[cooper83]

http://reviews.cnet.com/pocket-hd-camcorders/?tag=centerColumnArea1.1

These are pretty much your options. There will be some older/discontinued models not listed.

A nice feature on the Kodak Zi8 is the microphone input. Get a mic with a wind filter on it, and that solves your problem.

You might need to clarify what you mean by "average filmmaker." That could mean anything from short YouTube clips to film festivals.

 

[cooper83]

how about the -Sony Webbie HD MHS-CM1?

See: "There will be some older/discontinued models not listed."

Google is your friend:

http://reviews.photographyreview.com/blog/sony-mhs-cm1-and-mhs-pm1-webbie-hd-cameras/
http://www.camcorderinfo.com/content/Sony-Webbie-HD-MHS-CM1-Camcorder-Review-36256.htm
http://mobilitydigest.com/review-sony-webbie-mhs-cm1-hd-camcorder/
http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cam...mhs/4505-6500_7-33485115.html?tag=mncol;lst;1

 

[cooper83]

I think we've been more than helpful with suggestions & links. This will require some work on your part too.

From the manufacturers website - Kodak.com - which is the first place to check for these sorts of things:

Tripod mount - 1/4 in. standard