VIXIA HF100 Highlights

AVCHD Flash Memory in a Compact Size The VIXIA HF100 is one of Canon's first AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) format Flash Memory camcorders. AVCHD uses an MPEG-4 AVC (H.264) video codec, recording true 1080 High Definition resolution video. An advantage of the AVCHD format is that it captures twice as much video using less storage, which enhances the extended recording time possible with Flash Memory.

The advantages of Flash Memory go beyond the added recording time. You'll also appreciate the quick response time, because it doesn't have to wait for moving parts. Press the record button and your VIXIA HF100 starts recording video faster than you've ever seen before. In addition, when you review your footage, it will come up more quickly as well.

Another plus is the VIXIA HF100's lower power consumption rate, allowing your battery to last longer. It's just what you need so you don't miss that pivotal play on the field or the moment when they say "I do".

While we certainly hope you keep your VIXIA HF100 securely in your hand while shooting, if it happens to slip, or you accidentally knock it against something, you'll be happy to know that Flash Memory makes your camcorder more shock resistant than other recording storage systems. It also minimizes the chance of data loss due to damage to your recording media or the moving parts in other camcorders.

Making this new technology even more convenient to use is the VIXIA HF100's compact size and light weight. Measuring only 2.9-inches wide, 2.5-inches high and 5.1-inches deep, it combines big video storage capacity in a small, easy to carry body.

1920 x 1080 movie recording requires a Class 4 or higher memory card. For other recording formats, a Class 2 or higher card is recommended. Also, movie recording requires cards with 128 MB of memory or more. Cards made by Toshiba, SanDisk or Matsushita are recommended. No particular restrictions apply for still images.

Canon Full HD CMOS sensor (1920 x 1080) The HF100 features a newly developed, Canon manufactured HD CMOS Image Sensor. Similar to its use in Canons EOS series digital SLR cameras, the CMOS sensor reproduces high resolution images as true HD movies. Canons HD CMOS sensor acquires image information at 1920 x 1080 pixels. Canons HD CMOS sensor also features on-chip noise reduction technology. This low noise technology feature means that even in dimly-lit scenes, the signals from each pixel are as pure as possible, with minimal "noise" or other aberrations.

Full HD Lens-to-Screen: 1920 x 1080 capture and recording The Canon HF10 not only captures images in Full HD, but records and outputs 1920 x 1080 as well, so you get full HD from lens to screen. Experience the ultimate in clarity and detail.

RGB Primary Color Filter Whether youre shooting video or photos, you will appreciate the HF100's stunning, high-definition image production. For rich, accurate color, the HF10 uses an RGB Primary Color Filter. It separates light into red, green, and blue color components, resulting in vibrant images with natural-looking tones similar to what youd obtain from 3CCD camcorders.

Genuine Canon 12x HD video lens The HF100 comes equipped with a 12x HD video lens. An aspherical lens is used to help achieve low aberration and high resolution. The lens also features super spectra coating technology which lowers flare and ghosting. A gradation ND system is used for better exposure in bright shooting situations. This lens design creates true HD image quality.

DIGIC DV II image processor DIGIC DV II is the next generation of Canon's exclusive DIGIC DV signal processing technology designed specifically for HD. Since video and still images have different color requirements, DIGIC DV II HD digital signal processing ensures optimal image quality for both HD video and still images. Thanks to DIGIC DV II image processing, the HF100 produces video with improved color reproduction -- especially in skin tones, and dark and light scenes. It also uses a hybrid noise reduction system that employs two types of noise reduction -- for images that are crystal clear.

DIGIC DV II ensures optimal image quality

SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer The HF100 features Canons SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). Utilizing a Hybrid detection method (combining vector and gyro detection method) corrects camera shake instantly for steady shots. And unlike other optical stabilization systems, Canons Super Range OIS covers a wide range of movements while preserving image quality. It is even effective while taking photos.

Use 24P mode to achieve a 'cinema' look

24p Cinema Mode 24p Cinema Mode is a feature demanded by professional filmmakers and previously available only on pro-level camcorders. 24p Cinema Mode enables all aspiring movie makers achieve a professional "film-look." This mode is actually two different features, which can be used independently, or together, depending on the users preference.
1. The frame rate changes to 24p -- the same frame rate as movie film
2. The HF100 changes the color and tonal characteristics to make you feel like you are watching a movie in the theatre.

30p Progressive Mode 30p Progressive mode delivers clarity for fast-action subjects and is the perfect frame rate for the web. Plus, it is ideal for displaying crisp images on your home theatre system or computer monitor. Before now 30p was exclusively featured on pro-level camcorders but Canon now offers the widest frame rate options for every videographer.

