Best Video Camera for Sports 2013: 2014-05-11

Saturday, May 17, 2014

Camcorder lens for outdoor sports.?

da.boss.ma

I was wondering what a good camcorder lens would be for baseball. I dont want a fisheye lens but something that could maybe see the ball better if that even exists.

Answer
It depends on the camcorder and what you mean by "see the ball better"... we also don't know where the camera is relative to the action being recorded.

If the camcorder being use captures high compression video and no optical zoom is being used, there will be issues.

If the camcorder has a specification for "Lens filter diameter" or filter diameter", then a "tele lens" can be mounted. They are generally in a 2x configuration. That is, they can basically double the camcorder's zoom potential.

If you are expecting the video quality of a consumer grade camcorder to rival that of the professional grade camcorders used at a pro or college baseball game, - well, that is just not going to happen unless you use the same kinds of cameras used at those events.

Tip: Use a good, stable, tripod - do not use the camcorder hand-held.

Whats a good camcorder for sports?

Luna

Well I need a good camcorder to record sports and that can take fast movement. I also need it to have an external mic so I can attach a good quality mic (I'm a musician.) And I need to be able to attach a tripod too it. I don't want the video to look grainy. My budget i $100-150. Thanks!!
Sorry I ment external mic input

Answer
I would consider Flip MinoHD Camcorder 2nd Generation
* All-new MinoHD is the world's sleekest HD camcorder
* Captures 120 minutes of stunning HD video on 8 GB of built-in memory; no additional memory needed
* Convenient flip-out USB arm plugs directly into your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
* FlipShare software makes it easy to email videos, edit individual clips, make custom movies, capture still-image snapshots
* Large, 2-Inch anti-glare color display to play back and delete videos

i want to make a pair of video sunglasses to work with a mini dv camcorder.?

jack ander

I know the basics of wiring the mini camera,what i need to know is,what type plug will i need to hook into the back of my camcorder?and is the port labled dv the same as firewire?is it possible to have video come into a camcorder from another source?THANKS

Answer
Do you want the "video sunglasses" to play video so you can watch it? Since we don't know what camcorder you are using, we don't know what plug you need. Typically, the AV-out port is proprietary, but the other end of the cable uses RCA male (yellow-video, red-right audio, white-left audio).

If you want the "video sunglasses" to be a camera, you need to be sure the AV-port can actually do AV-in. Most camcorders do not do this. The same AV port is used, just a menu option to make it V-in. Remember, most camcorders do not have this feature - the Sony DCR-HC96 does.

Yes, the 4-pin DV jack on a camcorder is a firewire/IEEE1394/i.LINK port.

As indicated above, having video coming in from another source is possible - but it depends on the camcorder. Connecting a DV-camera to the DV port won't work - unless it is another camcorder or other firewire device with some intelligence... and you are dubbing across the firewire cable copying tape-to-tape.

where are spy sunglasses made?

Giovanni

where are spy sunglasses made?

Answer
Italy and China. The spy sunglasses with consumer electronic components built into them (i.e. camcorders, etc.) are manufactured in China while the standard sunglasses without the extra electronic components are manufactured in Italy.

Friday, May 16, 2014

What digital Video Camera should I get?

Alex P

Me and my friend make youtube videos ALL the time, but we're getting really tired of our like 5 year old Tape-Recording Handicam.

So we're looking for a Digital video camera. Today I saw in a Jakartan store a MD-10000 Digital Cam for only 900$.

But then I read they are terrible.

So it has to be under about 1200$ and It has to be digital, record good picture, and it needs Fast Frame Rate. (Well at least not slow).

What should i get?

Answer
You should get the Flip Camcorder. It's about the size of a digital camera and it records up to 60 minutes with good picture quality :) I bought one and it was only about $150. It also has a little flip up usb on the side so you can just plug it right into the computer and upload it to youtube.

Thursday, May 15, 2014

extreme sports camera?

Charles

I'm really into extreme sport such as rock climbing and snowboarding. I'm looking a camera capturing my achievements of extreme sports. Also what features should i be looking for? Thanks :)

Answer
Definitely go with the GoPro HD Helmet Hero, its an absolutely great camera. I've used it and i loved it. Its basically for capturing videos, if thats what you want than there is no doubt this would be your best bet. It captures professional-grade full HD video up to 1080p, 60 frames per second option in 720p and WVGA resolutions provides liquid smooth slow motion playback, videos can be easily edited with iMovie or Windows Movie Maker, industryâs widest angle (170Âº) and sharpest lens captures more of the scene and includes easy to apply mounts for attaching camera to virtually all helmets. Read this review for it to help you more:

http://www.amazon.com/review/R28NO61RBSR9FU/ref=cm_cr_pr_perm?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B002VA56I8&nodeID=&linkCode=&sourceid=md.ds&tag=famaeim-20

This is the best price i could find for it:

http://www.amazon.com/GoPro-CHDHH-001-HD-Helmet-Hero/dp/B002VA56I8/ref=cm_rdp_product&sourceid=md.ds&tag=famaeim-20

I am looking for an extreme sports camera help?

The One Th

I am looking for a good extreme sports camera, im a snowboarder so I want it to work on my helmet or maybe on my board, I want it cheap, I want it to take pictures and videos, but I also want it to be sharp with the pictures and steady with the videos. Im not sure if it is possible to meet all my requirements...but! I did find this one GO pro camera for around $100.00 If you could tell me if it is a good one by looking at the information below that would be great..or if you have a better one in mind that would be great also :)

Resolution: 5 megapixel (2592x1944) photo, 512x384 video

Sensor: CMOS

Video Format: MJPEG, 30 fps, saved as .AVI file

Optics: glass lens, f/2.8 aperture, with ultra-wide 170Âº angle of view

Modes: video, standard photo, photo every 2 or 5 secs, 3x photo burst sequence, self timer, upside down photo/video flip

Exposure Control: auto

White Balance: auto

Self Timer: 10 seconds

Microphone: built-in with adjustable recording/input level

Audio Format: 8kHz, mono

Memory: 16 MB internal, expandable to 2GB with SD card (not included), expandable to 4GB with SDHC card (not included) via free firmware upgrade

