Sony DCR-TRV22 user reviews

Pros EXCELLENT low-light performance, fantastic color, picture, great battery life, fast and easy to use

Cons Bottom-loading DV, no wind screen for mic

Summary I have used this little beauty on three storm-chasing expeditions to document storms. This camera does a phenomenal job of capturing anything I throw at it, including night-time lightning. It is small, lasts forever on the extended battery and has been an essential part of my travel kit for the past four years. Sony's newest compact offerings are cheaply made junk compared to this. For storm-chasing, DV is the best way to go. It offers unlimited recording capability. DVDs need to go through a finishing process before ejecting, this can cause a storm-chaser to miss opportunities at capturing once-in-a-lifetime shots. The DV tapes take less than ten seconds to replace. You can also archive DV tapes, you cannot do that with HD camcorders as easily. HD camcorders are also more susceptible to shock, and in a storm situation, that is untenable. For a standard-def camcorder, this still tops my list. I have been looking for something that might be better, and after three years of looking, have come up empty.

Pros Easy to use

Cons Like Mission Impossible gadgetry, cameras tend to self destruct around the 2 year mark requiring Sony to repair for around $300

Summary I was very pleased with using this camera, especially since I am a novice. I liked being able to preserve my daughter's first movements, sounds and expressions. However, when the camera was not quite two years old, I used it one day, then turned it on the next only to find the LCD screen and viewfinder mimicking a black hole. It would still record audio, but no video. Sony wanted $280 plus S & H since it was out of warranty. I looked into this on the web and found that this is a very common occurence at this age. Since the camera originally retailed for $720+, I opted not to throw another $300+ at it when I can buy a comparable NEW camera for between $400-$500. Maybe this time I will consider the extended warranty but will probably go with another manufacturer since Sony did not seem to be concerned with this widespread problem. Email me if you have any questions.

Pros Small, but not too small. Easy navigation through menu.

Cons The digital camera feature doesn't produce the best photos.

Summary I got this camera when I got married for every day purposes. It has not let me down. The battery life is pretty good even with the LCD screen in operation.
If you are looking for a camera that will be used for simple, every day home videos, and simple video production, this camera will do you well.

Pros Great night shooting-If you have never purchased a camcorder you may not know but about 90 percent of a regular family's shooting is done inside; compact, easy to use, touch screen panel, great accessories to compensate for its simplicity.

Cons Hard to see lcd in bright sunlight, expensive to repair