What HD camcorders can take photos while recording videos?

Derpy

I have a JVC Everio GZ-MS230 camcorder, and I love it. I've had it for two years, and the main feature I love is that it can take images while recording. Eventually, I'm going to upgrade, since I want an HD camcorder. The quality on this one is good, but I'd really like an HD one, since I film and take photos of concerts.
So, which HD camcorders can take photos while recording? Thank you c:

Answer
Any in the Sony HDR consumer camcorder series.

Any in the Canon HF series.

In either case, you need to press the "Photo" button while video is being recorded. Chances the camcorder will shake when you do this is very high. Many of these camcorders come with a wireless remote that has a "Photo" button, but the wireless remote needs to be able to see the front of the camcorder. This is not necessarily convenient, but can work. Consumer grade camcorders usually do not have a wired remote - though the upper end of the Sony consumer cams sometimes do.

My Sony HDR-HC1 has a LANC port to which I connect a wired remote. One of the buttons on the wired remote is "Photo" (along with zoom, focus and power buttons). Since I am not touching the camcorder when the photo button is pushed, there is no camera shake.

Once you set a budget, you'll see what fits - and understand what features will be available from the different manufacturers.

Can Sony Camcorders Take Photos Too?(:?

Hi, I need advice and help. I'm really interested in this Sony HDR-PJ50E it's a camcorder/handy cam. I'm just wondering if it can take still photos to? If it can, how good is the picture quality?

Please don't recomend me to buy normal small cameras because I already have one. I like camcorders better because they have much more memory for long videos and have better quality, better zoom, etc.

So I just wanna know if the Sony handycam can also take still photos, and if it can, how good is the quality. Thnx! Xoxo =)

Answer
Handycams will take photos, but the photos are of inferior quality compared to something that you'd get from a regular still-photo camera. The number of pixels in a photo taken on a video camera is very low, making it a lot blurrier than a photo taken with a camera designed to take photos.

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I really want a professional camcorder?

Keatra

I really want a professional camcorder, like the kind they use in movies. But, I don't have enough money to get one, do you know any cheap ones, or have any ideas? thanks :)

Answer
If you REALLY want a professional camcorder, then you will be looking for:

Lens diameter larger than 40mm-43mm
XLR audio-in connections

After you meet these two criteria, everything else is in the camcorder including larger imaging chips, manual audio control and lots of other manual controls that are easy to get to on the outside of the camcorder will follow.

Many movie studios continue to capture to film (CineAlta, Panavision, Arris, Varicam - among others), so you probably don't want those.

The digital camcorders used are commonly the Red One or the Silicon Imaging (SI) line. If you know you don't have enough money to get one, it is likely your computer is not fast enough to handle the digital video editing requirements these ultra-high definiton cameras capture.

Then there's a range of camcorders the pros use - from the Sony professional series, the JVC GY series, the Panasonic pro-grade cams and the Canon professional series. They start at around $2,000 and go up from there.

Video is only a part of the equation - audio plays a large part, too. The least expensive camcorders with a mic jack (1/8" - 3.5mm stereo) are the Canon HV30 and Sony HDR-HC9. Do these fit your budget?

Good Professional Camcorder?

Brandon P

Is there any type of new professional camcorder (the ones around the $2,000) that I can get for around $1,000 or less? Such as a Canon, Sony, or Panasonic camera.

It doesn't matter where it's from (eBay, Amazon) or if its used, as long as it works.

Answer
Define a "professional" camcorder:

Lens diameter larger than 40mm.
Imaging chip (whether CCD or CMOS) around 1/3" or larger.
Manual focus, zoom, audio, aperture, and other controls easy to get to on the OUTSIDE of the camcorder.
Audio inputs use XLR connectors (not a 1/8" - 3.5mm - stereo jack).

Under the "new" category, the only one that meets this criteria is the Sony HVR-A1U. It is the pro-sibling of the consumer HDR-HC1 from a few years back. Its single CMOS and 43mm lens does not do too well under low light conditions. The zoom/focus ring is shared - you can manually zoom or focus but not at the same time.

