Tips for new camcorder?

I need to get a camcorder to record my son's hs basket ball games to make a hilite reel - any tips?

• Answer:

  A few words of advice. It's easier to shoot well than to edit. Move the camera as little as possible. Let the action go in and out of the frame. Don't "trombone" (fast zoom in and out). Go easy on the eyes of the viewer --- hold each scene for a few seconds so your eye can adjust to the new image. Perhaps you could speak to the coach or athletic director and tell them what you are doing and you might be able to get a end court spot to shoot. If you sit in the stands you'll have unavoidable camera movement caused by the people around you. If you have, or can get, a camera support, use it! The quality of your work will also jump significantly. As for the editing, well, that's another story. Good luck!