Post #301,329
12/21/08 11:01:11 PM
|
Video camera info?
I want to capture some video.
And I'm willing to spend up to the $400 range on
a decent camera.
Here's the requirements:
#1 - Low light decent color. The majority of what
I want to get is video of me playing with a variety
of glowing stuff (glow sticks, painted fingernails under
black light, etc), and it will have to be fast.
Note: This does not mean night mode. I want what I see,
not what an infrared sniper would see.
#2 - Image stabilization.
#3 - Sound focusing. I want to be able to record a
conversation 10 feet away, without the loud music
overwhelming it. I'd be happy to use a remote mike
if it had that type of input.
#4 - Decent local storage. I should be able to turn it
on and record decent quality for 4 hours.
#5 - Brand name. If I've never heard of it, now is not the
time to experiment which noname gear.
Those are the biggies. A remote control would be nice.
So, if you have experience or know of any review, please
let me know.
Thanks.
|
Post #301,330
12/22/08 12:05:35 AM
|
Dunno.
I think video can quickly become a huge money pit, especially if one starts thinking about editing, especially if one starts thinking about editing HD. I've got an old Canon Hi8 camcorder that I still use occasionally, but the fanciest stuff I've done with it is transfer the tapes to standard VHS to share. Its microphone picks up the motor noise, but otherwise it's been good for preserving memories.
B&H is a good store. They've got quite a bit of used stuff that usually has decent prices.
Maybe this used Canon DC50? http://www.bhphotovi...ml#specifications $359. Records to DVD disks, so it would be easy to stick in a player or a PC.
A review: http://www.camcorder...corder-Review.htm
Note that the DC50 apparently doesn't have a separate mic input, so you'll be stuck with the motor noise.
I'd be very surprised if you find anything that records for 4 hours, unless it's an old gigantic thing that takes full-size VHS tapes. But I'm often surprised. :-)
For low light you'll probably want a tripod and then image stabilization isn't a factor. If you'll be moving the camera around in low light you'll be asking an awful lot to want a decent picture.
I think you'll have to look around and decide what's most important.
I hope this helps a little. Good luck!
Cheers,
Scott.
|
Post #301,331
12/22/08 1:25:50 AM
|
Re: Dunno.
Recording length isn't an issue with the new recorders with hard disks. 40g models are in the 400 range. Low light is an issue with anything in that price range though.
I will choose a path that's clear. I will choose freewill.
|
Post #301,338
12/22/08 11:19:44 AM
|
Ok , then what price range should I consider?
Show me some specific models with functionality that you consider high end (light related) and I'll use that as my research baseline.
|
Post #301,340
12/22/08 11:37:36 AM
|
How's this one look?
http://www.sonystyle...98552921665291512
I suspect "candle mode" is the right mix of settings for what I want.
|
Post #301,342
12/22/08 11:48:32 AM
|
Or how about this?
|
Post #301,343
12/22/08 12:00:51 PM
|
And here's a comparison of Panasonic models
http://www2.panasoni...65|110039|113560|
That 3 CCD system for an extra $200 looks mighty attractive.
Resolution much higher, light sensitivity doubles.
Hmm.
Anyone find someone selling the SDR-H200 in my range?
|
Post #301,358
12/22/08 2:31:28 PM
|
To really go low light
you need to move to pro grade equipment. (think 1500+)
However, it doesn't sound like you are that dependent on having ultra clear video. I would borrow someones first and see if the lower level ccd cameras will get you what you are looking for.
The problem isn't money, its the size of the sensors. Same issue I'm having with my Nikon D60 still camera. When you start cramming more pixels on the same size sensor, it simply takes a lot more light to make it work.
I will choose a path that's clear. I will choose freewill.
|
Post #301,361
12/22/08 2:50:43 PM
|
Been reading about that
http://www.camcorder...9/Performance.htm
Seems like this one beat expectations on the CMOS shrink.
