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The Best Camera with Video
Looking for the Best Camera with Video?
Digital cameras can produce excellent still photographs while camcorders record video footage. Today both devices are adopting some of the functions of the other. While neither is able to produce the same quality of the others primary function, they have improved in recent years and for those who want the convenience of a single device, smart shopping can yield a camera that can perform both functions relatively well.
This page will guide you and provide a few sound recommendations for finding the best camera with video capabilities.
Digital Cameras with Video: Potential Disadvantages
Digital Cameras are great tools for capturing still photographs. Getting one that also records video is very convenient especially if you want both functions and portability. The video you can capture with a still camera will not be as good as what you can get with a stand alone camcorder although for some, the performance will be quite acceptable. Recent improvements in fact have made some digital cameras with video capabilities a very attractive option for many.
On the downside:
Recording time is more limited on a digital camera and the "smoothness" of the video less, although improvements over cameras of just a couple of years ago are significant.
Camcorders generally have larger lenses than a digital camera and can do a better job in low light situations. They also have better sensors for the job, with as many as 3 CCD sensors.
The sound you will get with a digital camera will also tend to be inferior but it is possible to get a digital camera with the capability of using an external microphone to improve performance.
For those wanting the convenience and cost savings by having a single device for capturing still photos as well as video, there are a number of things to consider which can result in a satisfactory performance for those with more limited needs. Read below to find out what to seek out when shopping for a camera with video capabilities.
Choosing the Best Digital Camera with Video
Here are a few things to look for when shopping for a digital camera with video recording skills you will prize.
For good video quality you'll want to consider the pixel count and frame rate. VGA with a 640x480 is adequate for many needs but 720p HD and certainly 1080p HD would be even more impressive and is readily available. Frame rates are critical too for a smooth look. 30fps or better (frames per second) would create a smoother look than 10 or 15fps. Recording time can be another critical feature to consider. Some digital cameras allow for only 30 second clips while others can provide much longer recordings. Know what it is you hope to capture to assure you will be satisfied. MPEG-4 and DivX compression can also help to assure the ability to capture more video without requiring too much storage space although the quality is not superior to motion JPEG.If you want the best sound recording look for stereo sound, wind filters, the ability to adjust volume, and/or a camera with the ability to connect to an external microphone. (Most camcorders also require an external microphone for good sound) Wireless microphones are available. If you have an HDTV look for HDMI connections for the ability to play back with the best quality. Look for features such as optical image stabilization and zoom which can be used while filming video footage.Digital Camera with Video vs. a Camcorder
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