What is a good camcorder?

What camcorder would be good for beginners and short films?

• I'm looking for a camcorder that would be a good starter kind of thing. I want to be a director when i grow up, so I just want a good camcorder to practice with. I need a camcorder that has good altitude and depth. I just want something that would look legit, not some crappy version that makes the video look like it was filmed in the 80's. Please help. The highest I can go with the price is $300. Thanks guys.

• Answer:

  I have a Flip mini HD. The video quality is great, and the sound is above average I'd say. This video I posted in the web source section was made with my Flip camcorder. It was a school project. There were no extra mics or anything so everything you see and hear are from the camera. I recommend the Flip, but I would only get the HD version. They might be cheaper than what you are looking for though. An 8gb Mini HD will only run you about $140