Digital camcorders for mac?

C

alright well i got a sony digital DVD mini camcorder for christmas yesterday, and it does not work for mac... it says it on the box (thanks santa) now i returned it and got a panasonic mini DVD digital camcorder, on the box it says for mac and PC, but didnt actually say only the the cords work for mac. SO TO GET TO MY POINT CAN SOME ONE GIVE SOME SUGGESTIONS TO A GOOD (DOESNT HAVE TO BE MINI DVD) DIGITAL CAMCORDER THAT WILL WORK WITH A MAC OSX 10.4.11 AND IMOVIE 06'... PLEASE HELP!!!!!!

Answer
Um... You did not tell us which Mac... and you did not tell us your camcorder budget.

Almost ALL Macs made in the last 10 years have a firewire port. If your Mac has a firewire port, then any MiniDV tape based camcorder will work great. The new MacBooks and MacBook Air do not have a firewire port and no way to add one. All other Macs made in the last ten years have a firewire port.
Entry level: Canon ZR900, ZR930 (consumer grade)
Low: Canon HV30, Sony HDR-HC9 (consumer grade)
Med: Canon XHA1, Sony HDR-FX1000 (prosumer grade)
High: Canon XL series, Sony HVR series (professional grade)
The firewire cable is not included in the box. They are cheap.

ALL Macs made in the last 10 years have a USB port. This means Flash memory and hard disc drive camcorders can connect. The video from these camcorders may need to be converted using StreamClip
http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/video/mpegstreamclip.html
Low: Canon HF10, HF11, HF100, Sony HDR-CX11, HDR-CX12 (consumer grade)
Med: There are none.
High: Panasonic HVX200 (uses P2 cards - professional grade)
A USB cable is typically included in the box.

DVD based camcorders barely make useful doorstops.

I use iMovieHD '06 on my iMac G5 flatpanel and have been editing 1080i high definition (and standard definition) video for several years from my Sony HDR-HC1 and HDR-FX1.

Do JVC Camcorders, work with mac video formats?

El Camino

i'm buying a new video camera, and i use a mac to edit... can Jvc camcorder footage be uploaded to macs

Answer
If you have a JVC Camcorder,you must be familiar with the MOD and TOD files.Let me give you some details about mod and tod.

In order to meet peopleâs different kinds of requirements in video recording, camcorder manufacturers have developed numerous types of camcorders. However, the recorded formats produced by these camcorders are various and special, and are not widely accepted by Mac or most portable devices we often use in daily life; therefore, these formats usually bring some troubles to camcorder users, MOD and TOD are the two formats among them.
Both MOD and TOD are the informal tapeless video formats produced by certain digital camcorders. And both of them have never been given to any meaning explanations or official names by their creators JVC or Panasonic.
You can use mac to edit ,but first ,you have to convert these mod or tod to MP4, AVI, MOV, etc. on Mac OS X..I find this software is convenient to use.
http://www.applemacvideo.com/mac-video-converter.html#119

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How is the Flip Camcorder. Does it have a competing product?

Stacey

Answer
I own a Flip UltraHD and it does pretty good recordings ( view some of my videos here - http://www.youtube.com/xmlspy )

The top competing cameras are:
Kodak Zi8
Creative Vado

As of right now the UltraHD might be the best for the price ($155 - http://bit.ly/au83Nf ) followed by the Kodak Zi8 ( $180 - http://bit.ly/afSudd )

The one camera that I'm waiting for is the Kodak Playsport, which is waterproof too.
http://gizmodo.com/5441046/kodak-playsport-rugged-pocket-cam-1080p-under-the-sea
Dem video here - http://bit.ly/bJwBp2

Kodak Waterproof 3meters Camcorder play sport EIS >> iMovie?

amelia

So, I got a new video camera, and I'd like to import some videos without putting them through iPhoto first. When I click the button that brings up the "open camera import window", it automatically goes to my computer's camcorder and doesn't have the option to change it to my video camera. I've also tried going to file>import from camera on the top, but that doesn't work either. The video camera is a Kodak Waterproof 3meter, and I'm not very computer savvy, so please be specific(: Thanks so much.

Answer
As playsport captures video in mov format which belongs to container format. Sometimes it contains codec that other sotware could not be recognized. Read the following tutorial and evaluate by yourself.

http://www.kodak-video-converter.com/how-to-importedit-kodak-video-into-imovie-on-mac.html

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Which camera/camcorder is best for shooting a short film?

Joey

What about T3i and 5D mask 2?

Answer
It depends on your requirements and experience.

Set a budget.

Pocket cams, point and shoot cameras and entry-level consumer camcorders start at around $100 and their small lenses and imaging chips prevent them from providing good video in low light. They are "good" because they are inexpensive. There usually is no mic jack and no manual audio gain control. Kodak Z series. (GoPro and Contour up to about $300.)

At around $600, the mid range of consumer camcorders does a little better in low light because the lens diameter is larger as is the imaging chip, but the better bet is to add light. A mic jack appears and there may be some manual audio gain control. dSLRs start here - the lenses bump you into the high bracket and audio control is limited - as well, they overheat and have file size and duration limitations. Canon HF R series; HF M series.

