, the digital zoom is more of a supplement to the optical zoom.

Here's a good explanation of digital zoom:
http://www.dpreview.com/learn/?/Glossary/Digital_Imaging/Digital_zoom_01.htm





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Looking for good camcorder to make videos for skateboarding?

Q. Whats a good camcorder for skateboarding?
Needs:
Good is low light
High quality video and i mean HD silky smooth video
Awesome audio
Good battery life
Easy to use w/computer
Umm my budget is around 500.00 and please give me some examples.

A. i suggest Panasonic HDC-SD60K since your budget is 500 dollars..

Technical Details
2-11/16" widescreen LCD
25X optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 1500X)
High-definition video resolution: 1920 x 1080
Optical image stabilization
Face recognition tracks your subject within the frame (up to 6 registered subjects)


What is the best cameras/camcorders for skateboarding?
Q. Looking within probably 250-450 dollars (US) for a good camera, with multi-shot and the like, or a good camcorder. Any suggestions or anyone who could lead me to a site that has suggestions would be great.

A. If you are really on a budget and want the best quality for the money, check out the P&S Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 which has more features than most pro DSLRs that require auxiliary lenses not even equal to the single initial full-range lense that comes with the FZ28. It is reviewed at:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/panasonic_fz28.html

It just came out on November 4, 2008.

It's an all-in-one 10.1 megapixel DSLR camera which includes (i) built-in image stabilization; (ii) HDTV quality video [Quicktime]; (iii) a 18x zoom [27 - 486 mm (35mm equiv.)] "Leica" lense for nature photography; (iv) up to 0.39 inch macro option; (v) up to 6400 ASA; (vi) takes up to 380 pictures per 120 min. battery charge; (vii) has a "burst speed" of 13 fps; and sells new for $270 at amazon.com.

Here's an actual handheld picture of the moon:

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/bf/1b/a83ac060ada0881604bad110.L.jpg

Good luck!





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Rabu, 20 November 2013

Where can I find which camcorders are the best for me?

Q. I am looking for a camcorder that uses a mini DVD. Anyone have any recommendations or links to consumer reports?

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

& all the mini-DVD camcorders with reviews/ratings:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/d/Reviews&level_b=Camcorder&level_c=DVD.htm


What type of camcorder should i get?
Q. I just want a light camcorder that i can videotape me & my friends with but i don't know a lot about cameras.

A. check out the reviews:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/ratings.php





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How do i import videos from a memory card on a Canon NTSC ZR200 camcorder to imovie?

Q. PLEASE HELP ME. please...
i have a Canon NTSC ZR200 camcorder and a mac with OS X software.
i want to upload some videos i made on the cameras MEMORY CARD to the computer.
i tried to use a firewire AND usb (not at the same time).
none of them work.
please help me. im desprate. please.
thank you.

A. Not directly.

Take the card out and use a card reader to copy the files to the Mac.

Download and install MPEG StreamClip and convert the very highly compressed video to MOV or MP4 format that iMovie can deal with.

When the conversion is complete, quit MPEG StreamClip and launch iMovie. Drag the converted video to the capture area or the clips pane (depends on the version of iMovie).

Warning: The original video on the memory card is REALLY compressed. When you fill a monitor or TV when playing back, the video quality will be terrible. This is not unexpected.

If you want high quality video, then record the video to the miniDV tape. That is DV-format and can be imported to iMovie with the firewire cable connecting the camcorder's DV port to the Mac's firewire port - and the camcorder in Play mode.


How do I connect a DCR-HC36 Sony Camcorder with 2009 iMovie on a macbook?
Q. I need to use iMovie for a project, and everyone keeps saying that the video camera should just pop up in iMovie. However, mine doesn't. Yes, it is on.

A. The USB Streaming of this Camcorder is not compatible with the Macintosh Computer.
However, you can use an i.LINK/Firewire Cable to transfer the videos to the Computer.
You can also use an A/V Cable to transfer the videos from the Camcorder to the Computer.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How good is Sony Bloggie MHS-CM5 for filming LIVE MUSIC?

