I need some good recommendations please!?

Question

I want to upgrade my dinky little picture/video camera that I have to a better one of course.

I recently found a hobby! I like to record videos, like you see on youtube or google, and then I edit them on my computer.

The camera I have is semi-good quality. I would like to have a really good quality video camera but not a huge expensive one that is like $1000.00 lol That way the video/movies that I make will look more proffesional.

Does anyone have any recommendations of what kind I should get and where I could get it?

Thank you so much!!!! =]

Answer 1

I'll second Nu'uanu's recommendation to go with MinDV.  Don't forget to include a decent editor in your budget plans.

Answer 2

I will recommend that you should start with the camera that you already have. Create a little project of your own and see how things going.

You might get bored after all. Do not spend money before you fin out if really this is something that you like to do. Sometimes simple experiments are needed in finding out how things are. Then you will find out what camera and software you will need for your projects. :)

And now something important. Before you create a video you have to make a story board. You have to sketch the story before you "shoot' it. Then you will know what you need to make the story as you like it. By that way you can calculate time, people, money and equipment that you 'll need.

Answer 3

I recommend that when you get that camera, you email me your videos!

Answer 4

Since miniDV tape provides the best available video quality, I'll stay there (please do not buy a DVD based camcorder).

Things to look for in a good camcorder:

Mic-in jack

manual audio control

minimum 10x zoom

For miniDV tape based cameras, you will import the video from the camcorder using firewire - the DV port on the camera connects to the firewire port on your computer.

Things you need to think about at some point:

external mics

lighting

tripod

case

additional rechargeable high-capacity battery

Low-end:

Canon ZR800, ZR950 - Both have mic-in jacks but no manual audio control

Mid-range:

Canon HV20, HV30

Sony HDR-HC7, HC9

After this, the cams are outside your budget.

If you don't have a local store that has these cameras and need to buy online, Amazon.com, B&H Photo and Adorama are reputable. Amazon.com and Frys.com would be good sources for the firewire card and cable. If you use a Mac to edit, they already have a firewire400 port.