New to this medium: Sony Z5U or Canon XH-A1s?
 

I am taking a photo journalism course next month and need to purchase a HD camcorder. I'm new to this medium and have read a number of reviews and comments on a number of camcorders and have narrowed my choices to the Z5U and the A1s. They seem comparable in features but with some differences.

I don't know where this course will lead me in terms of work, if any, so I know it is difficult to ask for recommendations. The work output would most likely be to websites and DVD; possibly film documentary. I'm hoping those of you with experience will be able to offer some insight to help me make a decision. Thanks in advance!

I'd suggest the A1s....sharper, better lens/glass with all 3 rings on the lens (focus,zoom,iris), better cine gamma etc....And it's twin, the G1, goes up on the shuttle every time (the live pics you see on the NASA channel are from it).

Jim Martin