How to Test Out a Camcorder in a Retail Store

One advantage to shopping in a retail store versus over the Internet is your ability to get your hands on a camcorder and test its balance and other handling characteristics. The way a camcorder feels is almost as important as its video quality. You can evaluate both of these crucial factors easily while you’re in the store. Here is how to test out a camcorder in a retail store.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Pick up a camcorder and hold it as you would while filming. If you anticipate using the camcorder at odd angles, try these out as well. Walk around with it and get used to its weight and balance.

2. Power up the camera and time how long it takes for the device to be fully operational.

3. Check out the view through the camcorder’s viewfinder (if that model has one) and the LCD display. Note how the view differs from what you see with your naked eye.

4. Request the chance to shoot a little footage of some of the displays. Compare the color performance and picture quality to the real thing. Take note of how the camcorder handles skin tones and indoor lighting.

5. Ask to hook the camcorder to a TV and to a computer monitor. Watch footage on both devices.

6. Try out any preset modes on the camcorder. Some models offer preset aperture and focus settings that are supposed to be optimized for certain kinds of use. Try them all.

7. Do a quick tape change. Time how long it takes you to change tapes or other storage media. Try this change with the batteries as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Try a common odd angle: hold the camera overhead, as if you were trying to film over the heads of a crowd of people.
• Ask if you can take the camcorder outside or to a location with plenty of sunlight to check the LCD screen’s readability in strong lighting conditions.
• If the camcorder has a macro mode test it out on the weave of your shirt or other clothing.
• Use the shelves as impromptu shooting platforms, but be careful of the other stock.
• Most retailers are pretty good about letting potential customers try out their stock, but some aren’t. Always ask first.