Q. It seems like a decent HD camcorder for the price but I can't find any example's of it recording live music so I'm not sure how the audio would come out. Anyone use this camera for that purpose?
Thanks.

A. Unless it has a microphone jack and recording level control, no, it's not good for recording live music at all. Cheap consumer-grade camcorders are generally a bad idea for audio recording.

In a controlled recording situation (e.g. at home) you could try using a separate audio recording device (a computer with audio recording software and a quality microphone) and record every take with a clapperboard. You would have to re-synch audio and video track later in a video editing program (not Movie Maker, obviously).

If you are thinking about taking a camcorder to a live concert, it will mostly record the audience around you, and the music itself will be like background noise.


What kinda of video camera should I buy?
Q. I am somewhat on a budget, but I will pay for quality. I am mainly wanting it to record live music in bars, so I want something that can handle that much noise clearly.

This part is not necessary but I'm going on a canoe trip soon, so if there is one I can take down the river too, that would be awesome. But I don't want to sacrifice video/sound quality just for that.

A. Live music = loud = camera or camcorder needs some sort of audio gain control. I would also expect that these would be night scenes - or poor indoor lighting. Hopefully, there is stage lighting for the performers.

Canoe trip = waterproof. Generally, there are housings available for waterproofing, so I think the long-pole is the audio control.

Step 1: Set a budget.

At the low end, there's the GoPro Hero or something from the Canon HF R line. With the GoPro's using an external digital audio recorder like a Zoom H1 and synching audio when editing the video. With the proper camcorder like the Canon HF R series, then use the "attenuator" mic setting for loud audio and a waterproof "bag". The camera is not expected to deep in the water, so an expensive deep-water housing is not needed. I think the Ewa Marine VLA would fit most of the Canon HF series camcorders. Sony has its line of underwater housings for Sony camcorders so any of the HDR-series cams can work for both your needs... Another angle is the Zoom Q3HD and not use it while canoeing (but after landing).





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Film making camera that is not to expensive?

Q. im planning on getting into film making, so I've been looking for a great camera to help me out. Preferably, a professional camera but not anything that's going to pull my arm off and not to expensive. It will be used for independent filmmaking so I want it to have a great picture.

A. Any camcorder - if used within the camcorders specifications - can provide good results.

Use the camcorder outside its specs and you will get poor results.

As well, someone with experience can use any camcorder and get compelling content. Someone with no experience can get the most expensive camcorder made and produce poor results.

That said, there are things common to prosumer and professional grade camcorders...

1) Mic jack. This lets you connect a microphone so the camcorder can be further away that the built-in mics can deal with. Consumer and prosumer use 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo jacks. Pro grade uses XLR connectors.

2) Manual audio control. Loud audio will overwhelm the auto-mic gain. An external mic alone will not fix this - You need to be able to control the level of the audio going in to the camcorder. Most consumer cams do not have manual audio control - those that do control the audio level from their menu. Prosumer and prograde have control on the outside of the camcorder - easy to get to and use.

3) Big lenses and imaging chips. Since you never know when you need to capture video, you need to be able to handle as many different lighting conditions as possible. Capturing video under good lighting conditions, any camcorder can do that. Low light conditions means big lenses to allow the lighting in and big imaging chips to capture that light. A starting point for prosumer lenses is 72mm diameter.

4) Cheap storage and video archive capability.

In the consumer camcorder environment, the closest you can get is the Canon HV40. The lenses and imaging chips are small like any other consumer cam, it is the least expensive camcorder with manual audio control. But it does DV and HDV and 24p and has a mic jack and uses miniDV tape.

In $ order: Canon GL2, Panasonic AG-DVX100b, Sony HDR-FX7, HDR-FX1000, Canon XHA1, Panasonic AG-HVX200, Sony HVR-Z5, Canon GY-HM100, HVR-Z1, HVR-Z7... and they go up from here.


