How to Select Accessories for a Camcorder

All accessories for camcorders are not created equal. Think of accessories as multipliers to the camera’s value, and you have the right idea. A proper accessory increases your enjoyment of the camcorder, while a ho-hum accessory takes up space in your garage or attic. The best accessories for a camcorder aren’t all that flashy, just handy. Here are some steps to select the proper accessories for your camcorder.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Camcorder

1. Get spare batteries and pick up a good charger. You never want to be caught without power.

2. Buy a good carrying case. These babies were made to travel, and a good carrying case lets you bring extra batteries, lenses and other gear.

3. Pick up a nice tripod. Weight counts, so get something lightweight—that way you have no excuse not to bring it along. A collapsible tripod is great, but make sure that the platform is stable when set up.

4. Select a decent external microphone. The standard one on your camcorder is probably not on any audiophile’s top 10 list.

5. Buy a wide-angle lens. Most camcorders work best at middle ranges—not too close, not too far away. Specialty lenses increase your camcorder’s versatility.

6. Give yourself editing capability with either a VCR capable of playing and editing the format that your camcorder uses or editing software for your personal computer.

7. Consider an extended-service warranty or accidental damage coverage. Not the most exciting accessory, perhaps, but nothing beats being covered when you drop your brand-new camcorder into the maw of the Grand Canyon.

Tips & Warnings

• If you travel with your camcorder a lot, you might want to fully protect your equipment with a hard-shell carrying case.
• Check the accessory shoe on your camcorder before buying any plug-and-play accessories. Make sure that your camcorder can actually use the accessory.
• Although not an accessory for a camcorder, a good set of studio-quality lights expands your ability to shoot quality footage.
• Compatibility, compatibility, compatibility. Read the labels, take note of the numbers and do your homework before plunking down the cash.
• Before you buy a given model of camcorder, make sure it can accept a bigger battery. Some models, especially budget models, are not able to take larger batteries.