Best Camera for the Web/I.M.

18 replies
What are the best cameras in the $100-200 range for internet marketing purposes?

You know, to talk to the camera, take outside, do some interviews, very basic stuff

It doesn't need to be HD, but be better than pre installed webcams. A nice plus is if the SOUND is good.

A few ones, I think it was a Flip and an "Eyeball", were quite popular a few months back, but my searches here and on Google don't come up with anything definitive.

Thanks
#camera #web or im
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    • Profile picture of the author Silas Hart
      Most $100-$200 digital cameras that can record video and audio will probably work for you. I've made some this way.

      My favorite is the Kodak zi8, which is similar to the "Flip" but better.
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      • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
        Originally Posted by FaJeeb View Post

        Most $100-$200 digital cameras that can record video and audio will probably work for you. I've made some this way.

        My favorite is the Kodak zi8, which is similar to the "Flip" but better.
        Thanks. It does look interesting.

        I went to specialist camera store, but to them all "cheap" cameras basically were the same, especially for audio! That's BS. They only have pro perspective, not on what we need as IMers.

        I have 2 Canon Powershots, and the higher end model has much better video quality... but the audios is awful with a lot buzzing and background noise.

        The sound is good on the zi8?
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  • Profile picture of the author Kelly Verge
    The Kodak zi8 would also be my recommendation. It has a mic jack, so that you can (eventually) add an external mic for MUCH better sound.
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    • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
      Originally Posted by Kelly Verge View Post

      The Kodak zi8 would also be my recommendation. It has a mic jack, so that you can (eventually) add an external mic for MUCH better sound.
      Yeah I just saw that on the great reviews - man it's GREAT to read unbiased reviews for once! IM is such a slimy world

      It seems it pretty much require a better memory card and mic so it's $100-150 more that for the camera itself but then it's all good.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dayor
    I recomend flip too, very handy and easy download
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  • Profile picture of the author ChrisHeggem
    I am a huge advocate of the new Kodak Playsport. It has the same guts as the Kodak Zi8 (so it can do 1080p, 720p and 720p60frames). I prefer it over the flip for a couple reasons.

    -expandable memory slot
    -can shoot 5MP stills
    -is waterproof up to 3 meters (10 feet)
    -only $150!

    I've already done a lot of fun things underwater that I couldn't have done with any other camera.
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  • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
    I found an ezine article comparing the Playsport and the Zi8. With the added mic input the Zi8 is the winner here, but the Playsport sure beats most of the Flips out there.
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  • Profile picture of the author helisell
    One thing to note about using videos online......

    It is much.... much..... much.... better to have lousy video but great audio
    than great video with a bad soundtrack.

    You are absolutley right to be concerned about audio quality.
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    • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
      Originally Posted by helisell View Post

      One thing to note about using videos online......

      It is much.... much..... much.... better to have lousy video but great audio
      than great video with a bad soundtrack.

      You are absolutley right to be concerned about audio quality.
      I fully agree. I now wonder what mic to get

      I sure will get the zi8 with all the recommendations here!
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  • Profile picture of the author Negotiator74
    I use the Zi8 and an external mic and am very happy with it!
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  • Profile picture of the author Midas3 Consulting
    Only issue I see with the Zi8 is it doesn't appear to show your image
    on the monitor while your videoing yourself, how do you even know if
    your "in shot" etc?
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  • Profile picture of the author Albie Mathews
    I suggest you Kodak ZI8. Hopefully, you will like it.
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  • Profile picture of the author krikkod
    Hay Jay the kodak playsport does have an external mic jack but it's under the flap for 'water-proofness'. Which makes sense to cover the hole up when going underwater.

    I was looking at getting one myself but am still undecided.

    I remember someone on cnet was saying that the zi8 is better than the playsport in terms of clarity in close-up shots.

    I think you would be better off going to the store and asking which is better between the playsport and the zi8 rather than trusting any online review. Because as you said - IM can get pretty slimy lol
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    • Profile picture of the author Jay Rhome
      Just a quick follow up.

      I bought the Zi8. Very nice!

      Very clear video, even at night (if you select the low light mode)

      It records in .mov format so it's probably better for a Mac...

      The external mic jack is busted already! It did work for a few days but I had to exchange it. Not a fun way to start but unless I get another broken model or it melts in a couple of months it's indeed a great choice!


      Originally Posted by krikkod View Post

      I think you would be better off going to the store and asking which is better between the playsport and the zi8 rather than trusting any online review. Because as you said - IM can get pretty slimy lol
      No, no. I found only good reviews online! Instead of the usual "buy this even though I have not and am still giving my review" IM standard.
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  • Kodak Zi8 is the best camera in this price range. I've bought one for my wife and she is more than happy

    She is making video posts with it
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  • Profile picture of the author Leigh Davies
    The Zi8's menu system isn't the best-it's no problem once you're accustomed to using it, but off-the-bat, it's not as intuitive as those on the Flip or Vado cameras. Also, the Zi8 tends to get noticeably hot with extended use, something I haven't experienced with other pocket camcorders.
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