The answer is… maybe not.
Here’s a very short explanation. There are different level of HD. True high definition is currently 1080p, which means 1920 pixels (wide), by 1080 pixels (tall), and at least 30 frames per second (fps).
Most of the camera’s you buy at a retailer today will not actually take HD video at the 30 frames per second you need so that video doesn’t look choppy.
Here’s and example… Flip video offers an “HD” camera (which is a very fun little camera), but its not really HD. It offers a 1280×720 capture, which falls far short of HD. The Flip HD does capture 30 frames per second, (better than most at that size), but the 30 fps is still a little choppy.
The Flip is a good example because even though its HD video is better than most, it’s still not HD. The reason there’s so much confusion on the subject is that High Definition is a moving target. TV’s get better, and the standard changes.
Now for the good news. Even though it’s not true HD, it still looks very good. Sometimes the best camera is the camera that is convenient enough to carry with you all the time. If that means it has to be small enough to be in your purse or pocket, so be it.
With that being said, there are certain laws of physics that cant be overcome. If you can carry a bigger camera, generally, its a better camera. The more light a lens can gather, the better the end image. That means big lenses are better (all things considered). A tiny pocket camera simply cant compete with that big black unit you see the professional walking around with.
Buy the camera that will allow you to use it as much as possible… as big or as small as it needs to be.
Be wary of the claims on the box. Make sure they are giving you very specific numbers. Usually if their hype matches the specifications, they’ll be very open and up front with the numbers.
Last but not least… no matter what the salesman/genius/expert at the electronics store says, do the research yourself. There are a number of great websites where you can find good, reliable information.
If you have a question about a specific camera, feel free to email me at travis@manhartphotography.com or visit www.ManhartPhotography.com.
If you liked this article you can read more at Sacramento Photography Examiner.
