I have seen filmmakers driven to near insanity trying to decide which camera to go with. As if the fate of the world depended on this decision.

The affordable, digital equipment available to the public today blows me away! I am equally surprised at the picture quality that professional, high definition, digital cameras can produce. But let's face it, we knew this was coming.

There are many magazines and web sites that cover the details on specific digital cameras and their functions. Although I recommend shooting in a hi-def format. It's your choice. Canon, Panasonic, JVC and Sony all make great High-Definition, digital cameras for less than a cheap used car. All have been used on features you can rent at your local video store.

Renting your camera may be a wise way to go, but if you’re out to buy, these are my fav’s, for under four grand...

CANON
*XH-A1

PANASONIC
* AG-DVX100B (does not shoot HDV, but looks great)

JVC
*GY-HD110U

SONY
* HVR-Z1U

I’d go with the Canon “HV30” if you’re not able to go over $1000, and the Panasonic “AG-HVX200” if you can spend upwards of $6,000 for the camera and proprietary P2 cards.

I’ve seen all of these cameras in action, and they all look great. They each have their pro and cons, so do the research. Make the final decision based on your own personal needs and affordability.

If you’re not doing the shooting yourself, make sure you have a knowledgeable DP (Director of Photography) who is familiar with the camera you’re shooting with. It’ll save you a world of heartache.

Ultimately, the camera is just an eye; it's up to the filmmaker to control what we see. Remember, it's not the pencil, but what you write with it, that counts!