Recommendations for a camcorder...

[custom-software]

I own a small business (a dozen people) and am looking to videotape internal presentations given by our software experts. I would like to then process this AV data for:
* Internal knowledgebase development
* Creating small clips to post online and on our website

I would like to tape a group environment, in a conference room for example. What do I need in terms of video camera equipment, microphone, lighting, etc.?

I've used Zing + ScreenCast.com from TechSmith (we're big users of SnagIt for screen capture and annotation) to do screen video + audio capture and broadcast and using Camtasia for video editing.

Any thoughts and/or experience would be appreciated, and I'm happy to read links that are posted as well, as I"m sure this has been covered in a FAQ somewhere, but after much googling for "best business video camera", "business video capture equipment reviews", etc. I haven't found much.

Thanks in advance!

Nate

http://www.entrancesoftware.com

[edDV]

A normal MiniDV camera should work fine. You don't need high def video but audio is important. If there is any "standard" it would be a Sony VX-2100 or a Canon GL2. Both will take an external mic if needed. You could also use a Canon HV30 in DV mode with a good external mic. DV audio is 16bit 48Kb/s stereo uncompressed PCM. http://www.streamlineaudiovideo.com/rod-videomic.html?gclid=CLXzqsSS55gCFRo-awodqCzadw


This HV30 is also sporting a wide lens adapter. This is needed for small conference rooms.

http://digitaljournalist.org/issue0704/feature.html

[Soopafresh]

I vote the Canon HV20 or HV30 for the camcorder

A lot of the recommended equipment is going to be based on the size and setup of the room in which you'll be doing these presentations. Post some pics so we can take a look, or link to a pic which looks about the same

http://images.google.com/images?q=conference%20room



Microphone

That Rode Mic above is really good. You might want to get a mini stand for it in the event you need to put it closer to the speaker. http://www.idjnow.com/StoreModules/ProductDetails.aspx/PID=MICPOD

Another option is a wireless lav (tie clip) mic for the main speaker, and have the Rode pointed at the audience for Q&A. All depends on the setup.

Will there be discussions with the "audience" during the presentations?

Watch this vid for a good introduction: http://www.vimeo.com/1080128

Wide Angle Lens

Raynox 6600 with 43 to 52 step up ring

http://www.amazon.com/Raynox-DCR-6600-Wide-Angle-Conversion-Camcorders/dp/B000B75S9K

Tripod

Velbon

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/366741-REG/Velbon_DV7000_DV_7000_Tripod_with_2_Way.html

Lighting

Depends on the setup of the room