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General discussion

Shooting night video? Night still pics?

Dec 13, 2004 6:22AM PST

I am getting a new digital video camera for Christams and need some advice. I will be looking to do professional looking videos (on dvd and web) for drag racing. I will do alot of video in low light and night conditions. I want to produce very clear video and pictures. I was told that ccd is what i want to pay attention to. Any help is appreciated!

Discussion is locked

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Be carefull...
Dec 18, 2004 7:27AM PST

Be carefull with the mini DV format. I know this is supposed to be good stuff and a better format but I have experienced very grainy video from both my Panasonic as well as my sisters Sony camera with this format. I have experienced much better results with the hi 8 format in low light conditions. I do not know the reasons for this but I did read somewhere that this was common in that format. Not saying that they are all like this but I would definitely do my homework before buying a new camera. Good luck.

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low light sensitivity
Dec 18, 2004 8:42AM PST

For most low light applications a single chip camcorder will do justice, as colour is not as much of an issue rather than getting the image. Hoever the sensitivity is related also to the size of chip used .
Professional cams use 1/3in chips versus 1/4, or 1/6 for consumer types. the larger chip also renders much better colour , provided there is sufficient light (upwards of 100 Lux). Sony XV2000 or XV2100 are examples of capable professional shooting in low light.

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Hi8 is better in low light
Feb 15, 2005 11:36PM PST

I have both camcorder Sony Hi8 and Panasonic mini DV .Sony Hi8 is better a low light.Mini DV is very good at day light ( outdoor )