Camcorder vs digital camera, What to buy

 We own a Nikon Coolpix S3100 point-and-shoot camera, but we're seriously considering a camcorder, especially since we're keen on shooting videos of our 3-month-old son. But a friend told us we do not need a camcorder because our digital camera is also capable of HD videos. Please advise.
- S Ramakrishnan, New Delhi 


I guess what you're asking is whether you need to buy that camcorder or not. The simple answer: If you want to shoot fantastic photos as well as videos then you need both - a digital camera as well as a camcorder. On the other hand, if you're satisfied with the occasional video and are not so concerned about its quality, then your existing camera should suffice. But let's break it down... 

Video qualityMost digital photo cameras (including the S3100) are capable of HD (720p) video with some advanced models even offering FullHD (1080p) recording. Still, very few compact shooters can match the high-quality video from camcorders. In fact, the difference in output—better colour depth and sharpness—is almost always apparent when viewed on HDTVs. 

AudioIn point-and-shoot cameras, audio is recorded in mono. This often makes the playback sound tinny. Camcorders are equipped with better mics - and nowadays are capable of multichannel surround sound. So if you want videos of your toddler gurgling with joy as he takes his first few steps, or of him saying his first word, then you might seriously want to consider a camcorder. 

LensThis is one area where camcorders beat point-and-shoots by a mile. Most still-photography digital cameras come with optical zooms in the range of 3x to 5x, while camcorders boast of 25x to 60x lenses. Besides, the lens mechanism on digital cameras is not as silent or smooth, resulting in an audible sound when zooming in or out during shooting. 

Image stabilizationFew things can be more annoying than shaky videos. To counter this problem, camcorders are equipped with improved image stabilization that ensure you get jerk-free videos even when, say, you're riding on the Palace on Wheels and zooming out to shoot those beautiful landscapes of Rajasthan. 

ErgonomicsPhoto cameras have been designed like, well, a photo camera. Camcorders on the other hand, have been built in a way such that you can hold them up for longer when shooting movies. Besides, its buttons—including for zoom—are ergonomically placed to allow for single-hand operation. Also, the LCD displays on all camcorders can be rotated so you can shoot videos by holding the device above your head while still viewing what the lens is capturing - and rotating a full 180 degrees will let you actually shoot yourself when on a rollercoaster ride. In short, if you're serious about videos, you'll need that camcorder.