Expert: John Oliverio - 6/8/2006

Question
hi. i am very interested in buying a video camera-mainly for the purpose of recording family and friends at parties and get togethers and also because i am taking a computer media course next year and we will be making our own movies. i was wondering what kind of camera to get. i am looking to buy in the 500-700 dollar price range. which brands are better quality and last longer? whens a good time to buy a camcorder? what is the difference between a mini dv and a dvd camcorder? and which special features should i look at specifically? it is so confusing with all the options. if you can help me with any of the above, it would be MUCH appreciated. thanks in advance! -laura

Answer
Laura,

As far as brands, I'm fond of Canon and Sony.  The best time to buy?  Well, usually big sales happen around Thanksgiving.

Mini DV uses a tape (it's still digital) and DVD records right to a small DVD.  DVD usually only offers about 30 minutes of recording time while miniDV does an hour.

Special features....  well, none really.  All these cameras offer so much most folks don't use every thing they use.  To me the only special features are on the very high-end pro cameras.  There you can get HD (high-definition) and cameras you can change lenses on.

John