We're reading a lot these days about video producers who are actually making commercially viable productions using a minicam - that pocket cam or even their video-capable cell phone. While these tools, (some call them toys), are not always suitable for the every day shooting and production crunch, they certainly are worth a look for special situations you might encounter. In most cases they're also much easier on the pocketbook.

"Commercially viable" might not be where you want to go with a Flip MinoHD or a SANYO minicam. Or any of the dozens of others on the market today. Maybe you simply want a handy, light-weight, easy-to-carry unit that you can whip out and shoot with on a moment's notice. You might be considering a few of these bad boys, budget permitting, to place around at an event - strategically positioned video backups for special POV (point of view) shots you cannot achieve otherwise if you are a lone producer. And there's always the fun, experimental and challenge elements - using your camera-equipped cellphone, pocket camera or mini for simple entertainment or to capture a moment that could otherwise be lost forever.

The list of possibilities, uses and, least we not forget - limitations is, well, limitless, but check out those included in the buyer's guide, as well as others and you might find a temptation to buy one or more for yourself and start incorporating them into your production efforts.

Pocket Cam, Who Would Want One?

Everyone it seems wants one! Those inexpensive but convenient and intriguing high definition (HD) shooters are virtually point-and-shoot in their ease of operation. While the results might not be on a par with your standard-size unit and while most are severely, perhaps only mildly, lacking in the controls you're used to, they can still get the job done. They offer both of what I call the "F" factors - fun and frustration.

A Webbie (Sony) or Zi8 (Kodak) or even Memorex's MyVideo, all of these at or under $200, will bring something to your production table. Problems might run from overall graininess to no mic input, lack of controls to the extent they are only point-and-shoot recorders. But the beauty of it all is that the video producer or hobbyist who wants to incorporate extra angles into her production can now do so. And with today's editing programs matching color isn't the problem it once could be - great or poor auto white balance notwithstanding.

"Pocket cam" says it all because most of this category fits nicely in a shirt or pants pocket, fanny pack or handbag. You see something you want to capture, whip it out, turn it on and start shooting in an instant, knowing you're likely going to get something usable if not memorable.

I've mentioned the MinoHD but that's only one of many to pick from, each with it's own appealing features or deal-breaking faults. Maybe you want something from Kodak, SANYO or Sony - not to worry. Most of your favorite manufacturers are riding this product train. But it just might be that you want something a bit more substantial, yet still under $400 or so, and with a few extra features a pocket-sized camcorder doesn't offer.

Pocket Cam, Minicam - What's the Dif?

Not much really. In fact if you do a search on Google for either one you will usually and often wind up with the same information, models and references. But, just for the sake of argument, let's say the minicam selections, and there aren't that many under $400, usually have a bit more of the classic camcorder shape to them - something more than a small, square plastic case.

The range of image and audio quality falls lower than the pocket models while some can actually be better, maybe. Whatever the case you might be more comfortable with a palm-friendly shape that comes closer to what you are used to shooting with. You might want one or more for the same reasons others want a pocket model but prefer something that looks and feels more like what you are used to.

Among models such as the YoutTube-friendly Ordro HDV-V16 or the Cansonic FHD-10AF you get a fold-out LCD screen for starters. You might get a decent digital zoom but keep in mind that the small form factor of these cameras is not conducive to steady hand-held shots so beware when using them any differently than a point-and-shoot model, especially zooming on the fly. Forget it.

The DigiLife HDV-H20 looks and feels more like a conventional handicam or palmcorder unit. If you shop around you'll find that it rings the register for under $200. A steal? Maybe not. Each and every camera in these categories has some degree of usefulness. Be aware that there are differing opinions however and that some purists would say a few exist that belong in the trash bin.

Nonetheless you'll find that some of these offer white balancing or at least a range of filters for sun, overcast, Fluorescent and/or indoor lighting. Many provide decent-sized LCD monitors and a few offer a selection of audio/video outputs, if not audio input. Peruse the features and focus on what's missing that you might want, but keep in mind also that most, if not all, the sensors in these units are CMOS and some are quite tiny, so even with HD capabilities you might not get much of an image.

It is worth repeating that a careful consideration of the available and missing features, as well as image quality and costs, sensor size and your particular needs or designs for investing in one or more of the pocket or minicam units will help reduce the frustration levels when trying to apply them in your production routine.