Digital Video Camera Flip

Digital Video Camera Flip

Is it ok to video record my college lectures/classes?


It’s my freshman year, Calculus teacher speaks reaaaallly fast (you wouldn’t even believe) and advanced Spanish teacher is from Colombia and speaks rapidly with an accent I’m not used to. Is it ok to use my flip video camera (small like a digital camera) to video my classes so I can view them later? Would that be a weird thing to do?

The camera would just sit on my desk. It wouldn’t be very noticeable. In a lecture hall it would be easier, but these are like 25 student classes. Should I not even ask?

You will need to get permission to record, whether video or just audio.

You could just ask your teachers to speak a little slower. Your calculus teacher may be nervous too and not realize that he/she is speaking too quickly for the class to take notes. It’s a common problem with new teachers especially. I’m sure he/she will not mind you asking (better to find out now than on evaluations at the end of the semester) and will in fact be glad to make such a small, simple change to help the class understand. Other students will appreciate it too.

The Spanish teacher might resist somewhat, but will probably be willing to at least slow down for the first couple weeks to let the class get used to her particular accent and to hearing Spanish again after a summer away from it. Either way, you will get used to the Columbian accent and it might be good for you to get used to hearing fast speech in an advanced class if you ever want to be able to understand native speakers talking at normal conversational speed.

I’d ask them first to slow down and only if that doesn’t work, ask to record them. It’d be better to understand them the first time anyway, right?

What is a Digital SLR Camera and How Does it Compare With a Digital Compact Camera?

The term digital SLR stands for single lens reflex. It is so called because the SLR cameras use a mirror that is placed behind the lens.

Although SLR cameras for capturing still images have been in use for quite some time, the ones that could capture both the stills and the videos were introduced in 2008.

Earlier the SLRs were used only by the professionals. They were not very common and were costly as well. The good news is that the digital SLRs are becoming cheaper as the time passes and coming within the easy reach of even the amateur photographers. You can buy an SLR at the price of a high end digital compact camera.

How does the digital SLR work?

When the light enters through the lens, it falls upon the mirror. The mirror, in turn, reflects (throws) the light upon the focusing screen. The light passing through the focusing screen falls upon a block of glass called pentaprism, which reflects the image  that  can be seen  on the viewfinder. When you take a photo, the mirror flips up opening the shutter which exposes the digital sensor to light.

What- you- see- is- what- you- get photos

 The SLR uses the viewfinder to compose the photo and adjust the focus. You can, thus, get the photo of the original as you see it on the lens.

SLR camera allows for a wide range of lenses with different focal lengths.  You can change the lens whenever you like. This is what makes the SLR ideal for serious photography. Moreover, the image sensors of the digital SLRs are large and produce high quality photos.

Lightness and compactness vs. versatility and image quality

An attractive feature of the digital compact cameras is that they are cheap, light, compact and easily portable. You can just pop in the compact camera in your purse or pocket.

The SLRs are weighty and voluminous. Some of them are tank-sized  for professionals. But they provide the invaluable advantage of accommodating a large range of lenses and accessories that were originally designed for film SLR cameras.

Of late, new generation light weight ultra compact DSLRs have also been introduced in the market. They have small lens and  weigh around 20 oz / 0.5 Kg.

While the  crispness and sharpness  of the photos taken with the digital compact camera and SLR camera in broad day is by and large same, the SLR scores over the compact camera when you have to shoot in dim light or capture the fast running scenes of actions. This is because the SLRs have high sensitivity larger sensors.

Anti shake/vibration designs

The photos shot with non-SLR cameras in dim light or with long telephoto lenses may be blurred. The reason is that the camera gets shaken during the exposure. The SLRs are equipped with Image Stabilization (IS) systems that protect them from the impact of motion during exposure. Therefore, the photos shot with SLRs even in dim light or at long focal lengths  are sharp and excellent.

Speed

What makes the SLR much superior to the compact camera is its speed in taking pictures, which makes it ideal for action photography as there is a zero lag time.   Even the entry level SLRs shoot faster than the best compact cameras. So you can easily shoot both a sleeping and a running tiger with this camera.

Dust Removal mechanism

If you have to shoot in arid, dusty or even in humid and damp conditions, no camera can   beat an SLR. They have inbuilt dust removal systems that keep the sensor clean. They have weatherproof seals and solid magnesium alloy cases.

