Re: Just Setting Up

Jody -
my response is very different from everyone else on this list. There is no "best" camera for under $2000. From your description, you have never done this before, and are completely new - yet you are trying to start your own video production company.

This is my advice to you. GET A JOB. Go to work for a local TV station, or production company - even if it's for free as an intern. Learn how to use some of this equipment. Learn what lighting means, learn what editing means. I don't give a crap if you just got out of XYZ Film school - all this means nothing, your student film is not a replacment for real life experience. You dont want to learn and embarass yourself in front of potential new clients that may (or may not) give you a chance. Get a job, learn some of these skills. See what a real video camera does. See what a real editing system does. See what it takes to actually run a small business.

THEN, you can think about buying some equipment. It will make a lot more sense, when you have some potential clients. You may find that if you can't afford real equipment, but have the drive and ambition to get these clients right now, you will find plenty of people that are struggling that will let you hire them (and their equipment) to do your production and editing jobs. When you accomplish this (without equipment) - this means that you are a PRODUCER. You may find this more profitable in the long run anyway.

Bob Zelin