I'm looking for a digital camcorder to do some artsy-fartsy film projects. However, I have little experience with digital video cameras (what little I do know is mostly with older analog stuff). What I'd really like is a Sony HDR-HC1, but it's a bit out of my price range. Basically, I need something with a good combination of professional performance and lower cost (e.g. around $1000 or less). I don't want a supped-up 3000-dollar camera meant solely for professionals, but I don't want something that can only give me crappy home movies, either. Thus far, I've had a difficult time finding a happy medium. Any suggestions on either (a) a camera, or (b) a resource where I might find used higher-end digital camcorders?
You're looking at a High Definition camcorder there, which explains the higher cost. If you have experience with analog camcorders (like Hi-8) and you were happy with the quality, you will be surprised by the quality of any normal miniDV camcorder; it is much better. Here are some resources that can help you. Article with some things to take into consideratipon when buying a camcorder: http://www.digitalvideoclub.com/basics/camcorder.php A site with a lot of camcorder reviews: http://www.camcorderinfo.com/