Capacity: 56 minutes video (incl. audio) or 1,945 photos with optional 2GB SD card. 1hr 52min video (incl. audio) with optional 4GB SDHC card

Power: 2x AAA batteries (not included), lithium batteries highly recommended. 3hrs. video recording with lithium, 2hrs. with NiMH

TV Out (with RCA cable): NTSC or PAL

PC Connection: USB + RCA combo cable

PC Compatibility: Windows ME, 2000, XP, and Vista; Mac OS X 10.2 and later

Waterproof: rated to 100 feet/30 meters

Dimensions: 1.75" x 2.30" x 1.25"/4.45cm x 5.84cm x 3.18cm (H x W x D)

Weight: 4.9 oz/139 g

Answer
I think you should go with GoPro Digital HERO 3 Sports Wrist Camera

3 megapixel all-season digital sports camera
Shoots TV quality 640x480, 30fps video (use internal or optional SD memory)
16MB of internal memory and accepts up to a 2GB SD card
Pivots upright for on the fly photos or video
Waterproof up to 100 feet

What kind of camcorder should i get?

Hola man

Im gonna use it too video tape people biking and skating. But i wanna find one with an eyepiece, but cant.
can anyone help me, and give reviews
P.S. A tape one would be appreciated but not required.
thanks :D

Answer
camcorder
http://astore.amazon.com/shop-electronics-department-20/search?node=1&keywords=camcorder&preview=&x=7&y=12

Good Professional Camcorder?

Brandon P

Is there any type of new professional camcorder (the ones around the $2,000) that I can get for around $1,000 or less? Such as a Canon, Sony, or Panasonic camera.

It doesn't matter where it's from (eBay, Amazon) or if its used, as long as it works.

Answer
Define a "professional" camcorder:

Lens diameter larger than 40mm.
Imaging chip (whether CCD or CMOS) around 1/3" or larger.
Manual focus, zoom, audio, aperture, and other controls easy to get to on the OUTSIDE of the camcorder.
Audio inputs use XLR connectors (not a 1/8" - 3.5mm - stereo jack).

Under the "new" category, the only one that meets this criteria is the Sony HVR-A1U. It is the pro-sibling of the consumer HDR-HC1 from a few years back. Its single CMOS and 43mm lens does not do too well under low light conditions. The zoom/focus ring is shared - you can manually zoom or focus but not at the same time.

The next that meet your technical criteria are the Sony HVR-V1U, HVR-Z1U and Canon XHA1. They are all DV/HDV camcorders, well outside your budget and I would be very wary of used gear at the $1,000 level.

The standard definition Panasonic DVX100 also meets the technical spec, will likely be outside your budget and I would be very wary of used gear at the $1,000 level.

That leaves prosumer gear. The standard definition Canon GL2 has a 1/8" audio jack that can be upgraded to XLR by using an XLR adapter from juicedLink or BeachTek. Other prosumer gear includes the standard definition DCR-VX2100, (or older VX200 or VX1000). Outside your budget in the high definition environment has the Sony HDR-FX1, HDR-FX1000 or HDR-FX7. The FX1/FX1000 are the consumer sibling to the Z1; the V1U is the consumer sibling to the V1.

Closer to your budget are the consumer Canon HV30 and Sony HDR-HC9. They both have a 1/8" stereo audio-in jack, so adding an XLR adapter is easy. Their manual controls are generally through the camcorder's menu - and the zoom/focus ring is shared - you can manually zoom or focus but not at the same time. Pro grade has separate rings (exception being the A1U/HC1). Both the HV30 and HC9 are the least expensive camcorders with manual audio control, too. They do DV/HDV.

ALL miniDV tape based camcorders require your computer to have a firewire port for importing the video for editing. USB will not work and USB to Firewire converter/adapter/hub/cable things won't work. There are no prosumer or low-end pro camcorders that use built-in hard disc drive, flash memory or DVD media for video capture storage - unless you include the Panasonic DVX100 and the HDX200 P2 card implementations.

Camera/camcorder with sound record on video?

I'm going to see Coldplay at concert again, but last time i recorded videos they came out
really hard to hear and croaky because of how loud it was, so my question is,
What camera (or camcorder) can record good sounds at a concert?
And how much is the price range for camera/camcorder's that do this?
(Before anyone says, you're aloud to take pictures and film it because i've heard people
say it's illegal or something)
Thanks in return

Answer
You need a lesson on camcorder microphones. The standard Consumer level camcorder, HD or SD Microphones, are all the same. They get their best audio to a point about 4 feet from the camcorders microphone. The further than that you move, the audio capture quality diminishes. In a noisy environment, that fall off is near vertical.

So off you got with your camcorder, you get to the concert and your in the 17th row on the floor. The band comes on, you fire up your camcorder and start recording. the concert ends and off you go to your editing program. You get the footage on your computer, view it and this is what your hear. The audios best parts are of the bands biggest fan, sitting right in front of you, singing, talking, foot stomping, yelling and snorting. then the nearer background noises are mostly the same thing. The band, if they can be heard at all, are very faint in the background of the audio.

If you want the best possible audio, do what is required to get a feed from the mixer to camcorders MIC port or a Digital Audio recorder. Be prepared to offer the cable you need to use on their system, this means having many cables at your disposal. Then, because you cannot get to a microphone, have fun syncing the audio and video back together.

Which camcorder has better sound, the Polaroid v130 or Flip Ultra?

Kyle

I want to get a good camcorder for recording drums and posting videos on youtube and such and these are the two cameras I am down to. Which one has better sound quality?

Answer
Small consumer camcorders don't record sound very well. They have a tendency to record sound that you don't want, like behind the camera and/or at higher frequency noise.

There are two ways to make better audio:
1. Use a good external microphone if the camera has a jack for that.
2. Record your audio with recorder then edit it into your video (best way).

Hint: ever wonder why you almost always see a sound man following a cameraman around on those reality TV shows? That because he can get better audio than the camera can.

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

How do you link a camcorder to a TV?

