HD camcorders allow you to record video in High definition format. Most HD camcorders can record 1080 horizontal lines of an image and offer a huge increase in image quality compared to standard definition camcorders that can only record 400-600 horizontal lines.
A HD camcorder will look no different to standard camcorder in it’s appearance but will have better sensors inside able to record a more detailed image.
As more and more televisions (in fact nearly all new televisions) are able to display HD video then it seems the sound choice if you are buying a new camcorder to buy a HD camcorder an enjoy the extra quality your TV can offer.
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HD Camcorder Mini Features Guide
There are many features to look at when purchasing a new HD camcorder. We’ve listed a few of the more important things to look for below.
Recording format
One of the most important things to consider when choose a HD video camera is the different HD camcorder formats available. The two most popular storage options are hard disk and memory card. Hard disk camcorders offers the largest capacity where as the memory card camcorders are often the smallest and lightest available. Other options can include Mini-DV tape, DVD and internal memory or a combiniation of two of these.
Zoom
Zoom allows you to get closer to your subject without moving your feet. These days all HD camcorders have a zoom function but the amount of zoom they offer varies from model to model. As a rule of thumb a x10 optical zoom will be sufficient for most budding film maker’s needs. Although, if you’re planning on filming lots of things in the distance, e.g. wildlife then you will probably benefit from a more powerful zoom. But bear in mind, the more you zoom in on a subject the more you will notice the smallest of movements if you hand shakes. This can be negated by using a tripod.
Image stabilisation
Most HD video cameras now come with image stabilisation. A shaking effect can be seen when filming if you hand or arm moves and this can be noticed even more when you are zoomed in. Image stabilisation should remove some of the shakiness from the recording.
Size
Size may pay an important part in your choice of HD camcorder. Size varies wildly between models, some are a more traditional size (the size of a shoe or bigger) and others are available that are not much bigger than a mobile phone. HD camcorders that record onto memory cards tend to be the smallest and those that record directly onto DVD or Mini-DV tapes are larger since they have to accommodate the recording media.
Video lamp
Some HD camcorders feature a video lamp that can help to illuminate what you are filming. This feature can be ideal for close-up work and is kind of similar to a still camera flash. Although using this feature for prolonged periods of time can drain the battery faster than normal use.
Recording in low light conditions
HD video cameras can struggle to record a quality image in low light conditions both outdoors and indoors. However, many camcorders now come with features to improve the image quality. Some HD camcorders even have a special night mode which will give you a brighter picture.
Sound Quality
The sound quality from a camcorder recording can vary model to model. Some higher end HD camcorders allows you to attach an external microphone. An external microphone should offer a large improvement in sound quality compared to the camcorders own built in microphone.
Still photos
Many HD camcorders offer the option to take still photos. If you are filming something and spot a nice photo opportunity you can snap the picture from you camcorder rather than having to get you separate still camera out it’s bag. This feature can be useful but the quality is no where near the quality you would expect from a standalone digital camera.
