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Home: Video University Forums: Filmmakers & Screenwriters:
Filmmaker's Dilemma

X-Paradis
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Jun 10, 2004, 2:46 PM

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Filmmaker's Dilemma	Can't Post

I need some quick information on the best DV camcorder purchase I can make. It's my brother's birthday and, though I don't know too much about filmmaking, he knows quite a bit (on the amateur level). I have from 800 to 1200 to spend on just the camcorder. I have been looking around and was very intrigued by the XL1S 3CCD MiniDV but that is outside of my budget. This camera will be used for short films and the like. If any of you are at all educated in this and know what is the best buy for the money I have, please email me at louis_forba@yahoo.com. I will be very grateful for the help.

X-Super_Rob
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Jun 10, 2004, 4:30 PM

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Re: Filmmaker's Dilemma	Can't Post

Honestly, I don't know much about prices right now, but if possible see if you can get a 3-chip rather than 1-chip. The quality is phenominally better.

X-M_Irwin
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Jun 10, 2004, 8:22 PM

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Re: Filmmaker's Dilemma [In reply to]	Can't Post

Definitely go for a 3-chip no matter what. Your $800-$1200 price range will
be quite prohibitive in the selection of cameras as the ideal MiniDV cameras to
use for, well, anything would be the Canon Xl-1s or the Panasonic AG-
DVX100a- both of wich cost over $3000. I would suggest looking at a Canon
GL-2 (or GL-1), and the Sony VX-2100.
For what it's worth, Canons tend to have a much more "filmic" look to their
images, while Sonys have a distinctly video look. You may have trouble getting
him exactly what he wants or needs because to really match a camera to a
cameraman, the cameraman should compare his options side by side and pick
the camera in which the design and the way it renders the image appeals to
him the most.

X-Jeff
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Jun 23, 2004, 2:18 AM

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Re: Filmmaker's Dilemma [In reply to]	Can't Post

I experienced similar budget restraints, and after a reading many reviews, visiting a few forums lik this, along with trying out cameras at local stores, I opted for the Panasonic PV-GS200, which is the latest and greatest in 3ccd prosumer (well, almost prosumer depending on who you talk to) cameras for under $1000 (I purchased mine for roughly $800 a few months ago). Don't let the size of this camera fool you. This is an awesome camera for its price range. Here's the website with a very thorough review:
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/panasonic-pv-gs200-camcorder-review.htm
This camera will get you over that 3ccd hump (expense wise) and into more professional quality video. This is my first 3ccd camera, and I'm glad I shelled out a few extra bucks to get it (I have a very tight budget too). With the leftover cash--buy a decent bogen tripod ($200-300).
One added benefit for this small handicam compared to its peers is that it is top loading for the DV tapes; therefore, you don't waste time unscrewing the tripod mount. Oh...and it has a manual focus ring, which allows you to practice your rack focus shots for when you move up to the bigger, badder, more expensive cameras in your near future.
For Brian: Since you are a student like me (cept I'm in college), when you find the cash, I would recommend investing the $640 needed to purchase Adobe's Video Collection Pro 2.5 package that includes Photoshop CS, Premiere Pro 1.5, After Affects 6.5 Pro, Audition, and Encore, along with training DVD's and tutorials (it's definitely worth the price):
http://store.yahoo.com/needsoftware/d23788.html
Of course, if you have a mac, then disregard.

Good luck with whatever your purchase decision--just make sure you buy it cause it fits your budget. Get the camera that meets your needs and not necessarily stretches your budget.
I think proper editing techniques and composition of shots will go a long way with a decent camera regardless of the amount of money you spend (I used a Sony Digital8 for quite awhile, which was fine considering I was still in the initial stages of learning).