Cameras & Camcorders

[daisyjb]

I have an iMac....what camcorder would you suggest?  Looking for ease of uploading videos.  I had a JVC and had nothing but problems with it uploading video from the camera.

[Entropy]

Was the JVC tape-based?

Anything flash memory based should be MUCH easier to work with, regardless of brand.  All MiniDV camcorders were a pain to transfer video from.

[xl]

Features I go looking for in a video camera....

• forward facing microphones.  Very important when used outdoors when there is no low ceilings to reflect sounds back to microphones
• extended batteries.  You want to get a second battery, however I'm discovering new camcorders have bottom mounted batteries which don't allow space for larger extended batteries.
• Mbps.... YouTube only allows for 5 Mbps, but premium cameras do 17 to 24Mpbs for higher video quality
• 3D?  I love being about to future proof my content, but it's limited to 6 to 12 feet from you.  You decide if it's worth the premium.

Sorry I don't own a Mac, so I'll let others speak about their experiences.

[Entropy]

An external microphone jack is FAR more important than what is built in.

Also, I recommend optical (and not electronic) image stabilization.

Any camera that records AVCHD video and uses flash memory storage will fix the complaints the original poster has regarding difficulty of retrieving video.

Canon's HF series is a good bet - the HF M400 is very well regarded.

[xl]

• Yes external microphones receive better sound.  However, most consumers will only be using the built-in microphones because of cost (shotgun? wireless? can cost as much as a second camcorder) and portability (external microphones risk being smashed off or is tough to fit in purse without dismounting).
• I too like the HF Vixia line as it offers 24Mbps.  HOWEVER, AVOID THE ENTRY HF products!
  Most camcorders have rear loading batteries.   The entry Canon camcorders have BOTTOM loading batteries.  The cameras are smaller, but I've heard the 2hr battery lasts as little as 30 minutes in the hands of a consumers.  Many are unhappy.  I recommended getting an extended battery as a backup (weddings, events, or when you need a camcorder and you don't have time to recharge).  BOTTOM loading cameras don't allow for oversized extended batteries because it blocks the tripod mount.  BAD DESIGN for consumers, good design for Canon as it forces you to buy multiple small batteries.

[xl]

I should also add.... how many external microphones should a purchaser get?

• one vs using the stereo built in ones?
• two for stereo? a combo? 

What do you recommend as an external microphone for a Canon camcorder?

[Entropy]

The Audio-Technica PRO-24 CM is quite good for the price.  Only around $70 for a pretty decent stereo mic that blows away the builtins of my HF100.

The built-in mics of the HF100 clip and distort even in only "moderately" loud concerts - while with the PRO-24 I can get good audio in places I need earplugs!

Another option (which needs a LOT of postprocessing work though) is a standalone recorder like the Zoom H2.