High Definition (HD) videos for HDTVs

This is another advantage of SLRs over the compact cameras. They can shoot High Definition videos. They come equipped with HDMI ports which allow the camera to be directly connected to the TVs.  You can view your videos on the TV.

So which camera should you buy?

It all depends upon your needs. If you want speed, exquisite professional looking photos even in dim light and more control  over the photos and are not bothered about weight and volume, go for an SLR. If you are just an occasional photographer wishing to carry the camera in your pant pocket, you can buy a compact camera.

Please read my Best Digital Cameras Guide for more information on digital cameras and photography.

Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL
Flip UltraHD Video Camera – Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Sale Price: $142.00

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Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days

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Description

The all-new Flip UltraHD video camera, now with image stabilization and a new slimmer design, combines Flip Video’s signature shoot-and-share simplicity with better-than-ever HD. Simply power on and press record to start capturing up to 2 hours of incredible HD video. When you’re done recording, just connect the flip-out USB arm to a PC or Mac and use pre-loaded FlipShare software to organize, edit and share your videos. The new UltraHD also works with Designed for Flip products, a new expanded accessory line from Flip Video and partner companies.

Features

  • Shoot up to 2 hours of better-than-ever HD video on the easy-to-use, now even slimmer UltraHD
  • Press the big red button to start capturing vibrant HD video (720p / 60fps) on the super-simple user interface
  • Keep your video steady with image stabilization, UltraHD’s newest feature
  • Connect the built-in USB arm to your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
  • Organize, create and share your videos with FlipShare software
Flip UltraHD Video Camera - White, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL
Flip UltraHD Video Camera – White, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Sale Price: $134.99

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Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days

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Description

The all-new Flip UltraHD video camera, now with image stabilization and a new slimmer design, combines Flip Video’s signature shoot-and-share simplicity with better-than-ever HD. Simply power on and press record to start capturing up to 2 hours of incredible HD video. When you’re done recording, just connect the flip-out USB arm to a PC or Mac and use pre-loaded FlipShare software to organize, edit and share your videos. The new UltraHD also works with Designed for Flip products, a new expanded accessory line from Flip Video and partner companies.

Features

  • Shoot up to 2 hours of better-than-ever HD video on the easy-to-use, now even slimmer UltraHD
  • Press the big red button to start capturing vibrant HD video (720p / 60fps) on the super-simple user interface
  • Keep your video steady with image stabilization, UltraHD’s newest feature
  • Connect the built-in USB arm to your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
  • Organize, create and share your videos with FlipShare software
Flip Mino Video Camera - Black, 2 GB,1 Hour (1st Generation) OLD MODEL
Flip Mino Video Camera – Black, 2 GB,1 Hour (1st Generation) OLD MODEL

List Price: $149.99
Sale Price: $65.00
You save: $84.99 (57%)
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Description

Mino is a camcorder that goes anywhere. Simply put it in your pocket! Then easily share your video on the web on MySpace, YouTube, and AOL. Weighing in at just over three ounces, the remarkably slim yet powerful Flip Video Mino raises the bar for high-quality, portable, and easy-to-use video. Smaller than most cell phones, Mino fits neatly into a jeans pocket to capture life’s stories whenever and wherever they happen at a party, a concert, the beach, even on a bike ride. The Mino also features Flip Video’s built-in software that lets you simply plug the camcorder’s signature flip-out USB arm into any computer for immediate editing and sharing. For the first time, the Flip Video software lets you easily upload video directly to MySpace as well as to YouTube and AOL Video, making it even easier to share video. In addition to quickly posting videos on sharing and social networking sites, they can email videos and video greeting cards; create custom movies with their own music; capture still photos from video; save and organize videos on the computer; and, for the first time, seamlessly order and send DVDs anywhere in the world. Custom editing of movie mixes, with the option to set them to your own music Capture of still photos from video Order DVDs online and have them shipped anywhere in the world TV connection for instant viewing (cable included) Tripod mountable Internal rechargeable battery delivers up to 4 hours of use between charges Unit Size is only 3.94 x 1.97 x 0.63 HWD

