Top And Best Camcorders: 2014-04-27

Saturday, May 3, 2014

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

What camcorder should I buy?

Alex

I really want to start filming and stuff but I have no idea what camera to get. I don't really have a big budget but I'm just looking for a solid camera to go filming with.

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

Which camcorder to buy?(again)?

Anthony H

I will soon be a student of film and am looking to upgrade to a professional quality camcorder. My budget is around 1000 dollars, I may go over if the quality is there but not by much. I am looking for either used or refurbished but even with that its hard to find a camcorder with XLR inputs at this price range. Thank you for any suggestion

Answer
Sony HDR-CX190 High Definition Handycam 5.3 MP Camcorder with 25x Optical Zoom (2012 Model) has been a great HD camcorder so far. It is very small and lightweight, to say the least. I think the 70 series battery I bought for this unit weighs almost as much as the camera. The controls are good with the little screen joystick and menus. The color is very good on the screen, and the video is sharp. I like the 30x for videoing my stepsons' wrestling matches.

What is the best camcorder overall currently in 2012?

Answer
Best Video Quality from any of the Camcorders in the Consumer Level Camcorders Category, is any MiniDV tape Camcorder. To get a HD camcorder that could take as High as Quality Video as MiniDV tape Camcorder does, one could not find it in any HD camcorder costing under $3300 or higher.

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

Best Prosumer Video Camera For Me?

Q. I am looking to buy a prosumer video camera to film with. I have been looking around but thought I would get some other people's advice. Here are a few guidelines that I have set:

Needs to be either HD or good looking SD.
Needs to be 3 Chip.
Needs to be in the "prosumer" market, or the lower end of the professional market.
Needs to use progressive scan.
Needs to preferably be 16:9.
Needs XLR inputs,

Also, just a good camera possibly with interchangeable lenses, that isn't terribly expensive. If you really want to earn respect points include a list of possible cameras based on price points with pros and cons. ;]
ALSO -- The Canon XH A1 you posted doesn't offer progressive scan, does anyone know of a similar camera, similar price range, features that are at least as good as the Canon with progressive scan? Or does the Canon look good and does it not even need progressive scan?

Answer
u serious in alll thous? damm u must be one battle hardened ready guy =D
ok now what you need is these

Canon Vixia HV40 (no XLR inputs but 3.5mm mic jack and mini DV camcorder)
JVC Everio GZ-HM400 (personally the best for me)
Panasonic HDC-TM300 (one of the best for 2009)
Canon Vixia HF S11

all these are
HD
CMOS sensor (Panasonic a 3MOS sensor)
all are top end models
and all use 1920X1080i (Canon Vixia HV40 1440X1080)
and all have a 3.5mm mic input and 3.5/ mini headphones
but since you want something top notch ill step it up alltile

Canon XH A1 damm right superb! and this is what ur looking for ^__^

reviews links are below

http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Canon-XH-A1-Camcorder-Review.htm
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/JVC-Everio-GZ-HM400-Camcorder-Review-37168.htm
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Panasonic-HDC-TM300-Camcorder-Review-37105.htm
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Canon-Vixia-HF-S11-Camcorder-Review-37150.htm

Video Camera Help Pls?

Q. Hey.
I've got a camera and it's really REALLY good for photo quality but the video quality and the sound quality suck to bh frankly honest. Me, my brother and our friend harry are really getting into filming short videos and just pratting around with a camera basically.
We really enjoy it and we are going to invest money into a camera---designed purely for video.
Can anyone sugest a good make??? Please. The amount I want to spend is about Â£200 tops.

Also we are hoping to get a tripod, I've heard about 'gorrila tripods' and they sound great to me but i don'y know much about tripods so would anyone like to suggest i dont know a brand of tripod preferably gorilla, i dont know how much they cost but im hoping for about Â£80 max i can go over but :S

Any help would be thanked.
Quick (but accurate and deatailed) answers get best answers :) thanks

Answer
Hello
personaly i suggest the Flip UltraHD should come in around less than $300.
Sony Webbie HD MHS-PM1 Camcorder ($ 166.99 MSRP)
or the Sony Webbie HD MHS-CM1 ( estimation 180.99 USD)

but for u i suggest getting the Flip UltraHD

My review
After releasing an HD version of its Flip Mino camcorder late last year, Pure Digital has finally provided the same update to its larger Flip Ultra models. The Flip UltraHD, which features a new video compression engine, 8GB of internal flash memory, an HDMI output, and 720/30p HD video recording, is currently on the market for $199âthat's $30 cheaper than the Flip MinoHD if you're taking notes. The camcorder also features the same, easy-to-use uploading software that has made Flip camcorders the favorite of YouTubers and video bloggers alike. With YouTube now firmly supporting HD video, the Flip UltraHD is arriving at just the right time for novice users to catch onto the high definition bandwagon.

