Sep. 9--Home video has come a long way since the days when the camcorder-happy parent lugged a bulky machine around to birthday parties and family vacations, propping it up on one shoulder and squinting into a viewfinder.

Today, many cell phones and digital cameras also take video, but for those who still prefer one-trick gadgets, new devices available are increasingly sleek and portable.

Another big change in the digital revolution: No more stacks of videotapes. According to Consumer Reports, most manufacturers no longer make analog camcorders. Videos go straight onto the computer, where, after a few simple edits, they often are shared not on the TV but through the Internet. For the nonprofessional in the market for a new camcorder, there are a few basic categories to choose from: pocket camcorders, standard handheld camcorders and high-definition camcorders.

At local retailers, such as Fred Meyer, Target and Best Buy, customers can try out different camcorders in person. There are myriad options for purchasing a video camera online. Comprehensive reviews of various models of camcorder are available at sites like pcmag.com and at cnet.com.

Pocket cameras

These handheld cameras -- some the size of a cell phone -- provide the ultimate in portability and ease of use. They generally have a small (2.5 inches is considered generous) picture window, a simple user interface, a basic microphone and a playback speaker.

Neisje Morrell, a sales associate at Bend's Best Buy who specializes in digital cameras and video, says these cameras are popular gifts and good for the customer who just wants to capture short videos for sharing with friends and family on Facebook. You're not going to get great image stabilization or optical zoom, Morrell says, and the image and sound quality is not high enough to document major events like weddings.

Considerations:

--Memory and storage: Some models, like the popular Flip line, have a set amount of built-in memory that cannot be expanded. Other models, like the Kodak Zi8, have a small amount of internal memory, but can take memory cards. For example, a 2GB memory card costs around $13.

--Batteries: Some are rechargeable, using the USB port on your computer or an AC adapter; others take AA batteries. There are advantages to each: If you run out of power while you're out and about, AA batteries are easy to come by, but online reviewers warn that you will use a lot of battery power. Some models that run on AA batteries also come with rechargeables.

--HD: Many of these cameras have high-definition versions for a little more money.