Currently we recommend the Logitech IM web camera as the best choice for use in clay animation. It supports 640 x 480 resolution as a webcam and has a long usb cable and most importantly a manual focus ring. It can also be used with the tripod described below. It is available at approx $70 ex GST in Adelaide from:
Leading Digital Solutions Ph 0438 722 187 - they also have a cardboard stage available - approx $28
OR Music Ednet Ph 82701355 - they specialise in audio software and hardware including microphones - starting at $12.

If you need an inexpensive webcam that works in both Mac OSX and Windows the MSI StarCam 370i webcam is another possibility at around $60.

We have tried several other web cams including two cheaper cameras from Logitech and they all work but with different levels of quality. Look for a web cam that has a 640x480 resolution rather than the cheaper 320x240 resolution if possible as the animation will be clearer and viewable as a larger size movie.

The cameras ideally should be mounted on a desktop tripod eg these Premier tripods from the suppliers mentioned above - approx $20

A desk lamp with a 40W globe and adjustable height and angle is very useful for lighting your stage.