Kourtney

I play Skyrim a lot and wanted to start a channel on YouTube to help people out. But I don't want to record my TV. I've noticed how people can actually record what's ON their TV, not the TV itself. Can I actually hook up my video camera to the TV to accomplish something like this?
It would also help if you recommend a good camera for this. I have a feeling mine won't be that good... (^-^")
It would also help if you recommend a good camera for this. I have a feeling mine won't be that good... (^-^")

Answer
Yes it depends what type of T.v or computer you have is you have lets say a Samsung 2010 and up version you will be fine most Tvs have there cable connects in the back ok I'm not sure about any other Tvs also it depends what type of cam recorder you have

How do I transfer video from the hard drive to the SD card on a JVC Everio GZ-MG630RU camcorder?

Cody

I have a 2010 JVC Everio GZ-MG630RU camcorder. i recently bought a laptop with Win-7. i found out that Win-7 does not recognize my camcorder . My question is: how do i go about transferring the videos on my camcorders Hard Drive to the cameras mini SD card ?

Thanx

Answer
Excerpt from Amazon.com. Read your manual and your question makes no sense. Why do you want to copy from HDD to SD when the camera doesn't seem to have an mini SD card?

Everio Features

All 2009 Everios make sharing and watching videos easier than ever. New for this year is the One Touch Export function that allows Everio videos to be imported into iTunes and loaded into an iPod or iPhone. All 2009 Everios also offer One Touch DVD burning and the One Touch Upload function that JVC introduced to users in 2008 as a new and convenient way to upload videos to YouTube.

To use any of the three functions, simply connect Everio to a PC using the supplied USB cable. Then, the user chooses one of three buttons on the Everio: UPLOAD, EXPORT, or DIRECT DVD. Pressing the button will launch the appropriate Windows PC application that comes bundled with Everio, and the user simply follows the simple on-screen prompts. With just a few mouse clicks the process of uploading to YouTube, exporting to iTunes, burning to disc or transferring to an external hard disk drive will be completed. For uploading to YouTube, the user can perform an in-camera edit of any length video to fit the 10-minute YouTube limit.

For disc based archiving, there is an alternative to using a PC. JVC offers the CU-VD50 Direct DVD Burner/Player as an option, which allows burning of Everio videos to a DVD disc without having to use a PC.

The new Everio MediaBrowser software supplied with all Everio models is a Windows application providing an easy-to-search calendar-type graphical interface for indexing and finding video files. Thumbnail images of recorded videos and stills are superimposed on the calendar so itâs easy to see when any scene was recorded. The Everio MediaBrowser also allows easy playback, simple cut editing, and "Decomotion" to spruce up recorded footage with animated graphics for upload to YouTube. It also supports Export to iTunes, Upload to YouTube, burning to disc or transferring to HDD.

Another new feature found on all Everio camcorders is Digest Playback, which offers an easy and entertaining way to check the content residing on Everioâs HDD or SD/SDHC card. The function automatically selects highlight scenes from among the recorded content using JVCâs proprietary algorithm and plays back what looks like a "coming attractions" trailer for a movie. Sixty minutes of footage is condensed into five minutes of highlight scenes.

Other Everio features have been enhanced for 2009. Laser Touch Operation has been updated to allow control of zooming and recording using either the Laser Touch scroll bar or buttons next to the LCD screen, as well as by the standard zoom lever and REC button. And as before, Laser Touch makes it easy to browse through thumbnail images of recorded scenes and access menu selection. Power-linked operation, long offered by JVC, goes a step further this year. Simply opening the LCD monitor automatically opens the built-in lens cover and powers up the camcorder. Closing the LCD also closes the lens cover and shuts down the power. With Quick Restart, recording can start in about one second after the LCD is re-opened.

In addition to performance and convenience, the 2009 Everio line offers plenty of style and shooting comfort. A new design features elegant curves, a silver-framed LCD and a comfortable angled grip with a new dual use strap. The strap can be used in the usual camcorder fashion, supporting the userâs hand when shooting, or it can be extended and used as a wrist strap like the type on most digital still cameras.

What is the best HD camcorder that is under $400?

cgabbi7

I already researched the Flip and decided not to go with that since of the stability problem. I want a camera that has very vivid colors and I can put on a tripod

Answer
Try http://www.abt.com/product/39131/Sony-HDRCX100.html
It is a little over your budget. But it is very difficult to get a good HD camcorder under $400.

Best budget camcorder under $400?

So, I am looking to get a camcorder to start recording a bunch of different things. I am not looking to spend a lot of money, because my needs aren't that great. I am looking at two different ones right now:

Canon Vixia HF R20
http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Camcorder-Internal-Memory-Silver/dp/B004HW7E92

JVC GZ-HM650b
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004LB5AQI/ref=as_li_tf_til?tag=custnudecale-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=B004LB5AQI&adid=1R8WSYCBJ6A044RXNJPK

I was wondering which one is better or if there are any other ones in this price range that are even better than that? I am basically looking for a good quality HD camcorder with decent audio pickup (I am tempted by the Canon having an external mic hook-up since I have a stereo camcorder mic.) All recommendations are appreciated! Thanks!

Answer
The image sensor of the VIXIA HF R20 has been upgraded to a 3.2-megapixel HD Video Lens which basically surpasses the R10â²s biggest shortcoming. The 2.07 effective megapixels to work with, this entry-level model can finally record videos in the full 1920 x 1080 resolution and the image quality looks great as it is once again powered by the DIGIC DV Image Processor. Color accuracy is not perfect but the purple and blue shades look better compared to competing camcorders. This new specification allows the camcorder to output 1080p via HDMI.

camcorder video quality?

Michael

Using Adobe premiere, Is there a way to increase video quality, not to HD, but better quality? Also, will replaying the video on the camcorder before putting it into the computer hurt the quality of video when I finally put it in the computer? Also, when video is put threw a USB cord, is that a form of compression?

Answer
"Using Adobe premiere, Is there a way to increase video quality"

Not really - you can play with things like the colour balance, exposure etc but whether you're getting an overall improvement is questionable.

"Also, will replaying the video on the camcorder before putting it into the computer hurt the quality of video when I finally put it in the computer?"

No. If it's a tape based camcorder you'll wear the tape out eventually, but it's not a real problem.

"Also, when video is put threw a USB cord, is that a form of compression?"

