Camera Question
 

Would a Sony Handycam with a 60gb harddrive be a good first timer camera?

I shot my first 3 shorts on a Sony Handycam without any hardrive at all. I shot to Hi-8 tapes and it worked fine. The video quality won't be up to par with the professional level stuff, but it's more than adequate for learning the process.

I just recently got my hands on an HVX200 and am looking forward to finishing post production on my 3rd short so I can take that giant leap forward and start working with professional grade equipment.

So to answer your question, yes. A Handycam is a good first timer camera. There's a lot to learn so you may as well learn it on a less expensive, user friendly camera. Once you get the hang of it and feel comfortable shooting, lighting and editing, you can start looking at more expensive equipment.

wow thanx. my friend is willing to use his editing software and be my film editor.

camera
 

The Panasonic HVX200 can shoot amazing stuff during daylight hours with an adaptor, but for night shoots it's not as useful. Have no experience with the Sony