Flip Video’s software activates directly from the camcorder, which is comprised of a chip-based library system for viewing and organizing video clips. Once your recorded videos have been uploaded, you will see four frames at a time on the screen. You can then choose a clip for editing or “movie-making,” an exciting feature that allows you to create custom audio and video montages.
You can also capture still photos from any video you have and use your own music for mixes as well as email videos, make video greeting cards, or publish videos on Flip Video’s two partner sites, YouTube and Grouper. As a matter of fact, Flip Video is the first camcorder to upload directly to YouTube. It even turns itself off when not being used.
Be advised, however, that Flip Video may not be compatible with some PCs. If your computer has low virtual memory, you will find it difficult or impossible to utilize some of its more attractive functions, such as “video-sharing” (i.e., the feature that allows you to send films to YouTube) and “movie-making.”
Flip Video is available in 30-minute (512 MB) and 60-minute (1 GB) versions. It has a 1.4-inch color screen with a 2x zoom and 30 fps video quality at VGA (640x480) resolution, as well as MPEG-4 recorded video files saved in AVI format and a built-in microphone and speaker. Its handy USB 2.0 arm flips out from the side and comes with a video-out cable for television viewing. You will appreciate this prêt-à-porter device that lightly slips in and out of hand and records images quite well in dark indoor settings. It weighs 0.3 lbs., and its dimensions are 4.1” x 2.3” x 1.3”.
Capture timeless images in the galleries of Paris. Film your family having good times and noodle salad in the cafes of Amsterdam. Experiment with potential shots while on location in Antarctica. Take advantage of an impromptu celebrity sighting where some scandalous activity is taking place. Record your favorite professor ranting about current U.S. foreign policy. Show your students the impressive public address you witnessed while attending a conference in Sacramento.
With Flip Video, the possibilities are endless. This innovation in casual and renegade filmmaking is only the beginning!
Each Flip Video package includes a television connector cable, wrist strap, soft carrying case, two AA batteries, and an instruction booklet. Flip Video’s 30-minute model costs $119, and its 60-minute model costs $149. It can be found at Target, Best Buy, Costco, Amazon, CVS, Rite Aid, and other retailers. For more information, visit www.theflip.com.