Not exactly. If you've got a tape based camcorder the video data has to be streamed - you can't go back and resend the last couple of bytes if your PC missed them because it was busy doing something else. USB isn't good at streaming so tape based camcorders use firewire for the video and mostly just use USB for transferring stills. I say "mostly" because some camcorders have a "USB streaming" mode - it's mainly so that you can use the camcorder as a webcam and it works by compressing the video. Unfortunately that compression lowers the quality and often leads to problems with AV synch when you try and edit the video.

What brand and model(s) camcorder can be used to get this same exact quality video?

Killa

Video link: http://vimeo.com/60241860

Answer
The best Quality Video Camcorder in the Consumer Level Camcorder Market, is a MiniDV tape Camcorder. HD Camcorders, that being any Camcorder storing the Video it shoots to anything but tape, and DSLR cameras, all interpolate the Video. What that means, as the take video and store it on the storage media, they take one frame from the lens, several from the internal electronics within the Camcorder, one frame from the lens, several from the internal electronics within the Camcorder, one frame from the lens, several from the internal electronics within the Camcorder, and so on until the end of your Video.

Looks like this, where lens frames are + and camera made frames are >

+>>>>>>+>>>>>>>+>>>>>>>+>>>>>>+>>>>>>> and so on

The frames made by the HD camcorder internal electronics, not from the lens, are 80% of any HD Camcorder's videos. They are all made using an algorithm based on the frame from the lens before and after these frames. Mostly impossible to edit

Furthermore, you can get a MiniDV tape Camcorder for under $600, to even try to get a HD camcorder that could shoot as good or better Quality Video, you would need to spend $5400 to find one that could.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Are any camcorders good in low light environments like indoors?

Paranormal

I have a camcorder I bought for â¬235 in 2011 which is 10MP. Indoors it is always grainy and fuzzy except in some very bright lighting. Outdoors it's better. Are there any camcorders available that are sharp indoors and in low light/dark environments and have little/no visible noise/grain?
My camcorder only has ISO controls for photographs and not video. It has a "Night mode" and white balance but no matter what settings I use, I almost always get grainy video indoors even with lights on.
My camcorder is Toshiba Camileo A35.

Answer
Good low-light means large lens filter diameter and large imaging chip. The large lens allows in more light; the large imaging chip can deal with what little light is available. You have already discovered that small lens diameter and small imaging chip doe not behave well. As camcorders increase in price, their lenses get larger - so do the imaging chips... You did not tell us which camcorder you are currently using, but at your price point, I would guess 30mm filter diameter and 1/6" single imaging chip. or you are using a digital still camera (maybe even a bridge camera) that happens to capture video as a secondary "convenience feature".

For low-light conditions, at a minimum, I use my Sony HDR-FX1. This was replaced by the HDR-FX1000. 72mm filter diameter lens and 1/3" 3CCD imaging chip. If it is really dark, then Panasonic AG-HVX200 with 82mm filter diameter and 1/3" 3CCD imaging chip works well... above this they start to get expensive.

If these cameras are too expensive, you have an alternative... learn to shoot "day for night". ADD light during video capture
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MaC44MU4iw
and use a decent video editor...

Camcorder that works good in low light?

Bob

ok so im making a video but it takes place at night. it dosent need to be in hd, but it needs to be able to work really good in low light. any suggestions?

Answer
here is the truth , the low light is basically the ability to use light in the lens so realistically you need a camera which has a big lens , and iris , also you need settings to allow the phisical ability to raise the iso which is essentially wings that open up to allow light in , the other is electronic power , the ability to electronically have noise reduction filters to reduce the low light film huz , and the ability for the camera to electronically raise it's cmos through electronic light stability and software stability to maintain it.

the only realistically affordable camera's are the dslr canon t2i or t3i , or the gopro hero2 which has the best ability to use low light in a cheaper fixed lens option .. a lot is on how you use the lens features

Is The "Flip" Slide HD Video Camera Great Or Does It Suck?

CHIEFS 4 L

I am getting the flip slide video camera for my brother and i was wondering is it better than the other flip cameras. is the slide one the best, and how does it preform.

Answer
Depends on what you are using it for...

If you are using it for any kind of action sports then... ITS SUCKS
If you need to capture good audio quality bits then... ITS SUCKS
If you are wanting to upgrade to an "HD" camera and think this is going to do the job... Forget it...

This camera along with all other flip, slide, and small handheld "HD" cameras offer a crappy 480p resolution AT BEST, not the 720p-1080p they boast to have (quality is more than a file type). Obviously since they are so small, any interference in sound (wind, bumps, thuds, laughing in the background when someone busts their face open) is maximized dramatically...

Now if your little brother or whatever he is, is just kind of a chill dude who wants to take some funny videos, play around, doesn't really need a quality camera, then for the price this camera is one of the better cameras of its type.

Again, compared to other flip/handeld/mini HD cameras, this is one of the better cameras. Just dont expect the video to stun you and dont expect to capture your bands newest music video in any kind of HD audio or video quality.

Oh and another good thing about this camera is that its SUPER easy and fast to upload your videos to the web...

Recommend a Photography Camera?

EmmaEmmaEm

Can anyone recommend a really good camera? i'd like one that stakes really good pictures, sharp action shots, and it be nice if it shot videos?
recommendations?
and id like to spend around $500

Answer
Photography camera infers a camera that is fully adjustable, controlled by the photographer.

That means for your price range of $500 will be enough for an entry level dSLR like the Nikon D3000 or Canon 1000D/XS.

To shoot video, you will have to add another $200 and look at the Nikon D3100 or Canon 500D/T1i

How sharp your images turn out has all to do with your skills. While those cameras are perfectly capable of shooting sharp action shots, you will have to practice for quite a while to learn how to shoot at the peak of action and compose using long lenses. Shooting action or sports, too will require you to buy a second lens later, like the Nikkor 55-300 mm VR or Canon 55-250 mm IS lens. Plan on spending an additional $350 to $400 for that second lens

Buying a lesser camera like a P&S bridge camera has a few drawbacks. 1) they have sensors 15 times smaller than a dSLR 2) shutter lag which makes it difficult to time your shots and 3) what ever lens that comes with it, is what you will have to use until you buy another camera in a few years.

