Hi all-
I apologize for the generic "which camera should I buy" question, but I have really tried to research on the net, and it's all going right over my head...
I've never had a video camera before, and actually only used them a few times in my life. I manage a dance group, and would like to have a camera for recording performances, and possibly eventually, a commercial DVD.
I assume there are different features for low-light (indoor stage performances) and hand held to reduce movement (outdoor festivals, etc) which are both important. Sound quality would be nice, but not if it breaks the bank. I might just invest in an external mic anyway. A decent zoom- would be GREAT.
The thing that concerns me the most is the low light level. I've tried friends' before, and none of them could capture the subjects in low light. I can't quite figure out what constitutes a "quality" camera, or where the standards are for a commercial DVD, but I think we'd like at least that.
Our budget right now is pretty low.. 4-500 is what I was thinking. If it's really worth it to get what we want, we can wait a little while and spend more.
Thank you so much in advance for all of your help!!