Our testing showed the Flip UltraHD offered a significant improvement over the Flip MinoHD when it came to video performance. The UltraHD doesn't have any additional settings or modesâeverything is still bare-bones recordingâbut its auto white balance and exposure gave us better results than previous models. Still, there is some good competition coming out there from Sony in the form of the Webbie HD camcorder (the MHS-CM1 and MHS-PM1). Read on to see which of these ultra-compact products is the best fit for your camcorder needs.

Update: The Flip UltraHD was ultimately selected as our 2009 Ultracompact

The Good

=Simple, rugged aesthetic

=Very low noise and better color accuracy than MinoHD

=Less artifacting than the competition from Sony; sharper than MinoHD

=Excellent sensitivityâmuch better than the Sony Webbie HD

=Editing software is incredibly easy to use, Windows- and Mac-compatible

=Lack of manual controls make operation incredibly simple

=Nothing of note

=Camcorder is very easy to operate, rugged, and portable

=HDMI cable is a nice perk

=Stereo microphone is an upgrade over the MinoHD

The Bad

=Less sexy than its MinoHD cousin

=Isn't great compared to most consumer camcorders

=Only records in 30p, so all video has a slower, choppier look; 30p on the Sony ultracompact is smoother

=Color accuracy is a little worse than the MinoHD and the Kodak

=Internal memory can't be upgraded or swapped out like memory cards

=Absolutely no image controls available; no optical zoom

=There aren't any still photo capabilities on the UltraHD

=Battery life isn't great and the supplied pack takes a long time to recharge

=No thumbnail view in playback; no standard AV port or cables

=No way to adjust audio, no other features

What flip video camera is good for vlogging?

ellie

under 80 dollars

Answer
Hi again, Amber:

If you are using the term "flip video camera" in the generic sense (like when people say "kleenex" or "q-tip", and don't necessarily mean the brand name, just the object type), there are a lot of under-$80 pocket-cams.

But the Cisco Flip camcorders haven't been made for almost 2 years, now. So, getting an actual Flip model wouldn't be advisable.

For just sit-down talk-to-the-camera video posts, simply using a good, auto-focus webcam gives you the best bang-for-your-buck, in the under-$100 price class. Logitech makes the HD Pro Webcam C910 and C920 models, which are top-of-the-line and still in your $80 price range. Other decent webcams sell for around $50. Get one with good sound and focus features. And use plenty of lighting for good video quality.

When you record a vlog with a webcam, the video file is already on your computer, ready to edit or upload. With many cheap camcorders, the videos don't always work with your computer's built-in software (causing you to spend another $80-$100 on better edit software). With an $80 webcam, all the money goes to lens, video sensor, & mike features, not the extra display screen, file storage, and charger/batteries that a camcorder would require for the same money.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
Â

I need to buy a camcorder for a documentary.?

Ellie

I know nothing about camcorders, at all. But, I'm making a film (Documentary) and I need to buy one. Audio is really important so, it needs to have a Mic-in jack (for like a lapel mic). There will be interviews with people. But, it also needs to have substantial sound on the equipment itself, because I will find myself in situations where taking the time to mic someone is not an option. Also, the actual visual quality itself is important (Obviously). I want it to look as professional as I can get it. There will be many different shots (Indoor/Outdoor. Dark/bright) and I would like it to look great wherever. It needs to be able to be put on a tri-pod. But, also carried around. So, portability is an issue. Lots of film editing will occur so, if the foootage could be transferred easily to my laptop that would be great. I just purchased a Macbook Pro and it needs to be 100% compatible with that. I also need to be able to burn the final project onto a DVD. And it needs to do all of this for under $1,000 -preferably less. Is this even possible? Am I crazy in thinking I can get this accomplished?

-Like I said I really know NOTHING about camcorders so I could really use some help and advice. And of course I know that when making a documentary Content is most important. I just want it to look well done. Thank you for all of your advice.

Answer
One of the considerations is will the video format work with your MacBook Pro. There are some video file formats that do not work well with either iMovie or Final Cut Pro. Knowing that will help you narrow down which camcorders to consider.

Apple does have a web page about compatible camcorders
http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3290?viewlocale=en_US#2

And also check out these two reference options:

http://reviews.cnet.com/camcorders/
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/

If you are a novice user you are going to need help from the camcorder until you get comfortable and understand the features available to you. I would say a fair price range would be $500 to $850 but keep in mind that you will need a tripod and other items such as a back-up battery and storage media.

