Holiday Gift Guide for New Users

If you need help shopping for new camcorder users, this article will help find the perfect gift.

Holiday shopping is never easy when you’re shopping for the camera user with little or no prior experience. Your best bet is to track down a guide of user friendly gadgets for your budding cameraman.

Video filming-

Shopping for a budding Tarantino can be quite pricey, try some of these all-in-one finds in video. These days the internet is the most used medium of film distribution and editing. So the faster clips get online the better.The flip video mini series camcorder does just that. Skipping the mini dv process saves time and money. This camera is highest voted for web series, and youtube video-making.For those who prefer to crawl before they walk, there is still the mini dv option. Mini DV is still very popular, affordable, and it’s the format that many films still are shot in.

The Canon ZR-600 mini DV digital camcorder sticks with the industry standard, and allows for easy 1-2-3 style video transferring and editing. This product gets my vote for home video, and sports recording. Also, as far as user friendly goes this product is easy to use, and transferring files is extremely easy.

Accessories

No gift is complete with just a camera alone. Accessories make the camera operate better. Camera bags offer protection, and tripods can give any film a polished and stable appearance. Check out these excellent additions to get a feel for what you’ll need.

Camcorder Bag

Fully padded weather resistant bags, like this one from Lowepro, can protect you camera from the elements better than the usual backpack can.

Portable Battery Charger

A portable battery charger has saved many a film shoot. The last thing a budding cameraman wants is to have to stop their shoot to go plug their battery in the charger. This charger from digipower is travel sized and recharges batteries in record time.

Tripod

In order to be taken seriously with films and documentaries a tripod is an absolute must! Stable camera movement improves viewer focus on the film, and not the cameraman’s inability to maintain a steady hand. Tripods do the work for you, and this one from Dynex provides maximum stability and all the bells and whistles to attach virtually any camera system.

Holiday Gift Guide for Camcorder Users

Here's a holiday gift guide filled with gifts any camcorder expert will love!

Holiday Gift Guide for Camcorder Users

Holiday shopping is never easy when you’re shopping for the video camera user who has surpassed the beginner level. In this guide you’ll find a few nice gadgets to dazzle your video camera connoisseur.

What could be a better buddy to the expert editing system than an oh-so-handy, handy camcorder from Sony? This camcorder provides you with the ultimate experience! Sharp zoom features, a smooth model, and it’s compatible with nearly all video uploading and editing programs. It is also important to take care to be mindful of the style of user you’re shopping for, make an effort to find items that express the user.

For example this web cam from Dyenex is sure to look cool as well as be a useful tool for any gadget wizards arsenal. This web cam (and most others) come with a built in microphone and Smart Face Tracker, which keeps the focus on the face no matter where it goes. Bonus: This web cam is Mac and PC compatible, so there’s no need to fret about what system it works best with.

Software

If you find that you can’t spend the money for serious hardware. Try enhancing their arsenal with major grade software.

123 Movies to PSP - This software comes highly recommend, definitely a toy for the Camcorder King or Queen who has it all. The sweet system allows for smooth transfer of Video files to your PSP via USB cord. It also supports DVD formats, and uses an autofit-to-stick technology, which means there’s always enough room on the PSP memory stick. This system works with Windows 2000 and Windows XP.

Popcorn 3 - Another alternative is the equally functional Popcorn 3 software, which does that same thing that Popcorn 2 does but minus all the bugs. It too can effortlessly copy DVD’s and your favorite shows from your computer to any playback device of your choice. This software is only functional with Mac, so take note.

Final Touch: Final Cut Pro 2

Let's face it, the future of all things film related relies on Mac. So if you're shopping for a Mac user, make their dreams come true by purchasing the ultimate camcorder companion: Final Cut Pro 2! Every creation they bring to life with their camcorder will become a masterpiece with this software.

Sony Handycam DCR-SR47: Great Amateur Video Camcorder

Use YouTube a lot? Interested in a cheap, easy to use camcorder? Then, you probably can't go wrong with the Sony Handycam DCR-SR47. Learn more below!

The Sony Handycam DCR-SR47 is perfect for YouTubers and amateur videographers, especially with its small size and easy-to-use features. For $399.99, it’s fairly inexpensive for a hard-drive, standard definition camcorder. It comes with a 60GB hard drive, and its highest resolution is 680 pixels, which is fine for this price range of camcorders.

The Sony Handycam DCR-SR47 comes with the standard 2.7 inch LCD screen and touch screen feature navigation. This camcorder comes with a hand-strap to hold it. The hand-strap is fine, but hangs a little low so you’ll have to account for that when you use it. The Sony Handycam DCR-SR47 comes in blue, black or red.

Usability

At 2.4 inches by 2.8 inches by 4.5 inches and only weighing 11 ounces, this camcorder can easily be stuck in a pocket to take out at a moment’s notice when necessary. It also powers up fast, which is great for capturing things quickly. If you leave the camcorder on Auto, you will probably be able to use this for most standard recordings. Plus, there are just not a lot of other settings to even bother with. You should definitely manually zoom into objects. The button is very responsive, but will have trouble locating objects in low light.

Most of your clips will be a little noisy, especially on a high-definition television. The sharpest images will come from the Tele Macro mode. But, if you’re planning on simply uploading videos to YouTube or other such services, this camcorder will serve you fine. The clips look fine on the YouTube format.

Overall

While the touch screen makes it convenient to get to your features, it can be a little confusing and hard to navigate if you’ve never used a Sony camcorder before. Buttons for showing display information or Sony’s direct-to-DVD recording software and other buttons are located inside the LCD screen. You can also find a Mini-USB port here as well.

While as mentioned the video recording comes out fine on the YouTube format, its lower-quality shows when trying to take higher-quality recording. It’s noisy in low-light and not as crisp as higher-priced camcorders. But, for the amateur videographer, it’s a good deal for the price.

