Stunning Camera

I recently purchased the Sony DSR-PD170 Digital Camcorder for use in my business of videotaping weddings. I researched the camera on the internet before I purchased it and was pleased to find an abundance of information on Sony's Website. In fact, they had an online brochure that outline all the features this powerful camera has to offer. For example, the camera gives you the ability for total control. You can adjust the white balance, iris, shutter speed, and gain (there are also automatic controls if the manual ones intimidate you). It also comes with a wide angle lens (if you get the package) that allows you to capture more of the action. There is a shotgun mic that can be mounted on the front end of the camera and there are independent controls for each channel. There is also an additional XLR jack so you can add another microphone if necessary. I really like that all these controls, as complicated as they may sound, are right at your fingertips with shortcut buttons, so they are easy to find as you are recording. The camera gives you the option to shoot in two modes, DVCAM or Mini DV. Tapes for mini DV are alot cheaper and the picture quality with this camera is excellent with mini dv. DVCAM is a professional format. The tapes are a bit more expensive but the picture quaility is superb. I reccommend if you are a consumer, not using this camera for short films or other types of project where quality is an issue, use mini dv.

When I recieved my camera in the mail I opened it up and it didn't come with the microphone and wide angle lens attached to the camera. However, the instructions are very easy to follow and the all you have to do is simply screw the pieces together. The following weekend I had a wedding to videotape and I thought I would give the new camera a shot. I found it very easy to go through the menus and adjust the settings to where they needed to be. I was verry happy with the color side screen and was blown away with the sharp, vibrant picture quality. I also used the still picture function in conjunction with the Memory Stick and came to find that the picture that I shot are comprarable to those shot on a high end digital camera.

I really enjoy using this camera. It is lightweight and can be easily carried for short periods of time. After a while it begins to get heavy because there is no way to use your shoulder as a brace. Therefore, I recommend purchasing a tripod with the camera. This will also keep your shots from being shaky. Every other aspect of this camera is perfect and I reccommend it for anyone, consumer or professional. This camera will capture your memories in crystal clear pictures with the most vibrant color I have seen aside from professional news cameras. Go get your today!