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





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What camcorder should i get for Christmas?

Q. Trying to pick out a good hi-def camcorder for Christmas. I enjoy making short films...but not with my mom's old 90's camcorder. I would like to get a little more professional. Does anyone have suggestions for what camera would be good for beginners keeping it under $1000? Don't know if it matters, but I have a Mac.

A. well i might be getting the SVP T400S 1280 x 720p HD Camcorder with 8GB SDHC from overstock.com for 135 but i don't know if its compatible with a mac.


What is the best 3 ccd mini dv camcorder on the market for doing mini docuementries on YouTube?
Q. I want to do a video business update blog to my clients once a week. I'm going to use YouTube as my portal I'm looking for a good cameral with high quality picture. I have to stay under $1000 for the camera. I don't need a lot of manual controls but ease of use is important. We already know how to do the lighting.

A. Covering the lighting is great - you did not say how you were going to cover the audio. If you are takking care of audio externally, then you do not need to read further. If you want the camcorder to take care of the audio, keep reading.

Any camcorder with a Mic-in jack and manual audio control will work.

The cheapest camcorders that have these are the Canon HV20, HV30, Sony HDR-HC7 and HC9. All use CMOS chips. All can do standard definition (DV) and high definition (HDV).





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the best cameras/camcorders for skateboarding?

Q. Looking within probably 250-450 dollars (US) for a good camera, with multi-shot and the like, or a good camcorder. Any suggestions or anyone who could lead me to a site that has suggestions would be great.

A. If you are really on a budget and want the best quality for the money, check out the P&S Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 which has more features than most pro DSLRs that require auxiliary lenses not even equal to the single initial full-range lense that comes with the FZ28. It is reviewed at:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/panasonic_fz28.html

It just came out on November 4, 2008.

It's an all-in-one 10.1 megapixel DSLR camera which includes (i) built-in image stabilization; (ii) HDTV quality video [Quicktime]; (iii) a 18x zoom [27 - 486 mm (35mm equiv.)] "Leica" lense for nature photography; (iv) up to 0.39 inch macro option; (v) up to 6400 ASA; (vi) takes up to 380 pictures per 120 min. battery charge; (vii) has a "burst speed" of 13 fps; and sells new for $270 at amazon.com.

Here's an actual handheld picture of the moon:

http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/bf/1b/a83ac060ada0881604bad110.L.jpg

Good luck!


What is a good camera/camcorder to film skateboarding?
Q. I need a camera to film skateboarding and I want one that can not only film well but take pictures also. My range is about 200-400$! And it has to be able to put a fisheye lens on it.

A. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V as the video is amazing, with many options, zooming while shooting, stereo sound, great auto focus, fantastic in low light. Keep in mind that for the highest quality setting, 1080p/60 fps AVCHD, if you want to view it on a Mac, you'll need to have the latest version of iMovie '11, running on at least the latest version of Snow Leopard (OS 10.6.8). Of course, you can now upload these .MTS files directly to the various on-line sites such as Facebook, YouTube, and Google+/Picasa, and you can view them on your HDTV through the mini-HDMI out (which is great).





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Selasa, 19 November 2013

What is the best camcorder to take ghost hunting?

Q. Ok so i need to know what is the best cam camcorder to take ghost hunting. I need one that has night vision and infrared. Also if there is anything else that can help me at night like another light to put on top of my cam corder. Where can i buy these cam corders and accessories. To take Ghost hunting.

