Video capture with a still camera
2005/05/06 16:59:25
Why would I want video capability in my digital camera? Wouldn't video from a camcorder be better? Or can my camera do double duty?
-- Submitted by: Chris
Answer by:
Aimee Baldridge, CNET.com
Yes, a camcorder will capture higher-quality video. However, many people would rather carry just one device to capture photos and video and are willing to sacrifice quality for convenience. If you're one of those people, choose a still camera with a video mode if you value photo quality most, or a camcorder with a photo mode if you care more about video quality.
Although they still can't match the quality of digital video (DV) footage, video modes in still cameras have greatly improved over the past couple of years. For the smoothest, most detailed results, look for VGA (640x480) or higher resolution and 30-frame-per-second capture. Also, pick a camera that can record continuous video up to the capacity of your memory card, instead of just short clips. Not all cameras record sound with video, and many have zoom lenses that do not function in video mode, so check the specs and try out the camera before you buy it.
If video quality is more important to you than photo quality, or if you want to edit your video on a computer and apply effects, choose a camcorder with a photo mode. Look for a photo resolution of at least 2 megapixels, a built-in flash, and photo-oriented features such as a variety of still-shooting modes, metering and exposure compensation settings, and PictBridge compatibility for direct printing.
Some photo/video hybrid devices that use flash media, such as SD/MMC or CompactFlash, capture MPEG-4 or MPEG-2 video, along with relatively high-resolution stills. These cameras are best for people who want decent quality in both areas but will settle for having the best quality in neither. In other words, these devices will give you better photo quality than most camcorders and better video quality than most still cameras, but you won't get the best quality available in either area. This applies only to the highest-quality hybrid devices. If the one you're considering looks like a cheap little toy, chances are it is, regardless of its price.
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sendray13
19/08/2007 01:04 PM
we require very compact camera with still & video capturing in direct to CD or DVD so, which camera best .....?
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