The next that meet your technical criteria are the Sony HVR-V1U, HVR-Z1U and Canon XHA1. They are all DV/HDV camcorders, well outside your budget and I would be very wary of used gear at the $1,000 level.

The standard definition Panasonic DVX100 also meets the technical spec, will likely be outside your budget and I would be very wary of used gear at the $1,000 level.

That leaves prosumer gear. The standard definition Canon GL2 has a 1/8" audio jack that can be upgraded to XLR by using an XLR adapter from juicedLink or BeachTek. Other prosumer gear includes the standard definition DCR-VX2100, (or older VX200 or VX1000). Outside your budget in the high definition environment has the Sony HDR-FX1, HDR-FX1000 or HDR-FX7. The FX1/FX1000 are the consumer sibling to the Z1; the V1U is the consumer sibling to the V1.

Closer to your budget are the consumer Canon HV30 and Sony HDR-HC9. They both have a 1/8" stereo audio-in jack, so adding an XLR adapter is easy. Their manual controls are generally through the camcorder's menu - and the zoom/focus ring is shared - you can manually zoom or focus but not at the same time. Pro grade has separate rings (exception being the A1U/HC1). Both the HV30 and HC9 are the least expensive camcorders with manual audio control, too. They do DV/HDV.

ALL miniDV tape based camcorders require your computer to have a firewire port for importing the video for editing. USB will not work and USB to Firewire converter/adapter/hub/cable things won't work. There are no prosumer or low-end pro camcorders that use built-in hard disc drive, flash memory or DVD media for video capture storage - unless you include the Panasonic DVX100 and the HDX200 P2 card implementations.

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Whats fair market value for this Panasonic AG-100 camcorder?

Butch

I have an AG-100 Panasonic Camcorder Pro-line which works perfectly from around circa 1981- complete with carrying case and extra batteries and looking to find someone in the know who can tell me what a fair market value would be now! I understand someone pseudoname in here by Lare can help so please>>

Answer
Ok, i remember the AG-100 "reporter". It was Panasonics first attempt at a VHS professional camcorder. it was widely sold to Universities and Schools that typically buy upscale, durable equipment. It would not have much value now, except possibly as a collectible if you have the complete package. the main problem with the AG-100 was it came out before Panasonic got its CCD license from RCA (1984) and has a tube imager. RCA was so impressed with Panasonic's VHS camcorder that besides granting them a CCD license, they partnered, along with Ampex to make the first broadcast camcorders. Panasonic built the decks, RCA supplied the CCDs and Ampex had sales access to the broadcast market. Panasonic called theirs M (for Masushita, parent company of Panasonic) RCA was Hawkeye (for the CCD imager) and Ampex was Recam. it used ordinary VHS tape but ran at a higher speed. It was not a hit. Sony came out with Betacam a year later and was very successful even though it did not have a CCD license at first.

The Panasonic Pro-line "reporter" series was very successful, the best selling was the AG450, its first S-VHS unit, which i liked except for the poor audio. it was mono linear track only. The pro-line combined economy with good quality optics and features.

Top price now would probably be $50.

need help knowing the value of my camcorder?

danylle po

This is what is written on the camcorder:

Sony
Carl Zeiss
Vario Tessar
Optical 20x
800x digital zoom
DCR-HC21 NTSC

Answer
No one can even venture a guess without knowing the model #.

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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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I bought something on ebay from USA, when it will be in Slovakia ?

Q. I bought camcorder on ebay. It was sent 2th of January 2013 through USPS International Letter...
4th of January 2013 Depart USPS Sort Facility in Los Angeles... So when it will be in Slovakia (at my home) ?
Thanks ^^

Answer
tiež som zo Slovenska :).. malo by to prísÅ¥ do 10 dní..ak nie, tak sa musíš obrátiÅ¥ na dotyÄného od koho si to kúpil :P
radil by som poÄkaÅ¥ do 15.1. a potom sa ozvaÅ¥, ak by nepriÅ¡lo ;)

Buy DSLR or not... video conundrum?

airdogspac

I had a SLR camera back in 2003-2005 around that time... it was just a basic one. I took a photography class in college and even developed my own film and so forth. I sold it in 2005 and bought a little more advance point and shoot camera but it still allowed me to control shutter speed and so forth.

its not 2013 and my 5 mpx Camera is just to old. I thought when I got a new cell phone with a 8mpx camera I would need camera really any more. But my Nexus 4 camera, is fine, but not really what you use to take pictures.

