best camcorder new parents
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Stefan R
I want to send DAT tapes from my camcorder to my parents. Is it safe to send them through the mail? How susceptible are they to damage by heat and/or cold?
Answer
I remember in my old company we sent DAT tapes to Europe, however we were more concerned about mail getting lost then temperatures.
I would recommend to send them FedEx with a thick layer of bubble wrap around it and in a plastic bag.
If you have access to a computer, at least make a copy of your files. Wouldn't it make sense to transfer files from the Camcorder to the computer and then burn a DVD which is easier to send and in the meantime easy to watch in a DVD player or computer. DAT tapes sound like an ancient technology to me.
What are good, moderately priced semi-professional camcorder?
Chris
I'm a Journalism major and I'm currently in production of a documentary about religion practiced in my hometown for my school.
As I'm currently in college, I have very little money to spend. One pf my goals is to be an indie film/documentary director. As such, I would love to purchase a good camcorder.
What is a good camcorder of semi-professional/professional quality that I can purchase for a moderate price (at least as moderate as a camera will allow).
P.S., as a little side question, would kick-starter be a good way to raise money? For the project as well as the equipment?
Answer
My definition of a "professional camcorder":
Lens filter diameter = 70mm or larger
Imaging chip is 3CCD (3CMOS is acceptable but not preferred) that is 1/3" or larger.
Audio inputs are XLR connectors. If the camcorder has a single 1/8" (3.5mm) sretro audio input, then it drops to "prosumer".
The Canon XHA1 meets all these requirements of "pro grade". The Sony HDR-FX1000 meets all the requirements for "prosumer" and an XLR (juicedLink or BeachTek) adapter can be used for XLR mics. The Sony HVR-Z5 and Panasonic AG-HVX200 round out the list of entry-level pro-grade cams that meet or exceed the stated requirements. I think the Panny is the only one that comes with a shotgun mic for camera mounting but all the others can mount a shotgun mic. Since I prefer Sennheiser or Audio Technica shotgun mics, it does not really matter.
The next step up has the Canon XF and XLH lines; Sony HVR-Z7, HDCAM/XDCAM lines and the JVC GY-HM series.
All are "digital" including those using miniDV tape. Remember, the "DV" in miniDV = digital video.
If your definition of "semi-professional/professional camcorder" is different, please let us know what that is so appropriate suggestions can be provided to you.
When you research these, you will find pricing from around $3,000 up to $60,000. "Moderate price" is relative. Remember that the camcorder is a small piece of a larger system. You will also need a good, sturdy tripod and other steadying devices, video lights, optional batteries from the manufacturer, cables, cases, mics (there is no single "best" mic), video editing application, possible computer upgrades to be able to edit the video you capture...
Kick starter? We don't know where you are. Perhaps there are small businesses in your area willing to pay few $ for video production for posting to the web or there is a local wedding/event videographer willing to take you on as an intern or parents willing to pay for video capture of their children's sports activities or stage performances.With little/no experience with video capture, selling video services, editing and delivering a final product to your customer, this could be an interesting learning experience for you.
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