Best camcorder for model railroaders?

[PHARMD98233]

The production of model railroad videos is becoming a hobby within a hobby. What do you think is the best camcorder (under $600 to $800) for producing model railroad videos? Why?

[maandg]

I have several videos of my MA&G layout on my website which I shot with a Sony Digital Handycam Model DCR-DVD300. I used a tripod with a panning head for the sweeping shots.

If you watch my videos, keep in mind that the footage was shot in one of the lower resolution settings for faster downloading time for visitors. On an actual DVD, the quality is quite remarkable, especially at the highest pixel setting.

I agree that filming (and photographing) your layout is yet another enjoyable splinter hobby within the world of model railroading. I have to say I have found as much creative satisfaction putting together my website and its contents as building my actual layout! [^]

I invite you to check out my videos and judge the Sony camera for yourself!

Have fun!! [:D]

[PHARMD98233]

Maandg,
I have visited you website and am in awe of you and it. You have re-kindled my interest in creating a video of our new club layout. Thanks for the inspiration.
Our addy is: www.BSME.org

[maandg]

QUOTE: Originally posted by PHARMD98233

Maandg,
I have visited you website and am in awe of you and it. You have re-kindled my interest in creating a video of our new club layout. Thanks for the inspiration.
Our addy is: www.BSME.org

I enjoyed my visit to your site as well. I'm looking forward to your club's progress. By the way, the building in which you are located is fantastic. If I had that much space, I would be dangerous - and bankrupt!

[AggroJones]

OT: Thats one dynamite layout there, Mr Powers. Very fine looking modelling. [bow]

[james saunders]

yes very nice! i use a 8 mega pixel no brand camera that cost me A$179 and it makes decent videos, not to the standard of a sony or canon or anything, but good enough for me!


OZJIM

[mlehman]

I don't have a modern generation camcorder yet, but one feature you're sure to want is the capability a fold out screen gives you. Most cameras now have them, but you'll certainly want this. Being able to orient the viewscreen in different directions makes it possible to get shots from angles you can't get if you were holding the camcorder up to your face.

Another good feature is remote control. Once you have the camcorder snuggled into the proper spot on your layout's terrain, perhaps using the fold-out viewscreen I just mentioned to line up the shot, then you can start and stop the filming as your trains make their moves.

A decent tripod is an accessory you'll want in order to make shots from angles you can't hold the camcorder in. So you'll probably want a metal mounting receptacle on yoru camcorder for the stud on the tripod. I think some camcorders may have plastic in this area. That might be OK for occassional use, but filming a layout, as well as a lot of railfannig shots, may see extensive use of the tripod and the need for a more substantial mounting system that metal usually provides.

I don't subscribe, but in borrowing my frined's issues I've found that Consumer Reports usually has a yearly review of camcorders. It covers the basics of what to look for and ratings for recent models. They also give repair records on older models, so that you can decide which manufacturers tend to produce a quality, longlasting product.
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL

[CP5415]

First, make sure it's digital!
Better sound & better video.

I have a digital JVC camcorder I bought 5 years ago & have not been disappointed.
Especially while railfanning [:D]

As with most digital cameras, the video has a tendency to be a bit fuzzy in dim lighting, but most of the time it's pretty good.
I highly recommend a decent tripod as well. I bought a cheapy, on the advice of the MRS & it pretty much SUCKS!

Gordon