There are several different types of storage for today’s video cameras, including Digital8 tapes, MiniDV tapes, mini-DVD, and
hard disk storage.
Of the two tapes, MiniDV are the most popular, and Digital8 are getting harder to find (usually in budget cameras). Both record DV onto removable tapes, so when you fill up one, you simply pop in another. After you’ve transferred the material from a tape, you can record over it or simply store it for your records. MiniDV’s versatility and low cost have made it the best seller, although hard disk cameras will overtake it.
Mini-DVD cameras record directly onto a blank DVD, so you can pop the disc into your DVD player when you’re done and view the results. They’re popular choices with people who don’t want to bother with editing, and are instead looking for a way to enjoy their movies immediately. If you do want to edit your work, transferring footage from the DVD can be tricky and less easy than with the other options. But if editing never crossed your mind, then mini-DVD is a good way to go.
Hard disk cameras store footage directly on an internal hard disk drive, just as a computer does. The amount of footage you can shoot at one time is bound only by the storage capacity, so you’d better choose one with a lot of space. You won’t have the option of replacing the hard disk with a new one and continuing to shoot; instead, you’ll have to transfer your footage to your computer before you can clear the memory and start shooting again. While it does have limitation,
hard disk cameras offer flexible viewing controls, so you can see exactly the clip you want without rewinding and fast forwarding (as with tape cameras). And if you do rewind to see a section, you don’t need to bother fast forwarding to the end, so you avoid taping over a section.
Hard disk cameras also spare you the expense of buying new tapes. They’re newer and cost a bit more, but offer strong storage and viewing options.
Troy Dreier
is a freelance tech writer based in the New York City area.
