JVC Everio GZ-HD40

Pros: Awesome picture quality, heaps of handy features, still quality not too bad - all features (record and playback) can be operated from remote, simple to use for a beginner like me. Night time recording not too bad due to light also.

Cons: Annoyingly I am unable to install the software on my computer so that is definitely a negative (although not the fault of JVC). Digital optical stabilisation would also be a beneficial feature but otherwise still pretty good.

Summary: This is an awesome video camera thath I would recommend to anyone as it has heaps of features and great picture quality. Make sure you shop around as there are heaps of bargains around for this camera. Unfortunately I can't comment on the software as I cannot install it on my computer for some reason...