2.7-inch widescreen Multi-Angle Vivid LCD The HF100 is equipped with a Multi-Angle Vivid LCD. This newly designed screen offers two key advantages for easy, flexible operation.
1. A wide viewing angle - view from any direction
2. A wide color range - provides robust, accurate color

Instant AF (Auto Focus) Instant AF is Canons new and advanced autofocus system required for High Definition. Using a Hybrid Control system, the Instant AF makes it easy to focus on previously difficult subjects. It dramatically decreases the time it takes to achieve proper focus and increases accuracy especially in low-light and high-brightness situations.

Intelligent Lithium-ion battery The remaining battery time is now indicated down to the minute, so you will never have to guess the recording time available.

HDMI terminal The HDMI terminal transports high-definition video signal with audio in one cable to your HD television. The new standard in HD connection.

One-touch power button Power your camcorder with a touch of a button just like a digital camera.

Canon DVD burner compatible Take care or those precious moments shot with your HF100 by backing up your footage on the new Canon DW-100 DVD burner. This simple and easy to use burner eliminates the need for a pc but still guarantees the assurance of knowing your memories are preserved to an AVCHD disc. Additionally, the Canon DW-100 DVD burner can be used as an AVCHD player when connected to your HF10 camcorder.

Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe The Advanced Accessory Shoe allows the use of additional accessories such as a video light and directional microphone. Compared with the previous Advanced Accessory Shoe, the new version is 50 percent smaller in size.

Built-in electronic lens cover A built-in electronic lens cover automatically opens when the camcorder is turned On and closes when turned Off. There is no dangling lens cover to lose.

Quick Start Instead of powering off your camcorder between shots, simply press the Quick Start function to put the camcorder in stand-by mode. Quick Start considerably reduces the power consumption of the battery and allows the user to return to recording mode in less than a second, so youll never have to miss another special moment.

Program AE Mode The HF100 gives you a choice of settings that automatically result in the best exposure for different conditions. Scene modes include: Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight, and Fireworks. Each adjusts your camcorder's settings to compensate for different lighting conditions and different subjects.

Select from pre-set scene modes to get the best exposure

Built-in video light Increase your low-light capabilities even further by shooting with the HF100s built-in video light. This light enables you shoot subjects in low-light at distances up to 4.9 feet away.

Microphone terminal with audio level control The HF100 features a microphone terminal for attaching an external microphone. The audio level can be manually adjusted for greater flexibility. A level meter is shown in the LCD screen.

Simultaneous photo capture While shooting an HD movie, you can simultaneously capture a 2-megapixel photo to a memory card by simply pressing the photo button. Its perfect for anytime you dont want to miss a moment.

Headphone terminal The audio/video terminal doubles as a headphone terminal for monitoring sound while recording.

Focus Assist function When shooting high-definition, a properly focused subject is more critical than ever. With one push of the Focus Assist button (during manual focus setting), video zoom and peaking (for emphasizing image contours) are displayed. Not to worry, this is automatically cancelled when recording is started.

Level Shot and Grid Markers It's easy to keep your HF100 level for more professional-looking video. Simply press the Level Shot Control button, and a horizontal marker appears in your viewfinder. Then line up any horizontal lines in your shot to the marker and you know your camcorder is level. The Grid marker is also very convenient for setting up the special balance in your shots. And since background colors vary, you can select from two line colors to make the lines easily visible.

Smooth zoom control With this innovative feature, you can always be sure of smooth, steady, professional looking zoom shots. Simply select one of three pre-set zoom speeds. You can also select variable so you can control the speed manually.

3.1-megapixel photos Capture stunning 3.1-megapixel photos in 4:3 aspect ratio to a miniSD card (or 2.07-megapixel photos at 16:9).

Photo grab With this professional level feature, capture photos during playback. With one push of a button you can "grab" a 2-megapixel still picture from your HD video footage. There is no need to worry about taking a photo while youre shooting.

9-point Ai-AF mode Auto Intelligent Auto Focus ensures sharp images and gives creative flexibility. Even when your subject isn't in the center of the frame, the HF100s Ai-AF function will automatically select from 9 metering frames on the screen to help bring images into sharp focus.

Built-in flash Capture superb images in low light and indoor photography settings.

Histogram display Commonly used in Canons line of digital SLR cameras, the HF10 features a Histogram display. With just one push of a button, the brightness information of a still image is revealed. This allows you to monitor image quality so you can make adjustments to improve the next shots.

Print/Share button For fast and easy, one-touch printing of your photos at home, simply press the camcorders Print & Share Button. The button can also be used for one-touch downloading of your images to a computer.

One-year parts and labor limited warranty Canons camcorder limited warranty provides protection long after other manufacturers warranties expire.

