It's incredible to think just how far camcorder technology has come and evolved from its humble beginnings. Video cameras, like all forms of technology and gizmos and gadgets, have improved and become more user-friendly and more innovative over the years. That fact, of course, is to be expected, but not necessarily proclaimed as genius. But, when one looks at the history, timeline and growth of the video camera, it is remarkable to see where it has come from, where it has gone, and where it will venture to in the future.

Video cameras emerged as large, bulky and cumbersome devices that required tapes or reels to record and store the moving pictures. They sat on your shoulder or were mounted on legs. Their movement and portability was severely hindered and limited by wires, cords or cables. They could only be operated and used by specially trained people. And they could only record and play back in black and white.

Fast forward (another innovation on the video camcorder) to the digital age, and we are now inundated with brand upon brand of digital camcorder. Some are more expensive than others. While others are more simple and affordable. Most of today's modern digital camcorders do not use tapes at all. They are now capable of recording the movie directly onto a hard drive that is contained with the digital video camcorder itself. Which, in and of itself, also shows how far computer technology has evolved over the years.

Digital video cameras have improved and advanced so much that they are now not just limited to the traditional video camera venue. Camcorders are now found in a variety of devices, including cellular phones, portable digital assistants, hand-held video game consoles and a whole host of other portable devices. Whereas before, perhaps only an important event warranted to use of the video camera, today's generation uses the Digital camcorder in the same regard as they would a pair of scissors - they are a tool of convenience.

Digital camcorders appear to be everywhere these days, even if we are oblivious to their locations and whereabouts. Certainly, the hand-held video camera will always be in favor and in style. But, more and more people are choosing to own a digital video camera that is part of another item altogether, rather than just a stand-alone item. And, just as interesting as the technology itself, is how it is being used. Video cameras are being used regularly to document, record, create and share. Because digital camcorders have evolved, their roles have evolved and expanded as well.