At around $1,100, the high end of consumer camcorders have a mic jack, manual audio control and a few other useful features buried in the menu and difficult to get to and use. Canon HF S series.

The "prosumers" start at around $1,500. the lenses and imaging chips are larger, the audio gain control, might move to the outside of the camcorder along with a shared manual focus/or/zoom ring. Sony HDR-FX7.

The high end of the prosumers gets us to about the $2,600 range - like the Sony HDR-FX1000. Large lens filter diameter and large 3-element (in this case 3CMOS) imaging chip. Basically a pro camcorder, but lacking XLR audio inputs relying on 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo audio input meaning you get to augment that with a XLR adapter from juicedLink or BeachTek. Low compression high quality video. Lots of manual controls on the outside of the camcorder.

Then the pro grade gear goes up to about $80,000. Sony HVR-Z5, Z7; Panasonic AG-HVX200; Canon XF100 and XF300; Red, Silicon Graphics and others...

So... set a budget and define "good".

Canon, Panasonic and Sony are "good" consumer, prosumer and professional camcorder manufacturers. So is JVC. GoPro and Contour make "good" action cameras.

Tripods and other steadying devices, mics, and maybe lights and a bunch of other equipment will be needed, too.

dSLRs (like the T3i and 5D Mark 2) are designed to capture still images. They can do well with that. Download and read the manuals from Canon... problems capturing video include overheating (and shutting down - cool down is a long time), motor noise from the zoom and focus motors will be recorded by the internal mic, internal mic is mono, use of good XLR mics requires a XLR adapter (juicedLink or BeachTek), file size limitations, video duration limitations, and more... These can be worked around, but the experience tells you how to workaround... This does not mean they cannot capture good video - they can - but it is a challenging and sometimes difficult environment to deal with. You might save money in the immediate term, until you learn that the video capture device is not the only investment needed...

If video is important, then use a camcorder. If stills are important, then use a dSLR.

Good camcorder for short films?

Amy Everde

I'm looking for a good camcorder as I want to make some short films for YouTube. I'm willing to pay around 1000 euro. It would also be good if it had night vision. Thanks in advance :)

Answer
HD camcorders 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 processor computer with the big Graphics and sound cards that is required to edit, view, watch and work with the files a HD camcorder produces.

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

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://www.canon.ca/inetCA/products?m=gp&pid=1017#_030

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Best camcorder available for any price?

Eric

I am looking to buy a new camcorder, preferably sony, or canon. I'm looking for one that has really good frame rate and will play back in smooth slow motion, but will still record in 1920 x 1080p resolution that will use a SDHC memory card. I have Windows 7 so it must be compatible with that. anything around or about 2,500 dollars. Any suggestions will be appreciated, thanks.

Answer
It would cost in excess of $3500 to get a HD camcorder that could equal the video Quality of a $300 MiniDV tape camcorder.

Consumer level HD camcorders have 3 problems. 1) Blurry, fuzzy, out of focus areas closely around people in videos taken by consumer level HD camcorders. 2) Any movement, even a wave or lifting an arm, while in front of a recording consumer level HD camcorder, results in screen ghosts and artifacts being left on the video track, following the movement. Makes for bad video, sports videos are unwatchable. 3) Mandatory maximum record times - 1 hour, 30 minutes, 8 minutes, 3 minutes - all times advertised as maximum record time for some consumer level HD camcorders. No event i have aver been to is that short. Either take multiple camcorders or pack up with out getting the end of the event on video.

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

You can get a Canon ZR960 for $250. It is a MiniDV tape camcorder, has a Mic jack. You need a firewire (IEEE1394) card ($25 to 30) for the computer and a firewire cable (less than 10) to be able to transfer video to your computer.

best camcorder for my price range?

jsvargas94

I want to buy a camcorder that is capable of attaching a fish-eye lens. I am willing to spend up to $800. So if your a camcorder expert help me on finding a camcorder with the best quality picture for my price range. Thank you.

Answer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nRNpnYZFGWo


http://reviews.cnet.com/best-hd-camcorders/

canon vixia.

HD = http://www.amazon.com/High-Definition-Camcorders-Camera-Photo/b?ie=UTF8&node=110770011#/ref=sr_pg_2?rh=n%3A172282%2Cn%3A%21493964%2Cn%3A502394%2Cn%3A172421%2Cn%3A110770011&page=2&sort=-price&ie=UTF8&qid=1307441339

They have a 3ccd camcorder for 800 by panasonic.

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What is a good 1080p HD camcorder?

Leon

I need a good quality 1080p HD camcorder, that will be able to attach a lens to. i'm going to build a 35mm adapter for this camera, and i'm also thinking of buying final cut express. i've only got 300 dollars. please help me out! :D final cut is 2 hundred dollars so what is a good 100 dollar HD 1080p camcorder? thanks

Answer
THIS ONE IS GOOD
Bell & Howell DV1200HD 1080p High Definition ZoomTouch Digital Video Camera / Camcorder (Black) w/ Case
Technical Details
* h2.64 1080p Full HD Video
* 12.0 Mega Pixels Max Resolution
* 3.0" WIDESCREEN LCD 16:9 Touch Panel
* 20x Maximum Zoom w/ Auto Focus
* HDMI Output
http://www.amazon.com/Bell-Howell-DV1200HD-Definition-ZoomTouch/dp/B003F6B12M/?tag=bdd-linking-005-20

FOR MORE
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Delectronics&field-keywords=1080p+HD+camcorder&x=0&y=0&ih=1_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_1.1157_122&fsc=-1
$$$

Why is a 1080p camcorder cheaper than a 3ccd?

benjo_ferr

why is this

http://usa.chinavasion.com/images/chinavasion-CVSEJ-A4402-side1.jpg

cheaper than for example a 3ccd one?

or is it?

