ellie
under 80 dollars
Answer
Hi again, Amber:
If you are using the term "flip video camera" in the generic sense (like when people say "kleenex" or "q-tip", and don't necessarily mean the brand name, just the object type), there are a lot of under-$80 pocket-cams.
But the Cisco Flip camcorders haven't been made for almost 2 years, now. So, getting an actual Flip model wouldn't be advisable.
For just sit-down talk-to-the-camera video posts, simply using a good, auto-focus webcam gives you the best bang-for-your-buck, in the under-$100 price class. Logitech makes the HD Pro Webcam C910 and C920 models, which are top-of-the-line and still in your $80 price range. Other decent webcams sell for around $50. Get one with good sound and focus features. And use plenty of lighting for good video quality.
When you record a vlog with a webcam, the video file is already on your computer, ready to edit or upload. With many cheap camcorders, the videos don't always work with your computer's built-in software (causing you to spend another $80-$100 on better edit software). With an $80 webcam, all the money goes to lens, video sensor, & mike features, not the extra display screen, file storage, and charger/batteries that a camcorder would require for the same money.
hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
Â
Hi again, Amber:
If you are using the term "flip video camera" in the generic sense (like when people say "kleenex" or "q-tip", and don't necessarily mean the brand name, just the object type), there are a lot of under-$80 pocket-cams.
But the Cisco Flip camcorders haven't been made for almost 2 years, now. So, getting an actual Flip model wouldn't be advisable.
For just sit-down talk-to-the-camera video posts, simply using a good, auto-focus webcam gives you the best bang-for-your-buck, in the under-$100 price class. Logitech makes the HD Pro Webcam C910 and C920 models, which are top-of-the-line and still in your $80 price range. Other decent webcams sell for around $50. Get one with good sound and focus features. And use plenty of lighting for good video quality.
When you record a vlog with a webcam, the video file is already on your computer, ready to edit or upload. With many cheap camcorders, the videos don't always work with your computer's built-in software (causing you to spend another $80-$100 on better edit software). With an $80 webcam, all the money goes to lens, video sensor, & mike features, not the extra display screen, file storage, and charger/batteries that a camcorder would require for the same money.
hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
Â
I need to buy a camcorder for a documentary.?
Ellie
I know nothing about camcorders, at all. But, I'm making a film (Documentary) and I need to buy one. Audio is really important so, it needs to have a Mic-in jack (for like a lapel mic). There will be interviews with people. But, it also needs to have substantial sound on the equipment itself, because I will find myself in situations where taking the time to mic someone is not an option. Also, the actual visual quality itself is important (Obviously). I want it to look as professional as I can get it. There will be many different shots (Indoor/Outdoor. Dark/bright) and I would like it to look great wherever. It needs to be able to be put on a tri-pod. But, also carried around. So, portability is an issue. Lots of film editing will occur so, if the foootage could be transferred easily to my laptop that would be great. I just purchased a Macbook Pro and it needs to be 100% compatible with that. I also need to be able to burn the final project onto a DVD. And it needs to do all of this for under $1,000 -preferably less. Is this even possible? Am I crazy in thinking I can get this accomplished?
-Like I said I really know NOTHING about camcorders so I could really use some help and advice. And of course I know that when making a documentary Content is most important. I just want it to look well done. Thank you for all of your advice.
Answer
One of the considerations is will the video format work with your MacBook Pro. There are some video file formats that do not work well with either iMovie or Final Cut Pro. Knowing that will help you narrow down which camcorders to consider.
Apple does have a web page about compatible camcorders
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3290?viewlocale=en_US#2
And also check out these two reference options:
http://reviews.cnet.com/camcorders/
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/
If you are a novice user you are going to need help from the camcorder until you get comfortable and understand the features available to you. I would say a fair price range would be $500 to $850 but keep in mind that you will need a tripod and other items such as a back-up battery and storage media.
Audio: On-board audio can be a challenge. It will pick up everything from the air conditioning to someone sniffling. Or it might not pick up a soft voice speaker. A camcorder with an external mic jack is a very good thing. You don't have to pay top dollar for a mic. Another option is to have a broadcast quality digital recorder like the H1Zoom.
If you need more info a good place is Video WTF http://videowtf.com they do welcome new video creators and can help with almost anything.
One of the considerations is will the video format work with your MacBook Pro. There are some video file formats that do not work well with either iMovie or Final Cut Pro. Knowing that will help you narrow down which camcorders to consider.
Apple does have a web page about compatible camcorders
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3290?viewlocale=en_US#2
And also check out these two reference options:
http://reviews.cnet.com/camcorders/
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/
If you are a novice user you are going to need help from the camcorder until you get comfortable and understand the features available to you. I would say a fair price range would be $500 to $850 but keep in mind that you will need a tripod and other items such as a back-up battery and storage media.
Audio: On-board audio can be a challenge. It will pick up everything from the air conditioning to someone sniffling. Or it might not pick up a soft voice speaker. A camcorder with an external mic jack is a very good thing. You don't have to pay top dollar for a mic. Another option is to have a broadcast quality digital recorder like the H1Zoom.
If you need more info a good place is Video WTF http://videowtf.com they do welcome new video creators and can help with almost anything.
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