noobcruiser Posted February 24, 2009 #1 Share Posted February 24, 2009 Here's the background info: we are cruising Alaska in May and realize that some of the landscape\wildlife shots may require a stronger zoom than our current canon digital camera. So, rather than invest in a new camera, simply for the zoom, I was thinking of going the camcorder route. We have never had one before, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to make the investment. So, has anyone used one of these newer compact digital camcorders that boast a 30x optical zoom (or higher) during their cruise? Any positives or negatives to speak of? If anyone has any insights, I would appreciate your viewpoints. Thanks! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maxax Posted February 25, 2009 #2 Share Posted February 25, 2009 I have to admit...that I have not shopped camcorders in a couple of years...but when we did get one two years ago...we bought one of the VERY top rated!!! It will take still pictures...and does have a pretty good zoom...but the resolution...is no where near...what our mid-priced....Canon will do. And back when I was really looking at camcorders...that was the big difference. The stills the camcorders could take were just not on the same level...any where CLOSE to the same level as what a regular digital camera could do. Anyhow...just be sure to check info like that! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
noobcruiser Posted February 25, 2009 Author #3 Share Posted February 25, 2009 I have noticed that, the best resolution I could find in my price range was 1152x864. Have you been happy with the videos? Have you used it for any large-scale natural landscapes (Alaska, Grand Canyon, Sedona, etc...)? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
compulady Posted February 26, 2009 #4 Share Posted February 26, 2009 I would rather have a good still camera that shot video than visa versa. Canon has the Powershot SX1 IX that shoots HD video and 10 megapixel stills it has a 20X (28 mm-280 mm 35 mm equivalent) optical zoom too and it was just updated to shoot RAW. http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=144&modelid=18301 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
noobcruiser Posted February 26, 2009 Author #5 Share Posted February 26, 2009 Compulady, I think that was the same conclusion I arrived at last night. I am going to start reviewing all of the threads for digital cameras now. Thanks for everyone's input! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maxax Posted March 1, 2009 #6 Share Posted March 1, 2009 I've been very happy with the video quality of my Panasonic...its a 3CCD system...which really helps the color and quality. However, again...its a video camera....I actually carry three cameras with me on a cruise....the Panasonic Camcorder, and Two Canon Digitals....one bigger than the other....the small Canon...I take with me on the islands....for excursions etc. Its really not that old of a camera...and works great...but it did actually get shut in a car door once....and its got a little damage....(but still works great)...nonetheless....if say I were to lose it....in some crazy tropical port.....well.....Oh, Well!!! But so yes, I lug around 3 cameras....and its NOT that big of a hassle...in fact, I see it as no hassle at all! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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