Re: Which 16:9 cameras for Adventure Film making (Kayaking)?

I went through the same thought process a few months ago, although my video interest is underwater (scuba). It looks like you're interested in the single imaging chip variety. One shortcoming of the HC3 is that it does not have an external microphone jack. Another consideration is that most of these new HD cameras are coming out in AVCHD format, rather than HDV. I ended up buying a used (discontinued) HC1 (which was more expensive than a new HC3) because I needed the external microphone jack and I wanted to stay in HDV. Sony is coming out with several new HD cameras this Spring, all in the price range of the HC3 or SR1. As for combining the various formats, I think most decent non-linear editors now will adjust for the different formats in one production. I combine both 720p30 and 1080i60 HDV formats on one track and the results are fine. By the way, I am working with a local kayak/canoe club to put together a video for them, part of which will be underwater views of proper roll techniques.

Good luck!

Max

Max Headspace