Can somebody answer questions about video recording in the dark?

[jwbryson1]

As we quickly approach Halloween, this year, dammit, we ARE going to catch those little ghosts and goblins that steal our pumpkin every year and smash it in the street.

So, I have a Sony TRV27 camcorder that I want to use to record our front porch while we are out trick or treating with the kids. Can somebody answer the following questions for me?

1. The camera uses Mini DV tapes. What's the longest that these will record (60 minutes or 90 minutes?) and how do I set the camera to record the longest?

2. I assume I should be using night vision and will aim through our window with the camera on a tripod. Correct?

Any other suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[Big Mike]

If they are wearing generic costumes...the video probably won't do you any good. I think you're going to have to go on an old fashioned stake out.

 

[snowbear116 47]

I can't say on the camera, but for the pumpkin: run some bare copper wire around the pumpkin (cover it well), attach an electrical cord to the wire, and . . . ah, never mind.

 

[Hickeydog]

I would like to recommend a ghillie suit and a Tazer.

 

[snowbear116 47]

I always liked passive systems - set it & forget it. Tazers are cool, though - they sure way you up (it did for me, at least).

 

[kundalini]

What's the point? Devilish acts is part and parcel for pranksters at Halloween.

And besides.... if they are in costume, how are you going to tell who is the culprit?

Also, if you do a decent carving, they just might admire the art instead.

 

[bentcountershaft]

If you think you can get your hands on some c4 I may have a solution for you.

 

[Derrel]

Those 12 gauge bean-bag rounds the cops use will knock a perp flat to the ground...just sayin'...

 

[jwbryson1]

We think we may know the culprit but need confirmation. Not sure they wear a costume, however, and even if they did we live in a small neighborhood so it would be easy to ID the person.

I like the idea of explosives.....:mrgreen:

 

[CherylL1]

I have an old Sony DCR/TRV 18 which is the same manual for your cam. It can record 90 min., but may have noise. Set the switch to VCR and change from SP to LP in the menu. (Page 182 recording menu) I have never used the night shot. The cam does a fairly good job in low light. (Page 34 night shot info) The camcorder may have a red light on the front, haven't used it in a long time but you would have to cover that up with tape. I have a low light old video online if you want to see a sample.

Look under the Primary Manual from this list:
Sony eSupport - DCR-TRV27 - Support

 

[jwbryson1]

Thanks CherIL. I think a well placed sign that reads "SMILE! You are on camera!" may do the trick as well....