Would camcorder be a better choice than a Superzoom?

Question

A friend told me that since I could not decide whether to choose a superzoom or a DSLR, might as well choose a camcorder. He also mention that modern camcorder have nice feature and fit in just between a superzoom and a DSLR.

So, I would like to ask the community experts in photography whether a camcorder is really that good in terms of quality of image/video, good or even good zooming capabilities and also produce good video/image at night.

(Would appreciate if expert can recommend some of the camcorder that is really "must-have")

Thank you.

Asked by Jack

Answer

A camcorder does not "fit between super zoom and DSLR" - a camcorder is a device to make home videos that can also take low quality photos.

A camcorder is better designed to shoot video than any still camera (easier to hold and use) but they usually have crappy optics (because video is low res anyway) and are generally bad at taking photos.

Also a camcorder does not shoot pro level video, pro video gear is expensive (so expensive it makes top of the line DSLR look cheap).

If you want a device that shoot both photos and videos and fits in your pocket get a point and shoot.

If you want image quality and control get a DSLR.

If you want something in the middle you can get a mirror less interchangeable lens camera.

If all you want is low quality video than a camcorder is just for you.

obviously I'm talking about consumer level camcorders here (point and shoot price range) , I don't think anyone will call a pro video camera a "camcorder"

Answered by Nir

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