Answer
Any Chinese camcorder is going to be cheap... but also disappointing.

These days, a 1920x1080 sensor isn't significantly more expensive than a standard definition sensor. What really costs is large vs. small. Most of these Chinese camcorders have very tiny sensors, 1/6", 1/8", possibly even smaller (I don't know any details of the model you like, I've never seen it before). This will cause very poor performance in low light.

A consumer level camcoder should have a single sensor at 1/3" or so, or perhaps three 1/4" or 1/6" sensors (Panasonic makes a bunch of consumer-priced 3-chip sensors... they typically underperform a single larger sensor in low light). A pro/prosumer camcoder will have three 1/4" or 1/3" sensors, probably whether it's HD or SD. It's the sensor size that's expensive these days.

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Awesome Camcorder, Cheap Price?

ScOtTyZ

Does anyone know of a good camcorder that has the specs of an expensive camcorder but for a cheap price?
Under $150.00-$200.00, AVI or WMV format, lightweight, rechargeable (AC or USB) and supports 16:9.
Please provide product name, information, specs, where can I get it, etc.

Please, don't say "Get the Flip camcorder," I tried those, they suck, not great to work with...

http://www.youtube.com/uZuMaKi777z

Answer
AVI is not a video format, its a container that hold the video (like a box) the video inside can be almost anything. I remember that there was some cameras that recoded video as a WMV but that was ages ago.

you need to have an idea of what media you want to record to at that price you are probably looking at flash drive, that will give you the size and any reasonable one will allow you to recharge the batteries. If you are looking for better specs then you are going to have to spend more money, quality comes at a price.

If your budget is that then have a look at second hand ones, both Sony and Canon do reconditioned ones, normally a good saving, or look in the local paper.

You say "to work with" what do you want the camera for, cameras at this price are not the greatest in quality, they deliver good video, but.........

Good luck

RR

Camcorders?

Marianne k

What is the best brand for digital camcorders? JVC? SAMSUNG? ETC?

Answer
For years, I've done just fine by JVC, Canon, Sony, and Panasonic. I currently use a Panasonic camcorder (PV-GS65) at home, and have recommended a Panasonic professional camcorder (AG-HVX200) for a university TV organization, and we've been happy with both. Those cameras were selected for having the features we needed at the best price available. I'm not necessarily saying "go with Panasonic." There are other great brands out there, and any one of them is good if it meets your needs. It all depends on what you need to do with your camcorder.

Look at reviews and specifications. What do you want to do with your camcorder? Do you want to try editing, or do you simply want the easiest way to show video to your family? Do you plan on doing a lot of night shooting, or is spectacular performance in good light enough for you? Do you want a variety of manual control options? Where do you plan on using the camcorder? Do you plan on using an external microphone with your camcorder?

In short, find out exactly what you plan to use it for, and find out which one best meets your needs. The major brands have all been doing this for a long time, and all have a tendency to put out quality products.

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Dvd Camcorders?

TysonMan

I`m thinking of purchasing a Canon Dvd Camcorder, model DC220, any information on this product and on DVD Camcorders would be very muchly appreciated.

Answer
here's the thing...dvd camcorders are usuallyexpensive and donot have as high a quality of video in comparison to hardrive and tape recording cameras. on the other hand transfering video from a dvd camcorder to a computer is much simpler and faster than tape recording cameras. the ? you should ask yourself before buying should be
what am i going to use the camera for...if its just for recording events like school plays basketball games or other functions then you are probably okay with the dvd recoreder but if you plan on making short film for YouTube then you should look at a tape recorder
i will have to respond again later to give any info on this particular model but if you plan on doing the short video thing i'd recommend aJVC minidv camcorder with at least28x zoom and a dv connection which are usually priced at anytime $199.99-$399.99

Camcorders - DVD vs Non DVD?

Dylan P

I want to buy a 'family' camcorder and am baffled on all of the choices. Why would I want to buy a DVD Camcorder vs one that records on a different format?

Answer
SOME DVD camcorder can go straight from the camcorder to DVD player (Sonyâs do however a JVC a friend bought didn't work in DVD player)
DVD camcorders don't need any winding eg they can find a blank section on the disc in under a second and no over/under recording (when you record over the end of the last section recorded or there is a gap between recording sessions)
Lasers on DVD get less dirt on them than tape head do (less cleaning required)
But most camcorder discs are 80 minutes and tapes are 90.
The latest camcorders how use memory sticks or RAM memory (no moving parts)

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What are the best camcorders under 600 dollars?