Audio: On-board audio can be a challenge. It will pick up everything from the air conditioning to someone sniffling. Or it might not pick up a soft voice speaker. A camcorder with an external mic jack is a very good thing. You don't have to pay top dollar for a mic. Another option is to have a broadcast quality digital recorder like the H1Zoom.

If you need more info a good place is Video WTF http://videowtf.com they do welcome new video creators and can help with almost anything.

Friday, May 2, 2014

A best camcorder around $500?

Q. Pro or consumer camcorder.Please no dumb ass answer.thank you

Answer
Getting a good digital camcorder does not have to cost you tons of money. There are MiniDV, DVD, and even hard drive camcorder that can be purchased for less than $500, some considerably less. Here are some the top digital camcorders in the market under $500.

Panasonic SDR-H18 Hard Drive Camcorder
Canon DC230 DVD Camcorder
Sony DVD308 DVD Camcorder
Sanyo Xacti E1 Waterproof Flash Camcorder
Sony DCR-HC48 MiniDV Camcorder

Whats the BEST Camcorder under $500?? Probably under... $300?

MADDYSMOMM

Im beginning to tape my own hunts next year with a camera mount on my bow and wondering whats a decent camera I can get to do the job...

Answer
Here's a good starting point - a list of the top 2007 camcorders by price range:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/CamInfo-Selects-2007-33545.htm

What is an good HD camcorder?

SIREAL KIL

Im in the market for an HD camcorder (Please stay under $1000) that has at least 10x Optical zoom. I would prefer name brands like Sony, Panasonic, or canon because they are the only camera name brands that seem to be worth while. I would also like to be able to attach an Boom Mic to the top of this camera as well as an Flash to the top of the camera. If you can get me 1 or 2 pictures of the Camera, Flash, boom, or Flash and boom attached to camera that would be great. Thanks in advance and if you need more info please let me know and I will add additional details.

Answer
I would suggest the Canon HV30 or HV40.

They both have an "Advanced AIS" proprietary accessory shoe - you would use this for the Video flash light Canon VFL1.

You can also attach a Canon-proprietary shotgun mic to the top of the camcorder using the AIS - but you cannot have the light and the mic in the AIS at the same time. When a mic is attached to the camcorder, it is not a "boom mic". A boom mic would be attached to a boom pole. I would suggest getting a third-party external mic like one Audio Technica (ATR-55 is cheap; PRO24CM is stereo) or NRG Research (SA-568 for mono; SA800 stereo). Get an angled camera bracket (check Amazon: "Sima video bracket") that mounts to the camcorder's tripod mount and that has a cold-shoe to mount the mic.

need a good camcorder for filming this summer? URGENT HELP NEEDED!?

Q. ok guys this one is out for all you fimling enthuiasts, ok my and my friends are big skaters, and just like to go out and film stuff, but in order to film good we want a camera with a handle on top, so that we can hold it low to the ground and film our skate boards at board level, however we need one under Â£100, does anyone know any camera digital preferably with a handle under Â£100? thanks

Answer
Getting a HD camcorder is taking a step backward in Video Quality. 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. 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.

http://simplevideoediting.com/learn/partâ¦

http://simplevideoediting.com/learn/partâ¦

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://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/support/consumer/camcorders/minidv_camcorders/zr930

Somehow my JVC Everio got a cracked screen. Is there a warranty?

Q. Somehow my JVC Everio's screen cracked. It still works fin. I got it for Christmas in 2011. Does anyone know is there is a warranty on this camcorder. I do not have to money to buy a new one, or am I planning to buy a new one. I really need this fixed fast because I use this camcorder for many different things.

Answer
Contact JVC and see what is up. At least they point you where to repair it, maybe not under warranty, but fix it anyway.

VHS-C vs. flash memory camcorders?

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

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

Thursday, May 1, 2014

Does the low megapixel count on nice camcorders mean the take bad still images?

Q. Well I just noticed that the really nice camcorders have low mp count, and I was going to buy one until I noticed that. Does it affect still image quality? If It does then I will go with a Dslr camera with 1080p recording abilities.
I know what megapixel are, and I was looking at some high end camcorders like the canon vixia hf g10. Every high end camcorder seems to be two to three mp. Does this mean they take bad stills?