Panasonic HDC-HS100: OK for Amateurs, Not So Much for Professionals

Panasonic HDC-HS100 comes with a lot of professional features. But, it may not be up-to-par for professional videographers. Learn more below.

Panasonic recently reduced the price of its just released Panasonic HDC-HS100. It seems that this mid-level camcorder wasn’t selling as well as predicted, just as many others have not been selling as well. The $1,000 price tag has been dropped to around $600, which may be a better price for this really amateur-geared camcorder.

The Panasonic HDC-HS100 is a 60B hard-drive based camcorder that comes with three CMOS chips, 520,000 wide resolution and a 12x FL. 8-2.8 zoom lens. While these features are very adequate, the video output quality is not up to par to gain the attention of true professionals. But, it may be a good starter camcorder for many amateurs. The highest video quality recording is at 1,920X1,080 pixel resolution and records at 30 frames per second. At the highest quality, you can get about seven and a half hours worth of video. It comes with the slighter larger and higher resolution 2.7 inch LCD screen.

Most of the features can be found within the LCD screen recess. The camcorder weighs about a pound, and its measurements are 2.9 inches x 2.9 inches x 5.4 inches. While it is heavier than many other camcorders, it’s easy to hold. But, if you need to quickly get to the HDMI and USB port, you may have trouble. It’s awkwardly placed behind the battery, which can be very frustrating. You will need to take out the battery to connect to these ports.

Usability and Overall Quality

If you’re planning on taking video, be sure to power-on the camcorder ahead of time since it takes a while to start up. The zoom works rather well, and the button is really responsive.

There are several buttons on the camcorder to change white balance, shutter speed and other controls. You will need to get used to these buttons since they’re a little strange at first. The way the buttons work are in a circular way via a joystick, which means you’ll have to manually move between the manual buttons, shutter speed and other controls.

While the feel and maneuverability of this camcorder is pretty standard, the video quality isn’t as crisp as many of its competitors. The pixilation doesn’t allow for true 1080pHD resolution. Video can be very noisy in low-light. For the money, it’s not a bad price for someone starting out. It’s got a lot of nice features, but it’s just not wonderful for anything more than standard video production or home movies.

Panasonic SDR-H80: Great for Amateurs

Panasonic SDR-H80 is a standard-definition camcorder. But, there's more than meets the eye with this camcorder. Learn more below!

Panasonic’s newest standard-definition camcorder is the SDR-H80. It comes with a 60GB hard drive and stores close to 14 hours of video when set to the highest standard. The SDR-H80 is quite compact and can be easily held and maneuvered. It weighs 12.8 ounces, and its dimensions are pretty small at 2.1x2.6x4.2 inches with a standard 2.7 inch LCD screen.

The best feature of this new model (besides the price tag, $399.95) is the 70X zoom lens. This is amazing for a camcorder in this price range. And, the camcorder comes with optical image stabilization to help you keep your hand steady when filming at the higher zoom settings.

One of the major pitfalls of the 70x zoom lens is that, no matter how steady your hand is and no matter how much the optical stabilization may help you, your picture is still going to be fuzzy if you don’t use a tripod. So, be sure to invest in one before you start shooting video. Another issue is that the video quality isn’t the best, and the color can be grainy, especially in low-light. The low-light pitfalls may have a lot to do with the fact that it’s not a high-definition camcorder.

Usability

Rating

But, if you’re just planning on uploading video to YouTube, this may be the model that you should go with. It has a one-click uploading to YouTube via the Web mode and comes with a 10-minute countdown (the maximum length a video can be on the site) so that you won’t go over.

The body of this camcorder is well done with the Power/Mode button at the top, which lets you either record video or take still pictures. A joystick and the Menu button is inside the LCD screen for easier access. There are plenty of buttons all around the camcorder that allows you to switch between shooting options, including using Panasonic’s Intelligent Auto mode.

One issue with the design is that the USB port and power plus are in back of the battery. This could make for awkward movements if you need to transfer files to your computer. You may have to remove the battery to do so and could easily run out of power fast.

JVC Everio G-MS120: Cheap and Full of Features

Looking for a cheap camcorder full of features? Look no further than the JVC Everio G-MS120. It's easy to use and comes with dual card slots

JVC Everio G-MS120 ($270.00 to $300.00 online) is a nice, cheap standard-definition camcorder. A lot of the features are pretty standard, including the 35x zoom lens. It’s also pretty YouTube compatible with some bundled software like many are within the price range to target the ever-growing popularity of this video-sharing site. You can get resolution up to 800K pixels with this standard camcorder.

One problem with the software bundle for YouTube is that it needs to be installed from a computer. So, you won’t be able to stop at some random computer to upload your videos. It will have to be the one where you installed your software.

Features

Rating

But, the major thing that sets this little camcorder apart is the dual SD/SDHC card slots. As a way to stay competitive against the market, JVC has decided to skip the internal hard drive and went with the two card slots, which allows you to expand up to 64GB of storage space if it’s necessary. The camcorder will also automatically switch to the next card (if you installed two) when you run out of space on the first one. While it can take a few seconds to switch between the two, meaning that you’ll miss a few clips, it does happen without you having to do it.

For a cheaper-end camcorder, it takes surprisingly good pictures, even in Auto mode. There are some recording effects, including Strobe, which makes the clips look like non-sequential shots. The Ultra Fine recording setting takes pretty crisp shots, but you’ll probably want to stick to only this setting. The other settings are not quite as crisp though they give you more recording time.