Product Description
Now that you've upgraded your TV to an HDTV widescreen, doesn't it make sense to consider a Hi-Def Camcorder? The Canon VIXIA HF100 captures videos at 1920x1080 for true 1080i display. There are no tapes or discs to concern yourself with. It has an SD SDHC slot for video storage. So let your videos fill your new TV screen. Use the VIXIA from Canon. DIGIC DV II Image Processor SuperRange Optical Image Stabilization Instant AF (Auto Focus) 2.7 Multi-Angle Vivid Widescreen LCD Superb Shooting Control 24p Cinema Mode / 30p Progressive Mode Stunning Digital Photography Focusing System - Instant AF, Through the Lens/Manual Focusing Possible Auto and Manual exposure modes; Programmed AE - Auto, Program, Av, Tv, CINEMA, Portrait, Sports, Night, Snow, Beach, Sunset, Spotlight, Fireworks Recording Media - SD/SDHC Memory Card (not supplied) Audio - Dolby Digital 2ch (AC-3 2 ch) HDMI Terminal Type C 480i/480p/1080I Format Supported Microphone Terminal - 3.5 mm Stereo Mini-jack Mini HDMI Terminal and Mini Advanced Accessory Shoe Dimensions (WxHxD) 2.9 x 2.5 x 5.1 in (73x64x129mm); Weight (not including lens and battery pack) 13.4 oz (380g)

Reader Reviews
I spent a very long time researching small SD based high def cameras and ended up choosing the Vixia HF100. This after owning a Panasonic SD3 for a brief period last year. After a full weekend playing with the HF100 I am quite pleased with my decision. My motivation for choosing this camera over the competition was Canon's very wise decision to include a standard microphone input (and manual audio controls). Why other manufacturers are removing this feature from consumer camcorders baffles me since good audio is such an important part of making good video! Canon also includes a mini hot shoe on the top of the device, and there's already a mini shotgun mic available (Canon 2591B002 DM-100 Directional Stereo Microphone for HF10 and HF100 Camcorders). In many ways the HF100 is not much different from its competition. It's about soda can sized (although not as tiny as the new Panasonic SD9), has no view finder, and records video onto SDHC flash memory. Flash memory is so cheap right now that spending the extra money for the HF10 (with the on board storage) really isn't worth it. VIDEO QUALITY & OPTIONS Excellent and consistent with other cameras in its class. Color quality is rich and perhaps a little over-saturated (as most consumer cameras are) but there are settings to wind back the saturation a bit (like switching into cinema mode). Artifacts are minimal but remember that AVCHD is a highly compressed video format. Those looking for the absolute best quality in a consumer camera will want to look at an HDV tape based solution. There are settings for manual white balancing as well. Low light performance is so-so.. Gets a bit grainy but you can make adjustments to compensate both in frame rate and shutter/aperture settings. There's also a mini-video light that can be turned on but it won't have room-filling range to it. The camera has multiple video quality options but you'll want to select the highest quality as it's not on by default. I am getting about an hour of video on an 8 gig SD card in the highest quality mode. The camera also includes three frame rate options: 60i, 30p, and 24p. All of these are processed at 60i so you'll need an editor that can remove the pulldown for true 24P. BATTERY LIFE Like every other camera in its class, the included battery is pretty lousy. It charges quickly but you'll only get about an hour or so of recording time. Canon does make an extended battery which I plan on purchasing soon. CONNECTIVITY & EDITING I am a Mac guy so those of you using Windows will have to comment below on your success with it. On the Mac side both iMovie '08 and Final Cut Pro 6 recognize video from this camera even if I'm just popping the SD card into my USB card reader. If you're coming from the HDV tape-based world, capturing video from an AVCHD camera takes a little longer than you'll be used to. I've found multiplying the original video length times two is usually about the length of time it takes to capture with iMovie on my Mac Pro (I haven't timed Final Cut's conversion yet but will update this review soon). I'm sure this will improve over time as computers and software get faster, but don't expect instant gratification when you're ready to bring some video over to edit. CONCLUSION I bought this camera to supplement some of the work I do shooting HDV video on a 'prosumer' Sony HDV camera. If you're serious about producing HD video you might still want to consider an HDV tape based camcorder like the Canon HV20 or HV30. You'll get better and more consistent quality along with nearly universal editing compatibility. Those cameras transfer video back to the PC or Mac over firewire, a standard that's been around for over a decade. The HDV cameras can also run live video back to the PC for editing or webcasting, something you can't do currently with an AVCHD cam. If, however, you're in the market for a small flash based camera look no further. The inclusion of a mic port along with the multitude of shooting options make this a great choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Comments (18) | Permalink | (Report this)

List Price: $899.99 Available from Amazon Price: $633.37 Updated on 6-7-2008.