Go with the A1.Great versatile camera. I have an H1, two a1's ( just picked up my 2nd a1 for under 2k!!) and an HV30. Tape is still cheap and virtually foolproof. Down the road, it would be nice to have a tapeless iption, but for long events, it deosn't make sense yet.
Bruce Yarock
Yarock Video and Photo (http://www.yarockvideo.com)

Bruce, where did you pick up an A1 for less than 2k? All the XH A1 cameras I've seen on ebay are going for around $2,500 at the cheapest.

Chris, I edit on final cut pro. I never thought about looking for a way to have it auto break up the footage as it captures. I'm not sure if final cut offers that or not, but I'll play around with it and see if it does.


I still love tape, I just hate how I spend half the editing process just capturing and breaking up the footage.

If you aren't going to be making a purchase for a few months, I'd suggest keeping an eye on how the HMC40 fares, once we start getting significant feedback from early adopters.

Thanks for the suggestion on the HMC40, I didnt even know about that. I've been reading about it for the past hour or so and I'm starting to really like it. Its within my price range at around $2,000 on B&H. I'm going to start making a 10 minute short film in about a month (first film I've ever directed) and if I can get that in a few weeks I'll be ecstatic. Only problem is at $2,000 for the camera alone, that will leave me pretty much broke.

That camera also only has 3 1/4" CMOS chips. I'm used to shooting with SD cameras that use 3 1/3" CCD chips. How would the three 1/4" CMOS (in HD) chips compare to 1/3" CCD chips? For a student thats still learning and on a tight budget would there be any noticeable difference? I've looked around a little and it seems like the only real difference would be with low-light situations and I dont really plan on doing anything in low light.

That camera also only has 3 1/4" CMOS chips. I'm used to shooting with SD cameras that use 3 1/3" CCD chips. How would the three 1/4" CMOS (in HD) chips compare to 1/3" CCD chips?

A good question Steven. There's the obvious answer that as 1"/3 chips have a 78% greater surface area than ¼" chips they'll be better when light levels drop, and this is especially marked if you've come from the big pixels on a PD170 SD CCD (say) to the very tiny HD pixels on a ¼" chip.

But CMOS are better in low light than CCD (size for size) and modern amplifiers are far less noisy, so you might tolerate +15dB of gain up in the new camera where +6dB was looking grainy on the old one.

But the biggest difference (for me) is the dof issue. Cameras with tiny ¼" chips really struggle to include differential focus shots, and it's this 'all in focus' look that yells video pretty loudly.

If you took a poll on this site and asked if anyone who'd got a camcorder would ever consider buying another one with smaller chips than they have at present, I'm betting 90% would give that a thumbs down.

tom.

Steven,
It was a freak situation. A college kid had it on craigslist, sking 2k. I got in my car and raced over there (1 1/2 haors away). It's great for the multicam shoots, becayse now i have 3 cameras with the same exact look, plus the hv30 for a lockdown. rhe other thing I'm thinking of doing is leaving my letus extreme on one of the a1's, always ready to use.
I also have a super clean Siny FX1, which is a great camera. I recently had the tape transport mechanism replaced, which , makes it good to go for quite a while. If you're interested, pm me.
bruce yarock
yarock at a o l dot c o m

Hi,
I currently have a Canon XH-A1 which I like a lot; I have a project coming up soon and I have the opportunity to get a new camera.
I'll be filming falcons hunting (where falcons fly after birds in the wild), so I need a camera that is fast, that can zoom to pretty extreme length, is somewhat durable/reliable, supports SD/CF and can zoom a long distance (16x zoom or higher I would say).

I find the XH-A1 ideal because it goes to the 35mm equiv of 600mm; It would be the perfect camera except that it is not solid state (SD card/CF card). The HDV tapes are a bit of a nightmare in my opinion.

Also ideally a camera which is of a similar size to the XH-A1 or smaller.

Thanks for any suggestions,
Sam

Remember, the zoom ratio (the "x" factor, if you will) is largely meaningless unless you know where the lens starts and ends.

