Seeking advise on a video camcorder

[newbie5]

Hi, I am looking for a video camcorder within the budget of $1k - $2k to shoot a documentary, if possible, it should come with the editing software since we're buying the whole thing. Now, I am tasked to look for more information and to make a final check.

Yesterday, I and my friend went to Funan IT Mall to search a video camcorder but with little information on it, we've had so far no luck of purchasing it. I read up on the video camcorders and it seems like Panasonic and Canon mini handy cams are the good choices to shoot the documentary but I didn't want to rely on me since I absolutely have no idea what I should get a video camcorder.

Apparently, either has good functions to shoot the documentary. Of course, any video camcorders could shoot the documentary as long as it's the right one. Unfortunately, I am deaf so I really really don't have an idea on whether to get for the live audio or mic. I read that the mic is better cause i could change the music for a alternative. But i'm still not sure. On the other hand, I underwent two respective films courses. I loved doing it especially the acting skills. Everything was so enriching and fun. I have filmed, produced and starred with the borrowed video camcorders, the last one i shot is used by my current canon powershotXS IS. The quality is good and easy to edit but quite limited. So it's not a ideal for a documentary. Alas, despite all of these, I still haven't grasped the concept of the video camcorders. I am ashamed of that but I still have a long way to go until I can achieve its concept.

Should i get a Panasonic or Canon mini handycam? Pls advise!

 

[Bamboopictures]

For a person with hearing disability, the camcorder you choose must have a visible VU meter (audlo level indicator) and intelligent AGC (Automatic Gain Control) that is not too aggressive. On a budget of $2000, you will need to consider much more than the cost of the camcorder. My recommendation for your budget and skill level:

Camcorder: Panasonic SD90 ($1000)
Tripod: Libec TH650: ($170)
Interview clip mic: ATR-3350 ($60)
Lighting: 2 x Manda lightboxes with 8 x energy saving bulbs ($300+ Home)
LED light: $150
3xLightstands: $180
Editing Software:Sony Vegas Movie Studio Platinum($140)
Total:$2000

 

[newbie5]

Intriguing. I always knew the video camcorder prices are as steep as the DSLR but i didn't realize that it also carries so many things. I have to agree that the cost is much higher than 2k as i understand it can go up to 4k to 6k but the budget is tight.

I am sorry but there's quite a few questions i have. What is a Manda lightbox? What does (Home) mean? As for the editing software, does it come with the camcorder or usually purchased separately?

Where can i normally look for them? Cause I usually look for the different gadgets in Sim Lim Square or Funan It Mall or Challenger but i bet there's much more shops than those! Is there any other shop that I can else look for them to have more options? Also thank you so much for making a recommendations, that was really a huge help!

 

[Bamboopictures]

Manda is a photo supply store on the 4th floor of Peninsular Shopping Centre. They sell many affordable lighting from China. Many of the lightboxes are unbranded or carry the housebrand Manda. "Home" is a hyperlink to their website. Click on it to find out more about their range and their store. Get their umbrella style light boxes for easy set up. They also sell a E27 four-way bulbholder multiplier so you can use up to 4 energy saving bulb in one lightbox.
If you are in that area, also visit SGcamerstore on the second floor of Peninsular shopping Centre.
For the Libec tripod, try G&G at Sim Lim Tower. For mics, try Hung Brothers Sim Lim Sq. For cheap alternative lighting, try Singapore Incandescent Lamps Industries Co at Tat Ann buidlng. For a wide assortment of energy saving bulbs, try Sinter at Sim Lim Tower.
Most photo equipment stores will stock camcorder and DSLR accessories.
Mustafa is a good place to buy the SD90.
If you can't find something, consider ordering from bhphotovideo.com
If you are on a budget, consider renting instead of buying. Camera Rental Centre - Camera / DSLR / Lens / Video / Studio Rental Service in Singapore and Camwerkz Pte Ltd are good places to rent.
The software that comes with most camcorders are for transcoding or viewing the footage. You will need to purchase an NLE (Non-linear editing) app for greater control over your editing. Best way to buy software is online.http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/buy/moviestudiope

 

[newbie5]

Peninsular and Mustafa seems to be good choices, i will consider going there with my friend when we have time. Although we probably might order online since i don't drive!

I will bring that matter up to my friend and hopefully, he will approve the budget. Then I can start shopping right away! Really, thanks so much.

 

[newbie5]

Hmm, must I get all of the things mentioned? Could i do away with one or two things like lightstands? Just in case my friend decides not to approve cause of the maximum budget?

 

[Bamboopictures]

If you shoot mainly outdoors, you can do without the lights and lightstands. When conducting interviews, you can choose well-lit venues and use a styrofoam board wrapped with giftwrapping tin foil to use as a reflector. But someone will have to hold the reflector and direct the light on the talent.

Lightstands are only $60 each and very hard to work around without them. I would recommend saving on the lightboxes instead. Go to Japan Home and buy a $12 clip-on E27 bulb socket. Go to Daiso and a get $2 white umbrella. Go to sinter and get a 85W tornado flourescent bulb with E27 mount. Buy a big roll of duct tape. You get the idea. You can also safe on the fluid head video tripod and get yourself a cheap photo tripod instead. But you won't be able to get smooth pan and tilt.
In the end, its about the compromises you are willing to make. Technically, you can shoot interviews on one iphone, use another iphone as a clip-on audio recorder and sync the audio and video in post. The technology you have today will already be miles ahead of any Dogma 95 film shot on miniDV.