Usability

Rating

The dimensions of this machine are 2.1x2.6x4.4 inches, comes with a 2.7 inch LCD screen and weighs only 10.2 ounces, which is again pretty standard. One of the reasons for being so lightweight is that it’s made entirely of plastic. It sits nicely in the hand and comes in one of the following colors: black, blue or red. You can record up to 14 minutes per 1GB when capturing clips at the highest quality setting. There’s a button located on the left-side of the machine that allows you to take 640x480 photos, which is rather standard for this type of camcorder.

Another nice feature is that you can set your camcorder to turn on and off automatically when you open or close the LCD screen. This should definitely save you battery life if you forget to manually shut it off. There’s plenty of space for the record button despite the fact that the battery occupies most of the rear end of the camcorder. The strap can be a little frustrating to use since it’s rather small and sits rather low on the camcorder.

Bang for Your Buck

Rating

While there are some minor flaws with the body, the usability of features on the MS120 are quite nice. The quality of clips are rather good. The bang for your buck can’t be beat.

Best Digital Camcorders So Far this Year

2009 is off to a bang, and the camcorder companies are throwing plenty of equipment our way. To help you weed through the muck, we've put together a list of some of the best digital camcorders to come out so far. Read more to find the perfect gift for Father's Day or camcorder for your next trip!

Canon Vixia HFS100

Many of your favorite camcorder companies have already released newer versions of favorite models or whole new lines. So, to get your ready for July 4^th or to just find a gift for Father’s Day, we’ve put together a list of the best digital camcorders to have come out this year.

Canon has already introduced a number of new models, but the Canon Vixia HFS100 High Definition Flash Memory Camcorder (approximately $1,000 online) is already getting some rave reviews. The camcorder comes with full HD recording and the ever-popular optical image stabilization technology to help avoid shaky shots. It has a 10X optical zoom and a ½.6 inch CMOS sensor to improve resolution and crispness.

The 2.7 inch Touch Screen can be temperamental, but is overall great for anyone who’s gotten used to it. It can record in 24p cinema mode or 30p mode with stereo sound. It can take eight megapixel still images. What’s really nice about this model besides its usability is that the Dual ShotCapture feature allows video and photos to be taken without switching modes.

Canon Vixia HF200

Canon also recently released the Canon Vixia HF200 High Definition Flash Memory Camcorder (approximately $600 online). This fully high definition, Flash Memory camcorder comes with Canon’s optimal image stabilization technology and 15x optical zoom for amazingly close shots. It too has a 2.7 inch Touch Screen and can record in 24p cinema mode and 30p mode. It comes with a ¼ inch CMOS sensor and can record in stereo sound.

A nice feature for this model is the face detection feature, which will recognize faces and make sure that they come through clear. It also has the video snapshot mode that allows you to take a picture while filming. This camcorder can only take still pictures at 3.1 megapixels. For the cheaper price, however, it may be an acceptable sacrifice to those on a budget.

Sony HDR-XC100

Another major name has released a camcorder that’s been well-appreciated by users. The Sony HDR-XC100 Dual Flash Memory High Definition Camcorder (approximately $500 online). This camcorder is also fully high definition and has 10x optical zoom. It has Sony’s version of image stabilization technology, SteadyShot. It has a 1/5-inch Exmor CMOS and 2.7 inch high resolution Touch Screen. It also records in stereo sound.

It takes four megapixel still images, a bit less than the higher eight megapixel stills of the previous camcorder, but still really admirable. A really nice feature of this model is the Bionz image processor that improves the speed and quality of shots and extends battery life. Another interesting feature is the Smile Shutter that automatically takes still photos whenever someone smiles.

The Best Camcorder Accessories For Videographers

You have the camcorder. You're ready to record, but there's a few more things you need in order to get the best videos. Here's a list of accessories that every videographer should own.

You picked out your favorite camcorder and bought it. You're staring at the new thing in your hand and videotaping everyone in the room, including Grandpa who's getting a little cranky about the whole thing. Well, don't stop there. Step up your videography lifestyle with these accessories.

First things first, let's look at wipes. Adrian Monk from the TV show Monk has one thing right; you always need handy wipes. For your camcorder, you need some type of lens cleaning system in your bag with you at all times. You can get micro-fiber cleaning cloths from companies like DigiPower Solutions for about $15.00 to $20.00. Believe me, you'll want to have these on hand for any type of grime or fingerprints that could mar your shots.

Now, think about this scenario. Daughter Judy is graduating from college. The ceremony has been going on for hours, and you've listened to the guest speaker drone on. It's finally time for the graduates to get their degrees, and, bam, you're out of battery power. You burrow through your bag, searching and searching, but, nope, you don't have that extra battery.

The lesson here is that you must always carry an extra battery for your camcorder. For between $40.00 and $60.00 bucks, it's well worth not having to explain to Judy why you missed her crossing the stage.

You should also have an on-camera light. This will illuminate any situation, and many of them come with dimmers so that you don't blind your subject. The Sunpak Readylight is perfect for this purpose and relatively cheap at between $20.00 and $50.00.

Lens filters are also required camcorder accessories. The clear filters will protect your camcorder lens from any dust or debris flying about, and the polarizing filters can add a little different quality to your videos by darkening the skies or reducing glare from water shots.

If you plan on taping your best friend's wedding, you definitely need some gaffer's tape to secure any cords or cables. At less than $20.00 per sixty-yard roll, it's a wise investment.

Other things that could make your life easier include extra connectors and cables, an external microphone and some headphones. And, now, you're finally ready to tackle any video-recording situation in which you are put.

Images

Best Camcorders from $200 to $500

Want a camcorder that's a little better than the cheapest ones, but still costs less than a week's worth of gas for the SUV? Don't worry; you can find a good camcorder for a great price here

In the market for a decent camcorder, but you don't want to break the bank? There are options available to you. Low to mid-range camcorders come with many nice options that would be perfect for anyone just starting out.

