The company who makes it, Pure Digital Technologies offers inexpensive accessorizes to use with it such as: an underwater case, tripod, USB cables (though it has a built in USB already!), an action mount (to attach to handlebars, helmets and other outdoor gear) and soon will offer a power adaptor for fast easy charging). This is some of the easiest technology you will ever use and for around $150.00 anyone can afford to get into creating videos.
The software to create your videos is loaded right in the camcorder. You just plug it into the USB port and the software appears on the screen. OK, it doesn't just appear. There are a few steps to set-up and run the software but it is easy! If you want to upload your video to the internet, Flip hooks you up through AOL. If you don't have an account with AOL you can save your video through a third party video editing application such as the Windows Movie Maker or Macs' iMovie. Then choose your own internet services, like YouTube to upload your movies.
Directions to use your Flip with other editing applications can be found at their website, http://theflip.com/. Look under Support/Q&A for quick reference on using your Flip. For about 80.00 you can download a premier edition of the Flip editing application which will give you more variety and options to edit your videos.
Pros and Cons of the Flip Camcorder:
Pro...Easy to use and very portable, you can tuck it in your pocket and go.
Pro...Comes with built in video editing software and has a USB built into it.
Pro...Has one-touch recording & instant play back.
Pro...Lets you share instantly on TV, by emailing your videos or publishing online.
Con...Can take forever to upload.
Con...You need to use a tripod, brace yourself or have a really steady hand to record video that doesn't jump around.
Con...It has limited zoom, 2X digital zoom. Best video taken within 20 feet of action.
Con...It picks up a lot of background noise. I'd turn the sound down if your recording video in an area with losts of noise.
Tips on Using the Flip Camcorder:
Buy a tripod! Practice looking for places you can brace your self and keep the camcorder steady! Take short clips, 5 to 10 seconds at a time. This makes editing much easier. Turn the audio recording all the way down when shooting video outside with lots of environmental noise. Add narration with a video/audio editing software later. If videoing a speaker get there early and look for a place close to the speaker, with little noise and foot traffic. If videoing a sport's event or concert check for background noises that might get picked up by the microphone such as air conditioning, motors or loud spectators.
