Ok lets talk about what video cameras to buy today. It is very important to make an informed decision on the type of video camera to purchase. There are a number of quality low cost video cameras on the market. Several of these video cameras are what you would call consumer video cameras. These cameras can be a great camera to start out with as long as you make an informed decision. Most of the consumer camcorders on the market no longer have a view finder. Most of the will have a side window screen to view what is being recorded. This can be a good thing due to the larger field of view for the person behind the camera. These view finders are in color and make it so your eye is not pushed up against a small view window, which can limit your ability to see the overall picture or shot. Large productions will have a camera man looking into the view finder of the camera with a feed going to an external monitor for viewing, while the video is being recorded.
These days you can purchase a very nice camera for approximately $1000.00. Usually these cameras will have both the side window and the eyepiece on the camera. While filming my projects I use both types of cameras. When purchasing a camera it is important to know what types of video outputs you have. If you have outputs for both audio and video you can add boom microphones and external monitors to your camera. This is helpful when using a jib boom or slide system. You would be able to record your audio on a better quality or more directional microphone or incorporate a wireless mic system. You may even choose to record your sound all together on a professional audio recording system separate from the camera all together. This would be the most effective way to record your sound and gives you better editing capabilities during post production. Of course you will have to match your audio and video up at a later time.
We can talk about audio recording another time however it is always good to have these a/v outs on the camera if needed. The wireless mic set up is ideal for recording interviews and can cut down on serious back ground noise which will help you during post edit. If you are able to purchase a pro-sumer video camera these cameras have all the outputs needed to achieve all the above. These cameras are a bit more, but if your budget allows you will have more bang for the buck. For the price of around $2000.00 to $4000.00 you can purchase one of these cameras. I personally found it more practical to purchase 3 high end consumer cameras to achieve my needs ( additional agles ). Make sure to purchase HD cameras. They record in 16:9 and that is what most people watch television and movies in.
There are several choices out there; however I have purchased JVC cameras due to the great recording it provides. I have had others and still use a cannon from time to time. Do not be afraid of purchasing a nice used camera. Some people jump in with both feet and buy really nice cameras and find that they are not using it enough and choose to sell these after a short while. You can pick these $1000.00 plus cams up for $400 to $600 and you will love them. Just make sure they are in good condition. With the exception of 2 cams all of mine have been second hand and work great, not to mention you will probably get some extras with the cams that would have cost you hundreds more for pretty much nothing such as additional batteries, cables, mics and camera bags or even more.
When picking a camera make sure the lens side of the camera has a threaded end. This will allow you to put different lenses on which can and will make your shots look great depending on your project.
I hope this was helpful. Here is a video that I filmed using different lenses.
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