Picked up a nearly-new Sony HVR-V1U Camcorder for next to nothing. It's Mini DV so somewhat dated but seems to have good specs and reviews. Know anything about it? I got it mainly to film some of my grandson's swim meets. Tired of my son's phone videos . Any advice (other than really dig in and learn the darn thing ).

chas

Been using Cannon for years. Mini-dvd was a hassle. We just closed our Avid editing suite, which was what you dumped the footage into for manipulation.

Logan is the expert on equipment. We use a Cannon AX-10, which retails for a little over $1,000 and is being used for major movie releases.

Three years ago, the price-point for the main unit dropped to $10,000.00. A few years before that, we were in the Betacam business at about $50,000.00.

Likewise, updates on editing software are managed with a monthly subscription fee.

Pretty awesome.

Russ

You're right about mini-dv being a hassle, starting with needing a firewire (dated) interface to get your footage into a computer. Other than that though, it appears to be a nice little camera. When it was intoduced (@2006) it went for about $5k. You can still get a new one (although discontinued) for about 3-4k or about 800-1200 for a used one. The one I got (at an excellent price) is absolutely like brand, spanking new. I haven't taken it out for a test drive yet as I'm still trying to learn all the functions and not fall victim to the 'all auto' thing. Maybe this weekend. Actually I've ordered a mini-dv to digital unit to take some of the hassle out of getting it into ANY computer (ie. without firewire). I'm also looking into a MOTL video editor/movie maker software package that's user friendly enough to penetrate my thick skull (sounds like you're the MONEY and Logan is the BRAINS behind YOUR operation ). Truth is, I probably should have gone with a new, good-quality prosumer unit for the ease/simplicity of use and nearly-as-good picture quality, but you know how geeks are; the more buttons, the more irresistible the gadget . Talk to you later.

chas