Videocameras Under $650 For Producing Online Video

What kind of videocamera do you need to create video for the Web?  The literal answer is "almost any" however business users wanting to represent their company and brand in a professional manner will want a camera that is affordable yet still has some of the "pro" features that will let you produce high quality content.

Does your favorite Flip Mino (even the HD model) make the grade?  While the Flip is great for that carry along factor and for capturing spur of the moment family fun - it's not going to easily get you great results for a video representing your business.

In conducting my own camera search on behalf of clients, here are the criteria I was using:

• Input for external microphone


• Input for headset to monitor the sound while its being recorded


• HDV or High Definition


• Records to either MiniDV tape or SD cards (not to hard drive or mini DVD)


• Good to great picture quality when shooting outdoors


• Reasonable low light performance


• Tripod mountable (almost all videocameras have this - even the Flip!)

You'll notice the emphasis I've placed on audio.  Believe it or not, most video cameras available for sale today will shoot acceptable video images but most of these same consumer models have very limited capabilities when it comes to recording clear audio.  Nothing will encourage a viewer of your video to stop watching than poor sound.

So cutting to the chase, I suggest you take a good look at the Canon line of videocameras.  In particular:

• The older Canon HV20 is a great choice but you may have trouble finding one new since it has been replaced by the HV30 and HV40 models which offer some small upgrades but nothing too major. ($600)


• Canon Vixia HF20. ($750) This camera is a good choice for those wanting to take advantage of the move towards solid state recording and away from MiniDV tape.  This camera comes with 32GB of flash memory built in plus you can add to that by purchasing a couple of SD/SDHC memory cards. The only caveat would be when shooting indoors to make sure the surroundings are well lit, otherwise the picture may suffer.


• There is also the Canon Vixia HF200 which is the more budget oriented version of the HF20, it doesn't come with built in memory but otherwise is the same and you can pick it up for less.  You can then always purchase 32GB of storage for about $110 online. (prices vary from $630-$750 so shop carefully)

You are going to need some accessories to go along with your new camera which I've covered in the video series you'll find here on the blog but investing in one of these cameras will get you well on your way.