Whether you are an aspiring filmmaker, or plan to purchase a Canon camcorder primarily to record family or business events, camcorders can create lasting and enjoyable memories for years to come.

When preparing to buy a Canon camcorder, it is important to understand recording format.

Some important terms and features to remember when dealing with recording format for the Canon camcorder are:

1. MiniDV - the most common format, miniDV uses recordable, reasonably priced tapes that can hold 60 to 90 minutes of video.
   
2. DVD - these cameras use either standard or mini DVDs for storage. While the DVDs are slightly cheaper, they can be more difficult to edit.
   
3. Flash memory - many Canon camcorders can use SD (secure digital) cards to store video, for ease of file transfer.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase Canon MiniDV camcorders

You can purchase a Canon MiniDV camcorder from many online retailers.

I recommend: Dell.com carries the ZR900 MiniDV, an affordable model with a 2.7" LCD screen and easy-to-use menu system, as well as other Canon camcorder models. The Canon eStore sells several models of MiniDV camcorders, including the ZR950, which has a feature that allows you to share your videos and photos instantly. CamerasPhotoDigital.com sells the Canon VIXIA HV30 MiniDV, a camcorder that captures high definition video to MiniDV.

Buy Canon camcorders

There are many quality and easily accessible sellers of Canon camcorders online. You can purchase a Canon DVD camcorder, or Canon digital camcorder with flash or internal memory at several retailers.

I recommend: Circuit City offers a number of Canon camcorder models, including the FS100, which allows you to record onto SD/SDHC cards. Sam's Club has a large selection of Canon Camcorders and accessories, and offers the VIXIA HG21, one of very few cameras that combines an internal hard disc drive with high definition recording capabilities. Best Buy sells, in addition to other models, the Canon DC310, which allows you to connect the camera directly to a printer for printing without a computer. Ibuydigital.com sells the Canon HG10, with a spacious 40Gb hard drive.

Buy used or refurbished Canon camcorders

Buying from sellers of Canon camcorder parts and purchasing refurbished cameras can be a great way to save money on your new camera.

I recommend: The RefurbDepot.com, TigerDirect.com and Vanns.com all offer used or refurbished Canon camcorders at great savings. Selection varies and some items may not always be available, but this can be an excellent way to save money on your new Canon camcorder.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before you shop for Canon digital camcorders, think about how you will use them. If you will be recording a lot of sporting events, you will want a camcorder that has a sports mode. However, if you will be recording events in low light, you will want night vision or a low light mode.
• •  Consider your budget as you visit suppliers of Canon camcorders; prices can vary widely. Many features that can add to the cost of Canon DVD camcorders and other models may not be worth the extra cost to you. For example, Canon camcorders that allow manual adjustment of the aperture or focus will not be worth paying for if you do not know how, or even want, to use those features.