Camcorder for some short recordings.

Avenged7Fold · 14 Feb 2014 at 19:06

I am planning to do record my PC modding and watercooling to add to my project log after it is polished up a bit. Problem is, i dont have anything to record it with!

I ideally want to record in 720p+ at a smooth framerate. Ideally one with decent auto focus too, as i am a complete amateur. I will also need something to directly connect connect the cam to the PC while i am recording to save the video files as it is recording.

Budget for the cam is undecided but i don't really want to spend more than the £100 mark second hand. Can go higher if the budget doesnt cut it (have no idea on cams and their prices)

So if you guys can shoot a spec or some advice i would appreciate it!

asim18 · 14 Feb 2014 at 19:51

Good lighting should should also be a top priority, a lot of people forget that. Scrounge together two or three old bulb-holders or lamps and fit them with matching bulbs. Then make sure you use manual white balance on whichever camera you buy.

Avenged7Fold · 14 Feb 2014 at 21:25

The room is my cinema room, which has wine red walls and ceiling and 5 moveable/dimmable spotlights. If i don't get decent lighting, will definitely buy up some more bulbs/lamps.

spoffle · 14 Feb 2014 at 21:28

Do you not have a smart phone? A lot of smart phones from the last few years should have sensors good enough for you to have a decent go at it in 720/1080P as long as you have adequate light levels.

Avenged7Fold · 15 Feb 2014 at 03:48

I have a smart phone but dont think they record at a quality which is of a quality deemed 'comfortable' to watch.

The idea is to record the makings of and end result of my PC and watercooling builds. While my phone may record at 720p, i do not believe the picture quality is acceptable to make my builds look nice.