They are all 1080p and $700+

Answer
For your video it makes not even a lick of difference , generally most camcorders do not focus on the ability to have high mega-pixels for your photography.They work a lot on your 1080 lines , not how many pixels the crumby old photo will have , probably figuring that a photo is best taken from a camera used specifically for that use , and the quality of a photo is what is there if need be but not too add an extra bit of technology that will not only cost you extra money to have that better technology for snapshots that you will hardly use .. video quality is what you want , this is good , and generally the 3MP is a grab off a still of the 1080x720 frame , 3mp is iphone quality or around that mark , it isn't awesome , but it isn't bad , most camcorders focus on video quality and use a grab off the video for your stills to save you money for optical photography , as photo stills work off a different platform of light and settings if you start building it on top of existing camcorder functions ..
Personally I like the duel use camcorders like your dslr canon rebel t2i , as they offer top notch video and photo , the drawback is learning to manually operate them

is this a good camcorder or is there a much better version or something?

Q. Canon Optura 600

Answer
The Optura 600 has proven, once again, that Canon produces some of the best consumer camcorders around at high ends. The top of the line Optura's performance was outstanding overall, with a strong showing in video performance and still performance. The large 1/2.8' CCD has obviously made some strides over the Optura 60, though that step-up comes at the cost of around $350. The manual controls left something to be desired. JVC and Panasonic have the courtesy to include a wide array of manual controls for those who want them, while Canon continues to reserve them for the much more expensive GL and XL series. We love the microphone jack and expandable battery port, but an accessory shoe (even a cold one) would have been a useful addition to the top. The biggest issue with the Optura 600 is handling. This is not a particularly comfortable camcorder to hold. Its appears to have been designed for one-handed use, but my hands told a different story.
For those that can afford a $1000+ camcorder, this is not a bad choice. The GR-X5 still slightly outweighs the Optura 600 as a performer, with low light performance as a major factor, but the race was close. This is doubtlessly the best Canon consumer camcorder this year, so if you feel a strong sense of brand loyalty, we recommend it heartily. If the whole field is open to you, shop around before you buy. Every camcorder in this competition - the Optura 600, the Panasonic PV-GS250, and Sony DCR-PC1000, and the JVC GR-X5 - have something to offer. Finding out what you like is up to you and your locally owned camera shop, where you can try them all out 'til your heart's content.

Camcorder or Photo Camera for a blog?

Q. I have really wanted a Nikon for a while and finally have the money but i also want to start a blog that would require vids and pics but i think the camera i want doesnt have video on it(D3000). the p20 does but i heard its not good quality-but the pics are so im kind of stranded.

Now im thinking of just getting a camcorder, can those take pictures?

Opinions Please! Thank You in Advance!!!

Answer
Cameras and camcorders try to do each others job, with varying levels of success.

The stills resolution of even HD camcorders generally falls far short of mid-range stills cameras, and generally lacks flash. If you were considering a DSLR, then the stills capabilities of a camcorder are likely to be unsatisfactory.

On the other hand, the movie mode of many stills cameras tends to be short of resolution and frame rate.

Of course, for blogging, you are going to have to keep the size down anyway

DVD HandycamÂ® Camcorder STILL PHOTOS?

Jeff H

My sister loaned me a SONY DCR-DVD650 HandycamÂ® Camcorder for a project that requires STILL photos with a 5 magapixel minimum. I am told the project can take up to 2 hours at the location.
I have never used a camcorder for STILL photos. I am concerned how many STILL photos will fit in the 8 gig memory stick. How can I know that they will be 5 megapixels or better?
Will I need extra batteries?
Thanks to all who provide helpful responses.

Answer
Go here:

http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665738322&XID=O:dcr%20dvd650:dg_cc_gglsrch#specifications

and select "Specifications".

You will see:

Still Actual : 250K pixels (16:9), 340K pixels (4:3)
Still Picture Resolution : 680K

This is typical for a camcorder -- it's no where near 5megapixels.

An 8GB memory stick will hold about 1200 5megapixel pictures.

Great Camcorder under 300?!?

Q. I'd like a camera which shoots 24p has great picture and sound quality.
I'm a young indie filmmaker, so I make short skits etc.
I really emphasise great pic and sound quality to have my vids looking professional.
I was considering the Canon Vixia HF R 20/200 but can't find it anywhere available to Ireland .
Suggestions?

Answer
Hi Dillon:

The Canon "Vixia" line is for USA & Japan. You want the "Legria" models (e.g., Legria HF-R26 ,-R28, and -M400), which are for the UK/Ireland (and Europe) markets. Some Canon model #'s are available in both versions, others have USA-only and UK/Europe-only models.

Since you are in Ireland, and Y!A is a world-wide forum, it helps if you say "under Â£300" or "under 300 Euros" or whatever currency you mean, otherwise most of us Yahooligans are in the US and think "USD dollars".

