The Video Camera Buyer’s Guide
When I was about nine years old, my parents won a drawing for a $1000 shopping spree at a local store in my hometown and decided to use the money to buy a camcorder. As I recall, there were only about six to choose from, and they all recorded onto VHS tapes. The only differences to consider were brand, size (though none were small), and ease of use. Needless to say, it didn’t take too long to pick one out. Now fast-forward 20 years and imagine yourself trying to pick out a camcorder at an electronics retailer today. The decision is a lot more complicated.
Advancements in technology are great for consumers, but they can also be overwhelming when trying to pick out a video camera. How can you possibly narrow down the choices? It’s a daunting task, but I think I have some advice that will make it easier for you.
The very first thing you need to do is determine what kind of camera you need, not what kind you want. To do this, determine what your budget is and then follow these steps:
STEP ONE: Make an exhaustive list of all the possible scenarios in which you’ll be using your new camera. Be sure to write down everything. Even if you’ve never done a Ustream broadcast, but think you might some day, put that on the list.
STEP TWO: Determine what equipment or software will be needed for those uses. If you plan to edit your videos on your computer, what software will you be using? If you are planning to purchase multiple cameras to produce a live show, how will you switch between cameras?
STEP THREE: For any software that you listed in Step Two, write down the supported video formats. Also, take note of the available inputs for connecting your camera to all equipment you listed, including your computer.
Now that you’ve done this, you have the basic criteria for your camera. Keep this list handy when you start looking for cameras, and you’ll probably eliminate many choices right off the bat.
Next week we’ll talk about which features to consider when choosing your camera.
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