The problem is as my camera got older I started to use it less and less.

I thought of buying a new camera. I liked some of the features of the Nikon D5200. But I have a hard time justifying spending that much on a camera I might not use much.

I also wanted the camera to take good video.

I bought a refurbished canon HD Camcorder a couple of years ago. It works fine, bought a bigger battery and so forth. I thought of selling this (for around $200) to justify buying the D5200. I just don't know if the D5200 is going to have as good of video. I know it won't be able to record video for as long... (I don't know if I can by an extended battery for the D5200, I guess just buy two batteries).

What to do?
I guess I can't edit it... the point and shoot camera I bought was a Digital one.

Answer
nikons are horrible for taking professional quality videos, it keep resetting itself to auto and the ISO indicated is always wrong. If you want a great DSLR ill go for the canon D500 or D550 the D600 is also nice but I dont think its totally worth the price it has the exact same video quality as the D550. I am currently in film school and DSLR takes about the same quality videos then the film school's professional camera's that cost ten times as much the only difference the DSLR is a bit more tricky when working depth of veld.

I can't tell you much of the still images, as i am more into the film part then the actual photography. but i am desperately saving up to buy my own DSLR,

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whats the best camcorder?

Q. To buy? Needs to be under $200 if possible. Its to film while driving, family gatherings (Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc) & stuff outside.

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

& here's a list of current camcorders sorted by price:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/ratings.php?sort=price&dir=desc

The Canon ZR500 along with several models are close to your $200 budget.

Camcorder purchase today ! This had been "delegated "?

aredsailju

Must purchase camcorder later this day to record one time event...interviews..not in area where could rent or hire professional...also only source will be Wal- Mart !
Know nothing of camcorders on top of this , but a quick study....$400- $450.00 budget and will need tripod !
Suggestions please ???

Answer
Here's the best source ever for camcorder buyers- a little dated, but it breaks everything down both by price range and consumer ratings, and the buying guide is really helpful.

If you click on the "ratings" tab, you'll see the Panasonic GV-VS180 and Canon Elura 100 are the best buys- they are rated as highly as units costing two to three times more. Just click on a particular model name to see the complete review.

If you stick to models in the top 20, you can't go wrong.

My boss bought a PV-GS300 and loves it, maybe check out the the PV-GS320 which is around $400? Tripod will be an extra item to puchase in any event.

Good luck!

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What is the best camcorder but affordable?

TM

Answer
"Affordable" means different things to different people.

"Best" for what?

Red One
Sony HVR-Z7U, Z5U, Z1U
Panasonic AG-HVX200
Canon XLH series
Canon XH series
Sony HDR-FX1000
JVC GY series
Canon HV series, FS series

Stay away from AVCHD compression - chances are your video editor can't support it - though since you did not tell us which computer or editor, we can't know for sure.

DVD based consumer camcorders barely make useful doorstops. Ignore they exist.

Good affordable camcorders for skateboarding?

Luke

Hi, I want to buy a camcorder to film some skateboard videos, but I don't know which ones are good and affordable. I've researched a little bit, but all the camcorders I found where a couple thousand dollars. I want one, where you can put a fisheye lens on, so you have the fisheye effect.
If someone could help me that would be great.
Thanks

Answer
I just bought a camcorder a few weeks ago (to make videos for a restate business). For video, I'm using a Newelectronx Camcorder. It shoots 1080p, does well in low light (one of the main reasons I bought it), and has a mic input. It comes with a mount in the box kit with various accessories like the case (so you can plug in a mic, usb cable, HDMI, whatever while recording), a screw mount adapter, and a nice external microphone. It may not be what you are looking for, but it was relatively inexpensive and the results are awesome!

