Camcorders are becoming affordable for more and more people.

Many families decide to get a camcorder as early as possible, to maximise the value they can get from it. Here are some of the reasons and some tips.

• Get used to a camcorder during pregnancy - and you will not miss or make a mess of any opportunities with your newborn.
• Can be better than lots of flashes for a newborn baby
• You can capture the movement and sound of your child as it develops - you cannot do this with still photography.
• Better than travelling across the UK with all your baby gear - why not send a short movie from the family?

Your Views and Comments

I regularly use our camcorder, digital and film camera; I swap and change according to my need. Without the camcorder I couldn't have sorted one of my dads treats for his birthday tomorrow. I've recorded my 8 year old son playing his clarinet and talking my dad through his 'show'. I know my dad will love it and the young one is really proud of himself. Wouldn't be without our camcorder!

Marie