Best camera for lowlight? Like weddings « Videomaker Community Forums

nobody
Member

I just started doing weddings professionally (and entered the $$$ side of the business) and realize that it is MANDATORY to get a better camera. Looking at lens, CCD, and lux ratings (subjective) what are some specific models I should look for in the $2000 range? Also, would anybody recommend e-bay for high-end camera shopping?

Posted 7 years ago #
Kingkool682
Member

the vx2000 is very good at low light situations. I'm sure many will agree. Be cautious on eBay, check their feedback reviews and make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the auctions. I usually buy everything i can on eBay and haven't had any real problems. The most expensive thing i bought was my Digital rebel for $930. Good luck!

Posted 7 years ago #
nobody
Member

Thank you for the informative reply.

Posted 7 years ago #
nobody
Member

I tried buying a sony vx2000 on ebay Nov. 2002 and was ripped off for over $2000. ebay wouldn't do squat. I bouught a vx2100 2 months ago from http://www.ibuydigital.com for $2123. It's great.

Posted 7 years ago #
compusolver
Member

I know these are old posts, but I want to add more cautions about camcorder buying -

eBay:
Do not buy a used camcorder unless you can hold it in your hand, operate it, test it and get a 90day (or more) guarantee from a reputable local shop.

There are dozens of vendors on eBay who buy dead camcorders (especially A1's, L1's & L2's etc.) and sell them for several hundred dollars claiming they are in 'excellent' condition. These people have great ratings because they sell hundreds of cheapie items to build that rating, but only one or so expensive scam items per week.

How do I know? I bought three dead camcorders in a row! Spent fifteen hundred dollars in all before I finally gave up and bought a new one.

And its no walk in the park buying a new camcorder either. Check the ads in the magazines for Panasonic C-7, for instance. You'll see prices ranging from $700 to over a thousand dollars. DO NOT BUY from companies advertising hundreds of dollars below other companies! These are ripoff outfits (yes, even the big name ones) and you'll never get that camera at that price. By the time they're done with you, you will have spent much more than the reputable places (like B&H) would have charged and you'll feel real glad you got anything at all for your money.

Check vendors out at websites like bizrate.com. Be careful!

Posted 7 years ago #
170shooter
Member

i have been shooting wedding and functions for two years now. after looking at several camera's. Sony PD170P, Panasonic AG DV30E, Canon XL2 plus a few others.

Don't be tempted yet to buy a HD camera. Why you ask ? how many of your clients have a HD tv. plus will your PC/Mac handle the higher data rate to edit successfully.

I looked at the industry itself and rang and asked what they used to shoot with. it was a toss up between the vx2100 or the pd170.

i ended up buying a pd170 because it's slightly better in the low light area and audio control is most important the XLR Connectors are better and i use a seinheiser wireless audio system . the receiver pack sits on top of the camera whilst the transmitter is on the groom. then you can switch back and forth as required.

after shooting now 2 weddings and 3 debutante balls with my camera i am in love.

170shooter

Posted 6 years ago #