[JHromadka]

My father wants me to look into a digital camcorder for him. I would like to get one that has a firewire output so I can connect it to my TiBook and get my feet wet with iMovie. What are some things to look for when buying a digital camcorder (besides price)? Are there any websites that have feature comparisons and reviews of the various DV camcorders?

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James Hromadka
VisorCentral.com

[mavapa]

First, look at Apple's website for compatible DV cameras. I can't remember exactly where on the website it's located, but I found it once, when checking to see whether my JVC was listed. It isn't. I think, but am not sure, that compatibility has to do with whether the computer can control the playback and record functions on the camera. I also think that you can control the camera manually to do the same thing, only less conveniently. At least that's what I'm hoping when I finally try to do some video editing.

[jcarr]

Have a look at this page.

I'm kinda partial to the SONY cameras. Most of them have analog input as well as output. This allows you to bring video in from an analog source (VHS, etc.) without having a separate digital media converter.

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I'm cookoo for Cocoa Apps!

[zigzag]

I'd lean towards mini-DV Canons and Sonys if you can afford it. They have comparable features and performance, so I think it mostly depends on personal preference. I have a Canon Elura2 and am very happy with it - compact, very nice ergonomics, and operates flawlessly with iMovie.

If you want to convert old analog videotapes to digital (and back), get one with an analog input/output. On the Canons, you just record the analog tape onto digital tape, then download it to iMovie for editing. Some of the Sonys let you convert straight from analog into iMovie without the intermediate step.

Definitely get an extra battery or two - you'll need the power. The Elura2 comes with a separate battery charger. You have to carry the charger on the road with you, but you can charge one or two extra batteries while using the camera with another, which I find myself doing a lot. Some people prefer on-camera charging so they don't have to carry a separate charger. I don't know how the Sonys are set up for charging.

Don't expect outstanding low-light performance from mini-DV, no matter what they say. They'll record in low-light but not particularly well. In all other respects, they're great.

Also, I wouldn't worry much about still-shot features - they're of limited quality no matter what, and you can always capture stills off of iMovie. If you really want good stills, carry a still camera.

If you don't need top-of-the-line, I'd consider the Canon ZR-10, which you can find for $600-700. It offers a great set of features for the money.

[This message has been edited by zigzag (edited 03-30-2001).]

Hi Zigzag,
When you say the Canon DVs work poorly in low-light situation, how bad are they? Is it unacceptable? Thanks.

[zigzag]

It all depends on your needs and expectations. If you shoot indoors with plenty of artificial and/or natural light, you'll get good images, plenty good enough for family movies. But if you try to shoot with just a single reading lamp on in the corner of the room, you'll get grainy, unevenly-lit images. It's the nature of the beast. I would encourage you to get a mini-DV camera, I've just learned to turn on plenty of lights when indoors. If you have special needs and plan on shooting a lot of stuff in low light, you might not be happy.

You might consider going to a camera shop and getting a demonstration. But if your Dad has average needs, he should be very happy, as I am. You just can't expect miracles - no camera does as well in low light as in good light, and ultra-compact cameras are at a special disadvantage because their lenses are small, so they admit relatively less light.

[Feathers]

Originally posted by zigzag:
... no camera does as well in low light as in good light, and ultra-compact cameras are at a special disadvantage because their lenses are small, so they admit relatively less light.

ROTFL

[zigzag]

Sorry - what did I get wrong? This is my personal experience, and the explanation I've been given. But I don't want to pass on any misinformation.