View Full Version : Digital camcorder suggestions?
ActiveAero
10-25-2004, 08:26 AM
I want a high quality camcorder to shoot some cool videos. Good low light capability would be nice. Any suggestions?
These are a few I'm looking at:
Panasonic PV-GS400
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/images/upload/Panasonic-PV-GS400_flash.jpg
Canon XL2. It's nice because it has all of Canon's lense options, not that I would know how to use them.
http://www.biz-max.net/bizmax/images/canon_side%20xl2.jpg
Sony VX2100. The price is still a little high on this one right now.
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/images/articles/sony-dcr-vx2100-camcorder-review-5.jpg
(http://www.camcorderinfo.com/images/articles/sony-dcr-vx2100-camcorder-review-5.jpg)
Damnit, I need a higher paying job
ActiveAero
10-25-2004, 08:39 AM
Damnit, I need a higher paying job
They aren't as expensive as you might be thinking.
I'll probably just go with the Panasonic. It actually packs a punch pretty close to the others ones, although it doesn't look like it. The other ones might be cool, but I'm not sure about having THAT much manual control. The Panasonic at least has some decent automatic modes.
Zx RaTeD
10-25-2004, 10:23 AM
fucking hel lman! I've wanted that damn XL2 since it came out! or any of the similar models! If you can afford that...GET IT! Dude that cam kicks arse! Just read teh reviews!
The Cannon XL series is pretty much the default for all amateur video/film projects. Produces some very nice images (even in low light) and has a firewire port for easy digital out of the video (I'd make that a requirement for any camera you get, must be firewire)
My only complaint about the XL is that sometimes it can be a pain to hold when doing hand held shots. The odd shape tends to lead to forearm fatigue after a while but, it's still fairly nice...
I have both the XL1s and a JVC HD Cam... I prefer the Cannon...
As I said... just make sure ANY camera you get has firewire... It'll make your life 200x (and prettier video) when it comes to doing post work...
The odd shape tends to lead to forearm fatigue after a while
too much info..gross
AadosX
10-25-2004, 12:56 PM
bahahahhaaha.
that was clutch.
Anderson
10-25-2004, 03:22 PM
Definitely make sure it comes with a firewire, some people can't afford them on their own....:cough:john:cough:^^^^^^^
AadosX
10-25-2004, 04:25 PM
I don't think he meant the cable, he meant that the camera itself supported firewire ha.
Anyways, I love my camera, but it probably isn't enough for you. When I bought it I was afraid that I should be spending the money on my car, and was afraid it would be a waste; but I use it constantly and am really glad I got it.
ActiveAero
10-25-2004, 05:55 PM
The Cannon XL series is pretty much the default for all amateur video/film projects. Produces some very nice images (even in low light) and has a firewire port for easy digital out of the video (I'd make that a requirement for any camera you get, must be firewire)
My only complaint about the XL is that sometimes it can be a pain to hold when doing hand held shots. The odd shape tends to lead to forearm fatigue after a while but, it's still fairly nice...
I have both the XL1s and a JVC HD Cam... I prefer the Cannon...
As I said... just make sure ANY camera you get has firewire... It'll make your life 200x (and prettier video) when it comes to doing post work...
Do you think the XL will be too much camera for a semi-beginner? I've made some videos before, but it was with the old school style cameras (and using the VCR for editing).
I'd like to maybe get pretty serious with making some nice videos, but don't want to throw money down the drain on features I won't ever use.
So what I'm basically asking is it hard to learn how to use? :P
adam p
10-25-2004, 06:08 PM
My friend is a Film Major and has an XL1. I've worked on alot of stuff with him and can generally edit a video in the basic sense.
I think an XL series is over kill for what you want to do. Other cameras offer the picture quality without the manual options, so I'd go for those.
ActiveAero
10-25-2004, 06:21 PM
My friend is a Film Major and has an XL1. I've worked on alot of stuff with him and can generally edit a video in the basic sense.
I think an XL series is over kill for what you want to do. Other cameras offer the picture quality without the manual options, so I'd go for those.
I also think it might be way to bulky for what I want to do. I really can't see myself running around with it at auto-x or holding inside a car during a race looking through the eye piece.
The Panasonic is looking really good. It's smaller, still has 3ccd, firewire, and all the manual control I could really want. The LCD is also a big plus.
AadosX
10-25-2004, 09:19 PM
Def. look at CCD. The main downside to mine and other cheap ones is that they don't work for balls at night.
My friend is a Film Major and has an XL1. I've worked on alot of stuff with him and can generally edit a video in the basic sense.
I think an XL series is over kill for what you want to do. Other cameras offer the picture quality without the manual options, so I'd go for those.
I also think it might be way to bulky for what I want to do. I really can't see myself running around with it at auto-x or holding inside a car during a race looking through the eye piece.
The Panasonic is looking really good. It's smaller, still has 3ccd, firewire, and all the manual control I could really want. The LCD is also a big plus.
