Hi guys,
I am wanting a hand-held video camera that is easy to operate, has good battery life/storage capacity, that I can download easily/ make dvds, with, etc.
Preferably for less than $500!
I haven't had one since they were the carry on your shoulder type so I am way out of the loop. Any ideas, recommendations, ones to avoid?
Thanks!!

I guess it just depends on what you are looking for. There are many different ones out there. Some use mini-dvd's, some use mini-tapes, some use memory chips. I have one that uses a mini-tape and then I transfer them to dvd using my computer. I have a Sony handycam. I looked at all stores til I found which one I liked. It is light-weight, easy to use, good battery-life, and zooms far. I think it is best if you check them out at the stores to see which one fits with you. I only payed around $300 for mine.