Separate camcorder or not?

JamesP1701

Hi folks,

We’re off on a road trip of North West America in a month. I’ve got a Sony Alpha s2 (still getting used to it.) In the past, Ive always taken my a separate camera and my gf10 1080 camcorder. I like photos and videos for memories but am certainly not an amateur photographer.

I guess I’m wondering now: would the Sony Alpha be sufficient for both purposes or would I still be best off taking the camcorder?

Alternatively, is it worth treating myself to a 4K camcorder?

Thoughts welcome!

Terfyn

Only you can know. Does the Sony produce good video which you are satisfied with?

Certainly the Panasonic 4K cams (VXF1 and VX1) will give HD more suitable for editing on older PCs.

12harry

Have you considered a body-only? This would give you a second-string and if s/h you might have an extra lens as well.
The A7 series are mighty pricey, and camcorders are cheaper   "easy to use" by comparison. The Pana VXF1 ( with eye-viewfinder) or the  VX1 are probably close to perfect, although Sony's AX33 is reasonably popular.
Will you take a tripod?  For movie pan-shots it's almost essential, despite built-in stab claims . . . but it does add to weight . . . You could fashion a neck-tie-brace - which will provide additional holding-power, compared with holding in the hands - But having the advantage it's only cord and weighs next to nowt.

Personally,  I set the AV exposure to -0.7 so as to retain detail in highlights ( and clouds?) - for wide-expanses of sky view, this can help.  However, your Alpha may have a "bracket exposure" Mode - covering  - and normal  . . . but you'll need to carry more Memory.  Don't forget to buy another battery and a US plug-style charger ( although you might get some stuff in the States, cheaper than here...?).   Keep Receipts for Customs.

Hope that helps.