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General discussion

A real newbie question...

Dec 18, 2005 1:49AM PST

I'm sure this sounds dumb, but I was wondering..Do most owners of digital camcorders also use a still digital camera?

I was checking out still cameras as mine is pretty old and basic, and I noticed that some of the camcorders they showed are VERY inexpensive now. Can you get still pictures from ALL camcorders and is the quality the same? I really appreciate any help you can provide because I'm going batty after all the reading I've been doing on them the last few days!.....Gina

Discussion is locked

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Some "Still" info
Dec 18, 2005 2:14AM PST

Yes, most camcorders allow for "still" captures. Lately, the quality of the "camcorder still cature" has been a lot better, and even though it may not be equal to a high-end digital camera, it's better than nothing when faced with either getting a shot or not. When faced with either capturing a still image or not, I would happily use the camcorder for a still image when I don't have my 5 megapixel camera available. Heck, I've used my digital still camera to take MPEG movies when I don't have my camcorder with me, and although the quality is a compromise vs. my camcorder, it's better than nothing.

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If you want good stills, get a still camera. Even some of
Dec 18, 2005 4:28AM PST

the most modest will do better than a video camera. If you want video, get a video camera for the same reasons. Too many folks want their still cameras to create video, or their video cameras to create photos. Both do this things, but not well.

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camera smaller and better
Dec 19, 2005 4:36AM PST

I carry my camera in my purse so it goes with me everywhere. My camcorder is 2-3 times the size so portability is a little more of an issue. My camera also has more megapixels than my camcorder. If I'm in a pinch I will take a photo with my camcorder, but I would rather use my camera...Nicole

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Thank you all!
Dec 20, 2005 3:30AM PST

I really appreciate all of your insights. I really know NOTHING about digital camcorders, which is why I wanted input from actual users. I think I'll get a still for now and work on the camcorder later!

Thanks again.......Gina