I am thinking about purchasing a video camera, but I am really clueless as to how to begin. The video cameras of today are quite different from those of the 1980s, when I last operated one.

I definitely want a light-weight camera for travel, and I want one that is easy to operate. What is the difference (basically) between "digital" and "hard-drive"
cameras? Pros? Cons? I've been studying all the holiday flyers from the electronics stores and have only learned that hard-drive cameras are significantly more expensive than digital.

A final question to those who have video cameras -- do you use them frequently when you travel or do you stick more to taking still photos?

Of course, another reason that I want one is that I will become a grandmother for the first time in March! Since hubby's parents are still alive (remember the TOO FEEBLE TO TRAVEL post?), I think it would be great to get some movies (do they still use that term?) of them with the new baby.

Thanks for any info you can pass on.

Vicki

The electronics employees at most of the stores are very knowledgeable and can steer you in the right direction.
One word of advice--we purchased a camcorder, but it's one of those that you have to put the entire camcorder on top of your tv in order to view it.
I wouldn't purchase that kind again.
We used our camcorder on our Hawaii trip and the luau. What great memories to have on video! I think you'll be glad you purchased one.

Hi Vickib2. Camcorders (video cameras) are all digital these days. Instead of using the old 'tape', they use either a form of CD or DVD while a few do record to a hard drive. It is much more complex to choose one and egret gave you good advice regarding going to a reputable video store and ask questions. Pros: You end up with a video (movie with sound) rather than just still photos. Con: You may want to edit the results to delete some scenes you may not want and that's much more difficult. Also, while todays camcorders do allow you to take still photos, they are generally at a much lower 'pixel' count and not as good as still cameras. You can get an excellent still camera that will fit in a pocket or purse and is easier to get to for photos. Just some thoughts. Good luck. PS: Some of the better still cameras also allow short videos.

http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content...ying-Guide.htm

This would be a great place to start and DONT assume the guys at Best Buy and Circuit City know anything about them or you wont end up with what you want or you may end up with things you dont need! Spend some time reading reviews and looking around camera forums.As with trips...research research research!

vickib, my DH researches everything to death before making a purchase and we have the Canon 2.7" widescreeen digital video camcorder ZR500. It is extremely easy to use. Google it and read about it to see if it's what you're looking for.

The one thing to remember with these small camcorders is that you have to hold the camera as still as possible and not do a lot of zooming in and out to avoid the "shaky camera" show.

Good luck!!