Plus, I use the Newelectronx Camcorder as a dash cam in my car. It comes with a bunch of mounts and you can get other accessories. It's a versatile camera (you can shoot on the go if you want), heavy duty, and shoots well in low light situations. You aren't going to have a viewfinder like other video cameras, but the creativity in how you can frame a shot with a Newelectronx Camcorder more than outweighs the lack of a viewfinder. In addition to regular shots, I can attach the camera to whatever to get perspective shots, closeups, and other stuff you can't do with the other camcorders I was looking at.

Overall, it's a great setup and does what I need it to do beautifully. For half the cost of a nice HD camcorder, I get awesome HD footage and way better sound thanks to the (relatively) expensive external mic. Sound is crucial, make sure you get a good microphone!

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Good HD camera or camcorder to record concerts (good sound quality)?

Door Knob.

i'm going to a music festival in 2 months called Soundwave Revolution and i'd love to record the acts
any suggestions for something not so cheap but not so expensive with good HD quality sound and video?

Answer
Check out this link, it listed top rated and affordable camcorders to buy: http://lovetosharethis.blogspot.com/2011/06/top-best-hd-and-digital-camcorders-can.html

Anyone recommend me a good hd camcorder?

A Dumb Zom

I need one between 150-300$ that can record in hd and take really good pictures. Anyone can help me. Please and thank you :)

Answer
Check out this blog, it listed out the top rated and affordable camcorders to buy: http://lovetosharethis.blogspot.com/2011/06/top-best-hd-and-digital-camcorders-can.html

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I have a mac - will it support a firewire cable? I'm trying to connect my Canon SR900 to edit videos Thanks!?

Kathleen

Hi - thank you so much for your response. It was really helpful! The camera is a Canon SR900 - I just checked. Any more info would be helpful

Answer
I searched "Canon SR 900". There is none. There's a Canon SD 900 - that is a digital still camera that happens to take very highly compressed video as a convenience. It does not have a firewire port so there is no reason for you to look for a firewire cable for this camera to import video to the computer.

You will want to download and install MPEG StreamClip:
http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/video/mpegstreamclip.html

To get the video from this camera (not a camcorder) to your Mac:

1) Get a card reader. This connects with a USB cable.
2) Take the memory card out of the camera and put it in the card reader.
3) Locate the video files (the directory structure and fil location is described in the camera's manual).
4) Copy the filed from the card to the Mac.
5) Launch MPEG StreamClip and convert that video file to a MOV or MP4 files. Quit MPEG StreamClip.
6) Launch iMovie. Drag the converted file to the iMovie Capture area - or the Clips pane - then drag to the timeline and edit.

IF the camcorder is a Canon ZR900, then you need a firewire cable. The ZR900 is a miniDV tape based camcorder. You will connect the camcorder's DV port to the Mac's firewire port.

If your Mac is a MacBook made between October 2008 and June 2009, there is no firewire port and no way to add one. If your Mac is a MacBook Air there is no firewire port and no way to add one. If your MacBook was made before October 2008 or after June 2009, or any other Macintosh made in the last 10+ years, it has a firewire port. Older Macs use a 6-pin firewire 400 connection - newer ones use a 9-pin firewire 800 connection.

To know which your Mac has (assuming it has a firewire port), under the Apple (top left corner), select "About this Mac". Click on "More Info". The "System Profiler window will appear. On the left, under Hardware, click on Firewire... it will show "up to 400 Mb/sec" or "up to 800 Mb/sec"... then you know which connector you need - the camcorder's DV port is always a 4-pin...

Panasonic 3 CCD camcorder?

Dj Lab Rat

I'm lookin to buy a panasonic 3 ccd camcorder. can anyone recommend a good model. Preferably not priced very high. Also how would you rate the GS 500 vs. GS 400. And how would you rate the GS 180

Answer
I would recommend buying the PV-GS500, or PV-GS400, depending on what you plan to use it for.

Ratings-

PV-GS500: 7.5/10

PV-GS400: 8/10


I rated the 400 higher because it has more manual controls, and for me, that is really important. But if you don't plan on using manual controls as much, than the 500 would be better for you.

PV-GS400:

Pros: Excellent manual control for a consumer camcorder, 3CCD, great video, wireless remote, wired remote (with zoom button, mic, and record), Optical Image Stabilizer, pop up flash, 3'' LCD screen, Manual Focus/Zoom ring, top loading tape.

