This is a preliminary document I'm putting together for a Citizen Video Journalism class. I've had requests for this info, so I'm posting it here.
Recommended Equipment
CAMERAS
Thanks to technology, there are lots of cameras that will create great video. Rather than give you specific models here are the features you really want in a camera.
#1 – Microphone input. You’d be surprised how many cameras do NOT have them. You usually only find them on the lowest end cameras (that are targeted to the education market) and the most expensive ones. Built in camera microphones are usually pretty lousy and pick up lots of hand noise as well as room noise. There are times and places that you’ll want to use the built in microphone, but you’ll always want the option of using an additional microphone.
#2 – Firewire or some other digital output. You need a way to get your video on to a computer for editing. Unless you have flash or hard drive storage on your camera, you’ll need to play the tape to get the video into your computer. Keeping it digital avoids going to analog…which can degrade your video quality.
Recording medium
Tape, Hard Drive, Flash or DVD?
Tape – specifically mini DV tape is the best way to go, particularly when you’re working with a team. The cameras are inexpensive and the picture quality is great. It also helps that you can hand off a tape to someone else and he or she has a camera that can play it back. Unless it’s a camera you already own, don’t invest in a hi-8 or VHS camera.
Hard Drive and flash storage is great if you can afford it. Transferring the video files to someone else’s computer often requires that you give the other person your camera for the transfer.
DVD is probably the worst option at the moment. The small discs don’t play in your computer or DVD player.
High or Standard Definition?
If you can afford a high definition camera, go for it. The HDV cameras produce spectacular results. It also gives you the option of “zooming in” on something in post production without getting horrible distortion. And despite what a salesperson might tell you, they use the same mini DV cassettes that the standard definition cameras use. So no need to pay extra for special “HDV tapes”. But HD also comes with it’s share of problems – most notably it takes more hard drive space to store the video and it’s harder to exchange raw video with others when it’s in HD. Standard Definition cameras can cost hundreds of dollars less and are the best option for most folks.
Cameras that meet these specifications:
Canon Optura 50 (discontinued – but available on ebay $250-$350)
Canon ZR500 (discontinued – but available on ebay $160)
Canon ZR800 $205-$225
Canon HV-20 (high definition) ($800-$900)
Panasonic AG-DVC20 ($1,200)
Canon GL-2 ($2,000 to $2,400)
Panasonic AG-DVX100B ($2,600)
Microphones and adaptors
There are many kinds of microphones, many tailored for specific situations. Again there are a few basics you want to look for:
1) XLR cable connectors. These are the kind of cables the professionals use. XLR cables are shielded and balanced. Which means they don’t pick up buzzes from electrical fields as easily.
2) Directional instead of omni-directional. Directional mics pick up what’s directly in front of them. Omni directional mics pick up sound from a much wider angle. Usually when doing interviews you’ll want to eliminate the noise of the crowd around you. That’s why you usually want the directional mics
Adaptors—most of the low end cameras do NOT have XLR cable inputs. So you’ll need an adaptor. Beachtek makes some great adaptors that include a line/mic switch as well as the ability to use more than one mic. A line level switch is a good thing to have when recording from a sound system. Otherwise your audio will sound distorted. You can also get a straight XLR to mini plug adaptor from B and H Photo that will do the trick, but there’s no way to take in line level audio.
Tripods/ Monopods
The most important thing is to have one. Not only will it keep your camera steady, but it will allow you to walk away from it and talk to the camera. You can also use your tripod/monopod as a way to hold the camera away from you to talk to it. A tripod/monopod can also serve as a makeshift “steady cam”.
Lights
All cameras of recent vintage can shot with available light in most situations. But it’s always helpful to have a small light on your camera to “warm up” your subject and make them stand out from the background.
Batteries
The battery that comes with your camera will typically last about an hour or less. Consider getting some higher storage batteries and an extra charger if you camera is your charger.