Thanks to @alexmartins for tipping me off about this Flip Ultra HD test footage. It features birdwatching in rio Sado (Setúbal, Portugal) It’s shot handheld and edited with iMovie 09.

You can buy the Flip Video Ultra HD Camera here at Amazon UK or Amazon US .

This entry level Flip Ultra 2nd Generation in Black is sticking firmly in the Amazon Bestsellers list as we head towards 2010. If you can’t quite raise the funds for the HD model then this is the Flip for you.

Tech Specs:

• 2 Inch Screen
• 120 mins record time
• 960 x 240 resolution
• 1/4″ VGA CMOS Sensor 5.6 µm pixels
• H.264 video compression, AAC audio compression, MP4 file format
• f/2.4 (fast lens for low-light environments)
• 2 AA Batteries (included) or optional Flip Video AA rechargeable battery pack (1.2 Volt NiMH rechargeable). Rechargeable through USB

Flip Video Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation With 4GB Memory at Amazon UK

In the USA? See the Flip Ultra Camcorder 2nd Generation 4gb at Amazon US

If you are thinking of getting a Flip for Christmas you’d better get your skates on. Flip Cameras are great for filming your Kids opening their presents, Grandma playing rockband on the Wii and of course at New Year the Flip can easily slip into your party frock (or trousers).

Amazon deadlines are above, today being Sunday there’s still time … just.

Check out the Flip Video camera I recommend here at Amazon UK or Amazon US . This link will take you direct to the product.

Stuck on which Flip Camera to buy? I suggest you read this comparison between the Ultra HD and the Mino HD.

Have a look at this short sample video filmed on the latest Flip Ultra HD camera. The colour saturation and resolution of detailed objects is really impressive when you consider the price of this pint sized camera.

The downside, as you will notice, is trying too keep a tiny camera steady though this applies to many more expensive handicams too. I would recommend using a monopod or tripod (the Flip has a tripod socket) if you are shooting landscapes and architecture especially if you are trying to pan.

If it’s just holiday footage then you might not want to carry any extra kit, instead think about resting it on something like a rucksack and wedging it steady. If you are handholding, use both hands to grip your Flip Camera and lock your elbows to your body to create a firm triangular shape, it really does help. Wedging yourself next to a wall can also keep you and the camera steady. Avoid pans if you don’t need them, shoot in static shots and edit later.

If you are shooting medium close up reality style action or interviews on the wide end of the lens it’s a lot easier to keep rigid.

Please add a comment if you need any more Flip Video shooting advice.

Check out Amazon UK or Amazon US for fast delivery and for the best prices I’ve found on the Web.

I like this video because it’s honest. It shows the pluses and minuses of choosing a Flip. As you might have figured I am a Flip fan, but you need to use the camera to its’ strengths.

As I’ve said before I use the Flip because it’s hassle free and I can take it everywhere, no clip on batteries or big bags required. I wouldn’t bother lugging a bigger camcorder around (especially as I am already weighed down with a laptop on the tube or a bag full of Kid Stuff at the weekend). I’d rather capture the moments than miss them whilst my super all singing and dancing, tea making camcorder sits at home.

If I was going to shoot a sports day or school play from a distance I wouldn’t rely on the Flip and shoot on something else, it’s zoom wouldn’t get me close enough but for the buzz afterwards, it’s great.

Until you own a Flip it’s hard to get why they are so cool and convenient but this video will give you a clue.