I know this is a redundant topic, but I really need help.

I am a amateur/beginner film maker looking to buy a camera to make my first movie. It doesn't have to be an extraordinary camera, just something basic that will give me good quality.

My budget is $250-$600.

I researched a bit about beginner cameras and most people say that the Canon Elura is good and the Canon HV20. I also heard that JVC sucks, and produce lower-end cameras.

I would like to hear a little more about the other companies (Panasonic, Sony,and etc.) And if you have any specific cameras to offer that would be great.

Thank-you!

Go to your local camera dealer and check around. Play with some of the camera's and check what you like. Ask the dealer what camera's come back the most, in my case he siad Sony... No offense.

Canon HV20 is great, but I doubt you'll find it for $600. If you can, go in the store and check it out. Avoid scam sites that say they have the HV20 for cheap. Look around the forum and you'll find some posts about the HV20 and other beginner cams.

-Kegan

Thanks!

I was thinking about the Canon GL2, it looks really great. Its expensive, but I can save some more.

Do you think I should get that or the Canon HV20, as a beginner?

I would suggest going with the GL2. Its a sturdier (sp?) camera and has way more manual control over the image than does the HV20. I've used the GL2 and for the price its a great camera. It'll give you a much better understanding of how higher end cameras function than would the HV20 and you'll really be able to get the image you want, not the one the camera wants.

But. Standard Definition video within the next 2 or three years at most is gonna be pretty worthless.

Just something to think about.

Good luck.

HV20 shoots 1080/24p - that's incredible in itself. Most filmlike for the price range for sure. GL2 is old technology and overpriced.

Just my opinion,

Kegan

EDIT: Sure, the GL2 has more manual controls, but it doesn't have the manual controls that say a REAL prosumer camera would have. So, yes in a way it offers more control over the image, but with an unbeatable combo of 24p and HD, I think the HV20 wins in the image department. Light properly and leave room for color correction and you'll be fine.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Kegan,

Thanks for the advice guys!

Also I checked out some of the panasonic camcorders and found the PV-GS400, and it turned out to be a great camera with 3CCD...but its not for sale anymore. There are some on e-bay but they are all used and scratched.

The new model is PV-GS500, but it stinks from what I read.

So do you guys know of any good Panasonic cameras like the PV-GS400?

Is 3CCD good and better than the Canon HV20?

Thank-you,
-Sib

3CCD is the broadcast standard. The Panasonic series is a great set of cameras, but the GS400 is way past its time. The GS500 can't really compare and the HV20 is more revolutionary than the GS400, in every way possible.

The HV20 uses a CMOS sensor instead of CCDs, but the its HD and crystal clear. The GS300/320 (can't remember which one has the mic input) is a decent camera, but they might have discontinued that as well.

Best of luck,

Kegan

Just because a camera has 3ccds doesn't mean that it is of broadcast quality.

Thank-you everbody!!! For all your help and tips!

I think I will go with the Canon HV20. From what I hear and from what everybody says I think that is the best camera for me to choose.

Thank-you all!!!

- Sib

if you want to learn pretty much everything you've ever wanted to know about the hv20 go to hv20.com, or the hv20 section of dvxuser.com.

No, you're right - I should have been more clear. 3CCD cameras are whats used for broadcast, but it doesn't necessarily mean that a small miniDV camera from Panasonic with only 1/3" CCDs is going to be of broadcast quality.

-Kegan

P.S - Let us know how the HV20 works out for you!

Nah, my fault. After I posted I gathered that was what you meant. I was in a snappy mood and like all yellow bellied humans, deceided to be a prick on the internet.

Consumer handycams are basically the only cameras to have 1 ccd, once you move into prosumer, hi-def and broadcast, the number jumps to three.

well if you looking for somehting basic, there is the Canon ZR-800. pretty decent and can hook up to the computer with the right video cable.

check it out:http://www.amazon.com/Canon-ZR800-MiniDV-Camcorder-Optical/dp/B000M4MT58

I am making a film in February and we are using two XL2s. Can you suggest an appropriate kit list to go with it (matte-box, lens, etc...) Everything I suggest is often inappropriate to the camera!