• Apple Final Cut Pro Legacy

  I have a little money for a camera.

  Posted by Iain Mackinnon on March 18, 2009 at 4:45 pm

  sorry guys, i know this is a professional forum but my budget is about £1500 (about $1900ish) i’m not happy with the mini DV cameras i’ve been using, cheap really under £250 ($300ish).
  so, any ideas guys?

  I used to spend my time wondering, now it’s all used up rendering.

  Ben Holmes replied 17 years, 2 months ago 6 Members · 5 Replies
• 5 Replies

• 

  Alex Elkins

  March 18, 2009 at 5:02 pm

  With that sort of budget you’re probably limiting yourself to a secondhand camera, if you want anything half-decent. No is absolutely NOT the time to be trying to save money on an imported camera either.

  I’d definitely not be buying SD anymore if you can help it. HDV, while not ideal, is probably the most sensible format given your pricepoint. A Sony A1 might be a good choice (not a fan myself though), or if you’re prepared to fork out a little bit more I’d be inclined to look at a JVC HD101. You’re probably looking at around £2k for a second hand one, maybe a bit more.

  Personally though, if you’re using this for work I’d be much more inclined to rent a better camera just when I needed it. It’d give you a chance to test out some different models and you’d have a bit more time to save up for something better – a used Sony EX1 maybe.

  All the best,
  Alex
• 

  Chris Poisson

  March 18, 2009 at 5:37 pm

  Look on the prosumer camcorder section at B&H Photo. They have great prices and a ton of options.

  Have a wonderful day.
• 

  Elijah Lynn

  March 18, 2009 at 5:51 pm

  I have no experience with this but a HMC-150 is only a bit more than you what have saved now. Take a look at it and see if it interests you.
• 

  Michael Allen

  March 18, 2009 at 8:12 pm

  I like the Sony FX1000 for the money and it will be good in low light. The only drawback is that an adaptor will have to be used to get XLR inputs.

  Mike
• 

  Ben Holmes

  March 18, 2009 at 9:58 pm

  With your budget, go for the best quality HDV camera you can afford – it downconverts to SD very nicely, even better if you can capture it via component, rather than firewire.

  Have a look on a review site like camcorderinfo, and then look somewhere like Amazon for good electronics prices – in the UK they are pretty good, and reliable (and returnable).

  Ben

  Edit Out Ltd
  —————————-
  FCP Editor/Trainer/System Consultant
  EVS/VT Supervisor for live broadcast
  RED camera transfer/post
  Independent Director/Producer

Reply to this Discussion! Login or Sign Up