The camera I decided on is the Sony DCR-TRV22
which I found for
$498.06 online.
Overall low light performance of Sony DCR-TRV22 is very good - it outperforms all similar Canon models and better than many higher end Sony models like the TRV33 and up because of a bigger CCD in this model.
Recording racing action at night is one of the most important features I was looking for, and the TRV22 seems to be far better than most other cameras, including many of Sony's more expensive models. The TRV22 also has a wider viewing angle than many comparably priced models which should help get more of the car in the picture.
When I went looking for a camera for racing use I had several features that I wanted based on shortcomings of previous camcorders that I have used. The features I was looking for were:
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Easy to connect to a computer
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Motion Stabilization
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Great low light capability - quite often we are racing at night, it's no use shooting something that we won't be able to see on playback.
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Capable of mounting inside the car (lightweight)
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Remote control (great for starting the camera in the car before staging and can't reach the camera)
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Analog inputs to hook up to remote cameras.
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The ability to shoot digital still shots so I can also use it as a camera
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Removable smart media card for pictures
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Size isn't really an issue. I'm not concerned about putting this thing in my pocket. I'd rather have it easy to use than fighting buttons that are hard to push or use.
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$500 or less price
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Handy to use for other things, like taking pictures of the family and friends.
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From what I could tell after spending hours reading product reviews, the MiniDV format is most likely the best fit for what was looking for based on my above feature list. I didn't want the MicroDV format because it's only been out a while, getting tapes might be hard and there are limitations on software for the computer. I spent about 5 hours reading about all the different cameras, and it really boiled down to Sony being the leader in low light conditions for a camera in this price range which also had the all the features I was wanting.
If you want to research other cameras - here is a list of them that have the ability to record from a remote source, like a bullet camera mounted under your car. The following is a short list of the better Mini DV models that have Audio/Video Input capabilities.
- Sony DCR-HC32
- Sony DCR-HC42
- Sony DCR-TRV22
- Canon ZR100
- Canon Elura 50
- Canon ZR40
- Canon ZR45
- Canon ZR50
In addition to the camera, while you're at it you'll probably want at least one extra battery, a Firewire cable (better and faster transfer from the camera to your computer) and of course plenty of video tapes.
Here's an example of the TRV22 recording at night.
This is Chris Derrick, aka "The Duck" with a giant wheelstand at Tulsa Raceway Park at night taken with my TRV22.
Note: this video has been compressed to download quicker, actual video quality like you would see on your TV is even better.
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Using Video to Help Diagnose your Launch
