what’s the difference between a picture camera that takes video and a video camera that takes pictures?
I’ve noticed that they sell cameras now that are the slim picture cameras that have high megapixel resolution, and shoot full HD video. So now what’s the difference between a 200-300$ camera that shoots 12.1 megapixel photos, and 1080HD videos, vs a 1300$ camcorder that shoots full HD video, and 12.1 megapixel photos. I already am aware of HDD size, zoom, aperature, and the possible surround sound, but those don’t seem like that it would make a camera cost almost 1,000 dollars more… >.> Reason why I’m asking? I have a Sony HDR-XR500v, and now I’m seeing pocket cameras that shoot full HD videos. 
full HD is just a market slogan used to make really crappy cameras sound better. HD does not equal High Quality.
your camcorder can do things that the picture cameras with movie mode can’t. first and formost it has a lens that can zoom while shooting. next it has an autofocus and auto iris that can adjust on the fly as you are shooting. even if the still photo camera could zoom while shooting, it would just go to blur as the focus cannot track while shooting. On an expensive SLR type camera, the zoom can be adjusted and the picture will still stay focussed, this is not true of the cheapest P/S cameras, they must re-focus every time the zoom position is changed. Also without an HDD, the cheaper cameras are limited to memory cards. This means they have to use higher compression to get the datarate down to 8 mbps which is the max for most cards. Your HDD can work at 18 mbps, the lower compression yields better results. And audio is a big deal for many video enthusiast, your camera has external mic inputs and works in stereo.
bottom line is this, the extra $1000 dollars is mostly for the superior lens system and the HDD. i would gladly trade you a new flip camera for your Sony.
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RCA EZ205 Small Wonder Digital Camcorder with 2 Hour Recording and 1GB Included Memory $99.99 1.5″ flip-out LCD display / 1GB Card included / Uses 2 AA Batteries / Still Photo Capture / YouTube upload / Memory Manager Software / USB / White… |
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Lowepro Edit 120+ Camcorder Bag $39.99 The feature-rich Edit 120+ bag boasts a compact design that still includes lots of pockets, padded interior with soft lining and adjustable divider to cradle your equipment. Comfort-grip handle, removable shoulder strap, and belt loop make it a breeze to carry. The 120+ also includes a detachable SlipLock compartment that is perfect for storing a battery charger (or other stay-at-home accessories)… |
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Cocoon CPG5BK GRID-IT Organizer, 10.25 x 5.125 Inch, Black $6.40 The ultimate organizer! The GRID-IT system provides endless configurations for your digital devices and personal effects. Conveniently sized for your current laptop bag or travel case, you will save time on the go by easily finding what you need…. |
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3M MP225 Mobile Projector $269.99 For big screen viewing of content on Apple devices – iPad, iPod Touch, iPhone, MacBook – through video out port. Use with PCs, Camcorders, Cameras and Gaming Systems too! The 3MTM Mobile Projector allows big screen viewing of your content from Apple® devices through the 3MTM Video Cable (included). Or pair it with a 3MTM VGA Cable (sold separately) and it does the same thing from your laptop. Pro… |
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Optoma EP-PK-101 Pico Pocket Projector $120.45 The versatile Optoma EP-PK-101 PICO projector is the smallest projector you have ever seen! Its compact size and durability make it a must have for travel and on-the-spot presentations. Small enough to fit in your pocket, bright enough to spark your imagination. Optoma PK-101 with iPod Connection Kit Connects to: |
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Kodak EASYSHARE M530 12.0 MP Digital Camera – Carbon $35.00 |
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NEW 3.5 Inch LCD TFT Monitor for Car Backup camera $0.99 |
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Olympus CAMEDIA D 560 Zoom 3.2 MP Digital Camera – Silver $7.99 |
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TELEPHOTO & WIDE ANGLE FOR CANON DIGITAL CAMERA SLR $33.24 |
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Camera Case for Sony Alpha DSLR LCS-SC5 SLR A450, A380, A330, A290, A230 #3043 $9.99 |
