Google the phrase “news cameras” and you'll find very little on the web which actually relates to the sale of these items, new or used. Weeding through the top hits and reading their descriptions, it would appear that this product is a tightly-kept secret and not available to consumers.

A professional camcorder is a device which records electronic moving images, whereas a movie camera records images on film. Once used solely in studios, they now fill the need for high-tech equipment which produces educational and music videos, and straight-to-DVD movies within the commercial world.

Professional news cameras fall into one of two categories and set themselves apart from professional photography equipment in a number of categories. Portable recording cameras - think high-end camcorders - use ENG, Electronic News Gathering and EFP, Electronic Field Production, to acquire images. They are much larger than the cameras available to consumers, and inherent to their design, they must be carried on the shoulder. Studio cameras do not have the capability of the camcorder, and are usually fixed on pedestals, either rolling or stationary.

ENG is the standard in news camera reporting equipment. It covers everything from a single reporter taking a camcorder out to cover a story, to an entire news crew with a satellite truck which goes on location for live reporting in news broadcasting.

EFP is an industry term used in television production, taking place outside the formal studio. Classic applications of EFP are award shows, interviews for major news items, music concerts, and sporting and political events.

An eBay search revealed some of the components and accessories as well as a few actual professional news cameras listed for sale. One look at their price tag and it is obvious these are not within the casual photographer’s budget. However, eBay Stores are the only setting wherein these would be offered, considering the incredible cost and technical specifications knowledge needed to make an informed decision to purchase.

Resource Video specializes in the sale of new and used broadcast video and audio equipment online. They also provide links to companies worldwide who supply all areas of television, news, and broadcast equipment, including vintage formats.

Panasonic has a website with consumer, business, and industrial equipment listed under their respective categories. The AJ-HPX series is among their business offerings, as well as others. In addition, they have an option to locate a dealer via zip code input.

AbelCineTech is a professional film and video company on the web which provides sales, rentals, and service. They have a “Shop By Manufacture” page which includes Aaton, Panasonic, Sony, Vision Research, HD Scope, Red Packages, Zacuto, to name a few.

Another global leader in online advertising of broadcast equipment for sale is tv-bay.com. Developed and launched at the NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) annual show in Las Vegas, 2004, it became the first of its kinds. Private and professional sellers register and purchase online credits, which they then exchange for ad space to list their broadcast and video gear for sale. A “Want To Buy” page is also available to those looking for specific makes and models.