Is there any way to get the time and date to appear when recording?

Hi, Stephanie.
Yes there is, as long as the camcorder gives you the option to set the time and date.

Originally, it used to be that camcorders had the option to record the time/date directly on the video picture with a convenient botton. With the newer system as digital camcorders became main stream, the time/date feature does not work that same way anymore. I can't say for sure on every camcorder, but if you don't have an obvious botton to allow the time/date to be recorded on the video picture, then your camcorder has the newer system which I will explain.

First, you need to make sure the internal battery is good, its like a small flat watch disc battery. This little battery maintains the camcorders memory for time/date and remembers what settings you used the last time you set them. Then you will need to set the time and date on your camcorder in the set-up menu if it allows you to. Once you have done that, the camcorder will remember the time/date of your video footage automatically when it records. The reason why I say this system is different is because it does not record time/date directly on the video picture itself like it normally should. The digital time/date info seems to be hidden in the tape itself. So the only way to get time/date to come up on the screen, is to activate this feature in your menu, or check your remtote control if you have one, because some features only work by remote control only. If you have this feature, then the time/date will either show up on the screen for a few seconds when playing back each new scene, or stay up preeminently until you deactivate it and disappears from the screen. If you do into have the option to set the time/date on your camcorder, then you will not have the feature of displaying time/date on your video. Your time/date is usually a stand alone feature, but sometimes this feature it can be activated in the set-up screen display options.

You can try playing the video from camcorder to TV, then select the screen display button and see what shows up. If you have the time/date option then it should show with the counter, etc.

Conclusion: If your camcorder does not allow you set the time and date, then you do not have the option to display time and date.
If your camcorder allows you to set the time and date, then it should also allow you to display the time and date. The average life an internal memory battery should last at least a few years based on normal camcorder use.

If you can't find any information, instructions, or even any indication in your menus or manual of setting up the time and date, the chances are you can't. But you can try anyway and call the manufactures technical support department. Go to the manufacturer's website for technical support and send either an email or call their toll free phone number.

I hope there is some light that can be shed from this response and answer. Besides that there is no advice that can be offered with out knowing what model of camcorder you have, but first follow through my instructions.

Good Luck!
Piero Foto