Camcorders forum: Digitial Camcorder Advice

Congratulations! There are a ton of features to check out, but it comes down to what is most important for you. Optical zoom, CCD size, light, etc. You can get a S-VHS camcorder or hi-8mm for $200-$300, and will get you decent results. If you want digital, you may want to try a Sony digital 8mm. You can get a Sony TRV460 for under $400. Check out Bhphotovideo.com they have very good prices on them. I have owned several camcorders for filming my little girl, but I was never satisfied with the low-light quality until I got a Sony. If you get a Mini-dv for less than $500, you will probably get very poor results in low-light conditions. Sony seems to do much better in these situations. When you film a child you do a lot indoors, under normal light conditions, like one or two lamps, etc. Sony is excellent for this. Other brands have a great picture outside, but they get very grainy inside in this price-range. You can check out reviews at Cnet.com or Camcorderinfo.com. I would recommend a Sony digital 8, inexpensive and very good quality for under $400. Hope this helps.