December 2009 Table of Contents

Its almost time to start your Christmas shopping, and the December issue is here to help. If you're thinking about upgrading your camcorder for the holidays, this advance issue is here just in time! Be sure to check out Videomaker's Annual 2009 Camcorder Buyers Guide for the latest on camcorder models, features and prices. We've also included a 35mm Adapter Buyer's Guide, for those of you looking to mimic that film look on your digital camcorders. Be sure to check out this month's What's Legal column in which we discuss how to avoid the fines and penalties that accompany copyright infringement on YouTube.

Feature Stories

35mm Adapter Buyer's Guide

In 35mm adapters the ground glass often moves in order to simulate a film grain look and to minimize the presence of the ground glass texture in your image.

Videomaker's Annual 2009 Camcorders Buyer's Guide

When shopping for cameras, you can expect to find prices that start as low as $50 and skyrocket to the "if you have to ask" range.

How the CMOS or CCD Sensor In Your Camera Sees The Light.

Whether it's a CMOS camcorder or a pro unit with a 3CCD sensor these chips do a whole lot of work that used to be done by many mechanical parts.

Reviews

Holophone PortaMic 5.1 Surround Microphone Reviewed

One of the easiest ways to get 5.1-channel audio into your workflow, even if your camcorder only handles stereo audio.

Apple Final Cut Studio Review

Final Cut Studio can play well with the average editor and the high-end professional, making it a great choice for just about anyone who wants to create great video presentations.

Media 100 Suite Video Editing Software Reviewed

Now as a software-only application, Media 100 has some powerful tools that definitely make it worth a closer look.

Avid Media Composer 3.5 Reviewed

Avid breaks out with a solid release that adds many refined features to an already impressive editing palette.

Samsung SMX-C14 Flash/SD Card Camcorder Reviewed

A good, user-friendly camera, but it falls short in settings and quality.

BenQ Joybee GP1 Pico Projector

The BenQ Joybee GP1 Mini Projector is an easy to use projector with fast setup times, making it perfect for bringing it to a friend's house and enjoying a big screen an any spare wall.

Columns

Mini Camcorders Vs Professional Size Camcorders

Camcorders have always been getting smaller. The first consumer-level equipment that was used to record video was too big. The first video cameras did not have the ability to record.

How To Video Record Live Events

From taping little Jenny's Holiday Pageant, or the big annual production at your church, live video recording of events is plentiful. Here's how to capture it all.

Lighting Interviews

A basic 3 point lighting setup is good place to start when lighting one person, here are some tips on lighting interviews using 3 point to include the 2nd person.

What's Legal
YouTube: Fair Use Vs Copyright Laws

The most common YouTube Video copyright infringement involves using songs in without permission of the copyright holder that cannot be claimed as "Fair Use".

Pain Free Video Editing

Even the best of us run into dilemmas when we edit videos. These getting started tips will make sure your entry to video editing is as smooth as possible.

Audio For Video: How To Mix Stereo

How to mix in extra sounds in your videos. Audio for video isn't just dialog and music. Sometimes we enhance the production with sound effects and other noises.

Departments

In Box

Comments and links to recent Videomaker Magazine Articles written to help people create better video.

Latest Videos

Best Practices for Using a Tripod to Stabilize your Shots.

How to set-up a tripod to capture professional level video. Learn the step-by-step process for setting up and stabilizing your tripod.

Lighting for Video
How to use indoor lights, natural light, and camera controls to create the best lighting for video production.
Audio for Video
How to capture Audio when shooting video. How to select the best microphone and location for the best audio and solve common problems videographers encounter wh …
Hand Held Video Camera Shooting Tips
This video shows you how to create better, more professional looking video by taking a closer look at hand held video camera shooting. Learn how to get effecti …

Video Forums

Camcorder Help - ASAP!!
Nov 7
Video Software questions
Nov 7
Cannot transfer video to my PC
Nov 7
JVC Customer Support is Joke !
Nov 7
Short Video
Nov 7
3 hrs to render a 20 min.
Nov 7
Another Newbie Begging for Critique
Nov 7
what camcorder type do i need?
Nov 6
Help with video quality!!!!!
Nov 6
Mp3 Audio Dropping Out in Premiere CS4
Nov 6

Video News Blog

Connect with Videomaker

Videomaker on Facebook

Videomaker eNews

Videomaker eNews contains industry news and informative articles about video-related products, tips & techniques, special offers, events information and exclusive discounts. And now, when you sign up to receive any Videomaker eNews, you'll get a free Videographer's essential tip sheet and checklist loaded with the essential things you need to remember before you begin shooting your next video production