I am a new PDX-10 video camera owner. I have had it a few months now and gotten a chance to play with it some. So far I am very pleased with this camera.

I have an upcoming family trip to Disneyland (the happiest place on earth - if you have kids) and I am looking for suggestions from you "experts" on how to get the best videos. I am not looking to make a movie or anything professional, only to shoot very good home and family stuff. Specifically I am interested in the various settings that you use on your camera and why.

I have lurked here for a while and think I understand about the vertical smear issue based on the shutter speed. What other issues do I need to think about.

By the way, I also have a wide angle lens as suggested by others.

Thanks Brian

Off the top of my head:

Get to know control placement.

Experiment before shooting anything critical; figure out generally desirable color levels, Sharpness levels, handheld comfortability, etc.

Autofocus will get you. Use it, but know how to use, esp. in conjunction with the "push auto" button, and in conjunction with framing. You may not see it at the time on your little lcd screen, but, I reiterate, autofocus will get you.

Assuming that portability is a factor, you may want to shoot without the external mike and XLR box.

Shawn's point about sharpness is well taken. Personally I feel that the default offers way too much edge enhancement. I use the custom preset to turn it all the way to the minimum, or possibly 1 click above the minimum.

I also like his point about learning the controls. Spend a little time with the camera connected to a monitor (or the AV input of a good TV). Go into the custom preset and try changing each of the parameters while observing the effect.

For shooting outside you might also want to invest in an inexpensive LCD hood http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=273027&is=REG

Right. Not being able to see the LCD screen in broad daylight is a real issue. If not the "hood", then perhaps try your eye out on the black and white VF, for outside shoots, if you haven't already.