Bleh-hahah

What are the best camcorders in market today under 600 $? Which companies are the best when it comes to camcorders - such as Nikon and Canon for digicams? How do I judge a camcorder - in digicams MP and Optical Zoom are important, what are the main properties for a camcorder?
I assume that getting a 1080p HD recording camcorder would be possible within 600 $. If not, how much can I expect?
I haven't owned a camcorder for over 5 years, so I have no idea what's good and what isn't.
And I want really good sound recording quality.
And I want really good sound recording quality.
Panasonic HDC-TM55K - I'm considering this seriously, any camcorders that are better and cost less than $600?
One of my main requirements is built-in memory - around 80 GB. Its very important but Panasonic HDC-TM55K has only 8 GB memory. Any other options?

Answer
Limiting yourself to built-in memory is not a good idea. Specifically, when you fill it and you don't have a place to dump the video to allow more recording, that can be frustrating. With removable memory cams (I guess you are stuck with flash memory) just carry blank memory cards. When the memory in the camcorder fills, take it out, put in a blank memory card and continue recording. Also, with internal memory, if you drop/break the camcorder, getting the video out *could* be a challenge. With removable memory, just take the memory card out and use a card reader to get to the video. (There are lots of reasons digital tape continues to be the preferred storage media among those who know better, but we won't go there for this response.)

For "really good sound recording quality" you need good mics and manual audio control. None of the consumer camcorders less than about $800 have manual audio control - but some have a mic jack.

The Panny you listed is OK... but as indicated, the internal memory is a limitation even though you can also use memory cards...

Within your budget, the best "system" with manual audio control is the Zoom Q3HD. The video won't be as good as the TM55 (though it is still high definition video) but the audio will blow every other cam under $600 out of the water.

If you want to stay with a traditional consumer grade camcorder, in no particular order, Sony, Canon, Panasonic and JVC are worth a look.

Digital cameras are "rated" using megapixel count. There is no "standard" for stills other than the formats used (JPEG, RAW, etc.) when creating the image files.

Camcorders need to work with televisions, so there are standards that need to be followed. In North America, NTSC is the "standard" (PAL and SECAM in other parts of the world). The integration with television playback means using horizontal lines. Standard definition video is 480 horizontal lines. High definition is 720 horizontal lines or 1080 horizontal lines. Above this is "ultra high definition" and typically not available in the lower end of camcorders.

Your stated budget puts you in the "mid" range of consumer camcorders.

The "important" things to consider with camcorders are (in my opinion):
1) LARGE lens filter diameter spec. Larger is better - this let more light in to the camcorder. In the range you are in, they will be in the 30mm-37mm area.
2) LARGE imaging chip - better yet, 3-chip array. Larger is better - this processes the light the lens let in. In the range you are in, 1/6" to 1/3" are possible.
3) Mic jack for external mic connectivity. In your range, this would normally be a 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo mic jack. If you use good XLR connecting mics, then you need a XLR adapter (BeachTek, JuicedLink).
4) Manual audio control. As indicated, this is generally not available in this price range.

Because a HUGE portion of video can be impacted by the audio captured, audio is very important - so this make mic quality and placement important. If your camcorder has only built-in mics, then "good audio" can depend on camcorder placement. The tradeoff could be less than optimum video capture. Conversely, good video capture *could* result in poor audio capture.

When you identify the camcorder you *think* you want, download the camcorder's manual from the manufacturer and read through it to be sure it has what you need. If you are unsure or are unclear about a specific capability, as back here. Start with the TM55 manual and verify that it has both a mic jack and manual audio control.
http://service.us.panasonic.com/OPERMANPDF/HDCSD60-MUL.PDF
(Tip: See page 68. The TM55 has manual audio control. The downside is the TM55 has no mic jack.)

And last... Digital still images are relatively easy to deal with. AVCHD compressed MTS video files are not. There is no software that comes in the box (with any consumer camcorder) that is at all useful for video editing. Assuming your computer was made in the last year or two, you *should* be OK (no netbooks - only real laptops or desktop machines), but a RAM increase might be needed. In the Windows environment, expect to get something like Sony Vegas or Adobe Premiere. For Macintosh, iMovie 08 or newer - though Final Cut Express provides a LOT more flexibility. And high definition video uses a TON of hard drive space and you don't want them fighting the systems internal drive free space, so plan on investing in an external hard drive just for the video editing project files.

What is the best camcorder under 600 dollars?

dearapd418

Is it Panasonic PV-GS 180? If it is, i am going to get one.

Answer
If Panasonic is your choice, and if u have a budget tht much, get a GS300 instead, its only a step down frm their flagship consumer miniDV cam, the GS500 (but many prosumers still give the older model GS400 a higher mark).
Pana's range of miniDV camcorders r good. They offer 3 CCDs instead of 1, resulting more vivid and trueer color reproductions.
Also, if video quality and ease of editing r your main priorities, get a miniDV cam. The format is still superior compared to DVD/Hardisk-based formats on newer cams. Thats why pro video guys r still using tape-based camcorders. Tapes r also cheap n can be reused many times (but keep it max 5 times) and stick to 1 brand of tape only.
go to the link below to read about it, and also to read many other reviews..

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best microphone accessory for sony camcorders?