Speaking to the running around w/ the Camera...
It's my experience that the larger the camera you have (minus if you have a 1980's massive one) the more respect and access (to a degree) some places will let you have... (Meaning the track staff will let you get that extra foot and a half closer without yelling at you then if you have a little Sony Handycam)... Goes to the "If you act like you own the place noone will bother you". Now you will get more attention (if your filiming places you shouldn't be) but, person's who recognize the camera will sometimes move out of your line and let you get a better shot since you have a better camera... Just like letting that 911 Turbo pass you on the highway... Just cause their cooler, ya know :D
But, true... It is overkill but, if you really want to get into it... I mean... It'd be better than having to e-bay an old camera to step up to a better one if you actually get into it...
But, true... If you only plan on using it once every 3 months... I wouldn't worry about it... But, if you actually want to produce some nice stuff it might be worth it..
If you really want to get creative you can always rent the camera out (if you have the balls) to people... Some people really want the expensive camera but, can't afford it (think students) but, would be willing to drop a few hundred for a day or two... But, that all depends on who you know
ActiveAero
10-26-2004, 01:30 PM
I get what your saying with the status thing. That would be cool "hey I'm with (made up magazine name) would you mind if I get a little closer?". :P
Would you mind taking a look at the Panasonics specs. It doesn't look like much but in terms of performance, from my reading they have it right up there with the other ones I have listed
Zx RaTeD
10-26-2004, 02:43 PM
My main concern would deal with the image quality the camera produces in low lighting conditions as well as the auto focus capabilities of the cam. What are you going to be using the camera for mainly? As far as the day time shots go, many of them are up to par with the rest. I would personally go with the cannon if you have the cash to drop, i've done more research on that one than any of the others for a long time now. Since those models came out, I've been in love...maybe one day I'll feel crazy enough to buy one, but for now I'm about to drop a few bills on this tablet pc I was talking about in a previous post.
ActiveAero
10-29-2004, 08:52 AM
I purchased the Panasonic today. After reading numerous reviews it seems like the best choice for my needs. Camcorder review rated it #3 out of 84 models. It has good point and shoot capabilities along with full manual control of focus, zoom, shutter speed, aperture, gain, and white balance. Not to mention the smaller size will be much easier to deal with if I plan on doing a lot of in car shots.
adam p
10-29-2004, 10:08 AM
Nice choice, sounds like what I would want to go with as well!
ActiveAero
10-29-2004, 10:45 AM
I had to call the company today because my browser screwed up which caused me to place a double order.:mad:
However, when I called to tell them the problem they gave me the hook-up.
They are going to give me an addtional titanium zoom lense in addition to the wide view lens I already purchased free of charge. The lense alone is $200. :o
Then he noticed I hadn't ordered a case so he decided to throw one in, again FREE of charge.
Oh and he thought I should get the 4 year full warranty instead of the 2 year so he changed that as well, again for no charge.
On top of all that he decided to 2-day air it to me, once again free (I ordered normal 7-10 day shipping).
So the :mad: is now a :rock:
< will always double order from now on:D
Zx RaTeD
10-29-2004, 12:42 PM
I had to call the company today because my browser screwed up which caused me to place a double order.:mad:
However, when I called to tell them the problem they gave me the hook-up.
They are going to give me an addtional titanium zoom lense in addition to the wide view lens I already purchased free of charge. The lense alone is $200. :o
Then he noticed I hadn't ordered a case so he decided to throw one in, again FREE of charge.
Oh and he thought I should get the 4 year full warranty instead of the 2 year so he changed that as well, again for no charge.
On top of all that he decided to 2-day air it to me, once again free (I ordered normal 7-10 day shipping).
So the :mad: is now a :rock:
< will always double order from now on:D
Dude! WTF!?!?! who did you order from?! I guess the salesman got laid last night! That's a fuckin hookup man! You tellin us all that shit reminded me of one of those late night infomercials. "But wait! There's more!" Every new sentence I was just like Holy shit! Thank God I don't have an 800 number to call, I'd be out a few bills : )
you lucky bastard! :dance:
adam p
10-29-2004, 01:18 PM
Dude that freakin rules! HAHA
Nice one trent with the "But WAIT, THERES MOOOORE" - I thought the same thing.
Jon|Hazan
10-29-2004, 01:32 PM
Oh man i can't believe i missed this thread.. Brock i hope you haven't bought the panasonic yet! It's not a BAD camera per say but it has no where near the capabilities of the xl2 (or even the xl1!) I have yet to play with an xl2 but i have had experience with both the xl1 and panasonic pv and i must say that i was not at all impressed with the panasonic after messing with that xl1. The quality of the cannon is SUPERB and unmatchable. I would much rather spend the extra money and LEARN HOW TO USE THE MANUAL MODES than have everything done automatically.
