With that in mind, we present the following indispensable guide to the lexicon of the camcorder. This information will help demystify the many features available, thus helping you make a more informed purchase decision.



8MM – Smaller than most video formats, 8MM tape offers better quality than VHS recording, but not as good as digital formats.

Auto Focus - A feature that allows you to point at an object and have the camera automatically adjust to provide the clearest image of that target.

Backlight Control – A setting that increases aperture when there is a strong light source behind the subject – thus insuring that they will not be underexposed.

Compact VHS – Smaller than standard VHS, this format is not used much these days. The resolution of a Compact VHS tape is the same as a standard VHS.

Digital 8 – A higher resolution format that uses digital technology. Features resolution 20% higher than high-8 or VHS-C formats.

DVD Camcorder – This unique technology allows the user to shoot digital moving images which can then be burned on to a DVD that is already in the camera. The resulting DVD can be taken directly to a PC for editing or DVD player for viewing.

LUX Scale – Measures the amount of illumination in a specific area. An outdoor shot on a sunny day will be around 10,000 LUX, while an indoor shot will be between 1,000 and 2,000 LUX depending upon the amount of white light in the room.

MiniDV - This digital format offers outstanding audio and video quality. Tapes are small and can be played back using the camcorder and simple AV cables.

Night Shot – A new technology new to consumer camcorders that allows the individual to shoot images without any available light source. The image generated will have a green, “military” tint to it when viewed.

Photo Mode – Many digital camcorders allow you to use the device as a still camera. Photo Mode is the selection on the camcorder that switches over to this feature.

Picture Noise – Low image quality or grainy footage as a result of poor lighting.

Refurbished – Some camcorders purchased online are refurbished. This refers to the process of reselling a used camcorder with replacement parts inside. Most refurbished electronics work like new, but may not be covered under manufacturer's warranty.

VHS – The oldest camcorder type currently in use. Large VHS tapes were once the industry standard and can be taken directly from the camcorder and played in a standard VHS video tape player.

Wipe – A transition in which one image is moved off of the screen and replaced by another. Used in editing to create a more professional look for the finished movie.

Zoom – The ability of the camcorder to create the illusion of bringing the subject closer or further away from the camera. More advanced camcorders have more powerful zoom capability.