The Sony V1/FX7 goes to a 35mm equivalent of about 750mm and is a bit smaller in form factor than the XH-A1, even though the zoom ratio is the same 20x. The FX1000 is also 20x, but starts wider and ends wider. But obviously both are still tape (although you could put the MRC CF recording unit on either, just as you could with the A1).

FWIW.

Tom, thanks for that information. I'm not sure I want the HMC40 now. I want a camera that will last a few years and will work great in many situations. Since I'm a student I dont have the funds to keep upgrading my camera every year or two. I think I may save up for the HMC150 now since it has the bigger chips and uses CCD vs the CMOS the HMC40. I'll keep researching it and see if I will be fine with the HMC40 though.

Also, if I do get the HMC40, I'll defiantly get the XLR adapter for it which I think costs $350 or around there. With the average price of the camera being $2,000 the total cost for it would be around $2,350. I've seen the HMC150 for around $2,800 used. thats only around a $450-$500 difference.

I want to buy a camera.
1. I can budget ab 6000 $ for the whole kit
2. I'd like to make documentaries, shorts. Maybe for film festivals in the future.
3. It's my first camera

But the biggest difference (for me) is the dof issue. Cameras with tiny ¼" chips really struggle to include differential focus shots, and it's this 'all in focus' look that yells video pretty loudly.

If you took a poll on this site and asked if anyone who'd got a camcorder would ever consider buying another one with smaller chips than they have at present, I'm betting 90% would give that a thumbs down.

I can't speak for anyone else here, but for me shallow depth of field is more of a minus than a plus. I'm not trying to imitate film - I'm shooting video with no apologies. I'm generally much more interested in capturing real life, as realistically as possible - not altering it for artistic purposes. Basically, I want my video to bring the viewer right there, as if they were looking through a (perfectly clear) window in person, for the experience to be as close to having actually been there as possible (an art, in and of itself, when you stop and think about it).

I like the deeper depth of field from smaller sensors. It (usually) looks more realistic, and also makes focusing much easier (a big plus when shooting real life events as they happen, where there are no second takes). Of course, the downside is less sensitivity in less than ideal lighting.

Aside from low light issues, I absolutely love the HMC40 (and it's not really as bad in less than ideal lighting as I think a lot of folks make it out to be - gain is surprising clean, which makes a real world difference). The images are sharp as a tack. You really have to spend quite a bit more to get the ability of acquiring sharper images (think EX1 at least). Focus is easy compared to 1/3" chip cameras. It also shoots 720p60 (and every other common HD flavor), which is fantastic for capturing real life in motion (nice and smooth, like reality, without the judder of lower common framerates - also great for slo-mo).

I would like to see one of the major camcorder manufacturers come out with an (affordable - at least under $4K) AVCHD camcorder, using 3-1/3" imaging chips, with the same resolution offered by the HMC40, for the ability to shoot tack sharp images in dimmer lighting though. I'm really hoping Canon will come out with something like that real soon (fingers crossed).

Firstly, happy new year to everyone.

I'm a student looking to go into freelance work after university, and just got a bonus of £1500. So I thought I'd spend that money on a cam instead of kebabs. I'm UK based, so it must be a PAL camera, and 2nd hand is a good idea because I'm poor.

I'm looking at low end prosumer. Preferably HD, unless you guys can convince me why a good SD camera is a good idea?
The Sony FX7 is perfect but really rare to find 2nd hand for some reason?! FX1 is a bit out of my price range.
Was looking at the Panasonic HMC40, can be found at £1200 new. I know some may scoff and say...'why not just get the HMC150', but again, out of my range.
I was looking at an XL1s...damn cheap used. Only SD I know, but is the quality and price comparable enough to make it a good choice?

Also, looking at buying a 35mm adapter in the future...probably a twoneil or similar. Will the XL1s take a twoneil, or does it require another adapter? Also, If you change the lens on an XL1 to a manual zoom lens, in theory you'd get more depth of field right? Without an adapter?

Anyway, thanks for your help guys, I'm freely open to any suggestions, so start suggesting

:)

I’m planning to get a HD camcorder(1080p) and I need advice. But going through this forum I am very confused on which camcorder to get (HF200, hv40, HDR-XR500, hv30 and t2i).I saw some people said t2i is good if you are recording and taking pictures. But the problem I have with it is that I need something I can walk, run and hold one hand with like the hv40 camcorders. I have a budget of under $1,200 but if I have to buy t2i I don’t mind spending money little more.

