IME: I've made some movies for my own use, BFL's LT outcall. Ask FIRST. I used a quality point-n-shoot camera, Canon S80, then a G12, about the size of your palm. NOT intimidating, nothing like a 35mm with a LARGE lens. No extra lights, tripods, whatever. I'd say these days a good smart phone would be sufficient. Making a MOVIE is work, making a permanent memory should be fun for both parties.