A. There are very many different types and brands of video recording devices and camcorders you can invest in. Finding one is not that hard and you do not have to spend a whole lot of cash to get one to suit your needs. The higher end video cameras are not cheap. The Infrared and "FLIR" Forward Looking Infrared cameras are upwards of $1,200.00 and unless you can fork out that much it really is not necessary to buy one. There are types and brands that have night vision features and settings you can acquire for around the $300.00 range. Best Buy is a great place to go and test these cameras out. You can have a store clerk assist you and you can also compare between them. Any camera, digital and film , is capable of capturing activity. As long as you are recoding and have it on a setting that is appropriate for the environment you are just as likely to get it with an inexpensive camera than with a higher end one. I've upgraded to a Digital SLR Nikon D 60 (still) but actually have captured more activity on my Kodak easy share. Its more being in the right place at the right time with what ever you have at the time not necessarily the best equipment. Happy hunting.


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!





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the best HD camcorder for around $300 or maybe a bit more with the best optical zoom?

Q. I want a camcorder with good quality, but nice optical zoom as well.
My cousin has an SDR-S26 Panasonic camcorder with 70x optical zoom, but it's standard definition.
Why can't companies make HD camcorders but with huge amounts of optical zoom like my cousin's?
Thanks.

A. It's a gimmick. It may have 70x zoom but you can NEVER hold it in your hand and zoom it in 70x while it's still watchable. (it will be shakey and out of focus)

So no there are no 70x zoom HD camera's its just a gimmick.


whats better in flash camcorders, a higher number of optical zooms or a higher number digital zoom?
Q. Thinking of buying a panasonic flash camcorder with 70x optical zoom and 3500 digital zoom. Is this any good?

A. Higher optical zoom is better. Optical zoom is the only true zoom. Digital only crops the image and then enlarges it, so you lose image quality.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Which camcorder is good for filming soccer games?

Q. I want to film my brothers soccer games and training so I wanted to buy a camcorder.
My budget is pretty low so nothing fancy.
My friend is selling Samsung HMX-F80BP, and I want to know can this one record soccer/football games. I would use tripod and just go left right left right with occasional zooming.

I also thought about Canon vixia m30 or r30 but those are a bit over budget so I probably will reconsider them in a few months.

A. HD Camcorders and DSLR Cameras interpolate the video, which means of every 25 frames of video, 4 or 5 frames are taken by the lens assembly; the other frames in between these are filled in by the camcorder inner circuitry, thus giving you not true video. It looks like this -one frame from the lens assembly, 7or 8 from the electronic circuitry, one frame from the lens assembly, 7or 8 from the electronic circuitry, one frame from the lens assembly, 7or 8 from the electronic circuitry, one frame from the lens assembly, 7or 8 from the electronic circuitry, from front to back of the video. Near impossible to edit, even when you have the Multi port processor computer with the big 1GB Graphics card and a Sound card that is required to edit, view, watch and work with the files these camcorders produce.

Consumer Level HD Camcorders and DSLR Cameras 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 and DSLR Cameras, 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 and DSLR Cameras 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 and DSLR Cameras. No event I have ever been to is that short. Either take multiple camcorders and DSLR Cameras or pack up with out getting the end of the event on video.

MiniDV is currently the most popular format for consumer digital camcorders. MiniDV camcorders are typically more affordable than their HDD and DVD counterparts. Each MiniDV tape will typically hold an hour of footage at normal recording speed and quality. MiniDV tapes are available for purchase at not only electronic and camera stores, but also at drugs stores and grocery stores, making them easy to find while your on vacation. There are literally hundreds of MiniDV camcorders available; both in standard and high-definition. And add the fact that to get a HD camcorder that could produce better video quality footage, one would have to spend in excess of $3500 for that camcorder that could produce higher quality video

http://simplevideoediting.com/learn/part1_camcorder_choices.htm

http://simplevideoediting.com/learn/part2_connect_camcorder.htm

http://usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/camcorders/consumer_camcorders/vixia_hv40#Overview


What kind of camcorder should I buy?
Q. I would like a really super nice camcorder. I want it to shoot clear and be able to zoom in and out and it not get blurry. I want it to focus and have close ups... I have no idea what I should even start looking for. It'd be nice to have something that won't burn a hole in my wallet. =]
Thanks =]