I’m looking for:
- Camcorder that records good in low light, DOF and in the night
- Easy to carry, walk and run with if you are recording.
- Has good zoom(10x+)

Please help me

Dear Ali,

Take a look at the Canon HFs10, HFs11, or the soon to be shipping HFs21.

These may fit your needs.

Or the current XR500, CX500, or soon to be released XR550 and CX550 - particularly for low light quality and OIS (optical image stabilization, since you mention shooting handheld while moving), these may beat the Canon.

Be aware that the new Sonys have a much wider wide end of the lens range, so you may have to consider how much zoom you use/need.

I am looking for a camcorder for home use. Here are the things I would like:

1. I have a 1080 plasma HD tv and would like the camera to have HD capabilities.
2. I want to record to SD cards
3. I would like the option to record in 24p and 30p
4. I would like the biggest cmos sensor possible
5. I would like to spend $500 or less

Please let me know if anyone has a recommendation for this. Thank you.

Used a sony pd 150 on my last 88 feature, but my son lost it. So, next project is in August. Looking for:

1. auto focus
2. true 24p
3. true 16.9
4. want to shoot on mini dv

What camera does anyone suggest?

Please email me: firefighter Tim Andrew at: pilotfire@sbcglobal.net

We are in the progress to buy a new camera for our school. Because we are a city funded art school (secundairie education / high school) we are limited in budget and subject to numerous rules.

At the moment we are looking serous at the Canon XH A1s (pal version), I only read about good experiences with this camera and at 3500 Euro it would just fit our budget, maybe stretch it a bit but possible. If there are camera's at the same price-quality range you can recommend, I would like to hear about them.

Besides the manual options for the audio visual classes, we would like a good performance in low light to record theatre and dance productions and maybe some concerts.

On a low budget, I'd start to think about DSLRs.

Luka,

I have upgraded from a Sony V1E (pretty similar to the Canon XH A1 in size) to a Panasonic HMC41E.

For GBP 2000 (before VAT) you can get the camera with XLR adapter (so you can use proper professional mics). It offers a good balance between size and function - it has a lot of manual control. It is also smaller, and shoots to SDHC cards. Or you can save money and not get the XLR adapter, it's around 1800 GBP that way.

I can't compare to the Canon XHA1, but the picture quality is better than my V1E was, at least in good light. But then I'm an outdoors shooter, so light isn't a problem.

Of course there are compromises on a smaller camera (only one combined zoom/focus ring and no direct user-controlled ND filter, a 41mm-not-very-wide-angle-lens that only has 12x zoom) I'm still getting used to it, but I think it's well worth considering for students if you are set on a traditional video camera rather than D-SLR.

Of course you can find flaws when compared to (say) a Sony EX-1 or Z5, but come off it - they cost two grand more!

Hi Mike.

We are indeed looking for a traditional video camera instead of a d-slr.
I will look intro the Panasonic HMC41E

Thanks for the info
and feel free to suggest more models that compare well with the Canon XH A1s sprecs.

Luka,


Do not rule out a Sony fx 1000, it gives the same picture quality a a Z5 but a thousand less in expense.

HD is so focus dependant the quality of the lcd and the view finder make it a lot better than most cameras in its price range.

While I am a Canon camera buff, I did not buy the xha1 because of this particular issue. It produces an exceptional image.

Sony | HDR-FX1000 Handycam HDV Camcorder | HDRFX1000 | B&H Photo

this shows how good they are in low light:

YouTube - Sony HDR-FX1000 / HVR-Z5 Low Light Test (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Xmi76obLJQ)

do a little research, you might be surprised!!


Oh yea, if you need xlr connectivity then you can get a juice box for under 200 dollars!!! Or you can get a mini to xlr cord for 20 dollars.

Dale Guthormsen

Hi Mike.

We are indeed looking for a traditional video camera instead of a d-slr.
I will look intro the Panasonic HMC41E

Thanks for the info
and feel free to suggest more models that compare well with the Canon XH A1s sprecs.

