Which of these two video cameras is the better one?

How do I create a network of video cameras?

• How do I create a network of video cameras, linked in such a way as to enable me to switch between cameras, so as to create a continuous "movie-effect". This is commonly seen in movies where multiple cameras are placed in an environment, and can be switched between different viewpoints (or perspectives), while still maintaining the action in real time. For example, you place multiple cameras at different angles for a singer (on a stage), and you have the ability to switch between different angles, and record it in that way. However, I do not want expensive film cameras (Panavision-type). I have 2 SONY Handycam digital camcorders at home, and I want a simple setup to choose the viewpoint, and switch between each viewpoint of the two cameras. Does the software and cables exist to do this? I can imagine cables linking the two cameras, and you have one computer LCD minitor (displaying the viewpoints of these two cameras) and thereby giving you the option to choose and switch between every viewpoint, while recording video in REAL-TIME. COnventionally, I had to press the START-STOP button on my camcorder when I wanted to change between angles of, say, a birthday party or wedding. Yes, that meant running and moving around in front of the live audience... LOL... I appreciate answers from experienced people, thanks. Anything else will be marked as SPAM.

• Answer:

  During events coverage, our audio/video/lights outfit normally utilize 3 vcams - Cam1 @ center near stage <Fixed on Tripod>, Cam2 @ farther right or left (depending on activity <Fixed on Tripod>, and Cam3 w/c is generally mobile <on steady cam>, but occasionally on tripod> camera man position opposite Cam2. Cam operators follow orders from the director thru com. set-up. Video cables are connected to a digital mixer as inputs, e.g. http://www.edirol.net/products/en/V-4/details.html http://www.tristatecamera.com/lookat.php?sku=VIDMX4DV Special effects can be done, like P-I-P; computer Txt/Graphics can be mixed. Google 'how video mixer works' Each Vcam has a <lcd> Monitor . The video mixer operator can also be the director as images are 'mixed/switched' to a single video ouput (also w/ Monitor) =>to live projection on-screen or broadcast and saved to PC hard disk (utilizing video capture application, e.g., Adobe Production) or tape recorder (VHS, etc). Audio is acquired from the house (audio) mixer for best quality - less ambient sound/noise. The saved video is already considered 'edited', however, for those who still require fine details, this output is edited using video editing applications, e.g. Vegas Pro, Premiere Pro, final Cut Pro, also considering footages saved from each cam.