Video camera recommendation (SD, HD or not)

[budwzr]

Everyone here has their own standards and opinions, as they should, but at the end of the day it's up to you to learn more about the differences that matter TO YOU.

Go to each maker's website, see what models they have, try to figure out why the price difference, and most important, buy a camera you like and feel happy about, or you may not enjoy using it, and don't spend too much right now.

And price doesn't guarantee anything. Some of the ultracheaps like Samsung, Kodack, Flip, and Fuji may be all you need.

Sure, Kodac is not as impressive as Canon or Nikon, but don't buy for name brand only. You can always knock off or cover the name with black tape, or take the badging off an older Sony in your closet.

TIP #1: There is NO WAY to make an informed choice without getting informed

TIP #2: Content is king, not high quality. Don't get caught up in specs, learn to make good videos instead.

TIP #3: Have a lot of FUN

[belami]

thanks

[belami]

now I'm focusing on Panasonic FZ35/38; I realy like the creative HD video mode and RAW format for photos; I can also get a short DOF at a longer focal length with macro turned on;

[magillagorilla]

If you already have a Nikon DX lens you could get a Nikon D3100 body for $500-600 USD. It shoots h.264 at

1920 x 1080 (24p): 24 fps (23.976 fps)
1280 x 720 (30p): 30 fps (29.97 fps)
1280 x 720 (25p): 25 fps
1280 x 720 (24p): 24 fps (23.976 fps)
640 x 424 (24p): 24 fps (23.976 fps)

This way you have options and a nice little still photo camera. I think the bit rate for video is like 44Mbps, or at least it is on my D7000. I'm not sure if it has an external mic plug like the D7000 though so your audio may be limited. Some HDSLR users go with external audio recording and combine audio and video post production.

[belami]

thank you magillagorilla; it's really a very good idea, but is quite pricey here, about 700$; maybe I should wait a few months ... I don't know yet