Luka,

Just a thought on the HMC41E. There's an offer for current purcashes purchases in the UK that bundles it with a high capactiy IDX battery, training book by Barry Green, Edius editing software and a 16GB class 6 SDHC card. You can pick up the entire kit including XLR adapter for 2000GBP before tax.

Of course, there are other cameras - the FX1000 and others are superb if you can pay a few more Euros and the larger form factor can be an advantage. Dale is right to recommend it, it is a very good camera.

Depending on the students, something like the smaller Panasonic, with the advantage of SDHC card recording alone, may would be more suitable.

To be fair, I would point out that the LCD display is smaller than the FX1000 (but still pretty good, and I really like the waveform monitor feature for exposure), but the Viewfinder isn't a patch on the FX1000.

Hi Mike and Dale,

On off the numerous rules I most comply with to get city funds to buy the camera is that I'm limited to local shops (to support the local economy) and can not buy from the internet. Nevertheless, I can use internet prices as guidance / reference.

Will look into the Sony HVR-Z5U, Sony FX1000 and Panasonic HMC41E
The Z5 will be probably over budget, but the FX1000 has a chance, only I miss a proper XLR input and on the HMC41E haves the same problem (+ I can't find a good informative review on it)

Hi Mike.

We are indeed looking for a traditional video camera instead of a d-slr..

There's something really traditional, it seems, about the Canon 5D Mark II. Check this out:

Canon 5D Mark II Shoots Season Finale of House | PhotographyBLOG (http://www.photographyblog.com/news/canon_5d_mark_ii_shoots_season_finale_of_house/)

Check out your options - the best thing to do may be to buy a Mark II, and then maybe a lens for your stage performances. I am currently thinking of buying one myself, and they look incredibly powerful.

I hate Hollywood, but House is a respectable show on all levels - acting, writing, and production.

This is my first post, so please obliterate me if I am speaking garbage.

Hello community.

I learn't about this forum from a friend. He did say wherry nice things about you guys. :)

I want to ask you help in choosing a video camera.This purchase for me is wherry important .



Il list some of my preferences and needs to help you understand the kind of camera i am looking for.



My budget is around 300$ . It's not much, how ever it took me great deal of effort to gather this sum.


What i want to do with the camera is to use it for artistic purposes. LEts say, recreating some music video in my own fashion. Meaning that i put my own shots to the beat/music and try to make it dynamic and synchronized with the music. Filming many events in my country and putting them together will teach me and give me the taste of composition , how to make it flawless and interesting to watch .

I do believe that i will need wide angle lens right? W/o them the video looks narrow and doesn't look right if u want to make some kinda home made movie/sketch.

So would be nice if the camera would have this part covered and i wouldn't have to settle for a integrated lens.
A wile ago i was looking into KODAK ZI8 pocket camcorder YouTube - Kodak ZI8 HD Pocket Video Camcorder but i figured out that it would not suit my purpose of camera( its more of a blogging device as i see it , shooting rather still images). On it you can apply wide angle lens but its complicated in most cases and u have to glue them on some times. Some do fit on a magnet as i remember tho.

Another feature im looking for in the camera is that it films good in night. Aka, i might be doing some fast paced shoots in the streets of my town at night so i dont want it to show all the dark spots as 1 dark stain. I hope you know what i mean.

So basically im looking for a camera that is not for blogging or showing me talking to the camera for 5 mins . But i want it to have the artistic side , so i can venture with the clips and even tho the quality wont be near as good as for the cameras of price tag for 1000+$ i want to be able to use some of the effects from the high end Cams.



Sketches/Fast paced movement clips( me driving a bike and holding the camera capturing the events around me in a city or nature events.)


And i think its a must that the camera shoots in High Definition . Dont you think?But if i chose such Camcorder i sacrifice a lot of other good features by paying the general sum ust for the HD?





If i left out some vital info to this matter please point that out ill fill in the info .



I would wherry much appreciate your help and try not to look down upon.
I will read into the forum and try to figure some things out on my own , but i need the cam in somewhat near future so i cant absorb all the info in this forum and make a good decision. It will devastate me if il make a purchase and after 2 week's discover that there was a much better bargain of better camera which i didn't discover.

