Which Camcorder to get?
 

It's time to replace my JVC GR-DVF10 miniDV camcorder. However, I'm not up to date on the good camcorders thesedays. I mainly use the camcorder for recording surf in occasional tough conditions (not in water though). Therefore, I need a camcorder that can handle the *beachy conditions (salty air, water mist, etc.). Also, for those of you knowledgable in videography, what types of features are required for action shooting. Aside from wide angle lens, what else should I be looking for. Not looking to spend over $6 or 7 hundred. Any suggestions?

manual iris is a must. Consider upping your price so you can afford a better one. Most consumer camcorders won't do well when exposed to salt and mist.

Can someone explain manual iris a little better? I'm not looking to purchase anything at the professional level so anything exceeding $1k is definitely out of the question. Any help would be appreciated.

when you're shooting action, your subject is often moving around a bit in the frame. This changes the average light intensity that the camera sees. If your cam only has auto-iris, you'll get what's called an iris flare - the picture will be too bright or too dark momentarilly as the iris tries to compensate.

In the past I've used my GR-DVF10 (auto iris) to shoot action (surf, dirtbike jumping, etc.) and haven't had any problems with the 'iris flare'. However, it would be a nice feature to have. How much does this feature increase the product's price?