Best video camera: Things to look for, factors to consider, and reviews of the best brands and models.
How Video Cameras Work
Modern day video cameras work using the following process (simplified):
- Light enters the lens and is converted into digital data by the image sensor (CCD sensor or CMOS sensor)
- Recorded audio is picked up by the microphone, converted into an electric signal and stored in the memory.
- The digital data is made into HD video by the image processor, compressed by the appropriate codec engine, and stored in the memory.
- Most consumer digital camcorders are often used hand-held and that is why they are equipped with high-performance image stabilizers as well.
A CCD – Charged Coupled Device is what captures an image on a camcorder. It converts light into electrical impulses from which the digital data is derived. If a video camera has only one CCD, that single CCD has to create the whole image.
If you are looking for a professional camcorder, go in for a video camera that has 3 CCDs – one for each of the primary colors, red, blue and green. These camcorders produce richer colors, but since it has 3 CCDs, the video camera will cost you more.
After the light hits the CCD, a video signal is generated. A special converter inside the camcorder converts that electrical information into digital signals made up of bytes of data.
Digital video cameras have special built-in electronics that enable the users to enhance and manipulate the video signal by adding effects.
Special electronics in the camcorder allow you to apply effects like electronic gain, black and white, sepia, fade, and so forth. Once the effects are applied, the processed video signal is then sent to tape.
Factors to Consider When Buying
Here are some factors to consider when buying a video camera.
- Good video and audio quality. For better sound quality, it is best to use a good external microphone.
- Features: Zoom. Improved image stabilization that ensures jerk-free videos even when you are travelling in a vehicle. Anti-shock mechanism: The better ones have an anti-shock mechanism; protects your camcorder and hard drive from accidental drops.
- Longer life batteries are desirable. Larger and brighter screens.
- Video cameras also come bundled with editing software that lets you add cool effects.
Zoom
You must consider Optical zoom over Digital zoom as Digital zoom distorts videos at higher resolutions.
Also, beginners tend to over-use Zoom because the tendency is more to look at the subject of the shot, rather than seeing how the shot is composed. If you are not watchful, you will not even realize that the zoom is constantly creeping in and out during your recordings.
The best way to improve your recordings is to refrain from using the zoom altogether.
If you avoid using zoom altogether, you will be forced to look at alternatives like finding an establishing shot, shooting some close-up shots and so on.
What is HD Video?
High-Definition image or video uses much higher resolution as opposed to standard definition, which means the images a lot sharper. The viewing experience is much better when the content is High-definition (or HD as it is also called). The lenses in these cameras also offer much more zoom, which means you can capture things up close and personal.
Accessories Required
When buying a video camera, it will be really nice to have the following: Case or Clip to Carry, Lens Cap, Extra Batteries or Recharge Accessories (wall chargers or the like), Extra Flash Memory Cards, and even a Tripod.
More Features
Although you can take nice pictures and videos by just sticking to the auto mode, learning the finer aspects does give you more control over the footage. Most of them can record impressive videos even in low light, and the sounds that get recorded are also getting better nowadays. Some of them are suitable for underwater use as well, and are resistant to sand and harsher conditions.
Learn to Use the Equipment
There’s a saying that “A Bad Workman Always Blames His Tools” and that is why its important that you shoot as often, so that you can learn from the pictures that you have taken.
Camera equipment can be expensive, particularly if you begin to take photography seriously as a career option. Therefore it is important to make sure that you get the right equipment for the job.
However, be careful of placing too much importance on the quality of the equipment, as you can end up spending thousands of dollars on equipment that is not going to make much difference, unless you have the kills to know for sure.
Best Pocket Video Cameras
Pocket video cameras (or mini camcorders) are small in size and portable (easily fits into your pocket), and are suitable for capturing quick videos on the go (or some cinematography or fly on the wall documentaries), without requiring any elaborate set up. These have a simple user interface which helps to record quick videos, and the ability for fast uploads to various sites without the fuss of going through your computer. Pocket camcorders also have flip-out USB ports (allows the camcorder to be directly connected to a computer).
However, they are not great for low light video situations. Image stabilization on pocket camcorders also works okay.
Some of these products come with several exciting features such as full motion digital video camera, a powerful still camera and some even boasts of having a MP3 player.
Best Waterproof Camcorders
If you love shooting videos and are a keen traveler as well, then don’t let a little water or sand prevent you from shooting a great video.
With a waterproof camcorder, you can easily shoot sharp & brilliant moving pictures and videos underwater.
You can shoot just about everything and even take still pictures, but primarily these are built for underwater video recording. You can even use it to shoot videos indoors, but don’t expect the highest quality videos.
Features of Waterproof Camcorders:
Diving down to a depth of 10 feet under water, these record videos, full HD and even still pictures. Usually, these video cameras work up to around 2 meters under water, the exact depth is specified by the manufacturer.
These are quite sturdy and some of these are shaped like a pistol, so just point and shoot. The design is such that you can use the control buttons using your thumb.
These even come with image stabilization. So basically, you get most of the standard features, and they do work as intended.
Most of them allow you to record 1080p full HD movies, more than 10 megapixel photos, and some also offer face chaser technology.
The inexpensive ones are quite okay to shoot quick videos but for shooting longer videos, some of them may not be quite convenient. Besides, the various options on inexpensive ones many not be very easy to select.
Polaroid XS100 Waterproof Sports Action Video Camera
The Polaroid XS100 (Waterproof up to 30’/10m) comes with Wide Angle Lens that provides 170 Degrees of Coverage, offers multiple video recording formats & multiple photo shooting modes, Full Helmet & Handlebar Mounts Included.
So the next time you go to the beach, or for sailing, or for camping and more, these hardy go-anywhere companions will let you shoot all the fun, without having to worry about the outside elements.