Panasonic PV-GS32 MiniDV Digital Camcorder 2.5" LCD, 28x Optical & 1000x Digital Zoom

I needed a camcorder and waited until the last minute to buy one. But this camcorder came highly recommended (at least by the Costco salesman) so I bought it over the JVC. It worked wonderfully on my trip to the Disney parks as well as the Disney cruise that followed.

I am very pleased with my choice of camcorders. Also the feature that allows you to switch to still photos saved me a lot of time switching to a separate camera. I was able to film, take photos and then immediately after I was able to view both.

And the distance this camera can zoom is incredible. We seemed to be miles from docking at the Bahamas and I was able to zoom in and see people walking along the beachfront.

The title says it all: Light, Small, Incredible Zoom, Easy Menus describes this camera.

I don't know why there is only one review so far in 2008 when I am writing this to make two reviews on it.

I bought this camera and was able to set it up and take pictures without even reading the manual. It takes good videos. The still mode requires adequate light. The digital zoom requires a tripod.

I might give it 5 stars if it came with a firewire cable or if the still shots were better or if I had experience with other camcorders so as to have a basis for comparison. I haven't found any negatives yet at this price level.

I also like the easy to use mode dial on the back of the camera. I can use the neck strap, put my right hand in the hand strap and rest it that way, control the on/off switch with my index finger, the mode dial and the start/stop button with my thumb all without even looking at the camera; it's very intuitiveand comfortable.

Buy Panasonic PV-GS32 MiniDV Digital Camcorder 2.5" LCD, 28x Optical & 1000x Digital Zoom Now