Digital camcorders are widely used by both hobbyists and professionals and are recognized as an effective means of filming, editing, and projecting events or other memorabilia. As a combination camcorder and recorder, it is a highly advanced version of its analogue camcorder predecessor. Evolving technology has made periodic changes to the product. Instead of tapes, modern camcorders use optical discs, hard drives, and flash memory. Countless models of camcorders are available today, some of them are mentioned at the end of this article. Fully automatic point-and-shoot camcorders are highly sought after by hobbyist photographers. Professionals prefer semi-automatic models that they can skillfully manipulate to get excellent results.
In general, digital camcorders are well known for their excellent video quality. A higher resolution will allow them to retain the contents even after many digital transfers. The capturing and editing process is easier and even beginners can handle the device with ease. There are mainly four types of camcorders that are widely used. They are MiniDV, Digital-8, Micro-MV and camcorders. MiniDV is the most popular version among them. It is very small in size with a tape capable of recording 60 to 90 minutes. Micro-MV is another model that can record data in MPEG-2 format with a higher compression ratio than MiniDV. However, it is difficult to find suitable editing software for this format. Digital-8 has a greater capacity to handle more data, even though it is in the same format as MiniDV. It has the option of fire cable to transfer data to computers.
It is comparatively cheaper and beginners find it more affordable than other models. It is chosen by those who do not want to edit their video. But the advantage is that camcorders can record data directly onto DVD-R or DVD-RAM discs. Among these, Micro-MV and DVD camcorders are more user-friendly and compact. But most of the camcorders available now are of the MiniDV type. As mentioned above, all camcorders have Firewire ports for transferring data to computers. After storing them on the computer’s hard drive, users can edit the data with the corresponding software. Expensive models of the product record in MPEG-4 format as digital memory. Hard drives or memory cards are also used. Many innovative features are incorporated into modern digital camcorders.
Market leader Sony has introduced its new product, the Sony Webbie MHS-CM1 HD Camcorder, which is capable of capturing high-definition MP4 video and 5MP JPEG still photos. The software makes it easy to select images or videos and upload them to computers. The Canon Fs 100 Flash Memory Camcorder is credited with long recording time and faster response time. The Hitachi Blu Ray Camcorder is equipped with a 7MP CMOS sensor capable of recording 1920 x 1080p HD video for an unprecedented 4 hours and 20 minutes. It is also capable of providing 8 hours and 40 minutes of continuous shooting at 1440 x 1080p resolution on its 30 GB built-in memory. Samsung HMX-S16 is a high definition camcorder with 64 GB storage and WiFi connectivity. The JVC Everio GZ-MS 120 is a flash memory digital camcorder that can deliver YouTube-compatible videos. It comes with touch screen controls.
The list above is not exhaustive. A large number of digital camcorders have flooded the global markets. As technology is in a fast-forward mode and the economy is in the revival spirit, the time is right to buy a product that suits the taste and budget of the discerning consumer.