For the best picture quality in a consumer-priced model, I'd recommend the Canon HV40, which is sold in both the Vixia and Legria lines, and uses both miniDV tape (best fidelity with lossless compression) and SD card storage (next-best quality). It also allows external audio from mikes and mixers, for really good sound.

And don't get caught up in the whole "cinema look" 24p thing. That's a high-end digital cinema "hype" setting that few consumer-level models will shoot at (nor need to). I don't see a teenage filmmaker ever wanting to pay for a 35mm 24fps film transfer print. Plus, there's a lot more to capturing "that film look" than just frame-rate, which you won't find in a non-pro model. Shoot at 25p or 50p (PAL TVs) or 30p/60p (NTSC TVs) and enjoy the more fluid motion-capture that the higher FPS allow you to capture. (You can always "down-convert" in the editing stage.)

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
Â

good camcorders under 400 or 300?

Johnny

im going to be buying a camcorder for shooting skate videos and im also running on a low budget. can anyone suggest me some good camcorders for a low price and also has a movable viewfinder?

Answer
There are three types camcorder available now, miniDV use tape as record media, DVD use DVD disc and HDD use internal hard disc drive. In this range you can buy lowest quality HDD, mid quality of DVD or best miniDV. For miniDV I suggest Canon ZR850. It has highest rating in this type. The sensor is 1K, higher than 680 in other models. You can find it online for $200(don't believe some site for $160, since they will try to sell you more accessory) or in retailer for $250. A new model of ZR950 just hit market but no rating is available.

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Top or Best HD Camcorder/Camera under $600... NEED HELP?

Q. I'm looking for a good camcorder that is either hard drive or can record on memory stick or SD card.
I will be using the camera for Short Films(Youtube,Vimeo) and many other types of HD video.
I also have been using this site to help me out : http://reviews.cnet.com/2795-6500_7-377.html
but I still can't decide AND also if you have any other suggestions please tell me!!!

Thank You... :)

Answer
i personally prefer Canon VIXIA HF M30 Dual Flash Memory Camcorder which is really good.

* Records up to 3 hours of crisp high definition video to an 8GB internal flash drive or directly to removable SD memory cards
* Genuine Canon 15x HD Video Lens delivers unsurpassed image quality
* Canon 3.89-Megapixel Full HD CMOS Image Sensor captures video at 1920 x 1080 resolution
* Canon DIGIC DV III Image Processor provides the ultimate in color and imaging performance
* Dynamic SuperRange OIS corrects a full range of motion

http://www.amazon.com/Canon-HF-M30-Memory-Camcorder/dp/B00322OP54/?tag=pntsa-20

What's the best digital camcorder under $500?

melissa k

Wish to take and post video on website, take high-quality digital stills, and use video in powerpoint presentations.

Answer
I suggest the Panasonic PV-GS300, which has a street price of around $500.
http://camcorderinfo.pricegrabber.com/search_getprod.php/masterid=17013424

This was ranked the top camcorder in 2006 for under $600.
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/CamInfo-Selects-2006.htm

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Good Digital Camcorder?

Ben-jamin

I am an aspiring filmmaker looking for a digital camcorder. My requirements are : Good Image quality (would like HD but I'll settle for high quality standard definition) EXTERNAL MIC INPUT. and Good Battery life. please help me

Answer
What's your budget? If you can stretch the pennies a bit, the Panasonic three-chip HDC SD700 model is pretty good. You can plug a mic in that, it's HD, the standard battery life ain't too shabby (but you can buy third-party batteries with even longer life), it's good relatively good low-light performance and - for a handheld - a reasonably wide-angle lens. There's also the TM-700 (same, but with built-in flash memory) or the HS-700 (same again, this time with an on-board hard disk).

I imagine Sony and Canon do similarly good top-end models, but I've never used them. Can certainly vouch for the Panny though. It's pretty much top-of-the-line as far as the consumer market goes - beyond that, you're venturing into the four-figure territory of full-on professional cameras.

Also, actually... only just thought... if HD isn't a must, you might be able to pick up a used semi-pro model like the Canon XM2 or the Sony VX2000 on eBay. Just make sure it's in good nick - and that you have access to a PC with a FireWire connection.

What's the Best HD Camcorder to buy for Â£300-Â£600?

Q. Okay so i'm looking for a top of the range HD Camcorder for anything between Â£300 and Â£600.
I'm hovering over panasonic's cameras at the moment but I need some help choosing.

Based on reviews, popularity and your opinion; What's the Best HD Camcorder to buy for Â£300-Â£600?