Canon has been producing quality cameras and camcorders for a very long time. Their budget F series has a few different models to choose from, including the FS10 with 8GB of memory. But, the high-end model the FS11 (around $450 to $500 retail) [See Image 1] comes with a 16GB internal memory and a built-in electronic lens cover. It's well built and will fit perfectly into your hand. Weighing only 10.7 ounces, it would be easy to take this camcorder on a hike or to the beach with the family.

This camcorder is not meant for the serious videographer. There are some problems with the zoom switch, making it hard to control, and it only comes with standard-definition (740x480) video resolution. But, overall, it's a nice starter video camera.

A better option might be the JVC Everio GZ-MG330 Hybrid Camcorder ($400 to $500 retail) [See Image 2]. It's small, inexpensive and very sleek looking. It also shoots in standard definition and sports a 2.7 inch LCD screen. It is a little heavier than the Canon model at 11 ounces, but the zoom on this camera is much better, reaching up to 35x. It has a 30GB hard drive and the ability to capture still photos. What's nice about this camcorder is that in the Ultra Fine mode, the hard drive can record over seven hours of video and, in the Economy mode, over 37 hours.

The image quality is not the best, and you need to be up close to someone to get clearly defined auto. But, for the price tag, it is still a fine machine.

Another possibility, if you're looking for a camera that shoots in HD is the Aiptek GO-HD High Definition 720p Camcorder (under $300 retail) [See Image 3]. It's been on the market for over a year, but, for right now, this camcorder is the only way to obtain high-definition video at this price. It records onto SD cards, and you can get about four hours of HD footage per 8GB card. The downside to this product is that you get what you pay for; the quality is not the greatest. Yet, this would be a good choice for anyone who wants to see how HD works on a camcorder.

Overall, in this price range, there are a few useable and decent quality camcorders available to you.

Images

Best Kodak Digital Cameras That Record Video

The list below will tell you a little about some of the best Kodak Cameras that record video. These cameras make great Christmas gifts.

With Christmas right around the corner, odds are you are looking for that perfect Christmas gift. A digital camera is a great gift to give someone for Christmas. I have put together a list of the best Kodak Digital cameras that also record video. Sometimes when you are taking pictures, you may want to take a small video too. These Kodak cameras are great for taking small videos. The size of the videos will depend on the camera and if you are using a SD Card. Check out the cameras below if you are looking to buy a digital camera that records video too.

Kodak C913 9.2MP Digital Camera

The Kodak C913 comes fully loaded with everything that you can think of. It is a 9.2 megapixel camera with a resolution of up to 3504 x 2632 pixels. The camera has a 3 times optical zoom and 5 times digital zoom. It comes with a 2.4 LCD screen and offers many modes for picture taking.

The camera records QuickTime Jpeg videos. These videos can be uploaded to your computer and viewed on your computer. You can also convert them and burn them to a DVD to create a video. The resolution of the video can be set at 640 x 480 or 320 x 240. It is great for creating small home videos. This camera runs about $120 and can be bought from most retail stores.

Kodak EasyShare C875 Digital Camera

The Kodak EasyShare C875 camera is a 8 megapixel camera with a 5 times optical zoom. It has a 2.5 LCD screen, so it is just a hair larger than the first camera. This camera is great for taking pictures.

The video part of the camera records at 30 fps. This camera is better known for the wonderful pictures it takes. If you are looking more for a camera that takes great pictures instead of looking at the video, you may be interested in this one. However, I wouldn’t recommend it if you are looking for a camera with great video and pictures. This camera runs about $160.

Kodak EasyShare Z712 IS Zoom Digital Camera

The Kodak EasyShare Z712 is at the top of its line. It is a 7.1 megapixels camera with a 2.5 LCD screen. It has built in features for cropping photos and editing photos. It has a 12 times optical zoom. This camera is great for taking far off photos as well as taking up close photos.

The video part of the camera is outstanding. The greatest thing about the video part of the camera is the feature that takes out shakiness. So, if your hands shake while recording video, the camera will remove it. With the internal memory of the camera, you can video up to 80 minutes on this camera. Out of the three cameras, this is my favorite when it comes to cameras that record. This camera runs about $180.

If you are looking for a great Kodak camera that takes pictures and records video, check out the cameras above. I’m sure you’ll find one that matches what you are looking.

Why You Shouldn’t Spend a Lot of Money on Your First Camcorder

All Excited About Buying Your First Camcorder? Hang on a moment. Your excitement may die off within days after purchase and you may end up not getting your money’s worth.

Short Excitement Span

Used camcorders are among the most popular items sold in an online marketplace I used to visit. A typical advertisement goes something like this:

Camcorder Brand XYZ for Sale. Still New. Hardly Used. 9 months warranty available. Going Cheap.

Most of the time it is a top-end model with all the bells and whistles. Why would the seller be disposing off a model which can make great video for a cut-price? I figured out that the owner must have got tired of using the video camera after a few attempts. Maybe he could not cope with the hassle of taking it out of the bag, charging the battery, loading a tape, hanging it around his neck and start shooting.

Then after shooting, there’s the trouble of connecting it to a TV set and playing it back. Then when he learns that making great video really starts at the editing stage, he throws in the towel. He decides it’s not going to be worth his while to learn video editing The camcorder he has once coveted becomes redundant. Now he desperately tries to sell it off to recoup his large cash outlay.

Unsound Advice

If you have been reading a typical camcorder buyer’s guide the advice given is usually to buy the best camcorder your budget will allow you. Is this sound advice?

No, it’s not sound advice for a first-time buyer. Unless you have been using camcorders on a regular basis, you are not sure whether you’re going to like using your camcorder after buying it. For most, when the initial excitement wears off, it will be a great pain to even take the camcorder out of the bag, much less load a tape, shoot and edit the footage.

