4.72/5 — More than 600 reviewsThe camcorder - all-round solution for the spontaneous
The camcorder is a very versatile invention. Be it on holiday, on spontaneous outings and actions or on planned photo and video sessions: a small device with a fold-out screen is enough to capture every special event forever. The biggest advantage over a conventional camera is the possibility to use the device with incredible spontaneity. Whereas a camera first has to be started, set to video mode, tuned and focused, with a camcorder all it takes is a quick click, even when switched off - and everything around you is recorded. A camcorder convinces with high frame rates and, in the higher price range, also with a resolution and image quality that come amazingly close to a Hollywood camera that is unaffordable for most.
Types of camcorders
All camcorders have one thing in common: they are handy and can be used spontaneously. A camcorder is always carried one-handed and is usually attached to the hand with a simple strap. This has the great advantage that you always have your second hand free and can use it for other things. Nevertheless, there are several different types of camcorders. The first thing you notice is that most models have a fold-out screen. This screen not only shows what exactly will be seen later on the finished video. The display can also be used for settings. Particularly innovative models are also equipped with a swivel joint on the screen. The idea behind this design is obvious: no matter at which angle you stand behind the camcorder, you can always view the display accurately. This is also useful for selfie shots. For example, the screen can be rotated by 180°, allowing you to film yourself - or to give your video subject a view of yourself, as is regulated for news broadcasts, for example. On the other hand, there are also models with fixed screens. These are less agile, but offer the advantage of even greater spontaneity. To put the camcorder into operation, all you have to do with such a model is press the corresponding switch-on button - there is no need to align the screen first, which saves you precious time during fast-moving events.
The camcorder as a supplement to the camera
Many photographers do not limit their photo sessions to simple pictures, but often want to capture short video impressions as well. In this case, a camcorder can easily be carried in the equipment so as not to have to discard the carefully adjusted settings of the camera. If you work with a spotter, he or she can also guide the camcorder while you stand behind the camera.
Camcorder or camera?
Photography does not necessarily have to be limited to photos, but can also be supplemented by videos. However, you can also shoot video with most popular cameras. So when should you reach for the camera and when for the camcorder? As a rule, as a photographer you may invest more money in a camera than in a camcorder. Therefore, you can expect to get higher quality shots with your camera. So if you can spare the time to change and re-tune your settings between photo and video, your camera is still your best friend. However, if you find yourself in an unpredictable situation - such as wildlife photography or looking at a city - the spontaneity of a camcorder is unassailable by any camera. Furthermore, a camcorder is the better choice for modelling purposes, interviews or even web shows, since more expensive models in particular are always equipped with a good stabiliser and weigh only a few hundred grams despite their high-quality components, which always ensures handy operation.
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