Is the built-in light on a camcorder strong enough?

Is the built-in light on a camcorder strong enough?

Tim Smith (Camcorder Training Specialist) gives expert video advice on: How do I choose a tripod for my camcorder?; How do I choose a monopod for my camcorder? and more...

Camcorders with a built-in light work pretty well in low light situations. Built in lights give it that extra boost. But don't expect the built in light to light up an entire room. They're really just low wattage lights, that you point directly at the subject. And they can also tend to give you more of a "flashlight effect", where the built in light is just something that's just pointed directly at something. If you're going to be using a built-in light, let your subject know that you're going to be doing it, so that they're not looking like a deer in the headlights. And then also think about maybe trying to shade it a little bit, so that it's not startling, and drawing as built in lights can be.