Best DVD Camcorder for Safari?

Question

Hi there, I am wanting to get some basic advice on what DVD Camcorder to buy when I do my 1 month safari. Below is a basic list of the must have:

Hight Optical Zoom

Low Lux (although I don't think this is any good for long distance night filming)

Good night mode

Easy to use for first time user

Must record on DVD

Good Battery Life

Long filming (if possible).

Basically I think the main pointers are I want to be able to record long and short distance with very clear quality and also fast motion with the recording of running animals etc. It will also need to have good night focus for long distance as I don't think I will be getting too up close to any hippo's but still want to be able to zoom in and record clear footage at night.

Also I don't really want to spend over £300 if I can help it.

I was looking at buying the Canon DC301 but it seems that a few people are saying Sony is better for night filming?

I am not a techie and this will be my first camcorder. Thanks

Answer 1

JVC GRD820 Mini DV Camcorder

very good for price

about £180 from jessops

but for about £250 the

Canon DC301 DVD Camcorder

would be the best option

Answer 2

don't go for a DVD camcorder. if you are filming inside a jeep or something like that, DVD camcorders a prone to jump. I don't expect there are any paved roads where you are filming.

Get a good quality Mini DV Tape, Better quality video, and the tapes are cheap if you but say ten at a time. Lots to choose from at that price, don't forget another high power battery.

Just my opinion

High definition is used with Mini dv iridflar... sorry

Answer 3

I'd stick with MiniDV - MPEG-2, which is what DVD and HD camcorders record in, is a lousy format for anything involving a lot of movement.  Another practical issue is the availability of mini DVDs  - are you going to be able to get them while you're on safari?  

Another concern I have about using DVDs is their reliability - if you have a problem with a tape you can skip over it and carry on with the remainder.  If you have a problem with a DVD you've probably lost everything on that disk!

I understand your concerns, but if you've nothing worth watching it's not going to matter how easy it is.

<edit 1>

I just noticed your comment about using DVD rather than mini DVD.  I don't think that's an option - I don't know of any camcorders that use a full size DVD.  The DC301 uses an 8cm disk rather than a full size one.

<edit 2>

In theory you can put an 8cm DVD in a "normal" player.  It has to be tray loading though (most are) - slot loaders will fail horribly.