Gustavs -

Well, pretty tall order for $300.

But I understand the budget, you'll just have to accept that any video camera in that range is going to be VERY consumer oriented, not likely that great in low light (even "good" cameras aren't always that great at night!), and prone to give you some pretty jittery images when moving around.

Just a possible suggestion given your budget, you may want to consider some of the small "point & shoot" cameras that also shoot video.

You didn't say if shooting HD is important to you, but I'll presume it is. Some of these small still cameras can shoot some decent video at 720, and a few even at 1080, and they are at least in your general price range. Hope that is helpful in your quest!

For "casual" personal video, I'm now using a Sony DSC TX7, and the DSC-HX5 is also in the collection (although the audio leaves a lot to be desired in loud situations). Not bad for the $ involved, fairly clean in low light (not stellar, but somewhat workable) and pretty good image stabilization.

You came to the right place! There is a wealth of information here, but most of all, lots and lots of good people, all willing to help you.

The video camera market has evolved into something incredibly diverse over the last couple of years. The market is huge, and most manufacturers are bending backwards to bring consumers good and inexpensive camcorders and photo cameras with video capability. I am still amazed to see 720P camcorders for under $80 and 1080P camcorders for under $100...

Start your search on the one and only B&H website and narrow down your search based on your criteria. A good page to start on is: Camcorders, Video Cameras, Digital Video | B&H Photo Video (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?ipp=100&ci=1871&Ns=p_PRICE_2%7C0&N=4294548093+4294194757). Keep in mind, these are US models for the most part, but some are for PAL countries, or after searching the US model, you might be able to find the European model with the same characteristics at some European store.

Good luck, and do come back, tell us what you found!

Gustavs -

Well, pretty tall order for $300.

But I understand the budget, you'll just have to accept that any video camera in that range is going to be VERY consumer oriented, not likely that great in low light (even "good" cameras aren't always that great at night!), and prone to give you some pretty jittery images when moving around.

Just a possible suggestion given your budget, you may want to consider some of the small "point & shoot" cameras that also shoot video.

You didn't say if shooting HD is important to you, but I'll presume it is. Some of these small still cameras can shoot some decent video at 720, and a few even at 1080, and they are at least in your general price range. Hope that is helpful in your quest!

For "casual" personal video, I'm now using a Sony DSC TX7, and the DSC-HX5 is also in the collection (although the audio leaves a lot to be desired in loud situations). Not bad for the $ involved, fairly clean in low light (not stellar, but somewhat workable) and pretty good image stabilization.

Hello

Well , i owned Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T7 cam :)

It was fine tbh , but i didnt like the video quality at all , and the way i had to hold the camera. Felt wrong for me.

How ever ur models are a lot better than my model. But i do think that Kodak Zi8 is a much more better bargain . Looks like its half the price of DSC TX7 and by comparing some video samples on youtube it seams that Kodak Zi8 has better video quality as well.


And yes . HD i think is a need these days . :) Tho i can be wrong.

You came to the right place! There is a wealth of information here, but most of all, lots and lots of good people, all willing to help you.

The video camera market has evolved into something incredibly diverse over the last couple of years. The market is huge, and most manufacturers are bending backwards to bring consumers good and inexpensive camcorders and photo cameras with video capability. I am still amazed to see 720P camcorders for under $80 and 1080P camcorders for under $100...

Start your search on the one and only B&H website and narrow down your search based on your criteria. A good page to start on is: Camcorders, Video Cameras, Digital Video | B&H Photo Video (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?ipp=100&ci=1871&Ns=p_PRICE_2%7C0&N=4294548093+4294194757). Keep in mind, these are US models for the most part, but some are for PAL countries, or after searching the US model, you might be able to find the European model with the same characteristics at some European store.

Good luck, and do come back, tell us what you found!



Il look into it :):)


But what are your thoughts on Kodak Zi8 ?:)

And you are saying that the same model bought in USA will differ from the one i get from my local retailer in Europe?

Gustavs, there is no reason for repeating posts, it just eats up space.