Q. im looking for one that blocks out all sound except for the one's im pointing the microphone at. something like a directional microphone. something that doesn't distort sound and only focuses on the sound that it's pointing to. also, it has to fit sony

Answer
If your Sony camcorder has a 1/8" (3.5mm) mic-in jack, then your best bet is to get a wireless mic that lets you place the mic closer to the audio source. Audio Technica makes an affordable lavaliere that uses a 1/8" jack to connect the base station to the camcorder's mic jack. If you use a good shotgun mic, they will typically use an XLR connector so you will need an XLR adapter like those from BeachTek or juicedLink. Sennheiser makes awesome shotgun mics that are extremely directional (they have mic elements that pick up the audio coming from the side of the mic and reject that audio signal sent to the camcorder - but they are REALLY expensive).

If your Sony Camcorder has only the Sony proprietary "Advanced Interface Shoe", then the ONLY mics you can use with that are Sony-proprietary mics that are compatible with that AIS. Since the Sony AIS "shotgun mic" needs to be attached to the camcorder, it will pick up all the audio between the mic and the audio source. It has no way to know to pick up the audio you are pointing at because of the way sound travels.

There used to be an adapter that Sony made for the German market (I think it was the VKC100) that allowed you to connect and 1/8" mic connection through the AIS, but they discontinued that a LONG time ago and finding them in the US (bhphotovideo.com was the ONLY place that had them) is impossible...

Sound "distortion" happens when the audio is too loud for the camcorder's auto mic gain to handle. Some Sony camcorders have a mic ref level menu option - "Low" for recording LOUD environments. Some of the higher-end Sony camcorders have full manual audio control so you can bypass the auto-mic gain circuit. MOST of the consumer-grade camcorders from Sony, Panasonic, Canon, JVC and others have no way to control the audio so loud audio will be over-saturated and sound really muddy. You could spend LOTS of money on a mic, and this audio quality will not change. You need to control the audio level going in to the camcorder.

An alternative is to use an external "field recorder" like those from M-Audio, Edirol, Marantz, Zoom, TASCAM and others (my favorite, Fostex). They all have manual audio control. In the editing process, replace the audio from the camcorder with the audio from the field recorder. Since this is external, the camcorder manufacturer does not matter.

Sony or Panasonic camcorder?

c

Okay, so these are the camcorders I'm tossing up between at the moment:

Sony HDR-SR1

Sony HDR-PJ10E

or

Panasonic SDR-S50

Which of these would you recommend? And if none of them, could you suggest some others? I really wanted to get the Sony HDR-XR150 but it's been discontinued :(

Answer
I would recommend a Canon MiniDV tape camcorder. I would do this to save you disappointment you will have when you you take your new HD camcorder, shoot something moving and discover that all HD camcorder in the Consumer level, interpolate the video, making the video near impossible to edit and motion videos mostly unwatchable. When the HD camcorder interpolates the video, what it does is not good for editing, You see, if you used one of those camcorders to shoot a video, say it was 1000 frames long. Of those 1000 frames, 800 of them were not shot or recorded by the person holding the camcorder. Those 800 frames were made by electronic circuitry within the camcorder and the are throughout the video, like this - one frame from lens assembly, 7 or 8 from the electronics within the camcorder, one frame from lens assembly, 7 or 8 from the electronics within the camcorder, one frame from lens assembly, 7 or 8 from the electronics within the camcorder, one frame from lens assembly, 7 or 8 from the electronics within the camcorder, From front to end of the video. Then there is the issue of the Multi core computer with a big graphics and sound card that is needed to view, edit and work with HD video.

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Choosing a Sony Camcorder -?

techiplane

Hi, I am hoping to buy a sony camcorder to do one of my relations weddings. can somebody give me a suitible proffesional 3CCD model which i can support on my shulder too. I do not want to go in for those where the eye viewre is located right at the back and thus id have to keep holding and supporting on one hand too!

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

Look at the top offerings from Canon - if you're set on Sony:
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Professional-HVR-Z1U-Definition-Camcorder/dp/B00097HL6K

A New Flash Memory Camcorder?

Slyke

Hey I'm looking to buy a new flash memory camcorder, and I was wondering is the JVC GZ MS 120AU any good. If some one has a video that was taken using that camcorder please post it, or if you have used that camcorder please tell me how you like'd it.

Answer
it has many good reviews from its owners:
http://www.amazon.com/JVC-Everio-MS120-Flash-Camcorder/product-reviews/B001OMH1HI/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1

and here are some video samples:
http://www.testmateriel.com/image-son/video-jvc-gz-ms120-6055.html

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I want to buy a camcorder for under $500?

Rex

I will use it at my sons sports games and to capture memories of my new born and the rest of my family. Whats my best choice?

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

and a helpful buying guide:
http://www.easycamcorders.com/content/Beginners-Guide.htm

Top Christmas Gifts for this year!?!?

Kevin L

Preferably electronics or something to do with action sports

10 or more if you can : )

Answer
Kindle Wireless Reading
iPod touch
Flip UltraHD Camcorder
Blu-ray Disc Player
Wireless Internet Camera
iPod nano
Digital SLR Camera
HD Pocket Video Camera
GPS
Portable DVD Player
Clock Radio
LCD HDTV
http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Fbestsellers%2Felectronics%3Fie%3DUTF8%26ref_%3Dpd%255Fts%255Fpg%255F1%26pg%3D1&tag=products07e-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957

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A video-camera/camcorder under 500 dollars with best video quality possible?