A. the JVC Everio camcorder is an excellant camcorder that takes very good, high-quality videos. Plus it's picture mode is amazing. I use it all the time for photo shoots. Especially at my brothers hockey and soccer games, it captures action shots GREAT! (the 30 GB one has 35X optical zoom) All you do is take maybe and hour and a half to charge it by plugging the AC cable in the wall to the back of the camcorder. And to upload, you have a USB cable which connects to your computer, to the front of the camcorder and pictures download quickly. For videos, it comes with a fantastic free program called PowerDirector which is simular to Windows Movie Maker but has a lot more effects which can be added! You must upload your video to this program anyway if your would like to upload it onto a site (e.g. Youtube, Facebook) to turn it into a MPEG file.
Check out Future Shop or Best Buy for your best deal. Both stores should have the camcorder included with a battery, an AC cable, an AV cable, USB cable, a shoulder strap, Remote Control and all software devices included. Check it out! (the price is only about $299.00 plus tax.)





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Senin, 18 November 2013

Looking for hard drive camcorder with audio in?

Q. I want to purchase a hard drive based digital camcorder with an audio in to attach an external microphone. Budget is around 400 dollars, any ideas?

A. For $400? does not exist... also, be aware that if you want to record loud audio, you will need manual audio controls... without it, the audio ato-gain circuit will still get overloaded making the audio sound bad - even if you have the best mic available.

The least expensive camcorders with manual audio control and a mic in jack are the Canon HV20, HV30, Sony HDR-HC7 and HC9. They are miniDV tape based camcorders.

The Sony HDR-SR11 and SR12 have a "Low" mic gain setting made for loud environments - but they are way outside your budget.


What high definition video camera would work great with iMovie?
Q. Price range of 100-400 dollars.
please paste the websites too.
Thanks!

A. If you are using the current version of iMovieHD08, then any of them, but there are extra steps to get the video into the computer and the cheap HD cams provide poor quality video unless:
1) the camera does not move and the subject moves only a little;
2) the lighting is perfect (no low light - ever... at all);
and
3) the audio is perfect (not too loud and not too soft).
And your Mac needs to be an Intel-chip Mac.

Actually, I should be saying that there is no high definition camcorder in that price range that anyone should waste their money on. The least you should be looking at is the Canon HV30 or Sony HDR-HC9.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

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.


How is the quality of your videos transferred from a camcorder to your Mac/PC?
Q. Yesterday I have started transferring my videos from my digital camcorder to my Mac using Pinnacle Video Capture. The quality is not that good (not as good as when I watch them on my TV) and the sound doesn't follow the image. Is it normal? Could I have a problem with my cables?

A. What's happening ? You're speeking English today ????
Sorry, I can not answer your question but I give you a big big kiss...
See you later (in French this time please.... lol)





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the best hard drive camcorder on the market right now?

Q. I'm looking for a hard drive camcorder that easily hooks up to my computer. I'm just a home/vacation user so it doesn't have to have all the bells and wissles.

Thanks for the answers!

A. well i work in the retail business and there are two top sellers that everybody loves and that's JVC or Sony but in my personal opinion i think the JVC gzmg130us is the best try looking at the websites i put below


Does it matter what type of MiniDV tape is used for MiniDV Hi-Definition camcorders?
Q. Some Hi-Definition camcorders on the market use MiniDV just like some non-HD camcorders. There seem to be two kinds of MiniDV tapes: the standard kind which is most commonly found, and a special, more expensive kind which seems to be aimed at HD consumers. Would it be better to use a standard MiniDV tape in an HD MiniDV camcorder, or would it be better to use the more expensive kind?

A. they are the same.
however, miniDV has been on the market for over 10 years now and if you have to buy tape in an emergency from an unknown vendor, i would recomment the HDV label because that at least would be new stock.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Pawn shop sold my stuff that was stolen from me. What can I do?