Help with video camera files???? 10 points!?

catchingfi

I've got some files on my Sony Super Steady Shot HR-SR11 Handycam or whatever, video camera that I really need to upload onto the computer. I can see the video's on the camera in the playback menu but when I connect it to the computer they are non existent. I REALLY need to get them up within the next couple of days and I have no clue why they aren't visible when connected to the computer. I have a Mac OS X, and this has never happened before.

If anyone can help I would be SUPERRRRR grateful and you will forever be my friend :)

...plus, i'll give you ten of these yahoo points

cheers XD

Answer
This is a hybrid camcorder â it can record video to a memory stick or to a hard drive. When you connect the camcorder to a computer, you have to choose which of these storage media to mount â apparently, you have mounted the one that does not contain the video, so choose the other. When connecting to the computer, see if a menu appears on the camera's viewing screen. Or read the operations manual.

Video camera recommendation?

Monique Mi

I'm currently debating between to video cameras. I want something so I can get video at horse shows, but then also get nice quality video because i do like editing videos to put on youtube. I'm finding you can't get good zoom and hd. So I can't decide which I would rather have. Which would you recommend of these two, or would you recommend something else? What would be most worth my money?

Sony handycam dcr-sr68
60x optical/2000x digital
680k pictures
standard definition

Sony handycam hdr-xr150
25x optical/300x digital
3.0mp pictures
high definition

Thank you for your help.

Answer
Aunsoft MTS/M2TS Converter helps you convert MTS and M2TS video files to MP4, MPG, WMV, AVI, and enables you to enjoy movies on computer or WMP, to further edit video for creation, to present video on HDTV, and to publish video online in web-friendly format. It makes your AVCHD camcorder videos editable on Adobe Premiere, Sony Vegas, Window Movie Maker, DVD Maker.

With this AVCHD camcorder converter, you can load videos from JVC, Canon, Panasonic, Sony camcorders. You can also control your video and music on popular portable devices including iPad, iPhone 4, Nexus One, HTC Hero, Motorola Droid X, Droid 2, Xbox 360, Zune, iPod, PSP, Creative Zen, Apple TV, iPhone anytime anywhere; or convert MTS/M2TS videos to the video formats supported by YouTube, Yahoo, Myspace, Google for web sharing.

Can a normal camcorder detect infrared light?

Wut

I have some camcorders that do not have "night shot" or a built-in infrared lamp. If I get an external IR lamp will these camcorders be able to detect it? They're all Panasonics--SDR-S26, SDR-S26K, SDR-H85, HDC-HS250P, and PV-GS250.

Answer
yes and no. All normal camcorders and digital cameras can detect IR light. For that reason they all have IR blocking filters to prevent having false colors in normal conditions. In a few models, the filter can be defeated to create "nightshot" effects, but not the Panasonics. Some hackers are willing to do surgery on their camera to forcibly and permanently remove the filter that is located on the CCD sensor. not really a good idea. some cameras have a poorly functioning filter and pickup some IR light. to test yours, point a television remote control at the camera lens and see if there is a light when the buttons are pushed.

camcorder shutter speed for low light conditions?

leatricema

There is a shutter speed given for video cameras in low light conditions. (1/30, 1/60, etc.) Is this the speed of the lens at all times or just when the lighting is low?

Answer
The camcorder's shutter speed is in fractions of a second and the amount of time the shutter remains open to allow light to hit the imaging chip (CCD or CMOS).

1/30 is typically the auto setting when in low light. Smaller number in the denominator means the shuttr stas open longer. Moving objects will record with ghost tailing and possibly blurred. 1/60-1/125 is in daylight. In auto shutter mode, as the lighting get brighter (or the aperture is opened), the shutter speed can increase. Most camcorders also allow you to manually set the shutter speed. At about 1/500-1/1000, the aperture can't open any more and the image will darken unless lots of light is added to the scene. Be careful, though, at this speed or faster, there is an irritating "strobe" effect that settles in and can be very uncomfortable for the viewer.

(Remember, still photos capture is different from video - with stills, typically, the goal is to freeze the moment so faster shutter speeds are more common. Which video, motion is fluid, so each frame does not need to have everything in sharp focus).

Water proof camcorder?

kewina

I am going on my honeymoon in a few months. we are going to Bora Bora for a week. we are going to be doing a lot of water excursions (snorkeling, scuba diving, swim with dolphins, etc). I want to get a camcorder to film everything. i know nothing about camcorders but would like one that can be held easily and water proof. i was looking at a GoPro and it looks great but it doesn't seem like i would use it in the future for recording like family stuff. have any suggestions?
thanks

Answer
i suggest that you get a Nikon Coolpix AW110 or AW100 instead of a camcorder. beside waterproof, they are resistant to shock damage and made for rugged service. also, with any waterproof camera, be sure and get a flotation strap because if you ever let go of the camera in the water, it will sink and be ruined otherwise. i have used the Olympus version of the camera and liked it very much. as to scuba, these camera have very limited depth capability, scuba diving requires much more specialized and expensive equipment.

What is the newest Flip camera/camcorder with HD?

Taylor

I am looking in to buying the Flip Ultra HD 3rd Generation. But, I would like to know if it is the newest of their cameras/camcorders made. Have they come out with any more cameras/camcorders since this one?

Answer
Flip camcorders are no longer made.

Consumer level HD camcorders have 4 problems. 1) Blurry, fuzzy, out of focus areas closely around people in videos taken by consumer level HD camcorders. 2) Any movement, even a wave or lifting an arm, while in front of a recording consumer level HD camcorder, results in screen ghosts and artifacts being left on the video track, following the movement. Makes for bad video, sports videos are unwatchable. 3) These Consumer level HD camcorders all have a habit of the transferred to computer files are something you need to convert, thus losing your HD quality, to work with your editing software. 4) Mandatory maximum record times - 1 hour, 30 minutes, 8 minutes, 3 minutes â four different times advertised as maximum record time for some consumer level HD camcorders. No event I have ever been to is that short. Either take multiple camcorders or pack up with out getting the end of the event on video. Consumer level HD camcorders interpolate the video. This means they take one frame, make up the next 4 or 5 frames, take a frame and repeat this, over and over, for the remainder of the video, every video it takes is like this.With a MiniDV tape camcorder, record 60 or 90 minutes ( camcorder settings), 90 seconds or less to change a tape and record for 60 or 90 more and repeat till you run out of tapes.