If you really can’t resist the impulse to buy a camcorder, go for an entry-level model although you have the budget for a top-end one . But can you get good video with an entry-level model?

Why not? Camcorder technology has improved by leaps and bounds over the years. But what about the features you will be missing out on if you buy a budget model?

You Don’t Need All The Features

The salesman at the electronics shop would like to persuade you to buy an expensive model so that you could enjoy all the cool features. He may say you need a three-chip camera with manual focus, widescreen and manual white balance capabilities for good video. Unless you are planning to make videos for the local television station or for corporate clients you can do without them.

If you’re a first time camcorder buyer, chances are you’ll be making videos for Youtube or putting together the odd birthday DVD. And for that an entry-level mini-DV camera is more than sufficient.

All you need is a Mini DV Camera with a firewire port to get your feet wet. By the time you learn the ropes you will know whether camcorders are your cup of tea. Then you can decide whether you need to graduate to a higher-end model.

Two Tips

Here are two tips which could help you make an informed decision before buying a a new camcorder.

Borrow a Camcorder and Use It For A Few Days

Get a camcorder from a friend. Go through the whole process from charging the battery to editing the video footage. How well do you cope? Would you want to do it again or find the process tedious?

Learn Basic Video Editing Skills First

If you’ve no access to a camcorder, play around with Windows Movie Maker. Do you enjoy the video editing process? If you do, then you are justified in acquiring a camcorder. Even then go for an entry-level model. You can always give it away as a gift to a loved one when you outgrow it and graduate to a higher-end model.

Review: Flip Mino Camcorder

Last year, I came across the Flip Mino, a tiny camera with a great sense of style. Read my review!

The Flip Mino

We've come a long way from those bulky old cameras we used to have hanging around our necks. Last month, I was at an electronics store (shopping for last minute holiday gifts), when I came across the cute little Flip Mino. It costs $179 USD and has great video quality. At less than two hundred bucks, it's quite the steal, even if it doesn't take pictures.

Design

Rating

The Flip Mino is smaller than a paperback, and a mere 1.3cm thick. On the front, it has a small (but very bright) display. The Flip Mino only has one button you can physically press, which is the record button; the rest are touch-sensitive.

The back of the camera just has the camera lens. What I really like about the Flip Mino is that you can customize the back to suit your tastes. A family photo, a design, a saying; the choice is yours. I had mine customized with funky pattern, and it really sticks out next to those boring silver camcorders.

Quality

Rating

The quality is very good for the camera's size, although not as good as an HD camera, but that was to be expected. The Flip Mino has a 640 by 480 resolution, which is pretty good for that teeny little thing. I shot a video and uploaded on YouTube, and I have to say, it turned out pretty good.

Ease of use

Rating

The style was perfect, the quality was okay, but the strongest point of the Flip Mino has to be the simplicity. You can use it right out of the box, and even someone with limited camera know-how can operate the Flip Mino with ease. What I loved was that it had a USB plug that pops out of the side of the camera. No more firewires!

I used the camcorder both outside and inside, and the videos were great. What I didn't like, though, was the fact that the touch-sensitive buttons were very hard to use with gloves on your hands. Recording was fine, but to review the video, you'd have to pull of your gloves (and that's not too fun in sub-zero weather). But it's a small price to pay for such a cheap and easy device.

The Bottom Line

The Flip Mino is a cheap, easy to use, and fun treat for anyone. It's perfect or making podcasts, internet videos, etc., because of its simplicity. I would totally recommend it to someone with a passion for vlogging or a newcomer to the world of digital video.

HD Camcorders on a Budget: Vixia HG20

In this series, I'll review HD camcorders under $600, for those of us with a small budget and a need for quality. Here's my review of the Vixia HG20.

The Camera

Although it's heavier than the Vixia HF11, the Vixia HG20 packs quite a punch with its increased storage space and great HD video recording quality, and comes with a much lower price tag as well.

Tech Specs

Price: $549.99 USD and up

Digital Zoom: 200x

Optical Zoom 12x

Video Resolution: 3.3 megapixels

Digital Storage: Hard Drive

The Good

When I go on trips, the biggest problem I have is not having enough storage space on my camcorder (because who wants to stop and upload videos in the middle of a vacation?). This camera would be great for long trips and that kind of thing because it can store its digital videos and images in one of two areas: an SD card or on a 60 gigabyte hard drive. Also, this camera has a 12x optical zoom (and a 200x digital zoom). The camcorder records in up to five different media resolutions and has three different frame rates.

The camcorder has a sleek, understated design, with ports for a firewire cord, an additional microphone, and a pair of headphones. The buttons are nice and big, and very simple to use. Also, the flip-out screen has a joystick that makes navigating through the six-paneled menu a breeze.

The Bad

Because of this camcorder's 60 gigabyte hard drive, it weighs a little more than other flash-based camcorders. It weighs a little more than a pound, and although that doesn't sound like much on paper, believe me, it can get pretty tiresome lugging that around.

Also, there's a joystick inside the screen, but there's also one on the bezel of the camera. This was very annoying, because it was nearly impossible to use the joystick (which is needed to change video settings) while filming and keeping the camera straight.

The Bottom Line

Although the camera's design may be a little less than user-friendly, this HD camera is a steal, coming in at less than $600 USD. The display and controls are simple and easy to use, have a large print and the camcorder itself has an automatic anti-shake setting, making it an ideal present for a first-timer or elder. I give this camcorder a thumbs-up.

HD Camcorders on a Budget: Panasonic HDC-SD9

The Panasonic HDC-SD9 is a great HD camcorder with a sleek, compact design and a small price tag.

The Panasonic HDC-SD9

The HDC-SD9, from Panasonic, is an efficient HD camera with a sleek, compact design and a great price tag. Coming in at around $499 USD, it has a few quirks, but its still got a lot to love.

