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If you wanted to, you could upgrade to HDV production for under $5K

The following three items will allow you to shoot & edit HDV (the in-between format between SD MiniDV & full HD that requires expensive P2 cards):

Canon XH-A1 HDV Camcorder: $2999

2GHz Mac mini w/ SuperDrive: $799

Final Cut Express 4 - $199

Total: $3997 (not counting tax, perhaps shipping, etc.)

On top of those 3 items you'll still need the usual production & post-production related accessories (lights, mics, keyboard + monitor for the Mac mini, Firewire cables, perhaps extra storage for video, etc.), which you probably already have if you are already shooting & editing DV.

Or, for a small project that may be shot in a couple of days, you could also rent the camera for far less than it would cost to buy one.

For indie art/entertainment projects it is possible to shoot great images (if you are careful, will take your time, are an experienced shooter) even on a 1 CCD MiniDV camera. But, for event videography & other work-for-hire gigs, having an HDV set up might be useful/may provide a competitive edge. Also, on HD monitors, HDV images - if lit well, famed well, w/ good camera movement - may look better than video shot using standard definition DV gear.

If you've got any thoughts about shooting SD MiniDV vs. shooting HDV, share with us in Comments.

- Sujewa

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