I recently made a short film with my friends just using a digital camera that had a video capablities. Now i realized how much fun filming is and I want to do more. Now i just don't know what kind of video camera to get. I have a budget of up to 500 dollars and i want something that has really good quality(I know I might be asking for too much), has a large storage, and can be used with a tripod. I want to be able to edit my videos, but they won't be professional just for personal self-satisfaction. Really appreciate it.

Answer
Consumer level HD camcorders have 4 problems. 1) Blurry, fuzzy, out of focus areas closely around people in videos taken by consumer level HD camcorders. 2) Any movement, even a wave or lifting an arm, while in front of a recording consumer level HD camcorder, results in screen ghosts and artifacts being left on the video track, following the movement. Makes for bad video, sports videos are unwatchable. 3) These Consumer level HD camcorders all have a habit of the transferred to computer files are something you need to convert, thus losing your HD quality, to work with your editing software. 4) Mandatory maximum record times - 1 hour, 30 minutes, 8 minutes, 3 minutes â four different times advertised as maximum record time for some consumer level HD camcorders. No event I have ever been to is that short. Either take multiple camcorders or pack up with out getting the end of the event on video. Not to mention, but the computer you upload your HD files to has to have at least a 1 GB video card and a separate Audio card that can support Direct X® 9 technology. Your normal every day computer has massive troubles with HD video. Consumer level HD camcorders interpolate the video. This means they take one frame, make up the next 4 or 5 frames, take a frame and repeat this, over and over, for the remainder of the video, every video it takes is like this. With a MiniDV tape camcorder, record 60 or 90 minutes ( camcorder settings), 90 seconds or less to change a tape and record for 60 or 90 more and repeat till you run out of tapes.

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

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

Camcorder under $500 with 24 fps and 60 fps(in addition to 29.97)?

Joe Murphe

Just wondering as I am looking for a camcorder with good slow motion

Answer
I would suggest Canon VIXIA HFS100 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 10x Optical Zoom.1920 x 1080 Full HD recording; 24p Cinema Mode, 30p Progressive Mode.High quality video.

or cheaper one Canon VIXIA HF200 HD Flash Memory Camcorder with 15x Optical Zoom
1920 x 1080 Full HD recording; 24p Cinema Mode, 30p Progressive Mode

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What should I look for when buying a digital camcorder?

gary d

what is a hybrid comcorder.
what questions should i ask the salesperson when i go and buy one.
I am looking to spend no more than $600.
any suggestions??

thanks

Answer
Key Features
Screen: Having a large LCD screen built into the camcorder lets you more easily see what you're recording and facilitates playback previews. Be careful when considering a camcorder's screen, though--some don't work well in bright sunlight, an environment in which you'll often use the device. Most camcorders come with both an LCD screen and a viewfinder, giving you the option to use either. The viewfinder can be useful if you can't see the screen in bright light; it also uses less power than the screen, extending the camcorder battery's life. Also, if you are considering purchasing a camcorder that can shoot in wide-screen (720-by-480-pixel) format, look for a camcorder with a wide-screen LCD, which won't crop your view of the video you're shooting.

Lens: Every camcorder comes with a zoom lens that lets you get closer to your subject. Camcorder manufacturers don't always distinguish clearly between digital and optical zoom. The spec for maximum optical zoom is the more interesting figure: It denotes the maximum zoom that the camcorder can achieve by moving its lens elements. Most modern camcorders have at least a 10X optical zoom, which should be more than adequate for general purposes. A digital zoom, on the other hand, magnifies after the optical zoom is fully extended, and the camcorder then enlarges part of the image to fill the screen. This method leads to grainy, pixelated, and generally unpleasant-looking images. At higher digital zoom settings, the quality is so poor that you often can't see what you are taping.

Image stabilization: All camcorders offer one of two types of image stabilization--optical or electronic--to reduce jittery video caused by shaky hands. With optical stabilization, the camcorder's lens mechanism moves to compensates for external movement. With electronic image stabilization, the image captured by the lens "floats" on the CCD, and the camcorder uses internal circuitry after the image has been captured to interpret the video. Optical stabilization usually provides the best results; in the past it was typically found in more expensive camcorders, but these days some moderately priced models have it too.

Batteries: The amount of recording and playback time you get out of a battery varies, but most camcorders should be able to record for at least an hour with the included battery. Additional higher-capacity batteries typically cost from $50 to $100.

Microphones: Sound is almost as important to a video as the images. We've found that camcorders with microphones mounted in the front tend to produce better sound than those with microphones on the top of the unit; top-mounted microphones often pick up the voice of the person operating the camera, drowning out everything else. Some camcorders offer zoom microphones that emphasize the subject's voice when the zoom lens is used, and some also come with a socket for plugging in an external microphone. Either type of microphone can be very useful when you're recording presentations or speeches.