And it "lists" for $1,200, $800 is common, lower seems to happen but I don't trust them. I'll wait until after Christmas to see if it drops to the $500 range.
|
Post #301,414
12/23/08 1:39:26 PM
12/23/08 1:41:17 PM
|
I think I found what I want
http://reviews.cnet....0_7-30963150.html
Panasonic DV PROLINE AG-DVC7P - camcorder - Mini DV
Professional large CCD, external mike input, remote.
I'd prefer an hard disk but not required. Use the remote when I want it on.
Used, claimed once. I'll find out if it looks good/works tonight.
$400
Or, if I wanted consumer, I can get this:
http://southjersey.c...ho/956121339.html
$450
Edited by crazy
Dec. 23, 2008, 01:41:17 PM EST
|
Post #301,417
12/23/08 1:49:11 PM
|
The MiniDV tapes are usually 60 minutes.
Though apparently you can put 90 minutes on them in EP/LP mode. You probably don't want to use that if you don't have to, though. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DV
The 2nd device is a AVCHD recorder. Understand what you're getting into if you go that route. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AVCHD
Good luck!
Cheers,
Scott.
|
Post #301,418
12/23/08 2:18:36 PM
|
Re: The MiniDV tapes are usually 60 minutes.
Yeah, I have a camera that uses them already.
Key issue on that is I really only want to record in about 30 minute bursts, but I need to control it. If it was hard disk, I'd simply ignore it and let it run.
But with a remote, I can control as needed.
I'm waiting on the guy to get back to me on my offer.
I've got a fallback lower end I'm looking at as well:
Panasonic SDR-H18 30GB HDD SD Camcorder 32X optical with OIS - $175
I might end up with both Panasonics.
|
Post #301,423
12/23/08 3:45:17 PM
|
Ok, the Sony is out
Will be checking out the high end Panasonic in a few hours, the low end right after that.
|
Post #301,459
12/23/08 11:00:39 PM
|
Got'em
Tossed the high end manual at the boy.
He tossed it back, said it wasn't windows so he didn't have to support it.
I tossed it back, told him to read it anyway.
He's a SERIOUS camera geek. He's heavily into graphic arts, and is one of those people who drool over each feature in each photoshop release. So he has all the core knowledge on the tech/composition side.
And he's also really talented, ie: produces visually pleasing stuff. He certainly didn't get that from me.
He doesn't do video. He can spent a month putting together a single perfect piece. A picture. But not a video.
So he started with no interest.
Within a few minutes of reading, he starts cackling and laughing about the incredible features on this thing. Goes on and on explaining how wonderful they are.
He's hooked.
|
Post #301,460
12/23/08 11:02:45 PM
|
:-)
|
Post #301,334
12/22/08 8:26:10 AM
|
just bought a camera
got a jvc 30gb hd low end digital for 230. Seen the higher end model in dvd format with 30gb hd and low light (night shot) capability for $399 but have no idea of the quality. It does have a built in upload to youtube feature tho :-)
|
Post #301,355
12/22/08 2:09:59 PM
|
Lots of good info at CamCorderInfo.
E.g. "Low Light": http://www.camcorder.../bbs/t121934.html
Though it's obviously passed, this list of "Black Friday" deals shows a lot of camcorders with links to specs and reviews and gives you an idea of what a "good" price for them is:
http://www.camcorder...ls-2008-35731.htm
Keep in mind that you need to be especially careful buying cameras and related equipment, especially on the web. If the price is too good to be true from Screamin' Joe's Camera, there's probably a reason for it (e.g. lack of warranty coverage, missing accessories, etc.)
HTH.
Cheers,
Scott.
|
Post #301,427
12/23/08 4:08:43 PM
|
Just remember Sony won't let you release it on Betamax :)
They said I was gullible ... and I believed them
|
Post #301,458
12/23/08 10:52:33 PM
|
This project they would
Just dancing lights, nothing to be paranoid about.
|
Post #301,461
12/23/08 11:10:33 PM
|
Speaking of lights...
The neighbor has his light display up again this year. His 2008 video isn't up yet - he plans on having it up after Christmas.
http://collingwoodli...dex.php?do=videos
Cheers,
Scott.
|