Q. I had my Sony hdr-xr200v handycam stolen around 11/2012. I knew the kid that did it but had no proof. (Frustrating)

(as of 02/2013)
I recently was tipped off that he sold it to a local pawn shop who in turn sold it off to someone else. I made a police report back the same month it was taken out of my car. I haven't been to the store yet but I don't know what to expect. I know they must have in on their books still.

Is there any way that I can get any amount of recompense for the camcorder?

I live in Vermont and pawn shops here are set up so that they don't hold your items. They buy your stuff and sell it off as fast as they can.

A. you go to the police with the information you received. Pawn shops keep records and the police can access them. the records should include the serial number and the name [and ID] of the person who sold it to them. If the serial number matches, the police then have evidence to charge the person who sold the item to them with dealing in stolen property.

and you sue that person in small claims court to get your recompense. [not the pawn shop -- to successfully sue them, you'd have to show they did something wrong.]


Best all around camcorder?
Q. I need an hd camcorder that has a pretty large zoom and 300 dollars or less (ish). I will be using it for makeup tutorials and shooting fast motion horse riding clips. I need an all around good camcorder 2013. Thanks

A. You should go with Sony HDR-CX220/B since your budget is $300.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-HDR-CX220-Definition-Handycam-Camcorder/dp/B00AR95H0W/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&tag=informazcom-20

It has good quality. Nice zoom. Supports full 1080p in 60 fps. Go read some reviews.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What brand is the best in High-Definition Digital Camcorder?

Q. What brand of High-Definition Digital Camcorder is the best seller?

A. Brand is nearly irrelevant - what do you need? That said, check the Sony, Panasonic and Canon lines - NOT consumer cams - prosumer or pro.


How do I write videos from the camcorder on a disc?
Q. I have a high definition camcorder which writes videos in mst format. How should I write them on a dvd disc? Do you know what AVCHD stands for?

A. AVCHD ("Advanced Video Coding High Definition")
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AVCHD
creates MTS files.

If you copy the MTS files to a blank DVD using your computer or a stand-alone DVD writer (like Canon's DW100 or Sony's VRD-MC6 or VBD-MA1 recorders), the discs can be played using a BluRay player but not regular DVD player. If the files are transcoded to VOB files by the DVD recorder or a DVD authoring application like MyDVD or iDVD for regular DVD player playback (the BluRay player can play them, too), the video will be only standard definition.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the average battery life for the Toshiba Camileo s20 camera?

Q. Any ideas what the average battery life is on the s20? I've been looking online and I'm getting conflicting reports. some say it lasts about an hour, others say upto 4 hours.. confusing....

A. try to search in toshiba.com
video&electronics -> camcorders


how much battery life should I expect out of most standard p and s cameras?
Q. Looking for a used video/still camera. I am wondering how much battery life to expect in video mode before the battery runs out. I know it varies greatly, but I need to know what I should look for?

A. It depends on the camera - I think you already know this. Look for the highest "milli amp hours" (mAH) rating on the battery. More amp hours = more power stored in the battery. They will all be around the same. If it is that much of a concern, just get an optional rechargeable battery from the manufacturer and have it charged and ready to go. When the one in the camera is drained, replace it (and, if possible, start recharging it).

Point and shoot cameras are designed to capture still images - and can do that well. Video (and audio) is is "convenience feature". Don't expect much and you'll have great video. Expect the camera to behave like a camcorder and plan to be disappointed.

If the battery that comes with the previously owned camera you get came with the camera when it was new, it will not have as long of a image capture life as a new battery. Li-Ion batteries have a lot less of the "memory effect" (NiCads can have a huge memory effect), but over time, they all lose their ability to fully recharge like when they were new.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

VHS-C vs. flash memory camcorders?

Q. I still use a JVC GX-AX200 VHS-c camcorder from 1995 with the Random Assemble feature. I've wondered about updating, but all the new digital camcorders I've seen tend to produce grainy pictures, where my old one has a beautiful picture. Other than the sheer size of it, it works fine, but it just seems to obsolete (not having an external screen and having physical zoom). Should I update to a digital format or continue to convert my videos from tape to my computer?