Still photography: Many digital camcorders can serve as digital cameras, saving still images to a memory card or to tape. Some can save images at the same resolution as a 5-megapixel camera (but watch out for models that produce interpolated high-resolution images from lower-resolution CCDs). However, none of the camcorders we've tested has performed as well at taking still pictures as a dedicated still camera--they don't provide the same level of control or the same image quality.

Controls: We have found that smaller camcorders can be a little more difficult to use because their controls don't naturally sit where your fingers fall, particularly if you have large hands. Of course, heavy, bulky models can get tiring to carry, so strive for a balance.

Low-light modes: Many camcorders have the ability to film in very low light, whether with the help of an infrared light (which you can't see, but the camcorder can), a special slow-shutter mode that makes the most of ambient lighting, or built-in illumination from one or more LEDs. Some models offer all three methods. These modes can be very useful in poorly illuminated settings, but video captured with these tools enabled won't be as good as video captured in well-lit settings. For example, slow-shutter modes may cause moving subjects to smear or ghost.

Format: Most camcorders use the MiniDV and DVD formats, but models that capture to small onboard hard drives are becoming more common; others write to flash memory. MiniDV models still capture the best-quality video.

Hard-drive models: These camcorders' main advantage is that they give you near-instant access to any footage on the drive. Rather than having to fast-forward or fast-reverse to find the scene you want, as with a tape-based camcorder, you can go to a scene by clicking on a thumbnail in the camcorder. But once the drive is full, you must stop shooting until you can offload the footage (with a MiniDV- or DVD-based model, you can just pop in another tape or disc). Also, like DVD camcorders, hard-drive models capture in MPEG format, which requires much more computing horsepower to edit; in addition, not all editing applications will accept MPEG footage.

Wide-screen shooting: Several camcorders now allow you to shoot in the 16:9 aspect ratio used by HDTVs, even if the camcorders still shoot in standard-definition resolution. Note that some camcorders use a CCD with a native 16:9 orientation, so you get the full resolution of the CCD when you shoot in wide-screen format, whereas others use a CCD with a traditional 4:3 orientation and use only a portion of that CCD when shooting in wide-screen.

High-definition recording: Several models record in either the HDV or the AVCHD high-definition format. Because both are highly compressed, they require a very powerful computer to decode their files and a compatible video editing application to edit them. (AVCHD is a newer format; only Pinnacle Studio 11 and Corel Ulead VideoStudio 11 recognize it at this writing.) Even a powerful computer will take much more time--hours, not minutes--to render HDV or AVCHD files than standard-definition, DV-format files.

Whats a cheap camera with one of those handles on the top?

Alex

Im looking for a handle like on the VX1000 and looking for a super super cheap price like 100 dollars.... Yeah i know what your thinking. It doesn't have to be hd but its gotta have good enough quality for skating and stuff. Its also gotta have at least a viewfinder but doesnt need a pull out screen. Lets see what answers i get!

Answer
For $100? Digital? None working. You can barely get a pocket cam for that.

For skating, your alternative is to get whatever camcorder that does work (and that you can afford) and make something like a GlideCam StuntBar.

+++++++++++

More information:
The Sony DCR-VX series - and any other miniDV or digital8 tape based camcorder connects to your computer using a firewire cable between the camcorder's DV port and the computer's firewire port. USB won't work. USB-to-firewire cable/converter/adapter/hub things won't work, either. If your computer has no firewire port, hopefully it has an available expansion slot so you can add one.

Firewire, IEEE1394, DV and i.LINK are all the same thing - and that communications protocol is very different from USB. USB can't handle the DV-format stream.

We don't know what computer you want to edit the video on - but if it has no firewire port, that will be your next challenge. No sense getting the camcorder if you are planning to edit - and find out later that you can't edit because your computer's missing a port...

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Best camera for filming under $250?

Taslem

I'm looking for a higher quality camera to take movies with, I would prefer a non-dedicated (meaning Flips, etc) but if the best one is a dedicated camcorder then I'll take it. So mainly I'm going to be filming, maybe take some pictures every once-in-a-while, so photo quality doesn't need to be top notch. I want one with HD capabilities, good ISO performance, zoom not needed so much, and high fps count. If you're feeling so inclined, I would love to see a list of your top cameras based on price range. Thank you for your advice!

Answer
There are no cameras that "film" for that money. There are cameras that record video however. If you're going to talk about this sort of thing at least get your terms in order. Film is in Hollywood.

Here's a good place to begin your research.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/

Need help buying a camcorder?

Jack

I need a camcorder with these requirements:

*Recording time at least 8 hours
*Reasonably good vision at night
*Not over the top, bank busting expensive (over £250 would be pushing it a bit)

Please and Thank You!

Answer
under 200 dollars
samsung is awesome

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Camcorders?

mobandy64

Please help i want a camcorder to just you take take silly vids and put them on you tube no my phone doesnt record and yes my camera does but i want an actual camcorder. I need a link and more about it cuz on best buy theres like DVD and miniDV and like flash sumtin or other and like hard drive and please explain what the difference is please and tell me where i could get one and about how much it would cost and ya and also how do you get the vids on your comp and then onto you tube and is their a camcorder that you just can charge or do all have to have batteries thanks!

