About to buy my HV20.

[TomK]

Hi, everyone. First time posting here. I've just recently decided to purchase the HV20 for myself. I've used Canon before for still cameras, I had a Rebel and I currently still have a Powershot SD600, but this is my first dive into Canon Camcorders.

Originally I was going to get the Xl2 -- but then I realized as much of an amateur filmmaker as I am, I'd only get frustrated with it, so I decided on the cheaper camera with the HD and 24p, anyway. :hv20-smilie81:

I started out with a Webcam and a Laptop. Moved up to my dad's handmedown Sharp Hi-8 camera.

Then I bought a Sony handycam TRv-280 used about a year ago.

Now I'm finally buying something new -- and fresh out fo the box, and I'm psyched.

Is there anything I should really keep an eye out for as far as add-ons go? I've heard a few things about bad audio pickup on the HV20, so I was thinking microphones?

Hope I get to post some footage within the next few weeks!

Peace Out. TomK. :hv20-smilie09:

[Worley]

The accessories you buy will depend upon what sort of filming you do with the camera, but I would highly recommend a spare battery, a good quality case, an external mic (something like the Rode VideoMic - check out the Sounds section), and some filters (UV, Polarising, etc). If you buy filters, then you'll need a lens cap, too.

Canon makes great cameras :hv20-smilie70:

[Dodgy Nick]

Hi, everyone. First time posting here.

Welcome TomK!



Is there anything I should really keep an eye out for as far as add-ons go?

I just want to re-iterate what Worley suggested, a Rode Videomic would be a sound investement, and some filters won't break the bank (hopefully), and a spare battery is a must.

BUT

The highest priority for quality footage (for me at least) is to get a decent tripod, and secondly, to get a wide angle lens. I would get the microphone before the wide-angle if I were you and you had to prioritise.

my 2c/p (delete as appropriate)

Happy shooting! :hv20-smilie77:

[Worley]

Yes, a tripod. How silly of me to forget. I have a Velbon D-600. Can go low or high, depending on needs, and very nice fluid motion.

Got mine from eBay.

[veg]

What head have you got on that tripod Worley?