You can get a Canon ZR960 for $250. It is a MiniDV tape camcorder, has a Mic jack. You will need a firewire (IEEE1394) card ($25 to 30) for the computer and a firewire cable (less than 10) to be able to transfer video to your computer. To say this is not HD, think about this. It would cost in excess of $3500 to get a HD camcorder that could equal the video Quality of a $250 Canon MiniDV tape camcorder.

http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/camcorders/consumer_camcorders/zr960

Monday, May 12, 2014

What is the BEST digital camera? I have kids, sports,many vacations...I want crisp quality photos. @$200-$500?

The McK's

My current camera you take a photo, & it pauses for ? seconds before u can take another photo. I am aware there is a camera that you can, snap photo after photo continuously. I just want a gooood digital camera please. I am not even sure if that camera is good or not. what has worked for you? what r u happy with? THANKS!
looking into the Nikon D40 or D50 now. A bit $$ though. amazon for $557. still would like to spend much less$. any sites? or camera similiar to that?

Answer
I purchased a Casio Exilm Ex-Z1000 about 5 Months ago and have had an absolutely wonderful experience with it thus far. At around 249$ this camera is an Awsome buy. The quality of pictures that I have been able to take, has been comparable or better than those of any Huge cameras that my freinds own. All of the exilm series camera are small, easy to use, and have great quality. The one down side to such a small camera is the lack of major zoom. However the 3x Optical zoom has proven to be more than sufficiant for any every day shots. Due to the fact that the camera is 10.1 Megapixels, i was able to take a picture of a butterfly from about 4 feet away, then later zoom in using the camera's and cropping function, was able to see in clairity the individual hairs on his body. I have traveled to both Austrialia and the Bahamas with this camera and have yet to be dissapointed in any way. It uses SD memory cards, which are widely available and at a reasonable cost. I would suggest a 1gb or more card, just due to the fact that once you start taking pictures, you will not want to stop. I purchased the Sandisk Extreme III 1GB card, which allows me to take about 230 pictures. Another nice feature of the camera is the fact that you have a decent quality video feature built into it. While i wouldn't recomend recording your child's first steps with it, it's a great feature to have for everyday use. I will be glad to show you some examples of the photo's I have taken using this camera if you would like to contact me at icyblue1986@yahoo.com I tell all of my freinds, about the nothing but wonder experience that i have had with this camera, i would certainly recommend this model. The image quality and convenience more than out weigh the lack optical zoom. I would personally recommend this camera if for no other reason than the convenience, being small allows you to have it with you and get a shot of something rare, as where the bulkier SLR cameras sit at home and collect dust. Hope this helps, Good Luck!

Digital photography camera?

Amanda Yor

I want to know what the best type of camera to get for high school armature photographers. I want a real good quality one though because I am thinking about doing something with photography for my major and I need well captured pictures for my portfolio. I would like one that can capture sports, kids, and pets but also one that is good for vacations and landscapes. I am getting it for Christmas and will be my only my only present so I want me and my parents to get our moneys worth

Answer
If you are serious about actually learning about the craft beyond your "extreme passion", you will need a camera with user adjustable settings, manual mode as well as shutter and aperture priority. I would recommend Canon Rebel T3 http://www.dzustore.com/eos-rebel-t3-ef-s-18-55mm-is.html it has HD video recording and Live View shooting.

Good camera for shooting video ?

!!!!!!!!!!

Hi I'm looking for a camera that shoots good video quality 1080p and also takes good pictures ? I make youtube videos and want to get good quality video ? right now I'm using a flip mini which is good but not great when you watch in full screen and when you zoom the quality lessens dramatically. I don't really want to spend more than Â£200 ?

Answer
Hi Scott:

At least when you are talking 200-pounds Sterling and not 200-dollars US, you have a bit more spending power. As with many things in life, you get what you pay for, and trying to get both good stills (photos) and good video out of the same inexpensive gadget is a major compromise. And one that usually disappoints in both areas (photos and videos).

With your current Flip pocket camera, you've noticed how the picture quality is degraded with its digital zoom (not optical). All digital zoom does is crop & enlarge whatever pixels are a "subset" of the full sensor area when zooming-in on part of the full frame. This is why you notice the dramatic difference in quality when zooming.

Your budget is in the area of a GoPro Hero HD camera, which is one of the better under-$500 USD class cameras that shoot video and stills. Shop around for what's called the "GoPro Hero HD Naked" (it comes without the added expense of sports-cam mounts & straps). Typical price is just under-Â£200. It shoots 5-Megapixel photos and is great at action footage, for an SD-card camera.

The other options in your price range would be one of the Kodak PlaySport "Z-series" (Zx5, Zi8, etc.) cameras or one of the Sony Bloggie pocket camcorders (try the MHS-TS20, which is highly-rated).

And another way to stretch your shopping money, is to opt for a factory-refurbished model (which Canon and Sony often have listed on their websites). Several models in the Canon Legria HF-series (the UK version of the Vixia series) and the Sony DCR-SX45 (and similar models) are in your price range.

hope this helps,
--Dennis C.
Â

whats the best camera for making you tube videos for a beginer you tuber?

huntnbigra

Answer
my recommendation is to use a camera with mini dv and if the budget stretches go for HDV.

here are some things to think about:

first, look at budget and then work out the best you can get for the money spent. try to steer clear of second hand units as they are usually more trouble than they're worth.

second, decide on a format to suit your style. most people are getting Hard drive cameras without thinking of the implications of the design. i will keep using mini dv tape myself until the bitter end as i think they are still the best format for low budget film making. you can use them in many HD cameras and will offer better archival storage and far superior image quality compared to DVD and HDD.

stick with mini dv - you can't miss. (btw mini dv only comes in 2 sizes - 60 min or 80 mins - it's true that you can set cam to shoot Long play and get 90 mins + on a tape but it's not worth it - always shoot SP)

third - what sort of shooting are you looking to do? indoor studio? or outdoor sporting events etc. many cameras are good for one but might be lacking for the other. try to find something that suits your needs and work out features you may find useful. eg - night vision sounds great but it's highly unlikely that you'll use it regularly. but if you found something with decent mic inputs and separate sound controls you may find that FAR more useful.