A. I originally wasn't going to spend so much on a new camcorder. I had bought the Canon HF 100 a few years ago, and was fairly happy with it. It was nice, but definitely had its drawbacks. So, I started researching Canon's new line for 2011 and was torn between the M40 and G10. Having the new CMOS Pro sensor was a must. Everything I read about the low light capabilities sold me. Basically Canon went with a smaller pixel count (exactly 1920 x 1080), which in turn makes the pixels larger and better in low light shooting. I originally bought the M40 and was very happy with it, but started to realize it wasn't fitting all my needs. That went back, and I went with the G10. I have not looked back since!





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

What is the best HD camcorder for around $300 or maybe a bit more with the best optical zoom?

Q. I want a camcorder with good quality, but nice optical zoom as well.
My cousin has an SDR-S26 Panasonic camcorder with 70x optical zoom, but it's standard definition.
Why can't companies make HD camcorders but with huge amounts of optical zoom like my cousin's?
Thanks.

A. It's a gimmick. It may have 70x zoom but you can NEVER hold it in your hand and zoom it in 70x while it's still watchable. (it will be shakey and out of focus)

So no there are no 70x zoom HD camera's its just a gimmick.


What's a good camcorder with a built-in light?
Q. I'm looking for a relatively small/cheap camcorder (good quality but not willing to spend like $1000 on it) with a built-in light. I can't seem to find any that aren't a ridiculous amount of money.

A. Admittedly I'm basing my answer entirely on my Canon HV20 (which originally retailed for $1000+ new,) but I doubt you'll find many good ones. Built-in lights will be small so it won't add bulk or sap too much power, and not really illuminate too much.

You'll probably be better served by purchasing a separate video light





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

How do I download video from my camcorder hard drive to my computer?

Q. I have a JVC everio with a hard drive. We've never been able to download anything to a computer. The instruction manual is completely unhelpful in this area. We were doing it on a DVD player/burner with our TV but that has now died. We need to get the video off badly. Can you please help? I'd be glad to add more info if it's needed. Also, layman's terms please. This is definitely not my area. Thanks.

A. I have a similar camera. There should be something in the settings about what to do when your cam is connected by USB. You want it to act like a hard drive. Then you should get a pop up window when you plug the camera cable into your computer (like when you plug in a thumb drive) and you will see something like "DCIM" or "JVC1000" or whatever as a folder name. Just browse around and you should find your video and then drag it (or everyting) over to your desktop and you will be fine.

Best of luck!


what is difference between a hybrid camcorder and only hard drive camcorder?
Q. Hi, can any one please let me know what is a difference between a hybrid camcorder and only hard drive camcorder example: SONY SR42 and SR45 camcorder

A. a hybrid can put video onto a memory card in addition to the HDD. this requires using a high speed card, a generic SD isn't fast enough for video.





Powered by Yahoo! Answers

Minggu, 17 November 2013

What is a good brand of digital camcorder thats under $500?

Q. I am looking to purchase a camcorder for a vacation and would like to know if anyone has had any experiances with Mini DV and/or Hard Drive camcorders. Anything you can provide as far as what to look for and what to avoid would be appreciated. I would like to spend under $500. Thanks in advance.

A. I've always bought cannon and have been pleased with them as well as others i know who've bought them.

I would suggest Mini DV. Cannon usually has three ZR models for under 400. Each one is roughly the same with just a few differences between each one.


What is the Best camera & camcorder to get for taking pictures in the dark and records music?
Q. I'm going to a concert, I want to take some pictures
I need a camera that is:
-lightweight
-takes sharp pictures of people in the dark
-a camcorder that takes pictures and records sound
under $500.00 preferable!
Can you help me out?

A. my suggestion
go to yahoo shopping
digital cameras
digital camera GUIDE
be sure to check titles on the left side
the guide should answer your questions





Powered by Yahoo! Answers