Cons- Low light filming, portability



PV-GS500:

Pros- Manual Zoom ring, flash, 3CCD, excellent video, true widescreen, Optical Image Stabilizer, top loading tape, wireless remote.

Cons: Small LCD screen for shooting 4:3, Low light filming, portability.



So here is where you make the decision. I would recommend the PV-GS400 if you what to have superior manual control and great video. But, i would recommend the PV-GS500 if you would rather have slightly better video quality. Also, the 400 is hard to find these days. You can get a 500 for as cheap as $449 online. The PV-GS400, however, is hard to find under $900. Either way, these camcorders are both fantastic and you would be happy with either of them.

P.S.

I would rate the PV-GS180: 6/10

Its video isn't as sharp as the previously discussed camcorders. It has no focus or zoom ring. However, it is a very good cam for its price.

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Can a LG VOYAGER be fully flashed to cricket ?

steven gon

I was switching and love the phones that open like the voyager , before i buy one i wanted to know if it can be fully flashed ( web,txt,mms etc. ) everything will work . if i get it done at the cricket store closest to me . ? thanks please answer .

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

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

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Where can I get a LG Optimus V Virgin Mobile promo code or kickback code?

Ive_Got_a_

Use this kickback code: LYXVI6oI (just copy and paste it)
and you will get 60 free minutes. Remember need to do it when asked during the activation process.. This is correct right?

virgin mobile kickback code, virgin mobile promo code

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

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

-------------

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How do you properly load a VHS-C cassette into a camcorder?

best camcorder brand to buy image

Q. My question is how do you properly load a vhs-c cassette into a camcorder?
Do you have to slide the wheel on the cassette so it has tension?
And so that the front of the cassette is facing outwards when you put it in the camcorder?

I bought a brand new cassette earlier this month and didn't roll it back until I got tension and my camcorder ate the tape, is this tension in the cassette that crucial?

Answer
Insert 'em into the camcorder by opening up its case..

Good luck!

What pro camcorder can I buy cheap and build up into a higher quality one?

Q. A professional camcorder that I can change up the lense, filter and whatever, on as I get more money. A camera I can eventually get an okay quality with for fictional motion pictures. Advice?

Answer
Hi Janie:

From your Y!A Profile, you are in the 19- to 21-year age category, so your funds might be somewhat limited, but at least you have a good idea for trying to stretch your initial purchase budget.

Also, I see you are in Sweden, which historically has been a PAL-TV format country, so you might avoid NTSC-only camera models. And rather than try to keep up with Krona and Euro exchange rates, I'll keep my monetary discussions in Dollars.

As far as "true camcorders" which have a higher tariff rate in Europe than Digital SLRs (like the Nikon D-series, the Canon EOS line, or the Sony Alphas) you will find not find many changeable lens models for less than the $2000-$5000 USD price range. (The really good changeable lens video cameras tend to run in the $12,000-$50,000 USD range.)

Having a wide range of interchangeable or upgradeable lenses is one of the appeals of the Digital SLRs (dSLR) that have "movie modes". Plus, the camera bodies are in the hundreds rather than thousands of dollars price range. One downside is the lack of professional audio features, since these are designed primarily as still photo cameras, not movie-making camcorders.

If you care to update your Question with "Additional Details" giving us a more-specific price budget ("cheap" is a very relative term, especially to a young adult) then specific brand and model recommendations can be made.

To stretch your budget money, I'd recommend looking at used-equipment rather than new, when starting out.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
 

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Best camcorder and microphone to use for Youtube music cover videos?

best camcorders professional image

Anna Farme

I want to start putting my covers up on Youtube. However, I want to use a good camcorder and a good microphone, but preferably something affordable. Is there anyway to make a Macbook camcorder look professional through editing? If so, how do I do that? Just need advice to make my covers look good.

Answer
look into dslr cameras...I'm a filmmaker and i have a t3i and a rode videomic..I like it a lot.. not to big of a wallet buster too...Get good at editing. Edit with Adobe After Effects or final cut if you have a mac. Great and powerful editing programs.