fourth - HDV is the next generation of camera. more and more people have HD tvs showing in widescreen and you can (in most cases) plug the cam in via HDMI straight into your HD tv and it looks AMAZING. SD or standard def is on the way out so you'll be stuck with a cam that you don't like the images for.

fifth - all cams are good for youtube. even a digital stills camera. most computers accept usb or firewire to upload images to an editing suite.

consider you applications, decide your format and look at how much you want to spend. make a short list then try them out.

the best brand of camcorder would technically speaking be "RED".

it is a 4k resultion cam capable of doing 35mm standard shooting. however, it would be very expensive and out of reach for most people.

however, cams come in many different varieties. there is SD and HD which is standard and high definition.

some have a single chip whereas onthers have three. others are widescreen and some are full screen.

many different factors make up what is best in the market. sony tend to make something that stands out in all market segments wether it be a simple point and shoot right up to the cam they used for star wars (the cinealta). of course the prices are hugely variable starting from around $200 going up to $200000 + depending on features.

the problem with these big expensive cameras is that many people are clueless how to use them. you may have a $10000 HD cam in the hands of a beginner and a pro cinematographer will wipe the floor with you using a bottom of the line point and shoot. they have many confusing dials and buttons designed to bring out the cameras best but it will take a while to learn how to use them effectively.

you can buy HD cams for around US$800 (give or take) which will produce great pictures and even do stills while you shoot. they are easy to use and can dramatically increase the quality of your movies.

many people ask 'what should i get? mini dvd, mini dv or Hard drive?'

i would say that the mini dv (although the oldest format of the bunch) is still the best. it offers excellent resolution (even in hd or HDV as it's known). it has great archiving value and is cheap to run.

dvd and hdd are useful in some ways but quite bad in others. sure, they may seem convienient but DVD has the WORST resolution and the discs are more expensive. HDD is better but what happens when you run out of drive space on a great trip away? and if it stuffs up - a new tape is far cheaper thana new hard drive.

so, to bring this long rambling point to a close, there are many ins and outs with cams so it s 'how long is a piece of string' question. have a look at what feels good to you and what looks good. think about what you are needing it for and consider the practicalities of each type.

i hope this advice helps.

What is the best video camera to buy right now for skateboarding/snowboarding/sports/nature etc?

Booneypant

Mostly I want to know what the best camcorder is for skateboarding. From research I think that I should get a flash memory camera. thoughts?

Here's what I want to be good on the camera:
â¢ Overall film quality
â¢ Motion (will be following skateboarding, fast action)
â¢ Low light filming (skateboarding is sometimes filmed at night

I really like the look of the: panasonic hdc-tm300 but its too expensive. If I can't find a cheaper camera that meets my requirements I will wait and spend more money.
also: Canon vixia hf11?

Do you know any site that review videocameras?

I've been checking out, camcorderinfo.com and it looks pretty detailed, have you used it?

Thanks for your input

Answer
Ah man for shooting skateboarding without a doubt the Panasonic High Definition AG-HMC40 AVCHD Camcorder. This baby rocks!! It's lightweight easy to use and shoots in true HD 1920x1080. the video image is outstanding and can't be beat in my view.

The best part is with high capacity SD cards...you just drop your files when your ready to edit the video and the old way of doing video capture is left in the dust and gone extinct. Video capture on PC was a pain in the butt anyways and being able to drag and drop HD video clips from an SD card into a folder start editing is priceless and saves a ton of time..

Here's a video review of this camera

What is the best camera to buy that you can take pictures for sports?

Michael

I want a camera with a great zoom. I don't want the picture to be blury. And I want it to be able to change lenses so like if u want greater zoom you can put it on the camera. Plz Help... o yea one more thing it has to be able to take pics in motion. Thanks :)

Answer
You did say what is the best camera...

Sports photography is perhaps one of the most taxing activities for any camera system. You have fast action, long distances, sometimes coupled with low light that spells trouble for anything but the most capable systems.

If you want interchangeable lenses, you are going to want a DSLR, such as a Nikon D3s - which has perhaps the best low light performance at high ISOs, and couple that with a 70-200mm f/2.8 zoom, and perhaps a fixed 400mm f/2.8. Be aware though that you are looking at $18k for this camera and the two lenses.

You need fast lenses, and anything slower than f/2.8 will not cut it.

The D3s does not take video. You have to make your mind up whether you want great photos for sports or video.

Now if you don't want the best solution, you can save some money, but make sure that you have a camera with the following:

1. DSLR is all but required as the shutter lag is minimal, as well as the intra-frame delay (which allows you to shoot in continuous mode).

2. A camera known as having good high-ISO performance. Some DSLRS simply do better than others in this regard. But this is not as much of an issue if you are shooting outdoor daytime sports, especially for slower sports (for auto racing - get the best high-ISO performance you can get).

3. The fastest zoom lens you can afford. For many, that means a 70-200mm f/2.8, but even those are in the $1k~$2k range, depending on if you go with a 3rd party or camera brand lens. While the 70-200 may sometimes be a bit short, you might be able to get closer.

If you are shooting outside daylight only, say at a slow paced game such as baseball, you might be able to get away with a 70-300mm f/4~5.6, But here, you will want something with image stabilization as unless you can bring a monopod into the game, you will be using the camera hand-held. Again, if you are shooting fast sports such as auto racing, a slow lens like the 70-300mm f/4~5.6 is going to be marginal.

Even with the less capable setup, expect to spend $2k~$3k.

Which camcorders under $400 come with external mic jacks?

talkingtoa

With some research I'm finding it particularly difficult to find a camcorder to purchase that will take a mic jack. I was looking at the Sony range, like the SX43, but all the Sonys seem to only allow inbuilt mics. I want to interview people with a cheaper end camcorder that will give reasonable to good youtube quality final clips. Any suggestions?

