Firstly I don't use video very often so I'm reviewing the camera for it's still photography capabilities. I'm led to understand that as a video camera it is very good camera but I will leave that to others to confirm. You will find a lot of reviews on the Internet knocking this camera as having 'soft' lens issues. However, with the right settings and an understanding that like a lot of other lenses they may not always be as tack sharp as you would like at their longest focal length you should be pleased with the results. I'm happy with it and it has met but not exceeded my expectations for a 1" sensor camera. Yes the Sony RX10 lV has a longer focal length at 600mm, has a degree of weather sealing, and is claimed to be sharper but hey, it's twice the price of this camera! Battery life, like a lot of cameras with EVFs and rear screen LV is okay but not stellar, Just use sensibly and you'll get 300 shots. Would I recommend it? Just do your research, including looking at lots of photos taken with the camera, don't concentrate on negative reviews only as people who are happy users don't post as often as others I read somewhere. You pay your money and you make your choice. I did and am happy with my purchase. Of course it will never be a match for my Nikon full frame camera but it does punch above it's weight and it is a lot, lot lighter to carry about all day! I'm putting some photos on just to give you an idea of what it can do although in your hands it will almost certainly do better I'm sure.