Technical Speciications

Digital Zoom: 700x

Max Shutter Speed: 1/8000 sec

2.1 megapixels

Optical Zoom: 10x

The Good

The HDC-SD9 is a flash based camcorder, which makes it pretty light. One of the things I liked about the design was the placement of the buttons; they were on the side of the camera body, inside the LCD screen. I liked this a lot because a lot of camcorders I've used have had some of the main buttons that I use a lot (like the zoom button, for instance) on the side of the LCD screen. This gets very annoying, because you have to prop the camera on one hand and press the tiny buttons inside the screen with another, and not only does that make your hand hurt, it makes the footage shaky as well.

The placement of the SD card slot is also very convenient, placed right underneath the battery. The colors were saturated when I filmed outside, which I kind of liked, but the footage came out a bit sharp.

The Bad

One thing that really got on my nerves was the fact that if you wanted to download footage from the camcorder to your computer, you have to take out the battery. This is because the port for the power supply is behind the battery; you have to remove the battery to get at it. And, like may HD camcorders, the camcorder needs to be plugged in, not on battery power, to download video. And, to tell you the truth, I'm not the best with putting in and taking out batteries, and I like to avoid it whenever possible, so this feature really annoyed me.

Another thing I hated about the SD9 is that you have to open the little LCD window to take out the battery. If you close the LCD screen, the camera goes into standby mode. If you take the battery out while it's in standby mode, you're stuck that way. I had to do a lot of button-pressing and camera-banging to get it out of standby mode once it got stuck.

The software that comes with the SD9 has a few bugs in it, so make sure you do an internet search to see if those bugs have been worked out.

The Bottom Line

The SD9 is a great little camera with a cute little price tag. It has a lightweight, convenient design that's easy on the eyes. I'd recommend this camera for those with a little more patience; the bugs in this camera, although there aren't many, might make you want to throw it out the window.

How to Choose the Right Video Camcorder Gift for the Holidays

Digital camcorders come in many shapes, sizes, and abilities. If you are thinking of buying someone a camcorder as a holiday gift, you need to read this article first. It will help you in selecting the right one.

Before heading to your local Best Buy or Wal-Mart to purchase that perfect camcorder as a Christmas gift for someone, there are a few things you need to think about first. After all, you want the person to get the most out of the camcorder. Finding the right one may take some effort but it is completely doable.

First, think about the person the gift is for; know their personality, likes and dislikes. Try to know as much about them and their digital video needs before sitting down to look over camcorders. Based on their personality, the look and feel of their perfect camcorder should be easy to identify. Create a checklist and list the visual aspects of the camcorder first.

Next, list their experience level. If you are purchasing for a seasoned videographer or an enthusiast, go with the one with the most high-tech features. Shopping for kids and novices are easy since most camcorders’ auto-capture feature is fairly simple to operate. List on your checklist the features that you know will be beneficial based on the experience level and needs of the gift recipient.

The next thing you need to know is what the person will most likely film with the camcorder. This is a little tricky to decide because you can’t possibly predict a person’s future filming habits and goals. You can, however, make some good assumptions based on their day-to-day life. For a parent or grandparent who spends a lot of time with children, it is safe to assume that they will be filming events such as Little League games and dance recitals. The perfect camcorder for them will have a high-powered zoom function. On the other hand, an adventurist may enjoy one that is durable and captures video in high-def. This way they can capture nature with the best picture quality available.

For light features, know where the majority of the filming will take place. Some camcorders come with video light or night mode for filming in dark places and at night. This feature may also come in handy for the summer night games or parties.

The source of output used when they are done with the video after filming is another thing to consider. Will the video be edited? Will it be played on a computer over the internet or on a television screen? These are very important things to know when it comes to special features and accessories available for the camcorder. Does the person have a HDTV? In that case, a high-def camcorder will deliver the best quality. Know the type of output cables that is needed so you can pick a camcorder that comes with the right ones.

Once you know and have listed all of the features that are necessary based on the individual, take it to salesperson to help you pick out the final product. Some other advice you may want to consider is:

• Always go with the name brands, such as Sony, Panasonic and Canon.
• Never buy a used camcorder as a gift to get more features. In the long run, it will be cheaper to buy a new one.
• There is no need to pay the extra money for all the bells and whistles if they aren't needed.
• Ultra-compact camcorders don't have the best quality and break easily.
• Stay away from gray market camcorders.
• Stick with a reputable dealer that offers additional warranties.

Remember these tips and you should be fine. The individual will love their gift and have a camcorder they can use for years to come. If this is for Christmas, make sure your gift is one of the first to be opened so that they can get started right away.

Waterproof Camcorders

Forget Home Videos, that was the old trend. Now It's Underwater Videos with brand new waterproof camcorders. They work great for those vacationing families always on the go and can also take great pictures and videos on that ocean cruise you're planning to take.

A New Ocean Species Has Been Found

No, unfortunately that species is not a new type of fish or a once considered extinct animal. It is a group of small, bright colored electronic devices classified simply as waterproof camcorders. Yes, you heard me correctly.

Sanyo and Panasonic have both recently taken a dive into shallow ocean waters with their brand new waterproof camcorder series. The camcorders both provide compact design and incredible functionality but have one major drawback. They can only withstand five feet of underwater pressure, meaning those deepwater dives and swimming trips still can't be captured on video. They do however, work great in the family or resort pool and can be an excellent solution for filming a snorkeling adventure.

As for what the individual cameras provide themselves, see below.

