Smile, You're on Sharp Hi8 Camera
Written: Mar 31 '02
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Pros: Lightweight, easy to use, inexpensive, great features
Cons: Menu difficulty, LCD display looks funny at different angles.
The Bottom Line: Great camera for vacation use, family fun, or recording special moments around the house. Good product for a great price.
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| katharsis820's Full Review: Sharp VLAH150 Hi-8 Analog Camcorder |
When I was in the market for a new video camera, I wanted something light, easy to use, and no more viewfinders. With a limited budget, my options for finding a reasonably priced state-of-the-art toy, I opted for the next best thing. I found my Sharp Hi8 at BestBuy for $279.
When I got the camera home, I immediately ripped it from the box to begin tinkering with it. I checked the box and instruction manual to make sure the camera had all its accessories. After frantically searching the box for five minutes,we found everything including the battery, which was cleverly concealed in cardboard and plastic.
Battery installation was fairly simple, the battery door on the bottom on the camera pops open and you slide the battery right in. There's space for a spare battery as well. You must charge the battery for the amount of time specified in the instruction manual, but you can still use it by plugging in the adapter to the camera and wall. Once the battery is fully charged, it has up to three hours on continuous use. Tape insertion is front-loading and takes Hi8 film, but will play back regular 8mm.
Once you've got the camera charged, flip the switch and you're ready to record and play. The buttons on the camera look self-explanatory, but the menu on the display will take a few minutes to understand. Before cursing Sharp, its employees, and family members, take ten minutes to familiarize yourself with the menu.
Some of the features include picture effects, titles, letterbox, 400x digital zoom, and light options. The picture effects may come in handy if you're making an amateur music video or just want to experiment. The camera has a built-in speaker which is great for instant playbacks of embarrassing remarks.
Aside from the menu challenge, the LCD display isn't always perfect. At some angles, the images may look discolored, almost negative. This is most obvious if you try filming yourself (which is another great option) by turning the display upside down. On this particular model, there is a dual/snap button, allowing you to snap a picture of yourself or other sights. I don't recommend trying to snap a photo of yourself as there is no self-timer and your arm could end up in more of the shot than the rest of you.
This is a great vacation camera. It's convenient and fairly easy to use. If you're looking for something to shoot your debut independent film, you may want to look elsewhere.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 279
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Epinions.com ID:
katharsis820
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Location: Orlando, FL USA
Reviews written: 9
Trusted by: 0 members
About Me:
SWF iso good books, great music, and a good bubble bath product.
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