I'm willing to pay up to Â£600 as I want to use a camcorder for proffesional handheld filming more that "Home Snaps".
Note, I don't want to buy a HDV camcorder as I prefer the freedom of handhelds

Answer
if you want a good hd camera id say buy a Panasonic SDR-S50K Std-Def SD Camcorder but if you want something like a flip cam you could buy one for somewhere between 100 and 200 dollars or a coby snap

video capture software?

tom b

i have a sony handy cam it uses a usb cable to connect to my computer i need a no frills free software program that just captures the video in good quality and dosen't drop frames what do you suggest. it dosent work in windows movie maker and in nero the video and sound shudders and drops frames like crazy.

Answer
I actually have a similar problem to Tom's. For some retarded reason, Sony sells mini-DVD camcorders with no firewire compatibility. They use USB only. To make things worse, my camcorder won't work with Roxio or Moviemaker or Adobe Premier. It will work only with the software supplied by Sony with the camcorder: Picture Package. When I try to capture video using Picture Package, I get a message saying the camcorder is connecting, but it never completes the connection, so I can't transfer the video.

Tom, I'm betting you're going to have to find a copy of Picture Package to make your video transfer, but I could be wrong. Try searching at the Sony support website to see if you can download the software you need.

BEST VIDEO CAPTURE SOFTWARE?

Q. Hi,

I have a sony mini camcorder, and an IEEE interface. whats the best and simplest software to use for video capture, that makes it look like pro but is easy breazy to caputure/edit/ aid special effects ........software price is not an issue, also where can I get a step by step demonstration for that, for a starter like me, as I am totally new to this digital video capture and edit stuff, thanks a lot

Answer
There's always Windows Movie Maker in Windows, and iMovie in Mac.
It's really not the tool but your creativity that makes a movie look professional. Especially because you ARE a starter, I'd stick with these two basics, learn them well, then maybe move on to Final Cut Pro and stuff like that, because you won't be able to understand there larger scale models of video software if you don't know the basics. But the learning curve is very nice, so you can catch on to iMovie or WMM pretty easily âit's mostly drag and drop, cut and paste.
I do suggest though, that you work with a widescreen format, that always helps a video look nice. And also avoid most screen effects that any of these softwares provide for you. The worst videos always use the same old "sepia" or "old movie" effect with the cheesy reticulation and overprocessed gunk that comes with most video software.

Also very important: learn how to use a video camera keeping in mind composition, lighting, sound, set, and more âbecause that's really what makes or breaks the line between a amateur and pro.

Camcorders and cameras?

Peggy Pira

We are wanting to buy a new camera and well we could use a new camcorder also. So my question is does does anyone have a really good camcorder that also takes awesome pictures. Or is it better to just stick with a regular camera

Answer
Camcorders were designed to capture video and audio. For the most part, they do their job... more $ = do a job better. They were not designed to take stills - that is usually an afterthought. Consequently, camcorders don't do a very good job taking still pictures.

Digital still cameras were designed to capture still pictures. For the most part, they do their job... more $ = do a job better. They were not designed to capture video and audio - that is usually an afterthought. Consequently, digital still cameras don't do a very good job capturing video and audio.

In either case, it is not that they can't do both, but just as a passenger auto was designed to carry passengers comfortably, and they do that well, but hauling stuff might be a problem... A big truck can haul lots of stuff - and maybe even passengers, but not very comfortably.

If you want good stills, then using a good still camera is a good idea. If you want good video, then using a camcorder is appropriate. Can you do the "other" function? Yes. Just don't expect too much and you won't be disappointed.

HDD Camcorders vs Digital Cameras?

girlproble

I noticed that I can get a digital camera with 13.6 Megapixels for about $150 and I can get a HDD Camcorder with 30 GB HDD space and 2.0 Megapixels for $140. I want to know, are megapixels calculated differently for video and images? Will I get good quality pictures and videos with a 2.0 Megapixel 30 GB HDD Camcorder? Will it be as good as a 13.6 Megapixel Digital Camera?

Answer
Photos on a camcorder won't be good as photos on a still camera.

Video on a still camera won't be as good as videos on a camcorder.

In short, you have to figure out which is more important to you. Camcorders have fewer pixels because video has fewer pixels. Even the highest-resolution HDTV (1080 lines) is 1920x1080, or about 2 megapixels. Camcorders will have fewer pixels because more pixels are unnecessary, and would actually decrease the quality of the video. By packing more pixels into that small space, the pixels have to be smaller, and they won't perform as well. That's why you'll typically have relatively few pixels on a camcorder.

So, if you get the digital still camera, you'll get better quality photos, but the video will be mediocre. If you get the camcorder, the video will be better, but the photos will be mediocre.

