What's the best camera for under $1000?

[jodymichelle]

Greetings all! I'm looking for a camera under $1000 (for beginners, to shoot videos). Could you please share your suggestions, good and bad experiences? Thank you!

 

[filmmakerone]

Consider the Canon HV20. It records a compressed HDV 1080i to miniDV tape. You can find this camera for under $1000 if you shop around.

The super-cool part is you can send 1920 x 1080 out the HDMI port. With this setup, you can capture amazing uncompressed HD resolution straight to your computer. You would need to buy a BlackMagic Intensity HDMI card to accomplish this.

I also like the Panasonic HDC-SD5. It records AVC-HD straight to memory cards. These sell for about $800.

Tracy

 

[jodymichelle]

Thanks so much for your reply, Tracy. Will def. consider what you're recommending here

Would like to get something soon, but shall await any other responses. I am looking for the easiest tools to learn and use, including what's needed to get the videos online.

Any other suggestions?

8)

 

[filmmakerone]

I am changing my mind. I think I will wait for the Canon Vixia HF100.

http://www.macworld.com/article/131431/2008/01/vixia.html

 

[Lazlo]

I hate to be unhelpful in this instance, but there are so many posts about this exact same thing in this forum... Try the archives.

 

[boo6585]

I just got a Canon HV20 for $875. It has been great for me.

 

[esp4ever]

I saw the HV20 on Amazon for $675 I think. I got mine for $950 last summer. They may have new models coming out soon.

 

[cybersarge]

Personally I'd got for pretty much any camera that can feed into a computer if your only starting out.