Features

  • Pocket-sized camcorder; Flat back panel with touch-sensitive buttons; 1.5-inch color LCD screen
  • 2 GB of on-board flash memory–records up to 60 minutes of video; 2x digital zoom
  • Internal Lithium-ion battery recharges when built-in USB arm is connected to a computer
  • Connects to TV for instant viewing
  • Built-in software lets you easily edit video files and upload them to video sharing sites
Flip MinoHD Video Camera - Black, 4 GB, 1 Hour (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL
Flip MinoHD Video Camera – Black, 4 GB, 1 Hour (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

List Price: $99.00
Sale Price: $71.99
You save: $27.01 (27%)
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Description

The World’s Simplest and sleekest HD Camcorder: The Flip MinoHD Camcorder combines Flip Video’s signature shoot-and-share simplicity with the power of vivid, vibrant HD video. Power on and press record to start capturing incredible HD video in seconds. When its time to share your video, use the flip-out USB arm to connect to any PC or Mac and launch the built-in FlipShare editing and video-sharing software. Built-in FlipShare software lets you easily email videos, edit individual clips, make custom movies, capture still videos from video, and even upload video to sharing sites like YouTube and Myspace.

Features

  • Sleek and easy to use, pocket sized HD Camcorder featuring one-touch recording and digital zoom
  • Simple user interface lets you start capturing video just seconds after powering on and features a 2-inch anti-glare color display to play back and delete videos
  • Captures 60 minutes of HD video on 4GB of built-in memory; no tapes or memory cards needed
  • Convenient flip-out USB arm plugs directly into your PC or Mac to launch Flipshare software
  • Built-in FlipShare software lets you easily email videos, edit individual clips, make custom movies, capture still photos from video, and even upload video to sharing sites like YouTube and MySpace
Flip MinoHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation)
Flip MinoHD Video Camera – Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation)

List Price: $139.00
Sale Price: $112.99
You save: $26.01 (19%)
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Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours

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Description

The new Flip MinoHD combines signature Flip Video quality with improved technology to offer HD video that is better than ever. MinoHD features incredible 720p resolution, now with 60 frames per second, and built-in image stabilization to produce incredibly clear and steady HD video. The new MinoHD has a simple user interface and a super-slim, pocket-sized design. Easy-to-use pre-loaded FlipShare software lets you organize, edit and share your videos to your own private Flip Channels or directly to Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Features

  • Carry it anywhere with its sleek and slim design that fits in any pocket or purse
  • Shoot up to 2 hours of stunning HD video (720p / 60fps) on 8 GB of built-in memory; no additional memory needed
  • Keep your video steady on the go with MinoHD’s newest feature, image stabilization
  • Connect the flip-out USB arm directly into your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
  • Organize, create and share your videos with FlipShare software
Flip Ultra Video Camera - Black, 4 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation) OLD MODEL
Flip Ultra Video Camera – Black, 4 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation) OLD MODEL

Sale Price: $149.99

  Eligible for free shipping!
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days

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Description

The Flip Ultra camcorder makes it easier than ever to shoot and share video. Ultra features Flip Video’s signature shoot-and-share simplicity: just power on and press record to start capturing high-quality video in seconds.

Features

  • Easy-to-use, pocket-sized camcorder featuring one-touch recording and digital zoom
  • Captures 120 minutes of full VGA-quality video on 4 GB of built-in memory; no tapes or additional memory cards required
  • Convenient flip-out USB arm plugs directly into your computer to launch FlipShare software
  • Built-in FlipShare software lets you easily email videos, edit individual clips, and upload video to sharing sites like YouTube and MySpace
  • Large 2-inch color LCD screen to play back and delete videos
Flip Ultra Video Camera - White, 1  GB, 30 Minutes (1st Generation) OLD MODEL
Flip Ultra Video Camera – White, 1 GB, 30 Minutes (1st Generation) OLD MODEL

List Price: $149.99
Sale Price: $49.99
You save: $100.00 (67%)
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Description

The Flip Video Ultra Series Camcorder is a revolutionary new way to shoot and share videos. Its portable, simple-to-use design makes it incredibly easy to create high quality home movies. The camcorder’s built-in software provides a convenient, seamless way to save and share memories: email videos, make custom movies, capture still photos from video clips, and upload videos directly to popular video-sharing sites, including AOL Video and YouTube. Flip Video Ultra is the ideal, affordable choice for capturing everyday moments that happen anywhere, and sharing them with family and friends everywhere. This next-generation version of the original Flip Video line features a new sleeker design, premium no-glare LCD screen, and improved video and audio quality. Flip Video Ultra comes with a TV connector cable, wrist strap, soft carrying case, two AA batteries, and a quick start guide. Specs: Flip Video Ultra incorporates 1GB of built-in flash memory which holds up to 30 minutes of 30-frame per second full VGA-quality MPEG-4 video. Compatible with Windows XP SP2 and Vista; Macintosh OS X 10.3.9 or later. Computer connection via integrated USB Port.

