A Mic input is getting to be a rare option on camcorders as of late. The higher end models still include this input. But it seems if you find one with a Mic input it dosn't have Firewire out. Hard Drive based camcorders are a great convenience but generally do not have a Firewire out due to that they are already a Avi file so they tend to have USB only for file transfer. Also DH video is a MUCH larger file and take a lot more space on a Hard Drive/Memory. Check out Sony, Panasonic, Canon and JVC Camcorders as a starting point. They tend to keep the most requested functions available on the upper end models.

Both Camcorders include the A/V (Audio Video) cables but do not support record input to the camcorder through these cables.

To shot video using the LCD video light in low light situations with Canon’s LCD video light, flip over the LCD screen to face your subject and activate the video light function. The soft light emanating from your LCD illuminates the area in which you are shooting allowing you to get high quality video even in less than ideal lighting conditions

To start getting into studio type lighting the photographer needs to get away from using the on camera flash. He can get a simple, basic studio lighting look with just adding a external Flash unit. Without knowing which brand of camera the options are: Canon and Nikon use a external Speed/Zoom Flash with a Transmitter attached to the camera to work the Flash remotely off camera. If it is a Sony Alpha the wireless transmitter is built into the camera, you just need to add the Speed/Zoom Flash.
Getting a Soft Box to attach to the flash to soften the shadows and a reflector for bounce light to get a more sculptured lighting effect. He can get surprisingly great results with just this simple setup. There are many tutorials that can be found on line.