The Panasonic SDR-SW20

The SDR is not as slick as Sanyo's E1 model; in fact the design looks rather retro. At first glance it looks almost like a much older camera; or portable radio of some sort. The size is convenient however, and allows the camcorder to be stored in a large pocket removing the need to carry around a bulky camcorder handbag. It features a 10x optical zoom with a total combined 700x digital zoom, and stores videos and photos on a 4GB memory card which is included (Sanyo's model has no storage capacity included). The camera body is also shock resistant, if dropped from distances up to 4 feet; and also is dustproof to help keep it from being dirtied by filthy hands. Because it is waterproof it also should be noted that it can be used in the rain and on skiing trips; particularly in instances when you would never be able to use a normal camcorder due to moisture. It's total size is similiar to that of the normal television remote control, and is actually surprisingly thin.

The SDR features a quick point and shoot mode that can start filming in under a second helping dads everywhere capture more spur of the moment videos of the kids. The camcorder also boasts easy copy features to help transfer the videos both to a computer and a DVD. The camera package also comes with computer video-editing software to help you easily design and create cinematic home videos.

The videos and photos are stored onto an SD memory card. The videos are stored as MPEG-2 files with Dolby Digital AC3 MPEG 1- Layer 2 audio. The pictures are stored as 640*480 JPEG images.

The SDR has garnered reviews from all walks of life; I even think there was a turtle that said it doesn't work as well as it should underwater.

Not really.

Nevertheless, the camera would make a good fit for those interested in an all terrain type of camcorder. I would not recommend this camera to the high tech guru type who wants the biggest and baddest; there still isn't an affordable waterproof camera that captures video in high def.

This baby retails at about 399.95 and comes with the camcorder, a rather weak handstrap, and computer software along with the relevant USB connection materials.

The Sanyo VPC-E1

The new Sanyo Xacti E-1 Digital camcorder is a great home video solution even if it isn't specifically used underwater. From the getgo, the exterior design of this camera looks amazing and the overall size is very slim. The videos and photos are stored on a seperate memory card as opposed to a DVD; and can fit up to an hour and twenty minutes per 1GB card. The camcorder itself supports up to an 8GB SDHC memory card; which in turn can store nearly ten hours or more of full motion video or over 4000 full resolution photos. The photos are high resolution, 6 megapixel still images and come out beautifully both above, and under, the surface of water. The video is recorder in a full 640*480 resolution at 30 frames per second. The camcorder also provides a chance to take images while in the process of filming simply by pressing the shutter button; in the event the kids do something cute and you're still in the middle of recording a video. It also includes an image stabilizer for when video is recording; and can differentiate between unintentional camera shake and intentional movement. The stabilizer can detect both up and down or side to side movement.The camera lens includes a 5x optical zoom and a 12x digital zoom allowing up to a total maximum of 60x zooming power.

The camera operating system and power up routine was designed to keep the flash of the moment in mind. Camera startup time takes a max of 1.7 seconds and is great for those spur of the moment shots when you need to snap pictures or record a film right away. It helps out a great deal when you're taking pictures of the kids; we all know how random they are. The compact design also allows the camera a perfect fit in the palm of your hand; with quick access to all the buttons and functions close to your thumb. It's also available in blue, white and yellow.

The videos themselves are stored as a highly compressed MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 format which means the actual file size is about 25% smaller than the average MPEG-4 video file. The videos are natively compatible with all iPods which means they can be transferred and burned to DVD and CD's directly through iTunes. The camcorder also features a direct hookup for your TV so you can share files with others that have not yet been transferred off the memory card. The computer USB connection is easy to connect, and simple drag and drop functions are all that is required to transfer and store video files on your computer hard drive.

Better yet, you would think the average waterproof camera would normally cost a fortune however Sanyo has produced this model at a very affordable price. The E1 retails at about 499.99 putting the total cost right around that of a normal camcorder.

Overall the Sanyo VPC-E1 makes a great family camcorder of its own accord; it's well designed, compact, takes great photos and videos, and provides tons of portibility that for once hasn't caused functionality to be sacrificed. This product is highly recommended, especially for those family trips...and did I mention it's waterproof and can withstand water pressure up to five feet?

How to Buy Used Video Equipment

In this economy, most people's budgets are tight. But, used video equipment can save you a bundle. There are, however, a few things to consider before laying down your cash.

Used Equipment Checklist

Buying second-hand video equipment can be a great way to save some money and get a quality item. But, before you rush out and get something off of Craigslist, you should take into account the following suggestions.

1. Know the history of the machine. Age can play a big part in whether or not you should buy the camcorder. You need to find out if you can still obtain replacement parts for it. If they are no longer available, you run the risk of buying a machine that you cannot get fixed.

2. Check how many times the camera has been to the shop. Most video equipment will have probably been taken to be fixed at least once or twice. Anything more than that; it could be a faulty model. You also need to take into consideration whether or not the model has never been serviced. If not, it will more than likely need to be cleaned, which will add to the overall cost of the machine.

3. Check for stolen merchandise. In this bad economy, theft has risen dramatically. Do a search online with the model and serial number. You should probably obtain this information before you go to look at it.

4. Check the zoom on the camera. Zoom in and out of objects. Do this several times, and see if the machine still stays in focus.

5. Give it a test drive. Record some video. Make sure that no grinding sounds emit from the machine. Watch the video on a TV or another camcorder. Make sure that the video is not blurry.

6. Check inside the machine. The inside should look nice and shiny, not worn. Also, make sure that no strange smells are coming from the machine when you're using it.

7. Refrain from machines with too many bumps and bruises. Excessive scratches or dents could mean that the camcorder was overused.

8. Take into account the extras. If the person that you're buying the machine from is throwing in mics, headsets and other items, you'll be saving some extra money.

9. Go through a professional dealer. If you're not the type to know when a machine is past its prime, go through a used video equipment dealership. Many will guarantee their work, and you can always return the item. Check out www.broadcaststore.com. They've been around for a long time and are known for their quality used machine.

Top Performing Consumer Camcorders

A Guide to some of the top performing camcorders available this season.

