Thoughts of a Camera

[bthompson]

Hi everyone. I am shooting video of houses as a part time business and I am trying to find the right HD camera for me. I really want a 3 CCD camera just because I use the image stabilization in iMovie for walking shots, but I am having trouble finding one that I like. Should I just move on from that idea of using image stabilization? It really adds a nice element to my work. I also need it to work well in lower light and take a wide angle lens. My budget is under $1000.

Any insight would be so helpful

 

[Paratel]

You need to up your budget. You can get an HD consumer refurbished JVC GZ-HD30 or the JVC GZ-HD5 for well under 1000. The HD5 has 3CCDs but tested poorly in low light. ecost.com has these. If you are wanting a professional HD camera, I would recommend the Canon XH-A1 but you are looking at at least 3 grand. When I tape houses I also use a steadyCam called the VZ lite from Varizoom http://varizoom.com/products/stabilizers/vzultralite.html

You can also go here to get some insight http://camcorder-test.slashcam.com/compare-u-show_von-i-34-u-mode-i-docompare.html

 

[rick3000]

I do not think you need to up your budget. If you want HD and 3CCD but do not want to spend a lot you really cannot beat the Canon HV30 or HV40. A good wide angle lens will run you about $150-200. Then invest in a decent mic like a Rode VideoMic ($120 at Jack'sMusic Factory), or if you want XLR a Rode NTG2 ($180) and Hosa MIT-156 ($16).

You did not specify what exactly you will be using this setup for. For personal use this would be a great setup in my opinion. If you're a paid professional you may want to up your budget.
Also, try visiting HV20.com there are a lot of knowledgeable people over there.