Don't get me worng, the panasonic is a fine camera and has excellent quality (as is with any 3 ccd camcorder), but the PV and XL are no comparison in my mind!! You should watch this video my friend made with his xl1 and you will agree as well...
http://www.dspmedia.net/content/video/turbo.mpg
Zx RaTeD
10-29-2004, 01:37 PM
well, hrmmm I looked at the pricing and the xl2 is about $4000-5000 where as I found the panisonic for as low af just over $1000...Is the panisonic 16mm? I would look up the stats but all I can say is DAMN EXCHAGE INTERNET IS SLOW!!!
ActiveAero
10-30-2004, 10:43 AM
Dang John I wish you would have seen this thread earilier as well. I figured you would have some good input. If it sucks I guess I won't be able to blame you lol.
I do plan on using the manual controls and it seems like the Panasonic has all of the ones I will really need (from the reviews I've read at least). Is it lacking a manual control that I will really want in the future?
I'm just glad it still has some good automatic capability. You never know who's going to be holding the camera.
As Zxrated noted one of the large factors came down to the best camera for the money. I can find the XL1 for a lot cheaper than list now, but it still comes in at a good bit more than the PV GS-400. Not to mention the crazy deal I got on accessories and the warranty.
My current camcorder is a 9 year old Sony Handycam, so I'm sure I'll enjoy the new cameras abilities.
ActiveAero
10-30-2004, 10:52 AM
Oh and John which PV did you use? The one I purchased is the newest GS-400. It is basically an improved verison of the previous PV-DV953 and features larger CCD's and the manual control ring. The reason I ask this is because the look almost EXACTLY the same.
Jon|Hazan
10-30-2004, 12:53 PM
Oh i'm sure it wasn't as good as the one you bought, this was over a year ago.. like 2 summers ago. BUT, like i said the pv really is a FINE camcorder! Great bang for the buck, really. And i'm glad you bought a warranty. My first mini dv lasted 1 month past the manufacturers warranty and then started eating tapes. 800$ paperweight..
Jon|Hazan
10-30-2004, 12:59 PM
I do plan on using the manual controls and it seems like the Panasonic has all of the ones I will really need (from the reviews I've read at least). Is it lacking a manual control that I will really want in the future?
I'm just glad it still has some good automatic capability. You never know who's going to be holding the camera.
Yes, this is very true! I can't specifically think of anything you will REALLY want but the functionality of manual control simply makes for an excellent PROFESSIONAL quality. Like, my dv has a touch screen so i have to adjust the manual focus and exposure with the SCREEN! These types of things really make me wish i had enough money for an XL.. I don't suppose it will suck, and i know you won't be dissapointed, i'm just a little biased
And that xl1 video isn't that cool anyways, the song gets really old after a while :P
Aw man... I just watched that video you posted Hazen (the VR4)...
Man this is making me want to get back into the video stuff. I was really heavy into it a long time ago but, sold it all b/c I didn't have the time anymore...
Man... More people need to come to ATL, and I'll get some nice gear again (shit, I could always just borrow it from work too) :D
Jon|Hazan
10-30-2004, 02:32 PM
Aw man... I just watched that video you posted Hazen (the VR4)...
Man this is making me want to get back into the video stuff. I was really heavy into it a long time ago but, sold it all b/c I didn't have the time anymore...
Man... More people need to come to ATL, and I'll get some nice gear again (shit, I could always just borrow it from work too) :D
haha!! like that pocket media player you showed me at ians last month! WOW that was sweet...
I'm not sure i understand what you mean by the VR4... I must be missing something..
Yea, thatd be really sweet to have access to some badass video equiptment. It's a shame Auburn has so little cool video shit to offer their students
ActiveAero
10-30-2004, 03:02 PM
Ok now I need suggestions on editing software.
I'm leaning toward Power Director.
OS?
Mac = Final Cut
PC = Premiere
$$$ = AVID
ActiveAero
10-31-2004, 01:08 AM
OS is Windows XP. How hard is it to learn the Premiere?
adam p
10-31-2004, 01:24 AM
Premiere is expensive sure, but it's probably worth it. I couldn't tell you how hard it is to learn because I learned to edit video on premiere and pretty much used it exclusively. The learning curve was a little steep, but I don't know how much of that was general video editing and how much of it was because of premiere :/
ActiveAero
10-31-2004, 01:52 AM
Is there a home version of premiere? $600 is just a touch more than I want to spend at the moment. I think I'll just play around with the camera for a while, then decide what level or editing software I'll need. Windows movie maker will own all of you!
$600 is just a touch more than I want to spend
Don't know know much it affects your job (but, I assure you it effects mine) it can be free (Kazaa)
Otherwise, Windows Movie Maker (2.0) is actully a fairly robust litlte piece of software... It will do almost anything you need to do (in a basic, simple set-up)
vBulletin v3.5.0, Copyright ©2000-2012, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.