First baby on the way; which camcorder?
 

Guys,

I must get a camcorder soon ( a new one anyway). I'm confused int eh land of specs and small differences.

Which is recommended (on Mini DV or DVD format)?

Heard that the Optura 400 or 500 is great. Also heard tha the Sony DCR-PC330 adn DCR-HC1000 are great. Panasonic's PVGS400 is supposed to be good also.

I want to have both photo and video capability.

Thanks!

Mini DV, OK (heard that the DVD based ones apparently are not that good).

Any brand/model recommendations?

I have owned the Sony TRV series. Good camera. Not great longevity though.

Currently have the Panasonic PV GS15. Great bang for the buck.

I recommend that you go to a mass retailer like Best Buy and try them on.

The various models will work better for some than others depending on your hand size, righty or lefty, etc...

You want to pick it up and see how easy the basic controls are to reach for you. How comfortable it is in your hand. Basic ease of operation, if you need both hands to do the basics that's NG.

Mini DV is the way to go. Most have Firewire.

I recommend the smallest camera that fits your hand comfortably.

Trust me on this one, the larger the camera the less likely you may be to take it with you on outings.

Scott

My wife threatened to beat me up if I take a cam into the delivery room (when we have kids).

Of course I'll be passed out on the floor anyway, so the point is moot.