A couple of years ago I wrote what turned out to be an often visited post answering the question: “which flip camera should I buy“.
Things have moved on a good bit since then (mainly that new owners Cisco decided to discontinue the flip) so I just want to update it really.
My thinking on the best kit for social reporting is very simple:
- Speed counts more than quality – so shoot in standard definition not hi definition – it uploads faster.
- Decent sound often counts for much more than decent pictures.
- If you are using a stand alone video camera simplicity matters.
- The most sensible thing to use is what you are most likely to have to hand.
So:
Buy the ZoomQ3HD – Hi Definition Nick you say? Yes – but don’t use it that way – change the video setting from high definition to standard definition. You get a good widescreen image. Prices have come down quite a bit over the last year or so – so you wont regret buying this one. It comes with great sound so also works as a fantastic audio only recorder. Do not buy the ZoomQ2HD – Why? Because it doesn’t come with a built in usb – and that means you’ll have lost the cabel just when you need it.
or
Alternatively: if you can find a standard definition Flip (ideally Mino but any) then buy it – it will probably be second hand but is small, widescreen (which tends to look the part) and very simple to use – keep it in your pocket or bag.
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Use a smartphone – currently the iphone 4 onwards does a great job, and we’ve been tinkering with the Samsung Galaxy SIII – for audio use audioboo to capture.
or
Your ipad – that can be a fab social reporting tool. But take to get good sound – you’ll will probably need to hold your ipad or phone closer than feels comfortable for decent sound.
Good luck.