Review on 📹 Panasonic PVDC252 MiniDV Ultra Compact Digital Camcorder - 2.5" LCD, SD Slot & Digital Still Capability (Discontinued Model) by Edgardo Ennis

In Europe this model I have is called the NV-GS5 but is otherwise identical. I've had them for several months now. I bought them after a lot of research and after giving up "vertical" cameras because they are very difficult to hold in a stable position. This little Panasonic is still very small (and cute) but you have a chance to keep it sturdy enough. However, even with the image stabilizer activated, you still need a tripod to get the most out of the 10x optical zoom. Panasonic's main selling point for this camera seems to be its ability to record photos, MPEGs and voice clips onto an SD card. , but if you already have a digital camera, you won't be thrilled with photos up to 640x480 resolution. Forget it and look for other benefits. As the top of the range (the 352 is really different and much bigger) it comes with a color viewfinder and analog AV input. That can be really helpful. There seems to be a port for just about anything you can think of, including the all-important external microphone. The lens also has a screw mount for proprietary conversion lenses and filters. In terms of performance, I'm really really happy with the results. It focuses easily (almost never noticed), produces a really sharp, clean image in all but the darkest of conditions, and overall looks surprisingly close to broadcast quality. The sound is quite good with the built-in microphone: lots of atmosphere. Unlike some Mini DV camcorders, the microphone is placed right in front, so you only hear camera noise when you're filming in a very quiet location. It's pretty easy to use, although you'll have to spend a little time with the terrible sound. instruction book before you can use it safely. At first I kept forgetting which menu contained which control. However, some controls are easily accessible, such as B. the manual exposure (nice to have) and the focus wheel. Most things feel good in hand, although the menu button requires a double index finger. In general, I have few critical comments. It's small, it looks good, it's pretty easy to use and most importantly it delivers a great picture and sound. I am very impressed.