Features

  • Simple to use, pocket-sized camcorder with one-touch recording and digital zoom
  • Holds 30 minutes of full VGA-quality video on 1GB of built-in memory; no tapes or additional memory cards required
  • Convenient USB arm plugs directly into your computer for easy viewing and sharing
  • Built-in software lets you easily e-mail videos, upload to YouTube and AOL, and capture still photos from video
  • Watch videos instantly on TV with included cable
Flip MinoHD Video Camera 4 GB, 1 Hour (3rd Generation) - Silver
Flip MinoHD Video Camera 4 GB, 1 Hour (3rd Generation) – Silver

List Price: $99.00
Sale Price: $72.95
You save: $26.05 (26%)
  Eligible for free shipping!
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days

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Description

The new Flip MinoHD combines signature Flip Video quality with improved technology to offer HD video that is better than ever. MinoHD features incredible 720p resolution, now with 60 frames per second, and built-in image stabilization to produce incredibly clear and steady HD video. The new MinoHD has a simple user interface and a super-slim, pocket-sized design. Easy-to-use pre-loaded FlipShare software lets you organize, edit and share your videos to your own private Flip Channels or directly to Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Features

  • Carry it anywhere with its sleek and slim design that fits in any pocket or purse
  • Shoot up to 1 hour of stunning HD video (720p / 60fps) on 4 GB of built-in memory; no additional memory needed
  • Keep your video steady on the go with MinoHD’s newest feature, image stabilization
  • Connect the flip-out USB arm directly into your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
  • Organize, create and share your videos with FlipShare software
Flip MinoHD Video Camera - Brushed Metal, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation)
Flip MinoHD Video Camera – Brushed Metal, 8 GB, 2 Hours (2nd Generation)

List Price: $229.99
Sale Price: $82.95
You save: $147.04 (64%)
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Availability: Usually ships in 24 hours

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Description

With the all-new Flip MinoHD, it-Feets now even easier to capture incredible HD video and share it with the world. MinoHD features 120 minutes of record time, so you-Feetll never have to miss another minute. A super-slim, pocket-sized design means you can take your MinoHD with you everywhere you go. And a large, 2-Inch anti-glare display lets you enjoy your videos directly on your camcorder. Plus, MinoHD comes pre-loaded with FlipShare software, which makes it easy to organize, create and share your videos.

Features

  • All-new MinoHD is the world’s sleekest HD camcorder
  • Captures 120 minutes of stunning HD video on 8 GB of built-in memory; no additional memory needed
  • Convenient flip-out USB arm plugs directly into your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
  • FlipShare software makes it easy to email videos, edit individual clips, make custom movies, capture still-image snapshots
  • Large, 2-Inch anti-glare color display to play back and delete videos
Flip UltraHD Video Camera - White, 4 GB, 1 Hour NEWEST MODEL
Flip UltraHD Video Camera – White, 4 GB, 1 Hour NEWEST MODEL

List Price: $79.00
Sale Price: $77.89
You save: $1.11 (1%)
  Eligible for free shipping!
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days

See Reviews For This Product

Description

The new Flip UltraHD video camera combines Flip Video’s signature shoot-and-share simplicity with amazing HD. Simply power on and press record to start capturing up to 1 hour of incredible HD video. When you’re done recording, just connect the flip-out USB arm to a PC or Mac and use pre-loaded FlipShare software to organize, edit and share your videos.

Features

  • Shoot up to 1 hour of amazing HD video on the easy-to-use, pocket-sized UltraHD
  • Press the big red button to start capturing vibrant HD video (720p / 30fps) on the super-simple user interface
  • Comes with 4 GB of built-in memory, letting you capture up to 1 hour of HD video; no additional memory cards required
  • Connect the built-in USB arm to your PC or Mac to launch pre-loaded FlipShare software
  • Organize, create and share your videos with FlipShare software

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