The quality of video you can get from consumer level video cameras is amazing. It's HD everywhere.
Here's a list of my Top 10 suggestions for getting started with video for this holiday season.
1. Ground Breaking Pocket HD Video Camra - Kodak Zi8
The Kodak Zi8 is the first consumer pocket HD video camera that supports a mic in jack. It's a big deal. I've written about the different kinds of mics you can use with this camera, but the favorite seems to be the ATR-3550 lav mic. Also consider the Flip HD Version 2 which is an update of the origianl Flip camera that gives you a larger screen. You can see some Zi8 videos on my video blog.
2. Inexpensive Lavalier Microphone - ATR-3550 lav mic
This microphone has a 20 foot cord and is a great entry level lavalier mic to get great sound on the Kodak Zi8, or any video camera that supports a mic in jack.
3. Best Phone with Video - iPhone 3GS
The iPhone 3GS adds video recording to the iPhone. It's a great example of using the device you record video with to also share it. Once you record a video, you can share it via YouTube, MMS or Email.
4. Awesome New Macintosh with Big Screen - iMac
The new Apple iMac is beautiful with it's 27" screen and enough processing power to handle HD video. Included with every new Mac is iLife which includes iMovie for editing video.
5. Fun Camera Extender - X-Shot
The X-Shot is a neat camera extender which lets you take photos and video of yourself. It comes in handy for cameras that start to focus farther away than your hand can stretch.
6. Flexible Camera Tripod - Gorillapod
A small flexible tripod that helps hold your camera steady. The flexible legs let you secure the tripod where you might not usually be able to.
7. Bright LED Light - Sima Light
Extra light for low light conditions. There's a larger version too which provides even more light. The smaller one might be better since it's less bright and won't annoy your subjects as much.
8. Fast Memory for Video - SD HC Memory Cards
Faster memory cards that support recording video. Older memory cards aren't fast enough. Get the biggest you can. 32GB would make a nice gift.
9. Chris Brogan's Favorite Digital Still Camera - Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3
I like a lot of consumer level digital still cameras that also shoot video. I've been using the Panasonic Lumix FX37 for a while and enjoy it's wide angle lens. Chris Brogan just reviewed his Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. A good choice to consider.
10. Breaking Barriers in Video - Canon EOS 7D Digital SLR
Go crazy and indulge in the newest HD shooting technolgy that gives you control over exposure and depth of field without having to invest in an even higher cost video camera. Check out The Bui Bros work with this camera.
Extra. A Book to Explain it All
My book, Get Seen: Online Video Secrets to Building your Business, will be shipping nationwide in January. It includes chapters on choosing a camera, microphone and lighting. Provides step-by-step guides on how to produce, edit and share video online. Teaches you how to stream live and shares stories and interviews on how to be successful with online video.
Get Seen is now available for Pre-Order.
Many of these products are available on Amazon.com and listed in my Get Seen Store.
Disclosure:
I received the Kodak Zi8 as a gift from Kodak.