Which is more important to you, photo or video? That's what your decision will likely come down to.

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

Using Skype with CAMCORDER on MAC?

WebMasta F

I am able to connect via Firewire and the other party can see the video just fine, but I don't get any audio using a camcorder (not a webcam).

The camcorder, of course, has a built-in mic, but the other party cannot hear audio whether it is recording or not.

Do I have to buy a separate microphone or is there a cable I can use to link the mic on my camcorder into my mac? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

Answer
I've managed to do this myself, and it worked great. However, I think the audio was going into the into the built in mic on the Mac itself. There may be settings in Skype to have the audio come from the built it camera rather than from Firewire, so that may be worth checking out.

I don't think the Firewire cable carries the audio into Skype for some reason, HOWEVER, if you really want to utilize the mic from the camera, you may be able to connect the camera's headphone port to the line in or microphone port on the computer (using a 3.5mm male to 3.5mm male audio cable... see link below). You may have to adjust the playback or headphone volume on the camera to get it to be loud enough. I've not tried this myself, but me thinks it just might work...

Good luck!

Camcorder exporting to a Mac?

Q. I have a JVC camcorder, and I was wondering, I can export my videos/pictures onto my vmware windows vista, but i have so many problems on there that I can't work with the videos I export into it.
Is there any way I can get my videos onto my mac?

Answer
Which camcorder manufacturer and model - or media storage type?

Which Mac?

miniDV tape and digital 8 tape require a firewire connection from the camcorder's DV port to the Mac's firewire port. The new MacBook and MacBook Air have no firewire port and no way to add one. ALL other Macs made in the last 10+ years have a firewire port. You need to buy a firewire cable because they are not included in the box with the Mac or the camcorder.

Consumer flash memory and hard disc drive based standard definition camcorders use a USB connection - and the camcorder memory will mount to the desktop like any other external mass storage device. Copy the files to the Mac, Download and install StreamClip
http://www.apple.com/downloads/macosx/video/mpegstreamclip.html
to convert the MOD files to MOV files so iMovie can deal with them.

Consumer flash memory, hard disc drive and DVD based high definition AVCHD camcorders also use a USB connection - and the camcorder memory will mount to the desktop like any other external mass storage device. The MTS files can be dealt with using iMovie '08 or newer. Just drag them to a new iMovie Log/Capture pane. The Mac needs to be running an Intel cpu. The DVD needs to be in a drawer loading DVD drive - never put a small or odd-shaped disc in a slot loader.

Consumer DVD based standard definition camcorders write to VOB format files that need to be ripped using a drawer loading DVD drive and you need to install a DVD ripper - like HandBrake
http://handbrake.fr/
The DVD needs to be in a drawer loading DVD drive - never put a small or odd-shaped disc in a slot loader.

Analog camcorders (VHS, VHS-C, Hi8, etc) require an analog/digital bridge like the Canopus ADVC55 or ADVC110 - but this presumes your Mac has a working firewire port.

Monday, April 28, 2014

Is the JVC GY-HM150U a good camcorder for filmmaking?

Q. I am a young filmmaker trying to get a more proffessional look. I stumbled across a JVC GY-HM150U. I was wondering if it would be a good choice for me. I am looking for a somewhat cinematic look, the color correction will be done in after effects. Currently I use a canon vixia hf m40.
Thanks!!!

Answer
Hi there,

This really depends on what sort of filmmaking you'll be doing. The JVC camera you mentioned is very good for low budget television and documentary making, but not so great for shooting in the style of hollywood. It is, admittedly, a big step up from the Canon you are currently using, but not necessarily in the right direction.

These things are a matter of opinion. One filmmaker might think that a specific camera is very good, while another may say that it is terrible. I can only offer you personal opinion and preferences. What I say will not be fact, so do not treat it like it. It may be worth you doing a little research of your own into what other filmmakers think.

My thoughts are basically that the JVC does not give you enough space to be creative. It is a bog standard camcorder, with simple standard settings. The camera is the most important tool when shooting a film, and it needs to be versatile and dynamic. The JVC is set up so that you can pop it on a tripod, hit record and then stop when you take is over. Although it does have limited manual controls, it is aimed at a market who want to be able to leave it on auto mode and hope for the best. Because it is aimed at that market, that is what it is best at. The lack of input it allows the cameraman to give means that the image it produces has little depth. Everything is very 'flat', and by that I mean that no colours appear to jump out, the image does not feel like it welcomes the viewer and in general things look quite dull. As it was meant for use in the TV industry, it also has quite a small sensor so the image it makes isn't very sharp. The fact it utilises a zoom lens which you cannot take off also means that the image will not be as clear, and the camera will not perform quite so well in low light.

