Digital Video Camera - Not Your Father's Camcorder
A digital video camera will capture those all important moments to enjoy for
years to come. Camcorders have been around for years, but today's sleek technologically
advanced digital video cameras are huge improvements over the bulky VHS cameras
of the past.
High resolution video and CD quality sound are hallmarks. And even with features
like image stabilization, full-color viewing screens
and high powered zooms, many of these cameras weigh in at less than a pound.
Digital Camcorder Value Review
Key factors to review when comparing
digital video cameras include:
Format
Almost all digital video formats deliver 500 plus lines of resolution and CD
quality audio. Compared to VHS video tapes, this is about twice the resolution
with vastly superior sound. Digital video formats are:
-
MiniDV video cameras are compact,
have broad software & hardware support, and can record up to several hours
of video. They are the most popular video cameras.
-
MicroMV are ultra compact video
cameras using the smallest video cassettes. These cameras record in high
quality MPEG-2 format. Software/hardware compatibility is limited and
cassettes are more expensive.
-
Digital8 video cameras are lower
priced and also play older analog 8mm and Hi8 video cassettes. While
slightly larger than MiniDV camcorders, they have wide
compatibility with editing software and hardware devices. Some provide analog
to digital conversion features for older videos.
-
Mini-DVD camcorders record directly to
mini DVD-R or DVD-RAM discs. DVD-R's can be played on most DVD players,
while DVD-RAM discs require a DVD-RAM drive. Mini
discs provide easy storage, but video recording time and editing capability
are limited.
- Micro-Drive and Memory Card video cameras offer ultra compact
designs and like Mini-DVD cameras, easy search/access. The unique features
of these cameras make them better suited to
gadget-loving techies.
Image Sensor and Light Sensitivity
Digital camcorders use CCD (Charged Coupled Device) sensors to interpret
light and color. In general a larger CCD delivers more pixels and better quality
video. High-end video cameras feature 3 CCD's, each dedicated to a single color
for better resolution. The CCD should be at least 1/6 inch, delivering 290,000
pixels or more. 1/4 to 1/3 inch with 690,000 plus pixels is even better.
Light sensitivity, or illumination ratings should be no higher than 7 lux.
For low light videos, 2 lux or less is preferred. To capture digital
still photos from your video, look for a still resolution rating of 1-2
megapixels.
Optical and Digital Zoom
Look for at least 10X to 20X optical zoom. Digital zoom
is practically worthless because instead of zooming in on the subject, it crops the
image, severely reducing pixels and degrading resolution.
Exposure and Focus Controls
These controls are automatic on almost all video cameras. But manual overrides
provide better video in
situations like focusing on a subject in front of a distant
background or adjusting for unique lighting conditions.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The viewfinder may be black & white or color and is largely a personal choice. The LCD
viewing screen should be 2.5" or larger. If
possible compare screens outside in sunny conditions as some will
wash out so badly they're effectively useless.
Other Cool Features
Some will add significantly to the camera's cost, so carefully
evaluate and decide which ones you will actually use (unless of course you
simply must have the coolest video camera available).
- Progressive scan rather than interlaced
- 16:9 widescreen mode
- Wireless (Bluetooth) and remote control
- High definition capability
- Webcam, email and cell phone functions
- Fade and other digital effects
There are many more options, but match these key features to your needs when
doing your digital video camera review and you'll ensure your video camera choice provides
the flexibility and enjoyment you want.
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