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General discussion

The best camera

Apr 12, 2006 12:20AM PDT

I realize the question of which is the best camera to use depends on many factors so with that being said I will try and describe what I am looking for and which cameras I am currently looking at to use. I apologize ahead of time if I make any stupid comments, as I am new to the camcorder world. Factors I am looking for rated by level of importance are as follows;

1. Durability and performance
2. Price
3. Ease of use


I am looking for a camera that will give me better than average video. The goal is to use the video for corporate training films to be distributed on DVD. The option of having HD is a plus. Some filming will be action where the subject and or the camera may be moving so steadiness is going to be a factor. Sound quality and color, of course, will be also need to be first class.

I am currently looking at three cameras. As you may see, there is quite a range is price and I would assume ability.

Sony HDR FX1
Canon GL2
Sony HDR HC1 1080i

I thank you for any suggestions

Discussion is locked

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Rentals?
Apr 12, 2006 1:33AM PDT

What many do on their first outings is to rent such cameras or get it from their college film group (some will give you a student too!)

As to durability, that's slightly odd. What were you planning to do to it other than shoot?

Bob

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Rentals
Apr 18, 2006 11:47PM PDT

Rentals is a good idea.

The shooting may be in harsh enviroments ie. industrial sites and or offshore. So the more durable the better. I am not saying it will be tossed around but it will have to indure a more harsh enviroment then inside a studio.

Thanks for the help!

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Hi, Pls forget HC1
Apr 12, 2006 2:46PM PDT

Hi, Pls forget HC1, it has been unreasonaly annoying consumers sine distribution. If you can afford $1,700 or so, take HC3
Cheers
H.C. Thanh

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GL1, not GL2
Apr 28, 2006 12:02AM PDT

Thats my advice right up there in the subject line.
Yes, the GL2 is more modern, but if you want durribility, the GL1 in my opinion is almost bullet proof. I use it almost every week when I help the local PEG TV channel film the current sports event, and its a breeze to set up.


Hope this helps,
Chris

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Sony HC3
Apr 30, 2006 12:58AM PDT

This is a terrific little HD camera with great ease of use, long battery life, and stunning video. Don't believe me, lookup camcorderinfo.com for the reviews. I have gone through the Sony 505, JVC eviero, Sony HC1, but kept the HC3. Its small, lightweight, feature rich and takes great video.