After looking though the hundreds of threads on this topic I still can't decide on a camcorder. Im looking for the most i can get for no more than $500. Right now I'm stuck between the
Panasonic PV-GS320
http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Cameras-Camcorders/Camcorders/MiniDV-Camcorders/model.PV-GS320.S_11002_7000000000000005702#tabsection
and the Sony DCR-SR42.
http://b2b.sony.com/Solutions/product/DCR-SR42
I'm really not sure what the difference is in quality between a miniDV and a hard drive camera. Whats easier to work with and what camera will be better for filming skiing?