There are so many projects, presentations and films to be shot, and finding the right camcorder goes beyond flash. Flash is for the novice, this article is best suited for those who don’t mind spending a bit more for the ultimate filmmakers companion. Functionality is needed, therefore compiled here is a list of excellent camcorders that will perform all the functions one would need to give any project professional polish. Memory, portability, HD, sound quality are key features required for a good camcorder. More importantly all are the features most looked for and each camera in this category has been rated high in quality for each category. These four camcorders provide excellent quality and all are under $1000. So take a look at this selection. Compare with your wants and needs, and make an informed decision on these top models.

Sony Handy cam hdr-sr8

Top build quality; huge storage capacity; excellent HD video; finger-friendly touch screen. Large hard drive that will be hard to fill in a short amount.

Jvc everio gz-mc500

Cutest Pocket-sized, 3CCD, hard-disk DV camera

Gorgeous styling; professional-grade picture; easy operation; ambitious recording format

Not only does it look like a pro-model camcorder, but it’s incredible performance matches its appearance, flawless!

Professional camcorder in a tiny package.

Panasonic hdc-hs100

Hybrid high definition camcorder with 60GB hard drive

Manual lens ring; clever automatic settings; excellent video

the Panasonic HDC-HS100 delivers excellent high definition video in a package both accessible and powerful.

Jvc everio gz-mg20

Compact size exceptional recording time (25 hours max at low quality!)

Great image quality.

Additional Advice

With top-flight brand camcorders, get them new. A fresh warranty is guaranteed, and good care will extend the life of your camcorder as opposed to. You can often get 10% off of certain models by going through the manufacturer. As always with camcorders, accessorize. Camcorder accessories will only enhance your Camcorders performance.

Try a tripod

Like this one:

Joby Gorillapod DSC Tripod – This model is sturdy, portable and just very nice to look at.

Or Camcorder bag

Like this one:

Lowepro Clips 120 Camcorder Bag-

Durable, Simple and serves the purpose, like most Camcorder bags should.

Happy Shopping!

Most Popular Camcorders to buy this Christmas

A guide to the most popular brands and styles of camcorders this season.

The time has come again to beat the rush and find the ultimate gift this holiday season. On the market are some of the most attractive and high quality camcorders to buy, but where to start? Shopping for camcorders can be a jungle. This guide has three of the most popular camcorders to be purchased this year, and with our help, you’ll be sure to score one of them. One may be the perfect choice for your budding Spielberg!

Canon FS 10

Aside from the modern standards of cuteness and portability, this model is tricked out!

This budget camcorder records to an SD card and has 8GB flash memory.

Compact, attractive and complete with it’s own high-quality mic input, you can shoot mini-movies on this little guy and edit in camera as a time saving trick.

Canon Vixia Hf100

You can have stunning AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format recording with the ease and numerous benefits of Flash Memory. It's used in some of the world's most innovative electronic products such as laptop computers, mp3 players, and cell phones. Now in camcorders you are free to personalize your viewing experience. Add to that the Canon Vixia. Exclusive features such as Canon's 3.3 Mega pixel sensor and advanced Digic Dv Image Processor. Complete with Super-Range Optical Image Stabilization, it shoots in Instant Auto Focus. The 2.7" Widescreen Multi-Angle Vivid LCD and the Genuine Canon 12x HD video zoom lens are just the icing on the cake. This model also has Flash Memory that’s a roomy 16 GB and stores everything safely.

Panasonic GS320

One of the true gems of the camcorder world this mini studio has features galore. From built-in zoom, and mic capabilities, to consumer friendly buttons. A starter camera for sure this model comes complete with a 360 rotating view screen, 2.7 widescreen LCD and 10x optical zoom. The camera also comes with and is compatible with MotionDV Studio and Quick Movie Magic software. Other great features include one touch navigation and joystick control. In terms of memory you’ll be relying on an SD card slot, but this camera functions well enough to keep all memory safe.

What to Look For When Buying a Used Camcorder

Buying anything used nearly guarantees trouble. These tips will help you separate the best from the rest.

Are you planning on buying a used camcorder? Do you know what to look for?

Just a bit of help for the treasure hunters out there!

*Can you service it?

Determine how old the camera is.

Some makes and models require parts that are no longer being made - problem!

Lenses, caps, buttons, batteries - anything that can't be replaced diminishes the true value of the camera, and how well it will work.

Just follow the old rule of thumb, if you can't service it, don't buy it!

Inspect

Check everything!

Is the lens in good shape? Clear Filter?

A good way to check is to breathe on the lens, if the fog clears somewhat evenly sans fingerprints and dust you know it's ok.

Scratches or dings? If the lettering is faded it's likely due to frequent handling and no indication of bad condition.

Check the tape compartment, your biggest enemies here are rust, or dents, if you use a flashlight you'll be able to catch any discoloration. There really is no room for carelessness here; if the tape compartment isn't shining like silver it could affect filming, and future function of the camera.

Tech Specs

The camera also has to have a moderate technical quality, translation: All the buttons should do what they are supposed to do.

Put it in manual focus. Zoom in tight on a subject and focus. Zoom out. Zoom back in. Repeat. Is the object still in focus? Many consumer cameras have a hard time holding focus through the zoom range. Put it in autofocus. Does the camera search for focus excessively? Try this in good light and in low light.

Does the camera have rechargable batteries? These will most likely have to be replaced. The price range for most rechargeable camcorder batteries is about $40-$80

Repair history

If possible find out about the repair history-

A camera that's been serviced is not necessarily a lemon, but if it's been into the shop two or three times for the same problem, I'd worry. Ask to see repair receipts. A camera that's never been serviced is also a problem. Plan on paying a couple hundred for a cleaning and alignment if this is the case. However the cost may not be worth it, you may just opt to buy a new camera.