Kodak Zi8 HD Pocket Video Camera – Black
Introducing a new generation of compact video camera
With the explosion of sites like YouTube, Facebook and Vimeo there is now huge demand for easy ways to shoot and share video clips. The Kodak Zi8 is one of a new generation of minicamcorder that is designed to make it incredibly easy to shoot, share and enjoy high quality full HD1080p video. The compact design, simplicity and the minimalist styling makes the Zi8 a very desirable object and a joy to use.
HD quality
The Zi8 stands out from many of the other mini-camcorders on the market because it shoots stunning quality full 1080p HD video. You can choose other video modes simply by clicking the left and right arrows on the central controller selecting 1080p, 720p 60fps, 720p 30 fps, WVGA or 5MP still camera. The biggest advantage of the high resolution is that it’ll look great when blown up. This isn’t so important if you only view video on a small window on your PC screen but with the Zi8 footage you can scale the video to full screen and retain image sharpness, for the best possible picture the Zi8 has HDMI connectivity so you view the videos on your HDTV. Both HDMI and standard composite cables are included in the box. On the go you can view your clips on the very usable 2.5 inch LCD screen and find the best bits using the four speeds of fast forward and rewind, up to x16, or simply go forward or back frame by frame. Unlike many similar products the Zi8 features a macro mode for shooting close up. It also has a built in mic and speaker to capture and playback sound and the addition of an external microphone jack means you have the option to record in glorious stereo, great for playback on your HDTV. A high speed processor adjusts exposure and autofocus quickly and with smart face tracking technology and built in image stabilisation you’ll enjoy the best possible quality razor sharp footage.
With the Zi8 you’ll never run out of memory, whilst many mini-camcorders feature small internal memories, the Zi8 has an SD card slot which can take upto a 32GB SDHC card good for up to an incredible 10 hours of video at HD 30fps (1GB = 20mins). And if you run out of memory on the go you can simply change to a new card. A step up from AA batteries, the Zi8 is powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion battery which delivers a longer record time and can be charged both from a mains socket or via a USB.
Better than the Zi6
I do minor video work, and am by no means have professional knowledge of all cameras. I’ve been using the zi8 all day to film a small project, and I have to say it has done a pretty good job. It is much better than the previous zi6 model, but isn’t without a few minor issues.
Comparing them side by side right now, the zi8 records and displays colours much better, where as the zi6 isn’t as sharp and has a slight blue tint to it. However neither of these cameras perform great in low lighting. The best feature about the zi8 is the fact you can plug in an external microphone, so you can record crystal clear sound, even though the built in mic is reasonable quality. Also the zi8 will play back sound in its preview mode. One thing the zi6 does better is smooth zooming, whereas the zi8 zooms in block segments. The way the USB connection flicks out on the zi6 is much more slick, than the rubbery styled flick attachment on the zi8, but both do the job fine….Cheap Kodak Zi8 HD Pocket Video Camera – Black