Answer
You may want the Flip Video Mino Series Camcorder, 60 Minutes (Black) http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0016BXRB6?ie=UTF8&tag=motionpicturecentral-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0016BXRB6 or the RCA "Traveler" Small Wonder EZ210 Digital Camcorder with 4 Hour Recording and 2GB Included SD Memory http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014CUY7W?ie=UTF8&tag=motionpicturecentral-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0014CUY7W .

Both of these cameras come with software for managing your videos, are ready to connect directly to USB, and include cables to connect to a TV. The Flip Mino's software includes a specific option to upload the videos directly to YouTube, MySpace, and AOL Video. The RCA Small Wonder has a
an expansion slot for SD memory cards to expand your recording storage capacity.

Camcorders?

Lindsay

With a camcorder, would I be able to record videos and than download them onto the internet?

Answer
The short answer is, yes.

The ease of this depends on what kind of camcorder you have. Analog formats such as VHS, VHS-C, 8mm, and Hi8 require extra equipment to convert the video to a digital format.

Digital formats such as MiniDV, Digital-8, DVD, and hard drives are easier. DVD and hard drives use video formats that are not as widely compatible with editing programs, and the video uses a different compression standard to make the files smaller, therefore sacrificing some quality. MiniDV is the highest-quality format of those I listed above.

In most cases with digital camcorders, be aware that your computer will need a Firewire (IEEE 1394) port to connect to the camcorder. USB does not necessarily work; in fact, in many cases, it just doesn't. So, if you have a Firewire port (4-pin OR 6-pin), you're fine. If not, you'll likely have to purchase and install a Firewire card on your computer, which isn't a very expensive venture these days anyway. Still, make sure you have the hardware to match up with your camcorder.

My recommendation if you like to edit is to go with MiniDV; it might take a little longer to get it onto your computer, and the file sizes may be bigger, and you need a Firewire port, but the quality is very good, it's compatible with just about every editing program out there, and tape is cheap and small.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!

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How long before this camera is considered obsolete?

upwardly_m

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

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

Answer
Hi "Upwardly Mobile":

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Camcorder with lots of features?

Whattodono

So recently I've been looking around for good sturdy video cameras for a cheaper price. I don't want a small handheld thing, because well, those are too small and annoying. I recently found a Betamax camcorder in my dads closet, unfortunately it's broken. However I was struck by it.

It had lots of features on it: Viewfinder, nice big Microphone, whiteblance lense, info red sensor for auto focus, zoom ring, and focus control, adjustable strap, white balance switch, external microphone jack, earphone jack, and I liked that. Here's a picture of how it looks:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.bestbuzz.fr/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/betamax.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.bestbuzz.fr/%3Fp%3D9345&usg=__HxsysaEkcREpC2BNj0ggDx1uZTU=&h=576&w=334&sz=30&hl=en&start=0&sig2=c6tDnHiuoqezsrcvby9EGw&zoom=1&tbnid=uyTh5M0JiJceXM:&tbnh=130&tbnw=75&ei=DdYBTqC2E8XniAK808yjCA&prev=/search%3Fq%3DBetamax%2Bvideo%2Bcamera%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D1024%26bih%3D690%26tbm%3Disch&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=470&vpy=33&dur=2875&hovh=295&hovw=171&tx=95&ty=138&page=1&ndsp=20&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:0&biw=1024&bih=690


See, nice big and sturdy. I'd rather a size like that than a super small handheld one. Does anyone have any suggestions for modern cameras similar to my needs (Perferably a pretty low price one)

Best answer gets points! Thank you! :D

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

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

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

That camcorder you see is a VHS camcorder and is not compatible, at least very easily in any way with a computer of modern day vintage. To get a camcorder that size will cost 3 or 4 thousand dollars, even used would cost you $1500 to 2000. Step into this century with a camcorder that does is capable of easy transfer to your computer. Deal with the small size of today's camcorders the best you can because that is the new norm.

Need Help Selecting A Camcorder?

Blake

I need help selecting a camcorder. First: I want it priced between $100 to $300. Second: I want it to have good quality picture and sound. Third: I want to be good for making movies. Fourth: I want to sold from a trustworthy place. Please leave an answer and any other details. Thank You! Also I want it to be easy to use.

Answer
Canon ZR85 MiniDV Camcorder w/20x Optical Zoom
Technical Details

* MiniDV camcorder takes video and stills and connects effortlessly to your computer, TV, or VCR
* 20x optical zoom lens (digital zoom to 400x) and image stabilizer
* 2.5-inch LCD with 180-degree rotation
* Capture low-light recordings with Night Mode
* Record for up to 2 hour and 5 minutes on one battery charge
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-ZR85-MiniDV-Camcorder-Optical/dp/B0001AN1H8/?tag=bdd-linking-005-20

Canon FS300 Flash Memory Camcorder (Silver) - 2010 MODEL
Technical Details
Color: Silver

* Records video directly to removable SD memory cards
* Ultra-Sleek, Compact and Lightweight Design (7.9 oz)
* Genuine Canon 41x Advanced Zoom
* Canon DIGIC DV II Image Processor
* Dynamic SuperRange OIS corrects a full range of motion
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-FS300-Memory-Camcorder-Silver/dp/B00322ON1K/?tag=bdd-linking-005-20
$$$

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