Video Camera Suggestions - DPChallenge Forums

Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D

12/25/2006 08:36:10 PM · #1

I have been thinking about upgrading my video camera. I currently have a Canon ZR50 MC. I like how small it is. I think it is relatively easy to use. I wish it had a built-in light. I dislike how noisy/grainy the video gets in low-light situations. I don't like the time it takes to capture the video on my computer, or the errors that I get while doing so due to a failure to obtain the time code during capture. I also dislike the lack of manual controls.

So, what I need is something that has all of my current camcorders faults corrected. Easier said than done. I am about 99% positive that I want a video camera with 3 CCDs as opposed to one. I haven't read up on that recently, but when I did six or so months ago, that seemed to be one reason that some cameras soared above others in color rendition in both regular and low-light situations. I have also given a lot of thought to the type of storage that the new camcorder would use. Should I stick with miniDV, or should I change to something which records directly to a DVD or to an internal hard drive? What are the pros and cons of each? So far, the only con I am aware of to miniDV is the time consumption to get it captured on to the computer and the errors that I constantly get while capturing due to a failure to get the time code (whatever that is) during capture.

Everyone here at DPC seems to have a vast knowledge about various aspects of just about everything, so I figured that have got to be a few people who know more about this subject than me. I was hoping to get some input from anyone that has something to say about the subject. I would like to know pros, cons, and recommendations. Size is important, but not the most important. The more attention I give to photography, the more I want my videos to put out higher quality as well, and I know some times you have to go larger and spend more money. Money is not an object. I am not rich by any means, but I do not like to settle. So, if the right camera means saving for a year or more, then so be it. I've had my current camera for about four years now, so I can continue using it until I find the right replacement and have the money for it.

So, any help would be much appreciated.

Thank you,

Scott

Louis

Nikon D800

12/25/2006 08:40:34 PM · #2

I don't have a lot to add, other than I've been looking at both the Sony HDR-HC3 high-def and the Sony HDR-FX7 high definition video cameras.

JOHNBOY1970

Canon EOS-350D Rebel XT

Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro for Canon

12/25/2006 08:55:43 PM · #3

I have a Canon DC40 and so far I love it. It's almost too small for my hands but other than that I have no complaints.

Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS

12/25/2006 08:59:54 PM · #4

Originally posted by Louis:

I don't have a lot to add, other than I've been looking at both the Sony HDR-HC3 high-def and the Sony HDR-FX7 high definition video cameras.

I've given some thought to the Hi-Def camcorders, but are they really all that they are cracked up to be? Take digital cameras for instance, just becuase someone has an 8mp p&s doesn't make it better than a 6 mp SLR with a larger sensor. So, if the CCDs are the same size, would recording in HD actually give out better quality, or would you be paying for something that isn't necessary?

Canon EOS-60D

12/25/2006 09:47:52 PM · #5

I just ordered a Canon GL-1...mostly because I can't afford the GL-2, nor can I afford the XL-1 or XL-2 and the lens addiction and the parade of necessary accessories that I know would surely follow. I didn't have the need for HD and I couldn't see spending more on the video camera than I did on my still cameras combined. ;) I spent more than two months looking around, using both the GL-1 and the XL-1, and reading about the newer models with HD capabilities. The GL-2 is an awesome piece of equipment, but it didn't do enough more than the GL-1 to sway me to part with THAT much more $$$. I'm confident in my choice and can't wait for it to arrive on the 28th in the big brown truck.

3 CCD is much better than one, hands down. I don't like the ones that record directly to DVD, because they seem bulky and I just personally prefer tape. I don't like the ones that record to an internal hard drive, because I don't trust them. Again, I like having the tape in my hand, knowing something is on it, and if the system crashes, the images are still there unless someone comes along with flames or scissors. I like the size of the GL-1; it's not too heavy, the image quality is fabulous, and the flip-out screen is handy (as opposed to the big viewfinder/eyecup or monitor you have to add to the XL cameras).

Time code will help you in editing things together, especially useful for insert editing of video and/or audio or for broadcast pieces when you need to sync up certain video to certain audio or other similar situations. If you're not putting together pro pieces, you really don't have to worry about it.

Good luck in your search...I think it will all depend on what you are comfortable spending and what you are ultimately going to use the video for in the long run. If you're doing home video, your choices are more varied (and more affordable) than if you're looking for a semi-pro or pro video setup.

Review
Review
Review

Message edited by author 2006-12-26 11:48:24.

Fisher Price Kid-Tough Digital

12/26/2006 09:14:10 AM · #6

bump

Bugzeye

12/26/2006 10:31:04 AM · #7

Yes they are every bit what they are cracked up to be.

I shoot with the Sony HDR-FX1 Would never go back to a non HD cam.

Originally posted by traquino98:

Originally posted by Louis:
I don't have a lot to add, other than I've been looking at both the Sony HDR-HC3 high-def and the Sony HDR-FX7 high definition video cameras.

I've given some thought to the Hi-Def camcorders, but are they really all that they are cracked up to be? Take digital cameras for instance, just becuase someone has an 8mp p&s doesn't make it better than a 6 mp SLR with a larger sensor. So, if the CCDs are the same size, would recording in HD actually give out better quality, or would you be paying for something that isn't necessary?

Nikon AF Nikkor 85mm f/1.8D

12/26/2006 11:37:58 AM · #8

Does anyone have any technical reviews that they can post links to of the cameras suggested thus far?

kyebosh

Canon EOS-20D

Canon EF 80-200mm f/2.8L

12/26/2006 11:44:28 AM · #9

Originally posted by Louis:

I don't have a lot to add, other than I've been looking at both the Sony HDR-HC3 high-def and the Sony HDR-FX7 high definition video cameras.

I've looked at a lot of the prosumer models (for a few movie projects we're working on) recently and if you're going to go that route I'd suggest the panasonic AG-DVX100B. It's got 24p and 16:9 as well as just about all your manual settings. I played with the HC3 at best buy and the quality of the HD picture is really great. They also have the older HC1 that i've pretty much decided to buy used. Good low light performance for the money, a focus ring(!!!), only one sensor but it's a CMOS and larger than most consumer cameras. Plus they're going for around $700 on ebay.

Louis

Nikon D800

12/26/2006 12:06:42 PM · #10

Originally posted by Bugzeye:

I shoot with the Sony HDR-FX1 Would never go back to a non HD cam.

I think there are some significant differences between the FX1 and FX7, but interestingly not in price. Here's a comparison.