What Would Be Good Camera For Time Lapses ?

Luca

So i am 15 dont really have much money, and i was looking to get into time lapses. I have bee looking at hd video camcorders (professional grade, no best buy stuff), but i see that most people use large cameras with the interchangable lenses. Loking to get something in the 200-700 dollar range

Answer
Time lapse photography consists of of taking hundreds/thousands of photos and combining them in a video editor.

So you need both a camera and video software.

There are not that many cameras that can do time-lapse, especially in the compact camera range. A few that do are the Nikon P310, P330, P7700.

As well, some video cameras can also do time lapse, such as some GoPro Hero and Sony Action Cam. However, these cameras may or may not be suitable to your needs as they often have lens/optic issues preventing them from doing anything but the main job they were designed for.

Also, a few mirrorless cameras have this function - Nikon 1 does for instance.

And some DSLRs also have time-lapse functions. However, this is usually the mid-range cameras as not many entry level DSLRs have this function.

However, there is a 3rd party product on the market called an Intervalometer, which is basically a timer for time lapse. This will allow virtually any DSLR having a wired remote (with the proper cable) to be controlled for time lapse.

Realize though that not all DSLRs have wired remote capability. Some only have wireless (IR) remote - especially entry level DSLRs. At this time, there are not commercially available wireless remote intervalometers (although some people have built their own).

For instance, for some strange reason, the Nikon D3000 has a wireless but not wired remote capability. The Nikon D3100/D3200 has a wired, but not wireless remote capability.

Once you get your camera, you basically set it up on a tripod and select the number of photos you want, and the duration between photos. The best duration depends on the effect you wan to achieve. For instance, if you are looking for active scenes; people walking, etc. The best rate will be 10sec or less. But for scenery; clouds, etc. a 30sec~1min rate is better.

Realize though that some cameras - those with built-in timers - have a restriction as to the minimum duration you can have. This is because if you take too many photos too quickly, you might overheat the camera, and it can shut down. While you do not have this restriction with a 3rd party intervalometer, you could still shut the camera down by overheating.

Further, interval shooting uses up a lot of battery. You may want to consider an AC powered solution for the camera if you want to take a lengthy time-lapse movie. Virtually all Nikon cameras that have an interval timer can be AC powered with the addition of an expensive adapter ($100 or so).

Finally, with time lapse, you don't have to use the most resolution on your camera. You can cut down the resolution a lot, as video will mask many defects anyway, so the resolution often can be turned down. Turning down the resolution not only reduces battery usage (smaller files to write), but it also results in more manageable file sizes when it comes to combining the photos.

And when you have your entire stack of photos, you must combine them. If you have Windows, you can use Windows Movie Maker, or if you have a MAC, iMovie will work (they are both included free with your OS). However, they are restricted to about 10 frames per second, and for time lapse, you will want closer to 20 frames per second, which might mean you will have to buy a better video editor. But WMM or iMovie will at least get you started.

Here is a sample of one of the first time lapses I did with a Nikon P7000 compact camera (with a built in time lapse function) and processed in Windows Movie Maker. You can see that it is a bit jerky, due to the maximum 10 frames per second Windows Movie Maker is capable of.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZiivbVASrw&list=UUcxUAeQlPzZR8KLHAJL8Mrw&index=16

The "later that day" part of the video was when I had to change batteries. An AC powered adapter would have helped here.

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What is the cheapest place and the cheapest camcorder that will do slow motion?

best camcorders slow motion image

Mr B

I've found out a lot about Sony slow motion camcorders that do 240fps, but I can't find a place that will do one for under £500 in the UK. Me budget is round about £250. Cheers,

Answer
Any camera can do slow motion. Well you can on an editing program. When you import the video, on windows movie maker you can put it in slow- mo, fast motion, black and white, and a bunch of cool effects. Hope this helps and Good luck!

Advice on buying a Camcorder that has slow-motion capability?

Cuzisaidso

I bought a camcorder a few months ago, but it doesn't have the ability to "Play" in slow motion. I would like to buy a camera or software that would allow me to do this. Any advice on a reasonably priced camcorder that features slow-motion capability during playback? thanks!

