Canon HV20 Video Light & Microphone

I have just got my HV20 and with this camcorder would like to learn to start using additional lighting in low light situations.

I am slightly confused with regards to the two that Canon recommends in its book. There is the VFL-1 Video Flash Light which apparently allows recording of still images and movies at night or in dark places.

There is also the VL-3 Video Light which enables you to record brightly in colour even in dark places. This is the cheaper option from what I have seen but I am confused as to what the difference is between the two.

I record family footage both inside and outside the home and there are low light situations that I think my footage would be improved by either.

Has anyone got any experience or knowledge or either that they can pass onto me so that I can decide which one to get please?

On another note I am also looking at the DM-50 Directional Stereo Microphone. I have never used one of these before either and was wondering if anyone has recommendations concerning external sound for the HV20 and whether someone like myself would actually benefit from it as I am just recording home footage?

Thanks

[RLT]

Originally Posted by crewe1000

I have just got my HV20 and with this camcorder would like to learn to start using additional lighting in low light situations.

I am slightly confused with regards to the two that Canon recommends in its book. There is the VFL-1 Video Flash Light which apparently allows recording of still images and movies at night or in dark places.

There is also the VL-3 Video Light which enables you to record brightly in colour even in dark places. This is the cheaper option from what I have seen but I am confused as to what the difference is between the two.

I record family footage both inside and outside the home and there are low light situations that I think my footage would be improved by either.

Has anyone got any experience or knowledge or either that they can pass onto me so that I can decide which one to get please?

On another note I am also looking at the DM-50 Directional Stereo Microphone. I have never used one of these before either and was wondering if anyone has recommendations concerning external sound for the HV20 and whether someone like myself would actually benefit from it as I am just recording home footage?

Thanks

Sorry dont have HV20 but I am considering this for a future purchase. I was just wondering what it is like for indoor recording compared to a regular camcorder, as I've been told HD camcorders are not as good in lower lighting.
So I would be most interested in your experience with the HV20 in this regard.

Thanks RLT

Unfortunately as you may have seen from one of my other threads I've not got off to a good start with the HV20!

That said, the issues are with my computer and not the HV20. From the 2 minutes of test footage I shot yesterday I was very impressed with it although there was sufficient light in the room at the time anyway.

As I've hardly used it yet, it may be worth someone who has used it sufficiently to pass comment on it although what I have read in about 90% of threads elsewhere is that it does a decent job which for my home video needs should be ok.

I have actually gone ahead and ordered the VL-3 as when looking back at some of my previous footage from other camcorders in poor light situations its clear that some help was required although I didnt realise at the time!

[lukep01]

Stick the camera is 24/25p and cine mode and low light recording is excellent.

[senu]

TBH any form of external light is far better than none

[a_friend]

i need one as well and also a filter kit any help would be much appreciated