Needing help in picking a new camcorder and what type to buy?

I believe that this Camcorder is calling your name out!!!

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Well, since you've set a price limit, your options are limited. Samsung, Cannon, Panisonic and Sony, all make very good cameras at or near that price range. I would suggest however, that you research your camcorder in person. Since you'll be using it alot, you'll need to feel the weight in your hand, see how easy it will be to make adjustments while recording, get an idea of how well the camera becomes an extention of your hand. Now, that may sound silly, but how well you interface with a camcorder decides how well you shoot. If you're comfortable with your camcorder, your video will show it. Any major brand you feel comfortable with will work fine.

Most camcorders today are low "lux." Some even proclaim they shoot in 0 Lux, which is the same as saying no light. Any camera needs light to work and all video cameras get "grainy" when there is very little light.

About your media being "universal," DVDs are probably your best bet. Most DVD players will play "Burned" DVDs.

Placing video on the internet is more a question of software than camera. Editing software is not that expensive and you can use it to format your video for internet use. Most video on the web is Windows Media Format, Quicktime or RealPlayer. Each has its own compression format.

I would suggest a MiniDV camcorder, Samsung makes one in your price range. I have a Samsung that has been very good to me. More than likely you will find a JVC or Panisonic in that price range as well. Now, be aware, these will be single "chip" or CCD cameras. Broadcast quality camcorders are 3 CCD cameras. The 3 CCD cameras are more expensive, but worth it in video quality.

In the software catagory, I would suggest Pinnacle Studio. It's easy to use and will burn DVD's and convert your video to a file format suitable for the internet.

Hope this helps.

One more thing when buying a camcorder, don't skimp on buying a tripod. Steady video starts with a steady tripod.

My advice is to go for the newer camera's that instead of using a removable media, they record onto a hard drive. This allows for a unique experience and allows better manipulation of the data, as it is easier to control. I believe this model also allows an SD/MMC card. I know the price looks steep, but you can find itonline for less than half of the MSRP.

Go for the camera that best suits you in the long run. If you never need to do any editing, then go for the easiest to use. Regardless go for the cam that gives you what you need, and not simply what people tell you is good. It is likely they are telling you what is good for them.

You should research online and in stores to find the perfect camera. Go to the store and play around with the camera to make sure that you like the feel and that it does everything that you want it to.

buy a Sony