You may just want a simple, point-and-shoot video camera, but there are some consumer camcorder features that will greatly increase the quality of your video footage. Look for these features on any consumer camcorder you consider buying.
1. Image Stabilization
Automatic image stabilization greatly increases the quality of your video by eliminating the shakiness that comes from handheld camcorder work. This feature is available on most consumer camcorders.
2. Zoom
Check out the zooming ability of any consumer camcorder you consider buying. Unfortunately, you can't always get as close to the action as you want and a powerful zoom can help in those situations.
3. Photos
A video camera that can take still photos is very handy, and it means you only need to carry around one piece of equipment. Look at the resolution and quality of the still photos. If the camcorder has a built in photo flash, that's an added bonus.
4. Web Cam
A web cam is great for video conferencing, video blogging or for sharing your videos over the web. Many consumer camcorders include a web cam function, so you can easily record web-ready video.
5. A Touch of Professionalism
You may not need them now, but after developing your videography hobby you might desire some professional video camera features. Some professional features like manual focus and manual iris are available on consumer camcorders. You may not use them right away, but if you decide you want them later on it's nice to have them available.
