Video Camera recommendations.

[Corey]

For the past year i have been using a Canon ZR800 miniDV camera. Its got the job done for the most part amid its shortcomings, such as not go in low light conditions and not being able to white balance but now that we are wanting to do more video i've been shopping around and look at different high end cameras. Anything out there you would recommend for someone who is just starting out.

[Chuck Fadely]

Hi Corey, and welcome.

To get some advantage from a better camera, you also need accessories - mics, tripods, and lights. You'll get the most improvement in your videos by buying decent audio gear.

What do you have to edit with? If you have older software and computers, the new tapeless cameras are a no-go.

Do you have a total budget in mind?

[Corey]

Right now I'm editing on Adobe Premiere Elements although i would prefer Final Cut.

Sony DSR-PD170 3-CCD Mini DVCAM is the video camera i have been lookin at as well as the Sony DSR-250 Professional 1/3" DVCAM. Although as far as the latter camera is concerned although its a bit cheaperand has all i need im not quite sure if MiniDV tapes would work on it.

I am taking audio and lighting into consideration as well. I've been looking at some on camera lights as well as some wireless mic systems

[Chuck Fadely]

The PD170 and the DSR-250 are essentially the same camera in different bodies. You'll need a heavier tripod and a tripod plate with the DSR-250, which will add to the cost. The big one looks more pro if you're looking to do weddings or events.

Both are great in low light. The dsr250 will take both dvcam and mini dv tapes - no worries there. It shoots in dvcam format, which in the small cassette is the same physical tape as mini dv, but at a faster rate... a one-hour mini dv tape lasts 40 minutes in dvcam setting. Less dropouts that way. You can use any consumer mini dv tape. I even use mini dv tapes in my 2/3" dsr-500 camera.

There's not much out there in the $2000 range and none that would be any better, though I'd think about the standard def vs. high def situation....