Hi there,

I'm looking for a few good recommendations for a small video camera incl. water proof housing ideal for recording kite action.

Recommendations I have received so far have led me to have a strong preference for the Sony HDRHC3 ULTRA COMPACT HDV 1080i (High Definition), but I would be interested in other opinions (especially from those that have been using video cameras professionally or semi-professionally in conjunction with action sports).

See pics if interested:
www.seabreeze.com.au/gallery/gallery.asp?imageid=2017
www.seabreeze.com.au/gallery/gallery.asp?imageid=2018

Many thanks,

Moritz

I think I've allready replied to this before, but the hc3 will give you an extremely clear picture, it also has 240 frames per second slow motion action recording ie 1/10-th speed recording so it isnot blurred on playback , its clear and going 1/10th the speed.. i was going to get either the hc90 or hc96 before i decided the hc3 was going to probably last longer ( aside from being a better camera) given eventually every1 will be on high definition tv's.

I know some people that are making a doco for the ABC and they use the old hc3 ( hc1) as their mobile camera when they can't fit their big one in certain places.

I second the HC3.

I used an HC1 on a shoot in Hawaii and its picture was fantastic!

Its footage was better than some 3 chip cameras costing twice the price. The native 16:9 chip means that you are filming in true widescreen - the 4:3 square is dead! 16:9 is the only way to go these days!

Wait till you see the video from these cams on a 16:9 flatscreen HD TV - you will freak!

The hc3 is its replacement - i liked the HC1 so much i bought an hc 3 as soon as i got back to oz because it is exaclty the same camera as far as optics and image go.

Get an HC1 if you can because:

The viewfinder on the HC3 sucks - which is very important when using a tripod.

The HC1 has an easier mic in option for situations such as filming interviews in the breeze where a mic really is required.

The HC1 has some extended firmware options - but these are minor.

For the money the picture on the HC1 / 3 is INCREDIBLE value for money.

GET A TRIPOD!
ps - how much for and where was that sony water housing available from.

Thanks for the replies.

The waterproof housing costs around AU$380 (that's a discounted price). I found it in several shops here in Sydney.

Keep in mind that it only allows you to go 5m/17ft deep. But that's more than enough for kiting (and it's a great protection when the camera is on the beach or when you're filming close to the ocean spray).

Moritz

yep the Sony HDRHC3 is awesome, i've been looking at getting a camera and have researched for a few weeks, they other camera i like is the jvc mg505, its a harddrive model, 3ccd, basically i like it for the harddrive and it takes decent stills, its release in Aus soon so we'll have to see how it performs.

Another one to check out is the panasonic gs500, panasonic is normally has great stabilisation, its 3ccd and has 12x optical zoom. Personally i think i'll be getting a sony hc3, but they'd all be sweet cameras. hope this helps.

Gidday Moritz,

If your thinking of buying the HC3, check this forum link for info and research. Some great HD photo's of the Sony SPK HCB case mentioned.

www.friendsofhdvideo.com/about/sonyhdvinfo-com/?f=26

OR, for an Aust forum:

www.videocamera.com.au/bbs/index.php?sid=f78b4e2091fc97c3472aaf31589983fd




Steve

I take it, you're our official film maker for August Steve.

So how deep can you snorkel?

I take it, you're our official film maker for August Steve.

Hmmmm, "official film maker", that title implies I know what I'm doing, if I film like I kite, where doomed.

So how deep can you snorkel?

From what I've heard about Karva, "depth", will not be a problem, returning to the surface, may'be.

Thanks for all the good advice and reviews.

Moritz