Yes, US models will shoot mostly 30 fps (NTSC) while European models will do 25 fps (PAL). Some will also shoot 24 fps progressive.

Ohh, sorry.

I have to order my Camcorder on ebay then, from USA.

That's not a good idea. You live in a country with PAL television standard, while the US is on NTSC standard. While most of the more recent television sets will play both standards, you will eventually run into issues with compatibility, so it is advisable to stay within your country's tv standard. I suggested you do some research on the B&H website to get an idea of what is available and so can figure out what you would like to buy. Then do some more research, maybe on the manufacturer's website and find the correponding PAL model of that camcorder.

Ohh, sorry.

I have to order my Camcorder on ebay then, from USA.

Gustavs, there´s also a german or british ebay, and most of their cameras are PAL-models. Try ebay.de or ebay.co.uk

This is my first post, so please obliterate me if I am speaking garbage.
Not garbage, Ryan, you brought up an interesting point. Since I recently acquired a DSLR for shooting video (after 10 years on the XL1), I think I can chime in with some personal observations.

There may be some legitimate reasons why some people might be reluctant to go the DSLR route, and not sheer stubbornness or narrow-mindedness. Due to the dramatically different form factor, it completely changes the shooting experience, at least when not using a tripod. Some form of external support is necessary, such as a Zacuto or Redrock, or some of the other more traditional shoulder pods that have been around since lightweight DV camcorders. Everything about the ergonomics of DSLR video shooting requires compromise or at least re-learning and adapting. Things that traditional camcorder users take for granted like zooming, rack focusing, even on-board audio, require either external accessories or a different technique. Not everybody will be willing to put up with it.

The big carrot is the ability to shoot 1080P for pennies on the dollar, with the sweetener of the relatively tiny footprint of a still camera (especially if I was going to bring along a still camera anyway). I can see myself keeping a shoulder-mounted "normal" vidcam for many years to come.

Yes, I did see that episode of House, and the image quality was absolutely first-rate. SNL is also using DSLRs for its Digital Shorts and pre-recorded intros. The DSLR is here to stay.

There's something really traditional, it seems, about the Canon 5D Mark II. Check this out:


and for $900 you can get the 2ti

Canon EOS Digital Rebel T2i (http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=139&modelid=19943)

Similar performance for 1/2 the price ( I am told do not get the stock lens, so $799 and get a better lens)

What camera would you buy for 2,000 (uk pounds) ?

I dont know if CCD is better than CMOS, but i was thinking of the CANON A1E?

There's no such camera Andrew. The Canon XHA1 is above your price point and the HV40 may be too cheap (though very good at £876).

The Sony A1 is about to be discontinued but it's done exceedingly well in the marketplace. Do you need XLR inputs? What is it you want the camera to do? Must it be hi-def? Tape or card? Big or small? Maybe the Sony HD1000 £1150 is worth a look-see.

CMOS isn't better than CCD, but it uses less power and makes for cheaper processing, so it's 'better' for the manufacturers. It's no sharper though, and does have some drawbacks that we've all had to accept.

tom.

Hi Tom,

I've priced the canon xha1 up, the cheapest i could find it for was 2,300. I could stretch to the extra bit of cash, but
thats about my limit.

Yes, I need xlr inputs. Mainly for documentaries, short films, special interest videos, and low cost corporate trainings
videos.
I'd prefer tape. Hi-def. Size isnt important, what the camera can do/offer and the quality of it.

I'll have a browe at those two cameras you've mentioned.

Andy

Andrew,

If I had £2000 to spend and wanted a video camera instead of a DSLR:

£2000 will currently get you a JVC HM100 - check ProAV and other suppliers. There is a special offer this month. (£2026 at ProAV, including VAT). It was £2500 previously.

I presume you mean Sony A1E? I would forget about it, it's very old hat. The HM100 is compact, gives the option of XLR sound input, has 3 CCDs, and dual SDHC card slots. I would suggest it is much better than the HD1000 from Sony and miles ahead of the HV40 from Canon.

Well worth a look. Check out the footage in the HM100 forum. Check out Philip Bloom's review (Google for it).

