Most important is lots of light. Camcorders are widely promoted based on their low-light capabilities but recognize that video quality suffers markedly as the light level falls. Camera settings, such as white balance and exposure controls, are also very important. Although a video processor or color corrector can solve some problems during editing, high quality original tapes are always the fastest and most reliable way to achieve excellent results. Use the best possible camcorder.
More money really does buy a better image.
Use a good quality recorder. Flying-erase heads allow clean transitions between scenes, free of snow, picture jitters, and other distracting image disruptions. It is possible to electronically alter the video signal as you record it on the new tape using color correctors and video processors. These tools can rescue marginal tapes or they can be used to add wild and crazy effects to the video. A color corrector alters the overall color of the video.