Answer
The low-end Sony's won't have a mic jack - I think they first appear (with manual audio control) on the HDR-CX500 series. If the Sony camcorder has a Sony proprietary "Active Interface Shoe" (AIS), you *could* get an adapter for external mics
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/564249-REG/Pearstone_9011300_Microphone_Adapter_for_Sony.html

On the other hand, check the Canon FS (standard definition) and HF series (high definition) camcorders. Many do have a 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo audio-in jack. The missing part is the lack of manual audio control - BEFORE you buy, down load and read through the camcorder's manual to be sure it has the capabilities you want... THEN buy. I think manual audio control starts with the HF M series. The HF S series has manual audio control for sure.

If the lighting is good, ANY camcorder can provide "good enough" quality for YouTube. Then you can always just use an audio field recorder (Zoom H1, Edirol, Tascam, Marantz, etc). Just import the audio from the field recorder when you import the video form the camcorder for editing. Sync the audio - then mute the audio captured by the camcorder.

Does any of these camcorders have an external mic jack?

CSt99

Samsung Q10
HP v55G0
Cannon HF R205
AGFA Microflex 100
Sony HDR Cx130

Toshiba Camileo H30
Toshiba Camileo P10
Toshiba Camileo S20
Toshiba Camileo X100

Sanyo HDR CX110
Sanyo VPC CG20
Sanyo Vcam VPC DD1
Sanyo GHI

Answer
No.

You have a choice:
1) Increase your budget to include camcorders with a mic jack
or
2) Record the audio separately with a "field recorder" like a Zoom H1, H2 or H4. When the video is being edited, import the audio from the field recorder, synch the audio with the video, mute the audio captured by the camcorder...

Sunday, May 11, 2014

is this video camera good!?!?!?

Bieberlove

My video camera just broke!! so i am looking for a new one. (not expensive but good!)
I am wondering if anyone has this camera and if it works good?? No one posted a review about it on the website. So if you have it and it works good please help!!!

Its called KODAK ZxD Pocket Video Camera HD

Website: http://store.kodak.com/store/ekconsus/en_US/pd/ZxD_Pocket_Video_Camera/productID.198400700

Answer
Hi, I just have a kodak zi8. You can find more information about zxd from the official website:

http://store.kodak.com/store/ekconsus/en_US/pd/ZxD_Pocket_Video_Camera/productID.198400700

I can also give you the information I got from the website about kodak zi8 and flip mino

http://videoconverter88.blog.com/2010/06/29/comparison-of-kodak-zi8-camera-and-flip-video-minohd-camera/

and the species about kodak playsport:

http://videoconverter88.blog.com/2010/07/01/kodak-playsport-video-camera/

Hope my information can help you. lol

Good Waterproof Cameras?

Nikki

I'm looking for a water proof camera. I've had two so far a kodak playsport and a JVC. They both broke within 6 months to a year. I'm looking for a camera thats strong and will take good pictures and videos in and out of water. Doesn't have to be SLR level but I want it nice.

I've been looking at:
Nikon coolpix aw100
Canon D20
Olympus Tough TG-1

If anyone knows anything about these cameras you can tell me. Or if you have another recommendation for a camera, you can tell me that too. Thanks.

Answer
I have a Panasonic TS3 (the predecessor of the TS4). Not great, but not bad. The autofocus does a lot of hunting. If it is pointed at the sun, there is a lot of blooming. I think demo video that I have seen for the GoPro hero looks better. However, every video that I have seen has overlaid music, and I have seen reviews that say the waterproof case muffles sound. The Panasonic TS3 can capture sound even in water. Emerging from water, it sounds a bit muffled for about two seconds until the water drains from the mic, but then it's okay. It does magnify wind noise, and the wind cut setting does nothing.
Here are some samples.
A lot of wind noise in this one:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mkFLlbtiN8
An actual event, not just a test. As you can tell, I like to do real-time narration from the water:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUelElPFt_0
A swimming pool test. This one shows you what I mean by blooming:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3TipTTHKYM

help with camcorder files?

Nope

whenever i record it records the files in a .MTS extension. and its annoying to convert. Does it do this because its HD? its not like a $3000 camcorder it was like $300. Is there any way i can fix this?

Answer
Welcome to the "wonderful" world of file-based cameras.

The MTS/MPEG-2 Transport Stream format is common in HD camcorders. The slow part about tape-based cameras is that you have to wait through the entire video in real time to capture it. The slow part about file-based cameras is the converting.

Some editing programs can work with the format natively without any conversion - Adobe Premiere Pro is one, if I recall correctly. Others do a very quick re-wrap conversion of the file, like Avid Media Composer. Some require you to use a different program to convert it, and I think that's the case with Final Cut Pro - but you can get around this step by using the "Log and Transfer" function.

One option you have is to use a program that can re-wrap the video into a different container without changing the format - on the Mac, ClipWrap can do this. Takes a few seconds to re-wrap the clip into a MOV file container. MPEG Streamclip is a great free program that can accomplish a wide variety of conversions.

In short, the camera will keep recording MTS files, and you can't do anything about that, but you can set up your workflow to make the process as streamlined as possible.

HD CAMCORDER CHOICE HELP?

Chris R

Hey
I need to buy a semi-pro to pro camcorder. Absolutely HD, possibly not miniDV and not AVCHD. Max price range is about 3000$ Not very interested in the DSLR craze either! I work with FCE4.

Thanks!

Answer
If not miniDV tape (which records HDV) and not AVCHD... the only other format I can come up with associated with a camcorder in your price range are those that the JVC GY-HM100 records... The Canon XF series are outside your price range.

As for the GY-HM100...
lens is "medium sized" at 46mm filter diameter.
audio-in is two XLR inputs and 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo so that's cool.
does not appear to have a LANC port - hopefully this is not important to you.
Does not do standard def 4:3 video - but I suppose you could crop the high definition video and export at a downsampled rate.

There's conflicting information at Apple's support area about FCE4 compatibility. Worst case is to transcode the video files using MPEG StreamClip or some other transcoder to an appropriate file type. JVC does specify Final Cut Pro... It could have something to do with the high (35mbps) data stream. If this potential issue is cause for angst, then I *think* your only option is miniDV.

MSRP under your limit:
HDR-FX7
HVR-HD1000
HVR-A1

Nothing from Canon unless you can find a deal on the XHA1.
Nothing from Panasonic.

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