Is the Canon HV10 Good for a First Short Film?

[Dachoice]

Hey Everyone,

I'm brand new to the forum and relatively new to the filmmaking process. My friends and I are determined to make a short film this summer and have already begun preproduction. I already have an iMac for editing so I have that part covered as well as sets being built, a script and so on and so forth. What I am really stuck on is a camera. I went to my local Camera experts and asked the guy at the camcorder department what would be good for someone like me who only has about 1000 dollars to spend on a camera. He recommended the Canon HV10 which shoots in HD. I have read very good reviews about it although most haven't mentioned about shooting actual independent films. The camera also gets low marks for its poor sound quality. I was wondering if anyone has experience with this camera or can recommend a camera to someone in my position? Thanks.

 

[Lazlo]

All consumer/prosumer (and even pro) cameras will have poor in camera sound quality. For good sound you need a mic. And well... A lot more...

In terms of image, I've heard of this camera. My only recommendation, is to try it out BEFORE buying it. You want to know for sure that it's what you're looking for. Specifically, I would check for manual features (i.e. focus, exposure, gain, shutter speed). These are all crucial in getting the image you want, and also crucial if you don't want to outgrow the camera extremely quickly. Maybe look into renting? I know it's nice to own stuff, but I've really come to appreciate renting more than ever.