Answer
Great question!

Yes, I totally agree. Though it's easy to speed up or slow down a video in post production, it never looks quite right. Slow motion is blurry and fast motion has an unpleasant strobing effect. It's always better to undercrank and overcrank in the camera.
How this is achieved is simple: change the frame rate. I'm not talking about shooting mode (24p to 60i or what have you), but actually changing the frame rate (24fps to 60fps). If you go over the native frame rate, you'll have more frames, and when you play it back, it is a lot slower. Vice versa goes for lower frame rates (it will playback faster).

So what cameras can do this? Well, only professional ones...Only professional solid state (tapeless) camcorders. You can't do it on HDV camcorders. Here are some:
1) Red Scarlet (available in 2009) $3,000
2) Sony EX1 $6,000
3) Panasonic HVX200A $5,200

Probably not what you consider to be reasonably priced...but that's not all they offer

Taking the HVX for example (I'm most familiar with it), you can enter Variable Frame Rate mode when shooting ONLY in 720 24pN and 720 30pN. Lets say we were shooting in 24pN mode. The native frame rate is 24fps (well sort of). We can overcrank to as much as 60fps and undercrank to as little as 12fps or so. 12fps would be super fast and 60fps would be really slow cuz no matter what, you are still playing back in 24fps.

Of course, these cameras are expensive. If they're not within your budget, you'll have to do with slow motion in post. You can make it a little better by adjusting the shutter speed. Just use a high shutter when shooting in slow-mo (like 1/2000)

Hope that helps!

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How can you tell how long a camcorder will record for?

top 10 camcorders reviews image

Q. I've never bought a camcorder before. I want to get a cheap one to use as a security camera. It has to be able to record for 8 hours nonstop.

R have relied upon Top Ten Reviews for many purchases and found them to be very reliable. Unfortunately, their reviews don't simply say how long the camera will record. Can I tell from the following info how long this camera will record:

RECORDING SECTION
Media (Motion/ Still Image) Built-in memory (65MB), SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
Signal System 1080/60i, 1080/30p, 720/60p, 720/30p, 480/30p, 540/30p
Recording Format [MP4] MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 / [iFrame] MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Recording/ Playback Mode 1080/60i (17Mbps / VBR), (1920 x 1080)*2 / 1080/30p (15Mbps / VBR), (1920 x 1080)*2 / 720/60p (15Mbps / VBR), (1280 x 720)*2 / 720/30p (9Mbps / VBR), (1280 x 720)*2 / 480/30p (3Mbps / VBR), (640 x 480)*2 / 540/30p (24Mbps / VBR), (960 x 540)*2
Audio Recording System AAC (2ch)
Microphone 2ch stereo
Speaker Dynamic type
Media Remaining Indication Yes

Here is the review:
http://pocket-camcorder.toptenreviews.com/panasonic-hx-review.html

Answer
RadioShack has a Motion Detection/computer webcam..that is excellent for security../
===
If you use Motion Detection..
The camera can remain ON..all day long..
And will record only what moves in front of it../
12-hours of surveillance--can take up..10-minutes of record time../
(review time=10 minutes)
===
You want to be careful about using a camera--that could over-heat../
I would suggest you get a GigaWare webcam
..with ArcSoft software..and motion detection.
=======
The URL--you supplied/
That camera uses a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery..
Rechargeable Battery Pack Yes (880 mAh / Lithium-ion)
===
My Canon camcorder uses a 1050 mAh/
..I get about 60-minutes of avchd video..
..and 50-minutes if I use the Zoom-Button../
===
I'd guess the Panasonic camera--would offer 30-minutes or more of video capture.

Anyone no of a great professional camcorder?

ponechaisi

I am starting video production and am wondering what equiptment is the best to buy, at an affordable price. I guess I am wanting a professional camcorder at a budgeter's price.

