Which would be a better video camera to use?

Which video camera would be the best recommended for use to record indoor training material?

• My boss sent me out to find a reliable video camera that we'd be able to use to record our foster parent training sessions but my knowledge of "camcorder purchasing basic" are very limited. Our training sessions are usually about 2 hrs. so i'll need a camera that can handle that type of time span. Also, we would like to have the presenter wear a tie mic, if sound quality is not up to our standards. The budget that I was given for this project ranges from $400 - $600. I appreciate all of your help and advice. Thanks.

• Answer:

  Daniel I will not recommend a camcorder too you, but give you ideas what to look for in that camcorder. The one you will want will need to have a MIC port. It will also need to have the ability to shoot in Manual mode. You will need this, because in manual mode, the whole room can be in focus at the same time, I think this would be needed for the videos you will be shooting. Those two things I think are needed. The best video quality comes from a MiniDV tape camcorder. The bonus, get a HD camcorder and your going to need a very powerful upgraded computer to edit video taken by that camcorder, With MiniDV tape, no computer upgrades are needed, other than maybe the installation of a IEEE1394 port in the computer and anything you might need for any Video NLE programs you might get or use. Microphones can run you more than the budget you have for the camcorder, especially wireless lavaliere sets. Your boss needs to know that before you go much further. I would say, go see if your local Music Store, the folks who sell Drum Kits, Guitars and many other Musical Instruments will have access to used sets or sets you could rent from time to time. See if they have anything used they can sell you. Maybe they know where something exists you could use as needed. They are a good source of info. Have Fun