I capture footage for educational videos for an engine comapny. I need to be able to get closeups of items such as throttle cables, casting numbers, Serial Numbers, etc, What do I need or how do i do this?

I would use some +3 or +4 close up lenses. With a 52mm step-up ring you can buy cheap Tiffen close-up lens-filters, they usually costs about $25. I shot this video with them and the HV20: http://vimeo.com/678941

Alternatively, you can get a Canon 50/1.8 lens, mounted using a 52mm reverse ring (found at B&H). I have a picture of my setup here: http://eugenia.gnomefiles.org/2007/11/28/a-new-rig/
This is more difficult to use btw than close-up filter-lenses, but not impossible. It all depends how much you want to zoom in.

Zoom out to full wide and provide plenty of light. Bring the camera close to the object. The camera will focus on things right up to the front of the lens. This macro capability is built in and readily available as long as you're zoomed out to full wide angle.

you might want to also consider using a still camera for some of the closeup detailed shots, and then zooming in and moving in post. It might take a little longer to match colors, but it could give you extreme detail with no camera shake. and If this is not a good idea, I would love to hear the reasons I am wrong :)

For the best results use manual focus and a tripod or a monopod. A good external lighting is also welcomed since getting close to an object usually obstruct available light. Of course zooming out is a must as mentioned above, and a closeup (macro) lens is a welcomed addition and will make the thing easier.

I would use some +3 or +4 close up lenses. With a 52mm step-up ring you can buy cheap Tiffen close-up lens-filters, they usually costs about $25. I shot this video with them and the HV20: http://vimeo.com/678941

Alternatively, you can get a Canon 50/1.8 lens, mounted using a 52mm reverse ring (found at B&H). I have a picture of my setup here: http://eugenia.gnomefiles.org/2007/11/28/a-new-rig/
This is more difficult to use btw than close-up filter-lenses, but not impossible. It all depends how much you want to zoom in.

I have a Nikon 50 mm lens, this would work too wouldnt it? Does it have to be a "macro" lens or will any 50mm work?

How's this for built-in macro capability (click to see 'em big)...

Chris..

Thats impressive.. gonna play a lil with it today... Dont mean to get off the subject here and post in the wrong forum, but does the GL2 have a similer capability?

thanks..

Hi Dave, take the lens hood off of your GL2, provide plenty of light, zoom out to full wide and you can focus on objects touching the front of the lens.