Currently we doing about 30% hd filming and editing. Honestly if you are thinking of getting a hd camcorder for your own edit. a lot of friend and ex couple been asking whats good to get.
1) dslr ( with video mode )
5dmk2, 500D canon
D90, D5000 Nikon
2) Camcorder ( avchd or HDV )
if you are asking for advice, i will say that try to stick within your budget,
if you are always spending on new toy like me, you will get a nagging for your wife as well.
just some preview about dslr
Pro - 5dmk2 - an amazing camera with 1080i,40mb/s and interchangeable lense.
recently just have firmware upgrade.
For still photo, i guess its a gd deal for $3.5k .
Video is bonus for this camera. but its video mode produce stunning video as well.
Cons - For usage or as a main camera, my advice...maybe the D5000 maybe a better choice
because of the flip of the LCD is a must for any video shoot. Panasonic is producing a
new model GH1 which record in avchd.
For camcorder - i think will strongly recommend to go with solid state than tape.
SDHC is cheap and reliable. My recommendation is go with scandisk for all card.
Next will be editing