Welcome to filmmaking.net. Check out these threads:
http://www.filmmaking.net/fnetforum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=8313
http://www.filmmaking.net/fnetforum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=8213
http://www.filmmaking.net/fnetforum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=7034
http://www.filmmaking.net/fnetforum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=6195
http://www.filmmaking.net/fnetforum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=6316

If you have more questions, feel free to ask.

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The aim of an argument or discussion should not be victory, but progress.
Joseph Joubert, essayist (1754-1824)

thanks for that but most of the threads you linked me to are discussing cameras with hdd storage. I am looking at cameras using mini dv tapes only.
I should also have specified that I have 1000 to spend which is
1,654.05 USD
thanks

Sorry about that. I dont know of any HD camera that
records to miniDV in your price range.

It is a question akin to asking for that 3000 foot beach house in the Caribbean for only $500 a month. 🙂

Look, everyone wants to have the BEST quality available at the lowest price, but it just doesn't exist. Arguably the "best" quality at a prosumer price right now is the RED ONE, but that'll still cost you around $30 grand for just the basics.

This consistent belief of young aspiring filmmakers that OWNING a camera is the thing to do has got to stop. RENT what you need on a per project basis instead of spending the little money you have into something that isn't even close to what you want and need. Technology changes all the time so to bury yourself into debt for a camera body that won't build your career successfully is silly. Instead, invest your time and money into creating great projects (the script and the people) and then gather the resources (money and equipment) you need as you need it instead of buying the only camera you can afford and creating projects around whatever that is capable of doing.

If you're looking for a camera why aren't you also looking to buy all the lighting and grip and electric equipment you need too? If not, why not? Lighting is at least half of creating a great image. The camera is a big part of it, but definitely not all of it. If you're not ready to devote some of your budget to lighting, grip, and electric, then just owning a camera (no lenses or accessories?) makes very little sense.

If you truly want a CAREER as a "Filmmaker" (does that mean "Director" to you?) then don't waste your money in equipment and instead invest your time in writing and gathering PEOPLE who have the gear and other resources who can help you make your movies and help build your career.

Brian Dzyak
Cameraman/Author
IATSE Local 600, SOC
http://www.whatireallywanttodo.com
http://www.realfilmcareer.com

Hi Brian thanks for your post,
This won't be debt I'm getting myself into, I have the money put aside for a camera.
I love shooting and making films; short films, documentaries, interviews, random interesting shots, experimental projects, whatever. I just want to be shooting things as much as I can, for example, I'm going away for two monthes soon and want to document my travels.
I'm not running a business, renting on a per project basis wouldn't be of any use for me, I have no clients, I shoot what and when I like and to have this freedom I need something of my own.
My main interest is documentary film making so lighting and electrical equipment is less of an issue for me.
While we are here what are peoples thoughts on this:
http://stores.hdewcameras.com/-strse-97/Sony-HVR--dsh--A1%2CHVR/Detail.bok

That Sony is a fine camera. Not HD (it shoots HDV) but it has
all the essentials. It's very similar to the Sony PD170 which
I own. If you decide to buy that camera you will be very happy
with it.

ah I should have been more specific and said that I wasn't after a full blown high definition camera such as the red.
Yes I have been researching it and it seems like a very good one to go with. Any idea on performance in low lighting conditions and how does your pd170 perform in low light?
thanks