Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Svetlana]

I want to buy a video camera to do some travel documentary work. But I have never owned or used one before. What do I need to know and look for? I want it to be production quality, but not overly expensive. I have looked at some of the Canon Professional Camcorders, but they are sickly expensive, 5000 Euros or more...!

Can anyone recommend a good camera that will produce DVD quality images?

[dulouz]

[ali.lameda]

Make sure it's a 3CCD camcorder--that's basically the litmus test for broadcast quality video. Sound quality is just as important as video quality. Make sure the camera has XLR inputs instead of common stereo headphone jacks.

You don't really need to know that much about filming. Good and interesting footage sells itself. And voice-over narration is usually pathetic--don't bother. Try and tell the story using your camera. Using a boom mic or tripod will restrict your ability to get good footage. Plus they're a pain in the ass to lug around.

Do you plan to use high-definition video or standard definition? I'd advise using HD. It's easier to sell; there is relatively little high-definition content these days and it's a fairly new medium.

I'd say you should get a Canon XH A1. It's a high-definition camera and isn't that expensive. I saw one go on ebay for $3500 Canadian. I'm looking to buy one this summer.

Also, if you're gonna buy one of these cameras you should think about getting a computer so you can self-edit. For editing HD footage you need to have a powerful computer--the new Intel Macs would do the trick. And you can download a good editing program like Final Cut Studio off of bittorrent.

Here's a good site that compares some HD camcorders:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Canon-XH-A1-XH-G1-XL-H1-Panasonic-AG-HVX200-Sony-HDR-FX1-Compared.htm


good luck