When it comes to anything technical, mechanical or photographical there are always plenty of question to ask, never more so than on the subject of video cameras. If you're thinking, “Which camera should I buy?” first start with, “What’s your budget?”
These days, all cameras do pretty much the same job, but some have features more suited to one person’s needs other another, so how do you choose and where do you start?
Firstly, video cameras fall into about three price points.
Currently at entry level there is the Flip video retailing at $80 - $170. However, these cameras are no longer supported by Cisco and when the supply runs out you will no longer be able to buy one, not only that, but technical support for these cameras ceases in December 2013, so don’t get caught thinking you are buying a bargain if you see a Flip video at a very low price.
Enter the Sony Bloggie Duo. Bloggies start at about $180 and with added features, including a pink version if that’s your colour, you could be paying up to $300. At this price the Bloggie moves into the more expensive Consumer grade of videos.
Cameras in the Consumer grade are still easy to us, but are of higher quality and retail anywhere up to $900 mark. Something like the Cannon Legria starts at around $199 for a basic model and goes way up to Cannon HV 40 at $929. The Panasonic HM TA20 retails at $245 and is waterproof and shockproof. The Panasonic HX WA 10 at $395 boasts an easy You Tube and Face book up-loader and the Panasonic SDC HD900 at $1175 will give you 3D images that you can play back on your 3DTV.
The Prosumer or semi professional grade of video camera like the Cannon XA10 at $1960 throws in editing software, so the extra cost may well be worthwhile. For the full Professional video camera prices go up to $8,000 plus mark, no messing about at this level.
Once you have a budget in mind, take a look at some retailers on the net and see what each camera offers by way of specifications. Read some reviews that people have written about the particular camera you are interested in. Go to a shop and take a look at the camera in the flesh; pick it up, handle it. Some cameras are uncomfortable in the hand of one person, but not the hand of another. Leica has always been considered a good lens manufacturer, but they are not in all the cameras.
Once you've had a play in the real world, always shop online for the best deal.
Learn mad skillz with our selection of kick-ass video and articles tutorials
New to compelling.tv? Check out how we can help you with online video
Tips & Tricks to hustle your way to success with Online Video
Discover how to replicate the success of established online video superstars
Free Video Tips Newsletter