I personally feel you would be better of with something like the Canon 5D. Although it is meant for photographs, it is very goos as a film camera. It has a very large sensor, so the image is incredibly sharp, and the lens is detachable, so you can choose an appropriate lens for your shot. You could even invest in a good set of prime lenses (sharper and better in low light). The 5D really allows you all the space to properly set up a really attractive shot. Unlike a camera from TV, it will not do all the work for you. You'll be forced to put in all the thought and effort that makes images look really creative and heartfelt. You films will be more like art than just someone pointing a camera at some action. It is also more the style of cameras that the folks in hollywood use, so if you learn the basics with one of these then you won't need to when you get a good job on a film set.

I think your best bet is to go onto youtube and search for some test footage on both of the cameras, and maybe some others. This will allow you to get the feel how what the images look like. If you have access, rent the cameras for a weekend, and have a play with them both to see which one your prefer to use. The one that feels comfortable and makes a good looking film is the one that is right for you.

I wish you all the best in your filmmaking adventures, and if you need anything else, pop me an email. There are a few little filming tutorials on my youtube channel that may interest you (www.youtube.com/munnbrice), so feel free to check them out some time.

Regards,
Brice

Best camcorder or device for filmmaking?

Q. I need to know the best equipment to produce hi-quality short films, music videos, documentaries, promos and mini movies.

I recently shot this promo video. Using a Nikon point and shot HD Digital Camera. This was my first ever real project that I worked on. Very armature and rough editing. On a free video editor. Here is the link. http://youtu.be/sbbEM6FZBgM

I'd like to really like to go further into the filmmaking world. I'm getting a brand new MacBook to work on and it comes with iMovie but I may pick up more professional editing software in the future but as for now I need some much better equipment to really get into producing some great films.

Budget wise not really a huge budget but I'd like to pick up everything I need for about 3500 on everything.

Hi end or top of the line amateur or intermediate camera/camcorder/dslr
Quality microphone
Lighting kits
Green screen
Lenses
And anything else I may need. Please and thank you.

Also you don't have to give descriptions on pros and cons I can do the research my self, I'd just like a list of the top 4 or 5 models and ill take it from there. Thanks

Answer
I herd Canon HV30 is a really good camera for film making , is has 24p Cinema Mode; 30p
Progressive Mode, Media Type: HDV easier for editing , and affordable, they have a newer model hv40 but i still would go with the hv30,

Hope this helps

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Top camcorder under $300?

Q. I am trying to find a really good camcorder that has image stabilization, high quality pictures Full HD Video and 8 MP , that's easy to use, and has a decent optical zoom.I would like a camcorder for my marriage that has slow motion capacity My budget is under $300.I want the best of the best for that price, . Any suggestions?

Answer
Hi Sonia,
I recommend Sanyo VPC-FH1A
* Capture Full 1080p HD video (60fps) and up to 8-megapixel still photos
* 16x advanced zoom for video; 10x optical zoom for photos
* Face Chaser technology (can detect up to 12 faces for photos and videos)
* Built-in still photo flash; High-Speed Sequential Shooting (12fps)
* Compatible with iFrame video format
The Sanyo FH1A Dual Camera is also the worldâs first camcorder that is compatible with iFrame.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002Q4VC9G?ie=UTF8&tag=digitsy-post3-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002Q4VC9G

Camcorders with GOOD sound?

Cherry

I'm going to buy a camcorder, but i need one with good vision and good sound becuase I'm a singer. Any suggestions under $300?

Answer
The only way a camcorder has "good sound" is when the built-in mics are close to the source of the audio (in this case, you).

If you want good audio during a performance, and the camera is not close to you, then you will not have good audio. On top of that, DVD based camcorders are the worst to get video from to edit.

MiniDV tape based camcorders continue to provide the best available video quality (when compared to hard drive based, DVD based and flash memory based camcorders). MiniDV tape based video is easiest to edit - presuming your computer has a firewire port for transferring the video.

I shoot and edit music videos and do not work for an electronics store.

If your music is at all loud, most consumer camcorders cannot handle the loud audio through their built-in mics while using the automatic audio level circuit - you need a camcorder with manual audio level control. If the manual audio level control is not built-in to the camcorder, then something external is needed to control the audio.

I regret that your budget does not help very much and the closest I can get is a Canon ZR800 with a 1/8" mic-in jack and no manula control. So... this will need an external control. I would recommend a BeachTek DXA-6vu XLR adapter... and then you will need external XLR mics. NRG Research and Audio-Technica make good inexpensive condensor mics...