What's a good video camera?
 

For regular everyday use and less than $500. Should I go mini-dv, hard drive, something else?

http://www.red.com/

Not less than $500 ;) but check it out anyway :)

Less than $500? Don't waste your money, save up for something more expensive.

yes check it out

What do you recommend?

Sony has a consumer HDV line. I've seen some of the earliest models for sale on eBay and a few other shops for $699 and up.

I have one and love it.

first question what do you need it for?

I would not video my dog with a camera that cost less than $500

Recording DBS.US's dog. :upsidedow

Just home movie stuff... birthday parties, get togethers, etc. Never had a video camera before so not sure what to look for. I'm not against spending more than 500 for a decent camcorder, just don't need anything fancy either. Actually, I do need some image stabilization.

You can get away with a AVCHD or HDV camera like a Sony consumer or prosumer camera for as little as around $1000 that takes good video even good enough to produce porn. The more important question is what a good lighting kit? If you are doing production you should probably spend double or triple the cost of the camera on lights. I recommend Kino Flos, like the four foot four-banks that I use for production.

You can get a AVCHD Panasonic that records HD on SD cards for around $500. Will be more then fine for everyday use. Holds up well with heavy usage also.

here you go http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-PV-G...38273& sr=8-1

He is shooting home movies.