Camcorders: Catching The Latest Action
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The video camera has come a long way from the shoulder-bruising behemoths that only parents with small children could love. Today's diminutive models are lightweight gizmos whose features are improving faster than any product since the desktop computer. TV news crews are even using the same models consumers buy.
The key to camcorder shopping is deciding which features are important to you and how much you want to spend. Be aware that list prices never apply: If the camera isn't already on sale, you can usually negotiate with the dealer. The weekend videographer can find a good, older-model camera for $500 and a superb compact for $800. The most advanced gadgetry will run around $1,500.