Those high tech, palm size camcorders keep getting better and better. They’re relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and perfect for showcasing your listings…your neighborhood…your satisfied clients…and even yourself!

The Kodak Zi8 has become especially popular for a number of reasons. It not only shoots in High Definition…but also sports a number of features that set it apart from the competition.
For starters, it’s one of the few mini-camcorders that allow you to use an external microphone, which is great for recording testimonials or interviews. You’ll also find an image stabilization feature that helps clear up the jitters if you can’t record using a tripod. Video quality is razor sharp, and the 16 x 9 screen format is great for real estate applications.

The Zi8 also features a switchable macro option that allows you to film objects and capture fine details extremely close up. You may not need it every day…but it’s nice to know it’s there when you do.

Video is recorded on SD memory cards up to 32 gigabytes in size…enough to capture over 10 hours of action. Recording options range from 1080p high-definition to 720p standard definition at both 30 and 60 frames per second. The camera also features built-in editing and posting software that downloads automatically onto your PC or Mac using a flexible USB connector …making uploading on YouTube or Face Book a breeze.

Power is provided by a lithium-ion battery which can be fully recharged in about two hours using the built-in charger. When shooting in the field, taking along a spare, fully charged battery is always a good idea.

All in all, you’ll find the Zi8 an easy to use “point and shoot” camcorder with excellent on-line reviews. It offers more features than most other competitors…including adjustable mic gain, a face detection option, and video outputs… with cables included…for both HDMI monitors and standard definition screens.

The Zi8 will generally cost you about a hundred and eighty bucks without a memory card…but can often be found priced a bit lower with a little on-line searching. All things considered, it’s a lot of value for under $200, and a good investment to enhance your on-line video marketing for years to come!

The popularity of those palm size video recorders continues to grow. In the last month, we’re seen several new models and brands hit the market. They’re especially popular with real estate agents who can now shoot their own home tours quickly and inexpensively.

At the same time, many users are experiencing a learning curve after realizing there’s more to it than simply “point and shoot:”. To give you a hand, VScreen has come up with an acronym that will hopefully slap some sense into you. No offense intended…but s-l-a-p is what you need to remember.

For starters, the “S” stands for stability. And that means use a tripod. Smooth and steady is what you’re looking for…not something that looks like the Blair Witch Project. And while you’re at it, invest in a tripod with what’s called a fluid head, because it makes panning from side to side, or tilting up and down, much smoother.

Next comes the letter “L”, which stands for lighting. Rule number one…don’t point your camera into direct bright light. The iris will immediately try to adjust by darkening the picture. Instead, shoot with light coming over your shoulder, or streaming in from the side. Lighting up a room with table and floor lamps is usually ok…but watch out for sunlight coming in through large windows.

“A” stands for audio, because whether your narrating your own video tour, or recording a testimonial from someone else…it has to be clearly understood. That means to always speak up, and practice recording voices at different distances from the mic. And speaking of mics…it’s always best to use an external lapel mic if possible. Also, watch out for background noise like air conditioners, traffic, barking dogs, radios…tv’s…and cell phones. Oddly enough, they’re often overlooked during the recording…so always double check .

And finally…”P” is for perspective. These palm size cameras are best for up close and personal…not taping the Grand Canyon or your kid’s baseball game. Remember, those video screens on the Internet are small, so your subject matter needs to close at hand. Above all, avoid the temptation to use the zoom. Instead, simply move closer to the subject you’re recording.

We hope our little acronym will make your video recording a slap happy experience. As always your comments and questions are always welcome! Thanks for watching!

When brokers and agents think of video…the first thing that comes to mind is often a home video tour. And while that’s certainly not a bad idea…another approach can make a major impact as well….and that’s a video tour of the neighborhood. After all, who can forget the top three factors when someone buys a home…location…location…and location.

For starters, don’t worry about trying to include everything in the neighborhood. Begin by focusing on common areas of interest…including schools, shopping, entertainment, recreation, and medical facilities. Libraries, churches, museums, and cultural attractions are also important.

Next, focus on what sets the community apart from others. It may be an area of natural beauty… a well known landmark…unique architecture…historical significance…or convenient transportation.

Don’t forget to emphasize lifestyle issues. The local climate… seasonal sports…proximity to attractions like mountains…national or state parks… the coastline…or nearby major cities are just a few examples. You might even consider interviewing a few local residents willing to share why they enjoy living where they do. Be sure to include broad demographics in your interviews for maximum impact.

It would be good to remember a few technical tips as well.. Avoid the temptation of videotaping from a moving car. Instead, select your targets carefully, park nearby, and carefully frame your shots using a tripod. Shooting on a bright, cheery day is also a good idea…just remember to keep the sun to your back or side. Videotaping during the so-called Golden Hour…beginning about two hours before sunset..can also give a warm, rich look to your footage.

If you’re going to narrate your presentation, we suggest using a lapel mic instead of the built in one on the camera. It’s also a good idea to identify your subjects and itinerary in advance…so you’re not randomly looking for something to videotape…and driving all over town in the process. And finally, be aware of privacy issues…and limit filming to common public access areas. Avoid filming people who are clearly identifiable…unless you have their permission.

Neighborhood video tours can add an exciting new dimension to your local real estate marketing. If you have questions or comments, we’d love to hear from you. Thanks for watching!