(Oops, you just posted that you want tape. Really? Are you sure about that?)

Hi Mike,

I'm slightly biased towards tape, as i have the most experience with it. I'm not ruling out the recording other formats.

thanks
Andrew

Hey guys I'm new here, how's it going? So I've been trying to figure out what camera to get, and it's been a very hard decision, I hear different things from different people. I need it for nightclubs shoots, weddings, commercials, the occasional music video, but also short films. Pretty much all around. I was told to get a Panny HPX170 with an adapter, another told me Canon 5D. The best suggestion given to me was to get a Canon T2i and a Sony fx-1. I'm thinking to wait for the Panny AF100, since it seems like the perfect mix of dslr and pro video cameras. I have $6000 dollars to spend so let me know what you think... Thanks!

Good evening,

Just remember that you have time frame limitations with a dslr. If you arre shooting vows, you do not want the camera stopping mid stride!!! besides, most weddings require two cameras.

If you want to shoot video I recomend you get a video camera. A used fx 1 will take nice footage, the newer fx1000 better with exmor technology does low light rather well for hd.

with 6 grand to work with two fx1s would make nice event vids. of course canon and panasonic do as well.
good luck

for nightclub shoots I would not buy a fx1 as it's not a great low light performer, if I would get as much as possible out of a 6g budget I would go for a pana hmc151 and a canon 550D.

This will give you a very wide range of possibilities and enough spare cash to get some more goodies.
You can get some cheap fast nikon primes for your 550D that will give you low light capabilities no videocamera can give you. Also the very shallow dof and possibility to put on a very wide lens are some of the advantages a dslr can give you.
You can buy a cheap zoom H1 for audio with your dslr, a hoodloupe for better focussing, a blackbird for gliding shots and I know of a cheaper slider (around 100 dollar but can't recall the name now)

This will give you a lot of possibilities for your budget.

I was thinking, what I wait for the panny af 100? That would give me the ease of a video camera but the good low light and shallow dof capability of a dslr.

I am going to be purchasing a new camera, since I am selling my HF10. I am wondering whether I should buy the HF S20 or the TM700K. I love the look of Panasonic and the TM700K a 3MOS camera, but am wondering if I should keep it in the family.

What do you think?

Going to Africa for a Photo/Video Safari Documentary of Animal Life.

My A-Cam is a Nikon D90 which will be pulling double duty (photos and videos) and I'm looking into getting a secondary camera to capture high speed action (animals doing stuff). My though is to get a mount so that it sits side by side the nikon so I can focus on pictures and let it film away.

- Uses SD Cards or Internal Memory
- 720p (1080p is also good but I don't make movies that high a resolution)
- 60p or faster (not 30p/25p with frame doubling) end movie will likely be 24p to sync with D90
- Needs to be able to film longer that 5 minutes.
- Side Swivel Screen would be nice
- Good Optical Telephoto Capabilities a bonus.

My initial though was the Hero Camera - GoPro Official Store: Wearable Digital Cameras for Sports (http://www.goprocamera.com) or the Lumix G2 (http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/19/panasonic-announces-pricing-availability-for-lumix-g2-g10/) (but its 30p and doubles frames for 60p claim) but I'm wondering if there is something with a higher frame rate?

I think the Panasonic TM700 does real 1080/60P.

Canon 60D: 720p 60fps, 12 min rec time, swivel screen, plenty of telephoto options depending on what lenses you use

I am looking for a video camera to use to try and teach myself... well how to shoot. I know little to nothing about video production outside of home videos. I am looking for something that is versital meaning I would like it do do just about anything well. It doesnt have to do everything the best but good enough to produce usable video.

I plan to use it like I said to learn, but to learn for the purpose of creating website videos, small town (lower quality) commercials and area tourism videos (waterfalls, people skiing, wildlife, etc.), action sports videos, green screen shoots, and also to use with 3d animations created with 3ds max.

If it helps,

I have the Adobe CS3 production suite to use for production and editing etc.

I have a budget between $2000 - $2500.

If anyone has any good suggestions about which camera is a solid starter camera that will do the things listed above or anything mentioned above, or if you need more info let me know.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

Peter