Answer
Great question. Here are my top picks for the best professional camcorder. I have taken price into consideration. If you want HD:

1) Red Scarlet (coming soon, 2009) $3,000
2) Sony PMW-EX1 $6,000
3) JVC GY-HD200U $5,500
4) Panasonic AG-HVX200 $5,000
5) Canon XH-A1 $3,300

RED SCARLET: Many are skeptical about the Red Scarlet as it is a relatively unknown brand, but I believe it is the best professional camcorder under $10,000. No contest. With a traditional camcorder, like that made by Sony, Canon, etc, you'll be lucky if you get one that records in true HD. That is, most camcorders do NOT record in true 1920 x 1080 resolution, apart from the Sony PWM-EX1, as listed above. The Red Scarlet however, records footage in 3K, that is about 150% of the resolution of 1920 x 1080 HD. All that for $3,000. I don't know how well the Scarlet will perform when it is released in 2009 as far as color reproduction, cinematic look, audio capabilities, and manual controls, but I do know that it gives you better resolution than any camera I know of under $20,000. Therefore, the Red Scarlet is definately worth looking into. 3K footage for under $3K is a total steal!
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SONY PMW-EX1: It is a relatively new camcorder that records to tapeless media the SxS cards. The EX1 has better resolution that its Canon, Panasonic and JVC competitors, as the XDCAM cards do NOT compress nearly as much as HDV. Another huge advantage is that it has 3 CMOS chips that are 1/2" each, as opposed to 1/3" or smaller chips found on every other camera under $10,000. The larger image sensor gives your picture a much narrower depth of field, which is great for budding filmmakers, wanting that look of celluloid film. The only setback is that the EX1's media format, the SxS XDCAM media cards only record about 25 minutes of high quality footage on the supplied card, and purchasing additional cards is very expensive.
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JVC HD200U
The HD200U is no Sony, Panasonic, or Canon, but it is an excellent camera nonetheless. Some pro reviews have said that the earlier model, the HD110U was the second best camera as far as picture quality in the prosumer level, next to the Canon XL-H1, which is $8,000. I really like the HD110 and HD200 as it is the only prosumer HD camera, apart from the XL-H1 with interchangeable lenses, rather than a built in lens. The only problem is that the HD200U does not record HD in 1080p or 1080i, but instead, it only has a lower-resolution 720p mode. To me, this isn't all that bad, as I prefer 720p at 60fps over 1080p at 30fps; it blurs much less, but you'll have to make the decision. Numerous independant films have been shot on the JVC HD110 and HD200, so its an excellent camera!

_______________
Panasonic HVX200: The HVX200 is a great inexpensive choice for the indie filmmaker. It has excellent picture quality and an excellent 24p mode. Another huge upside is that it records to both HDV OR P2 cards, so its really convenient. However, it does not have quite as good picture quality as the Sony EX1, nor does it have interchangeable lenses like the JVC HD200. It's an excellent, well-rounded HD camera nonetheless. I found it works excellent with the Redrock M2 35mm adapters though.
____________
Canon XH-A1: The XH-A1 is rated as one of the best cameras out there for its combination of quality and value for your money. I agree. It's a nice, well rounded camera; relatively easy to use (compared to the others at least) and is packed with loads of features, making it an excellent value. My only problem is that it does not have a 720p mode. It also lacks a real 24p mode, and instead has what Canon calls a 24f mode. According to Canon, the 2 are identical, but I really don't know.

For standard definition, which is still a great option, as HD is still new and expensive:
1) Panasonic AG-DVX100B $2,500
2) Canon XL2 $3,000
3) Sony DSR-PD170 $2,500

I really can't decide whether I like the DVX100B or the XL2 better. I'm leaning towads the DVX100B as a better overall camera (and its very user friendly), but then again, the XL2 has interchangeable lenses. Both can record in 24p, which is a great option. The PD170 is a total low-light wonder, is easy to use, but does not have a 24p mode.

If this is still not what you had in mind for a budget, here are some decent consumer HD cameras:
1) Sony HDR-HC3 and HDR-HC9
2) Canon HV20 and HV30

both are HDV. I highly recommend it. I can't stand mini DVD or flash media. HDV is also considerably better than Hard Disk camera; they don't compress your footage quite as much.


Hope that helps, and I apologize if that's still not what you had in mind. Well good luck, and have fun!!!

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