Digital Video Camcorder

Digital video camcorders make it easier than ever to preserve memories of your son’s first steps, your daughter’s dance recital, or your most recent family vacation. If you’re new to the world of digital video, the following shopping tips can help you select a digital video camcorder that’s user-friendly and produces professional looking results. For answers to all your questions about digital video camcorders.

Digital Video Camcorder Basics

The appearance of your digital video camcorder can be an indicator of how easy it will be to operate. A larger LCD screen will make your digital video camcorder easier to use because you’ll have a better view of your footage. Weight is also an important factor to consider; a heavier camera will be difficult to operate for long periods of time. Many people are attracted to smaller digital video camcorders, but these models often have controls that are difficult to operate if you have larger hands.

Today’s digital video camcorders come equipped with several features that can help novice users achieve professional-looking results. When purchasing a digital video camcorder, remember that optical zoom is more important than digital zoom. As a general rule, front mounted microphones produce better audio quality than top mounted microphones. You may also want to look for a digital video camera with low light options that allow you to shoot footage at night and image stabilization technology to reduce the effects of camera shake.

If you plan to edit footage from your digital video camcorder, you’ll need to consider which format you wish to use. Most digital video camcorders will use the MiniDV videotape format. If you plan to purchase a digital video camcorder that uses Sony’s MicroMV format, you’ll need to purchase ScreenBlast or Pinnacle Studio 9 software if you wish to edit footage directly from your camcorder. If you wish to play back videotapes recorded on an analog camcorder, you’ll want to consider a digital video camcorder that uses Sony’s Digital 8 format.