Summary: Good for beginners AND experts.
Comment: A very nice hand-held camcorder, with more 'bells and whistles' than a comventional camcorder. When camcorder is turned off, a lens protective gate closes, minimizing dust and damage. Auto shut-off after 5 minutes if camcorder is not used. The built-in light has three settings: On, Off, and Auto. Motion detector mode can act as a security camera. Flip-out-and over color LCD screen is handy when holding camera above crowds to video tape stage performances, etc. Built-in speaker acts with LCD screen for accurate, immediate checking of taping. Easy to use for all. Only drawbacks: Maximum tape length is 90 minutes in SLP mode, and auto focus has some trouble in certain circumstances (which are few). Manual focus wheel (conveniently mounted below lens)compensates in most circumstances. Using LCD screen or built-in light drains battery quicker. Use the conventional B/W viewfinder.